Just a quick follow up to say that everything went well and much appreciation for all the advice! Our flight and son’s flight were both on time so we could meet up at Newark and get the rental car. We drove up to Newburgh (such fun getting out of New Jersey at rush hour), checked into the Homewood Suites, then drove over to Blu Pointe for dinner. The town itself was not impressive but for dinner we sat outside overlooking the Hudson as the sun set and the moon rose. Beautiful setting; husband and son were impressed with my choice.
The next morning we headed over to Storm King Art Center - son had discovered it was First Free Friday so no admission and saved $65. It was extremely interesting! Also hot, so when I gave out we took the tram tour to see the entire park. My nephew later told us that after a NYC couple has been dating for three months, it is de rigueur to take the train up to Storm King for the day. He and his fiancée had been there. Then we grabbed lunch at a little place called Temple Hill Tavern and headed up to Saratoga Springs.
There was a family hors d’ouevre buffet, after which the three of us went to dinner in town at a fabulous Italian restaurant with excellent service and the best carpaccio we’d ever had - Chianti Il Ristorante. Again impressed husband and son with my research.
The next morning we did a walking tour of Congress Park, which was somewhat interesting. Then we strolled around town and got bagels at Uncommon Grounds. The rest of the day was getting ready for and attending the wedding. The next morning we had brunch with everyone then headed back down to Newark but at least the route out of town took us past the racecourse so we got a glimpse. Whirlwind weekend and fortunately got away before the smoke arrived.
Thanks again for all the suggestions!