Dear EscapeMakers - Looking to learn a new skill, get outdoors and stay at an all-inclusive Catskills lodge committed to sustainability, solar energy, composting and sourcing local food, beverage and ingredients from their organic farm? See the Kaatsbann Lodge's offer below! Kaatsbaan Lodge is the home of Total Tennis, The Northeast's only year round tennis camp. They are located in Saugerties, NY — 100 miles north of NYC. Total Tennis is ranked the #1 Tennis Camp in New York State by Tennis Resorts Online. Kaatsbaan Lodge is Powered By The Sun; providing 35% of its electricity with its solar array of 468 panels. - Junior tennis players, age 7-16 can accompany you for a Sunday - Tuesday or a Sunday - Wednesday program. Adults receive 5 hours of group instruction (4 students per instructor) each day plus one half hour of private instruction during your stay. Juniors receive 3 hours of group instruction in the morning. Afternoons are devoted to supervised tennis play, swimming and games. Junior program ends at 2:30pm. To make reservations or for more information, visit: kaatsbaanlodge.com or totaltennis.com Or call 800.221.6496 845.247.9177 Book a Mid-Week Family Program* Receive a $25 per person discount. Promo Code: ESCAPE Adult Prices: Sunday 6PM - Tuesday 4PM $445-$545 Sunday 6PM - Wednesday 4PM $645-$745 Junior Prices: Sunday 6PM - Tuesday 4PM $345 Sunday 6PM - Wednesday 4PM $445 -*All prices include locally sourced meals, lessons and accommodations based on double occupancy. Single accommodations are avalilable; $25.00 additional per night. All rooms feature FREE WIFI-
Dear EscapeMakers – Looking to learn a new skill, get outdoors and stay at an all-inclusive Catskills lodge committed to sustainability, solar energy, composting and sourcing local food, beverage and ingredients from their organic farm? See the Kaatsbann Lodge’s offer below! Kaatsbaan Lodge is the home of Total Tennis, The Northeast’s only year round tennis camp. They are located in Saugerties, NY — 100 miles north of NYC. Total Tennis is ranked the #1 Tennis
Thank you to the hundreds of people who entered our Dutchess Farm Fresh Tour raffle during yesterday's Metro-North Getaway Day at Grand Central Terminal! We loved meeting you all and we hope to see you again soon. See below for the winning ticket and let us know if you are the winner at info@escapemaker.com. WINNING TICKET: 0009566
Thank you to the hundreds of people who entered our Dutchess Farm Fresh Tour raffle during yesterday’s Metro-North Getaway Day at Grand Central Terminal! We loved meeting you all and we hope to see you again soon. See below for the winning ticket and let us know if you are the winner at info@escapemaker.com. WINNING TICKET: 0009566
When Memorial Day comes around each May, the excitement is palpable. Summer is here and our lists of plans and dreams for the warm months ahead bounce from pool parties to vacations to summer Fridays to sandy beaches and BBQs with friends. But the true meaning of the holiday is sometimes buried by the summer season kick-off. This Memorial Day, take some extra time to remember those who have selflessly served their nation, those whose lives have been lost. New York State is rich with the history of soldiers fighting for their country, soldiers fallen, battles won and lost. The monuments, memorials and especially cemeteries tell amazing stories of strength and bravery. While you're spending long summer weekends eating, drinking, relaxing and playing in the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, the Finger Lakes, etc., spend a warm afternoon walking through one of the many cemeteries or memorials open to the public, inviting nature lovers, history buffs and deep thinkers to wander in and explore the past. Check out the list below: Youngs Memorial Cemetery in Long Island, a steep, lush, grassy hill, was the final resting place of Theodore and Edith Roosevelt. At certain times of year, when the grand maples have lost their leaves, you can look out at the glistening waves of Oyster Bay while standing beside T.R.'s grave. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Sleepy Hollow, NY (Hudson Valley Region) was established in 1847 by Washington Irving. In addition to Irving, many other notable figures are buried across the 100 acres in Westchester County, such as William Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler, and many more. Oakwood Cemetery in Troy, NY (Capital-Saratoga Region) is a place to honor loved ones, contemplate nature, explore art and architecture, and discover the rich history of Upstate New York. Founded in 1848, Oakwood is one
