The Erie Canal, constructed in 1852, linked New York City to Chicago before the development of the railway in the late 1880s made barges obsolete. The scenery of the Hudson Valley inspired the works of early American writers, artists and designers and contributed to an appreciation of the natural environment. Olmsted as well as a wide array of historic and archaeological sites and museums associated with Native Americans, the Dutch and English settlements, the Revolutionary War and the Hudson River School. The Hudson Valley has a long tradition as a holiday destination. Today, the area continues to offer year-round opportunities for many outdoor activities such as boating, camping, hiking, hunting, skiing, bicycling, rock climbing and canoeing.
Tourism is the Valley's largest employer.
With ties to both areas, Westchester benefits from the two different worlds. The county is bordered on the west by the Hudson River and on the east by the Long Island Sound , offering plenty of opportunities for boating, sailing and watersports. The county is home to 40 private and public golf courses and top-name department stores, discount malls and exclusive boutiques. The city's historic roots go deep and are reflected in the many museums, historic sites and other attractions. These include the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers , where paintings by the famous Hudson River School of artists are on display.