Hertz Car Hire
New Windsor, NY

On arrival at Stewart International Airport, collecting your vehicle is a straightforward process designed for traveller convenience. After you retrieve your luggage from the baggage reclaim area, simply follow the overhead signs for "Rental Car Centre" or "Ground Transportation." The Hertz desk is located directly within the main terminal building, making it easily accessible on foot without the need for a shuttle bus. The rental car park where you will pick up your vehicle is just a short walk from the terminal doors, ensuring a quick transition from your flight to the driver's seat.

Navigating Stewart International Airport late at night is typically less crowded, which can make finding your way even simpler. From the baggage carousel, the route to the Hertz desk is well lit and clearly marked with airport signage pointing towards the rental car desks. As the desks are located inside the main terminal building, you won't need to go outside or search for a separate facility. Just proceed through the arrivals hall, and you will see the rental car area ahead, allowing you to complete your paperwork and head out to the adjacent car park to find your vehicle.

For a direct drive to Newburgh's scenic waterfront, exit the airport area and follow signs for Route 17K East. This road will lead you directly towards the city of Newburgh. To reach the waterfront, take a left onto Water Street. To continue to the Walkway Over the Hudson, you would then get on I-84 East and cross the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge. After the bridge, follow signs for Route 9 North towards Poughkeepsie, where clear signage will guide you to the Walkway's parking areas. This route offers a great introduction to the region's river views.

The drive from the Stewart Airport area to the United States Military Academy at West Point is generally quite scenic and direct, typically taking around 25 to 35 minutes in light traffic. However, it is crucial to build in a significant time buffer, especially for a scheduled tour or event. You should allow for potential delays at the security checkpoint at West Point's entrance, which can vary depending on the time of day and campus alert levels. For a morning check-in, planning to arrive at the gate at least 45 to 60 minutes ahead of your appointment is a wise strategy.

When driving from New Windsor towards Bear Mountain State Park, the approach to the Bear Mountain Bridge is a highlight of the trip but requires your full attention. The route, particularly Route 9W South, features winding roads and can be narrow in some sections. As you near the bridge, you'll encounter a traffic circle that can be confusing for first-time visitors; be sure to give way to traffic already in the circle and follow signs carefully for Route 202. The views are spectacular, so be prepared for other drivers to slow down, and always be mindful of cyclists and hikers near the roadside.

The most straightforward route from the SWF rental location to Beacon involves getting on Interstate 84 East. This major highway allows you to bypass the local traffic in Newburgh and New Windsor. You will cross the Hudson River via the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge, which offers fantastic views. Immediately after the bridge, take the first exit for Route 9D South. This road will lead you directly into the heart of Beacon, avoiding the more complex local street networks and providing a simple, well-marked path to your destination.

A great way to structure a day trip including both Storm King and West Point is to start with Storm King in the morning when you have the most energy for walking. From your New Windsor pickup, it's a very short drive south on Route 32. After spending a few hours there, you can continue south and east on local roads like Angola Road to connect to Route 9W South, which takes you directly to West Point for an afternoon visit. This creates a logical loop that minimises backtracking and allows you to experience two of the area's premier attractions efficiently.

The most direct route to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets from the New Windsor area is to take the New York State Thruway (I-87) South. From the airport, you'll use local roads for a few miles to get to the Thruway entrance. The drive itself is typically around 20–25 minutes without traffic. However, be aware that traffic can become very heavy, especially on weekends, holidays, and during the summer. To avoid the worst congestion, plan to arrive early in the morning, right when the stores open, and consider leaving in the mid-afternoon before the evening rush.

To reach the Taconic State Parkway while minimising potential bridge delays, timing is key. The Newburgh–Beacon Bridge (I-84 East) experiences the heaviest traffic during standard morning and evening commute hours on weekdays. If possible, plan your crossing for mid-day, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Once you cross the bridge, continue on I-84 East for several miles until you see the well-marked exit for the Taconic State Parkway North. Using a satnav with real-time traffic updates can also help you anticipate slowdowns before you commit to the crossing.

When leaving the Stewart Airport area to get onto I-84, the key is to be prepared for a few quick transitions. The main challenge is navigating the local roads like Route 17K or Route 300 to find the correct on-ramp. To make this easier, programme your satnav destination before you even start the car. Pay close attention to your navigation instructions as you approach the highway, as some on-ramps require you to be in a specific lane well in advance. Using the voice navigation feature will allow you to focus on the road and traffic signs instead of looking down at your screen.