When Memorial Day comes around each May, the excitement is palpable. Summer is here and our lists of plans and dreams for the warm months ahead bounce from pool parties to vacations to summer Fridays to sandy beaches and BBQs with friends. But the true meaning of the holiday is sometimes buried by the summer season kick-off. This Memorial Day, take some extra time to remember those who have selflessly served their nation, those whose
Dear EscapeMakers -- If you've got spring fever, it may be time for your next weekend getaway. And what better place to escape to than the scenic Central New York Vacation Region? As you make your way up and out of the city, enjoy the views of mountainous landscapes and beautiful greenery along meandering roads.In just a few short hours, you will have arrived. Relax and practice your golf swing. You don't have to play likethe pros to enjoy Central New York's gorgeous golf courses. But even if golf's not your sport, choose an alternative way to get active in CNY. Try horsebackriding, diamond mining or cave exploring. As you make your way through the countryside, keep an eye out for farmstands popping up around town and along the backroads. Travelers who stop to shop them will leave with a handful of in-season local fruits and veggies. May kicks off the beginning of wine season in CNY, so cool off with something light and fruity or opt for a darker red at one of Central New York's 15 wineries. Many locations offer outdoor accommodations, so you can bask in the sun while you sip merlot or chardonnay. Make a day out of it and explore all the flavors of the region as you taste your way across Brew Central. Upcoming Events: May 26th Noon Baseball Hall of Fame Classic The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum will start the 2018 season with this Cooperstown tradition. The Hall of Fame Classic, presented by Ford! July 4th 5 p.m. Ray LaMontagne featuring Neko Case at Ommegang Ray LaMontagne will perform at Brewery Ommegang's outdoor venue with a special appearance by Neko Case. May 31st 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Trivia at Woodland Farm Brewery Woodland hosts it's weekly trivia night with
Dear EscapeMakers — If you’ve got spring fever, it may be time for your next weekend getaway. And what better place to escape to than the scenic Central New York Vacation Region? As you make your way up and out of the city, enjoy the views of mountainous landscapes and beautiful greenery along meandering roads.In just a few short hours, you will have arrived. Relax and practice your golf swing. You don’t have to play
Dear EscapeMakers -- Wow, it feels like summer! And speaking of summer, we hope you join us for our: DUTCHESS FARMS & WINERIES WEEKEND (2.5 HOURS VIA METRO-NORTH RAILROAD FROM GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL) Saturday, June 9 & Sunday, June 10th NEW THIS YEAR! Take Metro-North Railroad to Dutchess County's Wassaic Station and we'll transport you to various farms and wineries - no car needed! Select your own Dutchess farm fresh stops via our hop on/off looper shuttles! The shuttles will run regularly on both Saturday, June 9th and Sunday, June 10th so you can plan your own day trip or weekend itinerary! Take in the warm breeze of early June while visiting the charming Village of Millerton. Explore McEnroe Organic Farm, its garden and cider bar; sample award-winning wines at Millbrook Vineyards & Winery or Cascade Mountain Winery; tap into sweet samples and learn about maple syrup-making at Soukup Farms; or sign up for an animal sanctuary tour at Lucky Orphan’s Horse Rescue. Depending on how you structure your day, you'll be able to visit all locations. Plus, we also have overnight packages based on availability. Stay overnight at a quintessential Hudson Valley inn and ride the looper both days! This is a great way to get out of the city for a day trip or a memorable weekend getaway while supporting local hard working farmers, winemakers and artisanal producers. Just reserve your shuttle space and then purchase your round-trip train ticket and any Metro-North full-service ticket vending machine or ticket window prior to the trip! RESERVE NOW!
