Fall is a great time to visit the Byway.  It’s the time of the year when we have the kids back in school, get back into the daily routines, but the weather is warm enough that we can still enjoy outside activities.  It’s also a time that all of our communities complete their projects, do the roadside cleanups, offer neighborhood garage sales, and host memorable weekend festivals.

The Waterford Tugboat Roundup – where maritime history comes alive.

The first one is Waterford’s Tugboat Roundup the first weekend after Labor Day (September 6 – 8).  For one weekend each year, tugs new and old moor stem to stern for adulation and education, enchanting the young and reminding the young at heart of days gone by.  In addition to tours of the vessels and other displays, there is an ample supply of music, food, children’s activities, vendors, boat rides, fireworks, and family fun.

Clifton Park Farm Fest – Discover our Agricultural Heritage

Clifton Park Farm Fest (September 21 and 22) is a weekend of fun for the whole family, including farm tours, apple picking, hayrides, demos, animals, horse rides, country food and music and more! The Clifton Park farm festival is a drive-it-yourself (or bike) tour, where you and your kids will love getting an inside look at the animals and farm equipment. Hungry? Many of the farms will offer food and snacks made on site. If you are hungry for a full meal, visit one of four local community outlets, offering you delicious homemade breakfast and lunch options.  Call 518-371-6667 for details.

Halfmoon will be celebrating their Fall Festival on September 21 from 1 to 5 PM.  The event is a 225th Anniversary Celebration that kicks off with a parade at 1 PM.   will

Stockade Walkabout – private homes and several historic spaces

The Stockade Association is doing their Walkabout again this year after a year’s hiatus.  Visit the oldest residential neighborhood in the US, with more than 40 pre-Revolutionary War houses, elegant and ancient churches and what has been called the most beautiful riverside park in America.  Several homes will be open for the tour.  Tickets on the day of the event are $25, advance tickets are $20.

Then there’s the Mohawk Towpath Byway Duathlon on October 20, an athletic event that provides a unique way to experience the Byway.

This Fall there is something new: an audio tour of special places on the Mohawk Towpath Byway.  Stop into your favorite feature on the Byway.  Look for the audio tour sign with the QR code.  Scan the code and explore.  If you have an old flip phone like mine just dial 518-649-9990 and follow the prompts.

Call it a “staycation” or just an afternoon escape, discover the Mohawk Towpath Byway this week right here in your backyard!