For a beautiful and easy fall foliage loop from New Windsor, consider driving south on Route 9W towards Bear Mountain State Park. The road itself offers stunning Hudson River views framed by vibrant autumn colours. At the Bear Mountain Bridge, you can cross over to the east side of the river and take Route 9D North. This scenic route will take you through the charming towns of Cold Spring and Beacon. From Beacon, it's a simple matter of crossing the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge on I-84 West to return to the New Windsor area, completing a perfect, low-stress loop.

While most major roads near New Windsor are standard highways, drivers should be aware of the Taconic State Parkway, located east of the Hudson River. This historic parkway has some low bridges and may have restrictions on commercial vehicles or larger trucks, which generally won't affect a standard rental car but is good to know. The Taconic is known for its scenic, winding nature and sometimes has very short or non-standard entrance and exit ramps. It's important to be extra cautious and attentive when merging onto or exiting this particular parkway.

When driving south from New Windsor towards London—sorry, towards New York City or New Jersey, you will encounter several toll roads, such as the New York State Thruway (I-87) and various bridges and tunnels. Many of these facilities use a cashless tolling system, meaning you cannot pay with cash at a booth. Your rental vehicle will drive under an electronic scanner that records the toll. To ensure a smooth journey, it's a good practice to discuss the rental company's specific tolling programmes with the agent at the counter when you pick up your car so you understand how tolls will be processed.

Using New Windsor as a base is an excellent strategy for exploring the Hudson Valley. To comfortably see the highlights on both sides of the river without feeling rushed, a three to four-day itinerary is ideal. This allows for one day dedicated to nearby attractions like West Point and Storm King, another day for exploring towns to the north like New Paltz and Poughkeepsie, and a third day for destinations south like Bear Mountain and Cold Spring. A fourth day provides a nice buffer for revisiting a favourite spot or discovering something new at a more relaxed pace.

The most direct route to the Breakneck Ridge hiking area is to take I-84 East across the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge and then exit onto Route 9D South. The main challenge for drivers is parking, which is extremely limited and fills up very early, especially on weekends. Parking is located along the shoulder of Route 9D, requiring great care when exiting and entering your vehicle due to fast-moving traffic. Additionally, be aware of the train tracks that run parallel to the road; always look both ways at designated crossings and never park on or too close to the tracks.

For a delightful tour of the wineries and farms in the Marlboro and Milton area, a simple and scenic loop is your best bet. From New Windsor, head north on Route 9W, which serves as the main artery through this agricultural region. Many of the area's best-known wineries and farm stands are located directly on or just off this road. You can drive as far north as you like before turning around and heading back south on 9W. This out-and-back approach prevents complex navigation on rural back roads and allows you to easily stop at any destination that catches your eye.

Driving from the Stewart Airport area to the Catskills on a Friday afternoon can be challenging due to significant weekend traffic. The most common route involves taking Route 17K West to Route 17 (Future I-86) West. This highway is the primary corridor for travellers heading from the NYC metro area to the Catskills, and it typically begins to slow down considerably by early afternoon. Expect the heaviest congestion between the Thruway interchange (Harriman) and Exit 121 (Middletown). To mitigate delays, try to pick up your car and get on the road before 2 p.m. if possible.

When heading to a time-sensitive event like a wedding, building a generous time buffer into your travel plans is essential. After accounting for the estimated satnav driving time from SWF to the venue, it is wise to add at least an extra 45 to 60 minutes. This additional time will cover any unexpected traffic, a wrong turn, or the need to find parking, which can sometimes be limited at historic or rural venues. Arriving early allows you to relax and freshen up, ensuring you don't miss any part of the special occasion due to travel stress.

Winter driving in the New Windsor area requires extra caution, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the conditions. A primary concern is that bridges and overpasses on highways like I-84 and the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge can freeze before the road surface, creating slick patches of black ice. Additionally, the region can experience sudden snow squalls or whiteout conditions, drastically reducing visibility with little warning. It's crucial to reduce your speed, increase following distance, and check the weather forecast before any significant drive during the winter months.

After picking up your rental car at SWF, there are several convenient options nearby for a quick regroup with children. The area along Route 300 (Union Avenue), just a few minutes from the airport, has numerous shopping centres and fast-food restaurants. These locations offer large parking lots where you can safely install car seats without pressure. They also provide easily accessible restrooms and the chance to grab snacks and drinks before you get on the motorway for a longer journey through the Hudson Valley.

To make the most of your day at LEGOLAND New York, it's best to plan your arrival for at least 30 to 45 minutes before the park's official opening time. The drive from the New Windsor area is relatively short, but arriving early allows you to navigate the large parking lots and walk to the entrance without feeling rushed. This strategy helps you get through the entry gates and security checks ahead of the main crowds, positioning you to enjoy the most popular rides first thing in the morning before the lines get long.

The most straightforward and scenic drive from New Windsor to Kingston is to take the New York State Thruway (I-87) North. This major highway offers a direct route, and you'll take Exit 19 for Kingston. From there, follow the signs for Route 28 and then connect to I-587, which leads you directly into the city. To explore the historic Rondout waterfront district, you'll follow signs for Broadway, which descends down to the creek. This route is well-marked and avoids the complexities of smaller back roads.

When visiting Minnewaska State Park or the Mohonk Preserve, be prepared for mountain driving and high demand for parking. The roads leading up to the main entrances can be steep and winding, so it's important to drive cautiously. Parking lots, especially at popular trailheads, are limited in size and frequently fill to capacity very early in the morning on weekends and holidays. Park officials will close the lots once they are full, so it is essential to have a backup plan and to check the park's official website or social media for real-time updates on parking status before you go.

For a low-stress drive to Poughkeepsie, the best route is to take I-84 East from the New Windsor area. You will cross the Hudson River on the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge, which is a modern, multi-lane highway bridge that is easy to navigate. After crossing, take the exit for Route 9 North. This major road runs parallel to the river and will take you directly into Poughkeepsie. Sticking to these two main highways, I-84 and Route 9, will help you avoid confusing local roads and provide a clear path to your hotel.

A smart way to combine a Hudson Valley trip with a visit to NYC is to use the Metro-North Railroad. From the New Windsor area, the Beacon station is an excellent park-and-ride choice, located just across the river via the I-84 bridge. It has a large parking lot and offers frequent, direct service to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. Another great option further south is the Tarrytown station, which also has ample parking and provides a scenic train ride along the Hudson River, allowing you to avoid the stress and expense of driving and parking in the city.

Driving from New Windsor to a major stadium like Yankee Stadium or MetLife is certainly manageable, but it requires careful planning. The biggest pitfall is underestimating game-day traffic, which can add an hour or more to your trip. The most direct route involves taking the Palisades Interstate Parkway South. For Yankee Stadium, you'll transition to the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87), while for MetLife, you'll connect to Route 3 in New Jersey. To avoid stress, plan to leave New Windsor at least three to four hours before game time to account for traffic, parking, and walking to the stadium.

When visiting college campuses like SUNY New Paltz or Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, it's important to plan for parking ahead of time. Most campuses have designated visitor parking lots, and you should check the college's website beforehand for a map and information on any required permits or fees. During busy times, such as student move-in or special events, campus lots can fill up quickly. Both New Paltz and Poughkeepsie have municipal parking lots or garages in their downtown areas, which can be a reliable alternative if you are willing to walk a short distance to the campus.

For a perfect half-day trip, pairing New Windsor with Cold Spring is an excellent choice. Simply drive south on Route 9W, cross the Bear Mountain Bridge, and head north on Route 9D. This brings you directly into the charming village of Cold Spring, known for its antique shops and waterfront views. Another great option is Beacon, which is just across the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge from New Windsor. Both towns are very close, minimising your drive time and maximising your time for exploring, dining, and enjoying the Hudson Valley atmosphere.

For the simplest and most straightforward drive to Albany, taking the New York State Thruway (I-87) is the recommended choice for most out-of-town drivers. From the SWF area, you'll take a short connector road to get on I-87 North, and this single highway will take you all the way to Albany. While the Taconic State Parkway is more scenic, it is a narrower, winding road with more complex interchanges and no services directly on the parkway. The Thruway is a wider, more direct interstate with regular service plazas, making it a less stressful option for an unfamiliar driver.

A day trip to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is a fantastic experience. From New Windsor, the easiest route is to take I-84 East across the river to Route 9 North. Follow Route 9 North for about 15 miles; the CIA campus will be on your left and is very well signed. The campus has ample, clearly marked visitor parking lots available for guests. It's best to arrive a little early for your reservation to allow time to park and take a short, pleasant walk through the beautiful campus to your designated restaurant.

When driving in the city of Newburgh, it's helpful to be aware of its street grid, which includes many one-way streets, particularly in the downtown and historic districts. Using a satnav is highly recommended to navigate these effectively. Access to the popular riverfront area is primarily via Water Street, which can get congested, especially on weekend evenings. Be mindful of special event traffic for festivals or concerts at the waterfront, as this can cause temporary road closures and make parking more challenging. Planning ahead and allowing extra time is always a good idea.

To reach the main trailheads at Harriman State Park from New Windsor, the most direct route is to take Route 6 East, which cuts through the northern part of the park. Alternatively, you can take the Palisades Interstate Parkway South to access the park's eastern entrances. On sunny weekends, especially during the fall, parking lots at popular spots like Bear Mountain, Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, or the lake areas can fill up as early as 9 or 10 a.m. It is crucial to arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid disappointment.

The most straightforward route to Boston from New Windsor is to take I-84 East all the way to the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) East. This route avoids the traffic congestion of the New York City and coastal Connecticut areas. The first significant slowdowns are typically encountered around Hartford, Connecticut, especially during weekday commute hours. After Hartford, the drive is generally smooth until you approach the outskirts of Boston on the Mass Pike. Always check real-time traffic on your satnav before you depart to get the most accurate travel time estimate.

When driving in the Hudson Valley, it's important to adopt a more relaxed pace, especially on two-lane country roads and within small towns. Be courteous to other drivers and watch for cyclists and pedestrians. Speed limits are strictly enforced, particularly in the villages and designated school zones where the speed limit drops significantly during certain hours. Always come to a complete stop for school buses with flashing red lights, regardless of which direction you are travelling. Paying close attention to posted speed limits will ensure a safe and pleasant driving experience.

Before embarking on a long road trip, it's a great idea to get acquainted with your rental car on local roads. From the SWF airport area, you can take a short, low-stress loop on Route 17K or Route 300. These roads have standard traffic lights, turns, and moderate speed limits, allowing you to comfortably adjust your mirrors and seating, connect your phone, and get a feel for the vehicle's acceleration and braking. A quick 10-minute drive around this area will build your confidence before you merge onto a major highway like I-84 or the Thruway.

Finding overnight parking at most hotels, motels, and inns throughout the Hudson Valley is generally very easy and convenient. The majority of accommodation in the region, especially those outside of the densest city centres, offer complimentary on-site parking lots with ample space. Even if you are driving a larger SUV or minivan, you should have no trouble finding a suitable spot. For smaller, historic inns in towns like Cold Spring or Rhinebeck, it can be a good idea to call ahead just to confirm their parking situation.

During major events like a West Point graduation or a large festival such as the Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, you should anticipate significant traffic delays throughout the region. Roads leading to the event venues, like Route 9W near West Point or Route 9 near Rhinebeck, will be heavily congested. You may also encounter temporary road closures or detours managed by local law enforcement. It is essential to check event websites and local news for traffic advisories and to allow at least double the normal travel time when driving near these large-scale gatherings.

Many popular Hudson River cruises depart from the Newburgh waterfront, which is a very simple drive from the SWF airport area. You would typically take Route 17K East, which leads into Broadway in Newburgh, and then follow signs down to the riverfront. It's wise to arrive at the departure point at least 45 to 60 minutes before your scheduled cruise time. This provides a comfortable window to find parking, which can be in high demand, walk to the dock, check in, and board the vessel without feeling rushed.

When returning your car for an early flight, it's crucial to allow ample time. From Beacon, plan for about 20–25 minutes of driving time. From New Paltz, the drive will be closer to 30–40 minutes, and from Kingston, you should budget for 45–55 minutes. To these driving times, add at least 30 minutes for the car return process and walking back to the terminal. Factoring in the standard airport recommendation of arriving two hours before your flight, you should leave your hotel with a generous buffer to ensure a stress-free departure.

For travellers based in New Windsor, the Beacon station is often the most convenient and user-friendly Metro-North station. It is located just across the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge and has large, well-marked parking lots with clear signage for daily and permit parking. Another excellent option, especially if you are heading south, is the Salisbury Mills–Cornwall station on the Port Jervis Line. This station is smaller and located in a less congested area, which can make the process of finding parking and navigating the station feel less intimidating for a first-time visitor.