Hudson Valley & Catskills Experience
An Excelsior Society Weekend — October 24-25, 2026
Join the Preservation League for an unforgettable autumn weekend exploring the cultural landscapes of the Hudson Valley and Catskills. This curated experience offers rare access to extraordinary places — blending iconic landmarks with exclusive behind-the-scenes visits not typically open to the public.
Throughout the weekend, guests will enjoy a thoughtfully paced itinerary highlighting the region's architectural heritage, scenic beauty, and enduring artistic legacy. The program will include visits to celebrated sites such as the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, along with a special evening event at Olana — an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the Hudson Valley's most treasured landmarks in a unique and memorable way.
We are also delighted to feature author Victoria Johnson, who will join us to discuss her highly anticipated book Glorious Country: How the Artist Frederic Church Brought the World to America and America to the World, adding a rich literary dimension to the weekend.
On Saturday evening, we will gather for dinner at Saint Florian in Hudson, a highlight of the weekend's shared experiences.
Accommodations are not included in the tour package. However, there are discounted room blocks available for guests at two distinctive properties: the Reclaimed Motel in Red Hook and Central House in Germantown — each offering its own character and charm. Click here for a list of additional accommodations in the area.
Registration & Pricing
A $100 non-refundable registration fee is required to reserve your place. Following the registration deadline of July 31, guests will be invoiced for the remaining balance.
The full cost of this tour is still to be determined but past tour pricing has ranged from $1,000-$2,500 for an individual registration.
Space is limited for this intimate and immersive experience. We invite you to join us for a weekend that celebrates the places, stories, and people that make this region so remarkable.
For more information, please contact Kaitlyn Robitaille, Director of Development at krobitaille@preservenys.org. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!