Circle Line: Bear Mountain Foliage & Oktoberfest Cruise NYC

If you’re looking to see the fall colors along the Hudson River and enjoy some hearty German vibes at the same time, the Circle Line Bear Mountain Foliage & Oktoberfest Cruise might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this cruise, I’ve looked at what it offers, and it seems like a solid way to combine scenic views with a fun onboard party.

What I really like about this experience? First, the spectacular fall foliage views as the cruise travels up the Hudson—that’s one of the best ways to enjoy autumn in New York. Second, the onboard Oktoberfest celebration with live music and German food for purchase sounds like a lively bonus. A possible downside? The 2-hour stop at Bear Mountain involves some walking and hill climbing, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

This tour feels like a good fit for those who love fall scenery and are after a relaxed, fun day with a bit of festive flair. If you’re traveling with friends or even a couple of family members who enjoy good food, lively music, and outdoor sights, this could be a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Scenic cruise showcasing breathtaking autumnal landscapes along the Hudson River
• Two-hour stop at Bear Mountain, perfect for hiking, biking, or just soaking in nature
• Festive onboard Oktoberfest with German food and beer options for purchase
• Live music performance enhances the lively, celebratory atmosphere
• Guided narration helps you spot landmarks and learn about the area’s highlights
• Value for price at $69 includes a full day of activities with scenic and cultural elements

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Stage: What Is This Tour All About?

This is a full-day experience that combines the natural beauty of fall in the Hudson Valley with a spirited Oktoberfest celebration on the water. For about 8 hours, you’ll be cruising along the Hudson River, taking in the colorful leaves and iconic sights, then hopping off at Bear Mountain for a couple of hours of outdoor fun.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the timing—it’s designed to coincide with the peak of fall foliage, so you get those brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows dominating the landscape. Second, the atmosphere onboard, with live German music and food for sale, adds a festive touch to the scenic journey.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Cruise Up the Hudson River

Your day begins at Pier 83 in Manhattan—conveniently located at West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours each way, giving you a nice stretch of time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the views. The boat guide provides light narration, pointing out landmarks like Riverside Church, Grant’s Tomb, the George Washington Bridge, and the Little Red Lighthouse.

The hallmark here is the scenery. As you glide up the Hudson, you’ll witness the stunning fall foliage that graces the riverbanks—it’s a picture-perfect backdrop that even non-enthusiasts for outdoor scenery will find hard to resist.

Land at Bear Mountain State Park

After the cruise, you’ll disembark at Bear Mountain for about two hours. The park is famous for its hiking and biking trails—over 50 in total—and the chance to paddle around the lake or simply bask in the crisp autumn air.

Note: There is a steep hill leading from the dock to the main park area, which could be a challenge for guests with mobility difficulties or those who prefer a flatter terrain. The area between the dock and park entrance can sometimes flood, so packing hiking shoes might be wise if you want to explore extensively.

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The Oktoberfest Festivities

Back onboard, the vibe shifts to a lively celebration of German culture. Live Oom-pah and Polka music fills the air, making it a fun scene for those who enjoy lively, sing-along tunes. For food lovers, there are options for purchase, including Bratwurst, Vegan Sausage, or Pork Schnitzels, along with classic sides like German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, and Potato Pancakes.

The beer specials are a draw for many. While the cruise doesn’t include food or drinks in the ticket price, the German food and beer on sale are part of the experience’s charm. It’s a casual, festive atmosphere where you can indulge in some hearty eats and drinks while enjoying the music.

The Landmarks & Views

Throughout the cruise, you’ll get glimpses of notable NYC landmarks like Riverside Church and Grant’s Tomb, with the George Washington Bridge providing a spectacular backdrop. The focus remains on the natural and scenic views along the river, perfect for photography and simply soaking in the season’s beauty.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $69 per person, this tour offers a lot—two scenic hours on the water, a park stop, and a lively atmosphere onboard. The price feels reasonable given the length and variety of activities. Plus, booking includes skip-the-line access, saving you time on busy days.

While the food and drinks are extra, many reviews highlight the value of the experience, especially considering the full day of fun packed in. The opportunity to see the fall foliage, combined with the festive Oktoberfest, makes this a more unique outing than a standard boat cruise.

What Do Travelers Say?

Reviews paint a pretty positive picture. Many mention the stunning views and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One reviewer called it a “beautiful day,” highlighting the scenery, and another praised the “great vibe onboard,” especially the beer specials and live music. A common theme is that the atmosphere and scenery elevate the experience, making it a memorable autumn outing.

However, some note that the hike from the dock to Bear Mountain can be tough if you have mobility concerns. Also, since the food and drinks aren’t included, it’s worth budgeting extra if you plan to indulge.

Who Will Love This?

This cruise is ideal for nature lovers who want to see fall colors with minimal effort, as well as those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere with good music and hearty food. It’s suitable for a range of ages, though the walking involved might not be perfect for everyone with mobility issues. If you’re looking for a laid-back way to enjoy fall in New York with some cultural flair, this tour hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Circle Line Bear Mountain Foliage & Oktoberfest Cruise offers a well-rounded experience. You get to cruise past beautiful autumn scenes, enjoy a park visit with outdoor activities, and wrap up with a cheerful Oktoberfest celebration. For $69, it strikes a good balance of scenic beauty, cultural entertainment, and fun.

If you’re after a day that combines outdoor sights with lively entertainment, and don’t mind paying a little extra for food and drinks, this cruise is quite a good pick. Just remember, if you’re not a fan of walking uphill or standing for a bit, plan accordingly.

This experience feels like a good option whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or someone looking to make the most of fall in New York without straying far from Manhattan.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours going up the Hudson River and another 2.5 hours coming back, totaling around 5 hours on the water.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Pier 83 on West 42nd Street and 12th Avenue in New York City.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the cruise up and down the Hudson and the 2-hour stop at Bear Mountain. It does not include food or drinks, which are available for purchase onboard.

Is there narration during the cruise?
Yes, there is light narration from your onboard guide, highlighting landmarks and sights along the river.

How accessible is the stop at Bear Mountain?
There’s a steep hill from the dock to the main park area, which could be difficult for some. The area between the dock and park entrance may also sometimes flood.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore Bear Mountain’s trails. Hiking shoes might be helpful since some areas could be flooded.

Can I bring children?
While the experience is suitable for most ages, the walking and hill climbing could be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s a scenic outdoor experience, bad weather might impact your enjoyment or lead to rescheduling.

How much does it cost?
It costs $69 per person, which is reasonable given the full-day experience, scenic views, and onboard entertainment.

If you love the idea of combining a scenic fall cruise with a lively Oktoberfest celebration, this tour offers a nice mix of both. Just be prepared for some walking and extra costs for food and drinks, and you’re set for a fun, memorable day exploring New York’s autumn landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: