Kick back in a cool, shady spot on the deck of the Rip Van Winkle, or indulge in refreshments from the snack and beverage bar as a knowledgable guide points out millionaires' estates, picturesque lighthouses, and quaint villages along the Hudson River waterfront. For more than 35 years, Hudson River Cruises has given passengers this first hand view of the historic shoreline during two-hour sightseeing tours aboard such intricate vessels.

• Hudson River lighthouses include the Rondout Lighthouse and the Esopus Meadows Lighthouse

• The Wyndcliff Mansion was previously one of the most extravagant homes on the east shore of the Hudson.

• Wilderstein, originally an Italian Villa design, is now a restored Victorian mansion.

• The Vanderbilt Mansion displays an aura of Victorian opulence.

• The Rosemont was originally known as the Tank & Tummy tavern when it opened in the Hudson River Valley in 1740.

• Staatsburg, the previous residence of Ogden Mills, possesses 65 rooms and 14 bathrooms with an interior chock full of marble fireplaces, oak paneling, and gilded ceilings.