Dear EscapeMakers — Wow, it feels like summer! And speaking of summer, we hope you join us for our: DUTCHESS FARMS & WINERIES WEEKEND (2.5 HOURS VIA METRO-NORTH RAILROAD FROM GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL) Saturday, June 9 & Sunday, June 10th NEW THIS YEAR! Take Metro-North Railroad to Dutchess County’s Wassaic Station and we’ll transport you to various farms and wineries – no car needed! Select your own Dutchess farm fresh stops via our hop on/off
From quick trips to the Hudson Valley to a leisurely road trip far upstate, the options are endless around here when it comes to finding beautiful vineyards and amazing wine. Particularly this time of year, these weekend getaways are filled with sunshine, surrounded by colorful blossoms, and doused in rich, local wine. The perfect relaxing, yet adventurous (and oh-so-delicious) escape awaits! Of course, don't forget to bring along a designated driver if you're partaking in the wine tasting fun. With Father's Day on the horizon, all you EscapeMakers have the perfect excuse for a wine weekend escape! Check out some of our favorites below. Treat yourself to a weekend in the Finger Lakes Region and cruise along the famous Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, which has been around for 30+ years. The trail is the first organized and longest running wine trail, comprised of 16 members including 15 wineries, a cidery, meadery and four distilleries. These wineries have won over 5,000 national and international medals and six Governor’s Cups. See breathtaking views of Cayuga Lake, Taughannock Falls, and the rolling vineyards all weekend long. Stay for the weekend and check out one of the local inns or B&Bs in the bustling Ithaca, NY area. Mark your calendar for our upcoming Farms & Wineries Weekend in the Hudson Valley! Bring your mom, dad, sweetie or friends up to Dutchess County via Metro-North Railroad on Saturday, June 9th or Sunday, June 10th for a day filled with wine, farm fresh eats, and beautiful views! On this tour, you can select your own farm fresh stops via our hop on/off looper shuttles. Take in the warm breeze of early June while visiting the charming Village of Millerton. Explore McEnroe Organic Farm, its garden and cider bar; sample award-winning wines at Millbrook Vineyards & Winery or Cascade Mountain Winery; tap
From quick trips to the Hudson Valley to a leisurely road trip far upstate, the options are endless around here when it comes to finding beautiful vineyards and amazing wine. Particularly this time of year, these weekend getaways are filled with sunshine, surrounded by colorful blossoms, and doused in rich, local wine. The perfect relaxing, yet adventurous (and oh-so-delicious) escape awaits! Of course, don’t forget to bring along a designated driver if you’re partaking in
Dear EscapeMakers -- Less than an hour from NYC, let Somerset County, New Jersey add a touch of color to your spring! These May and June garden events are sure to brighten up the weekend and warm up the lingering chill. Spend a day smelling the roses, frolickingin lavender fields, exploring native orchids or touring the largest community garden in the country. All that and more awaits garden lovers of all ages in the heart of New Jersey… so plan your custom gardens getaway today at visitsomersetnj.org/garden! Colonial Park Gardens - An accredited All-America Rose Selections (AARS) display garden containing more than 3,000 roses and 325 varieties.The Rose Garden is part of a more extensive Arboretum called Colonial Park Gardens, which includes the Fragrance & Sensory Garden, Ornamental Grass Collection, Perennial Garden, and Shrub Collection. Little Wigglers – May 19 Guided Tour of the Rose Garden – June 3 Rose Day Festival – June 9 Leonard J. Buck Garden - One of the premier rock gardens in the eastern United States, consisting of a series of alpine and woodland gardens situated in a 33-acre wooded stream valley. Woodland Walks – May 6, 13, 20 Flower & Landscape Garden Photography Workshop – May 8 Focus on Ferns – June 8 Hidden Spring Lavender Farm - Lavender fields and store featuring bouquets, buds, oil or culinary products made with 100% pure lavender and essential oils. Lavender Plant Sale – Weekends May 5-27 Lavender Workshop - June 22 Duke Farms - Features three gardens with one of the largest tropical displays in the country, Arboretum with Japanese-style meditation garden, and largest allotment-style community garden in the U.S.! NJ Native Orchids (Recurring) Square Foot Organic Gardening – May 5 Discovering Orchids for Kids – May 5 Community Garden Snoop Tour (Recurring) Growing Great Jersey
Dear EscapeMakers — Less than an hour from NYC, let Somerset County, New Jersey add a touch of color to your spring! These May and June garden events are sure to brighten up the weekend and warm up the lingering chill. Spend a day smelling the roses, frolickingin lavender fields, exploring native orchids or touring the largest community garden in the country. All that and more awaits garden lovers of all ages in the heart
