Massachusetts/New York
On the Road: Autumn in the Berkshires and Hudson Valley
Program No. 21402RJ
Treat your senses to an exploration of classic New England as you discover vibrant foliage, picturesque towns, the Norman Rockwell Museum and historic Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge.
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8 days
7 nights
16 meals
7B 4L 5D
2
Boston Field Trip, Transfer to the Berkshires
Stockbridge, MA
3
Mission House, Norman Rockwell Museum, The Mount
Stockbridge, MA
4
Hancock Shaker Village, Free Time
Stockbridge, MA
5
Hudson Valley, Olana, Huguenot Street
Mid Hudson Valley, NY
6
Val-Kill, FDR Home, Presidential Library, Vanderbilt Mansion
Mid Hudson Valley, NY
7
West Point, Boscobel
Connecticut
8
Transfer to Boston, Program Concludes
Connecticut
At a Glance
Embark on a journey of discovery through the Berkshire Hills and the Hudson River Valley. Meander through the Connecticut River Valley past mountains, meadows and idyllic villages to Stockbridge, one of the oldest settlements in the Berkshires. Experience natural beauty that inspired Melville, Wharton and Rockwell, and examine how the utopian ideals of the Shakers shaped the community. Then, like the early settlers, turn westward along the Hudson River to learn this route’s role in the history of the nation and New York City. Absorb the mood of the river valley that inspired the first regional art movement in America and examine the historic and cultural treasures that line its banks.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles, standing up to two hours at a time on walking explorations and in museums. Getting on and off motor coach.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to see the largest collection of the artist’s original pieces and learn how Rockwell reflected American culture in his work.
- Learn about Shaker settlements and what sets them apart from traditional New England settlements.
- Enjoy expert-led visits to President Franklin Roosevelt’s home, Val-Kill and artist Frederic Church’s home.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Sheila Moloney
Sheila Moloney, a resident of historic Rhinebeck in the heart of the Hudson Valley, has lived in the area on and off for almost forty years. As a garden designer and garden historian, she has a deep connection to the region’s natural and cultural history. Her interests led her to complete a master’s degree focused on architecture, gardens, and art of the Hudson Valley. Sheila has extensive knowledge and experience of the region’s cultural sites and is passionate about introducing lifelong learners to its wonders.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Sheila Moloney
View biography
Sheila Moloney, a resident of historic Rhinebeck in the heart of the Hudson Valley, has lived in the area on and off for almost forty years. As a garden designer and garden historian, she has a deep connection to the region’s natural and cultural history. Her interests led her to complete a master’s degree focused on architecture, gardens, and art of the Hudson Valley. Sheila has extensive knowledge and experience of the region’s cultural sites and is passionate about introducing lifelong learners to its wonders.
Suggested Reading List
(5 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
On the Road: Autumn in the Berkshires and Hudson Valley
Program Number: 21402
Berkshire Waterfall Guide: Cool Cascades of the Berkshire & Taconic Mountains
Visit 70 cool cascades in beautiful historic western Massachusetts, led by NYS-licensed hiking guide and outdoors writer Russell Dunn, author of more books on waterfalls than anyone else in the world.
Behind the Scenes with Berkshire Hathaway Billionaire Charlie Munger
Praise for "Damn Right!" From the author of the bestselling "Warren Buffett Speaks...'Charlie Munger, whose reputation is deep and wide, based on an extraordinary record of brilliantly successful business strategies, sees things that others don't. There is a method to his mastery and, through this book, we get a chance to learn about this rare individual' - Michael Eisner, Chairman and CEO, The Walt Disney Company.'Janet Lowe uncovers the iconoclastic genius and subtle charm behind Charlie Munger's curmudgeonly facade in this richly woven portrait of our era's heir to Ben Franklin
Hudson Valley Ruins: Forgotten Landmarks of an American Landscape
Countless books have been published on the historical sites of the Hudson River Valley. But these books have focused over and over again on the best-known, best-preserved places. Every bit as valuable are dozens of other historical sites that haven’t fared as well. Many of these buildings are listed on the National Register of Historical Places, and a few are even National Historical Landmarks. But in spite of their significance, these structures have been allowed to decay, and in some cases, to disappear altogether.
Traitor to His Class: The Privileged Life and Radical Presidency of Franklin Delano Roosevelt
A brilliant evocation of the qualities that made FDR one of the most beloved and greatest of American presidents.
The Roosevelts: An Intimate History
A vivid and personal portrait of America’s greatest political family and its enormous impact on our nation