Dear EscapeMakers -- Looking for the perfect city escape this spring? Look no further than the Central New York Vacation Region. Just a few short hours from NYC, find eight counties of fun to explore. Kick back, relax and enjoy the beauty of the region while strolling along the Erie Canal and watch as it comes to life with blooming flowers and flowing streams. More experienced adventurers will find their thrills on over 350 miles of hiking trails extending throughout the region. Unwind at the end of a long day, watch the sunset and try your hand (or eyes) at birdwatching. As the region springs to life, farm fresh produce is harvested and delivered straight to your plate at one of many farm-to-table restaurants in Central New York. Taste the difference that fresh makes as local restaurateurs craft seasonal dishes to please your palate and create an experience like no other. Farm fresh doesn't stop at the table, it's in their breweries too! At Brew Central, they take "seasonal"seriously and craft beverage fans will taste the difference in quality offered at one of many farm breweries in Central New York. From Madison County's Empire Farm Brewery and Good Nature Farm Brewery & Tap Room to Onondaga's Local 315, fresh can be found in every single sip. So what are you waiting for? Make your escape to upstate New York and see what’s putting Central New York back on the map! Upcoming Events: April 21st 10am Fly Creek Cider Run The sixth annual Cider Run, featuring run for the fun of it and support the Susquehanna Animal Shelter. This sixth annual 10K, 5K run/ 3K walk race is open to adults and children with special give-aways plus a glass of Fly Creek's Hard Cider upon completion. Registration is required, and all
Dear EscapeMakers — Looking for the perfect city escape this spring? Look no further than the Central New York Vacation Region. Just a few short hours from NYC, find eight counties of fun to explore. Kick back, relax and enjoy the beauty of the region while strolling along the Erie Canal and watch as it comes to life with blooming flowers and flowing streams. More experienced adventurers will find their thrills on over 350 miles
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – BROOKLYN, NY April 10, 2018 EscapeMaker.com, New York’s guide to local farm escapes and weekend getaways since 2000, kicks off its second year of farm, food and craft beverage tours in the Hudson Valley. After a successful first season operating Dutchess Tourism Inc.’s Farm Fresh Tours with Metro-North Railroad in 2017, the EscapeMaker team is continuing that program and also partnering with Urban Adventures NYC to offer full day farm and craft beverage tours via direct bus from New York City beginning in May 2018. //www.EscapeMaker.com/farmfreshtours “These tours truly highlight the best of Dutchess County’s farm and craft beverage tourism,” says Caylin Sanders, founder and CEO of local travel veteran EscapeMaker.com. “From apple picking to wine and whiskey tasting, this season’s extended tour offerings, overnight packages and flexible hop on/off shuttles ensure that there is no lack of flavor and fun for all ages!” “We’ve wanted to expand into this market for a long time,” says David Nazcycz, CEO of award-winning Urban Adventures NYC. “Our focus has always been on walking tours that highlight innovation within the culinary and craft beverage sphere. The partnership with EscapeMaker, to offer these tours to our customers who want to travel a bit further out, is a great fit.” Local tristate residents or NYC tourists can book 3 themed direct bus tours from New York City to Dutchess County ranging from $99-$149 per person: ● Dutchess Wine Trail Tour (May 5, 6, 12) spends the day wine tasting and touring the grounds of Clinton Vineyards, Cascade Mountain Winery, and/or Millbrook Vineyards & Winery and feasting on a farm fresh lunch in the vineyard with dinner on your own in the town of Rhinebeck. ● Pints & Politics Figures Tour (July 21, 22) explores the historic sites of Val Kill Cottage
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – BROOKLYN, NY April 10, 2018 EscapeMaker.com, New York’s guide to local farm escapes and weekend getaways since 2000, kicks off its second year of farm, food and craft beverage tours in the Hudson Valley. After a successful first season operating Dutchess Tourism Inc.’s Farm Fresh Tours with Metro-North Railroad in 2017, the EscapeMaker team is continuing that program and also partnering with Urban Adventures NYC to offer full day farm and
Valid Thurs.- Mon.only for travel Jan. 4- April 26, 2017. Black out dates apply. Up to one child aged 2-15 may ride with each adult at halffare. Reservations 3 days in advance. Subject to availability.Visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA RAIL. See offer page for full Terms & Conditions.Service on the Adirondack® is financed primarily through funds made availableby the New York State Department of Transportation. Dear EscapeMakers, Cozy up to Montreal and escape across the border on amagical train ride! On sale through April 23th Amtrak® is offering aspecial $90 round trip weekend fare (Thurs. - Mon.) between New York City and Montreal. Zoom through bucolic vistas on the Adirondack®-- one of the ten most scenic train rides in the world! Whether you go for the culture, the nightlife the food or the adventure, the Adirondack® will get you there rested, relaxed and ready to enjoy the city. $90 Round trip! BOOK YOUR GETAWAY! For hotel and tour packages in Montreal visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL and plan your escape!
Valid Thurs.- Mon.only for travel Jan. 4- April 26, 2017. Black out dates apply. Up to one child aged 2-15 may ride with each adult at halffare. Reservations 3 days in advance. Subject to availability.Visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA RAIL. See offer page for full Terms & Conditions.Service on the Adirondack® is financed primarily through funds made availableby the New York State Department of Transportation. Dear EscapeMakers, Cozy up to Montreal and escape across the border
