hudson ny trip

The 22 Best Things to Do in Hudson, NY (on a NYC Weekend Getaway!)

Hudson, New York

Hudson is like the Goldilocks of upstate New York .

It’s not too big, it’s not to small… and there’s convenient public transportation, making it an easy getaway for my fellow New Yorkers.

You can spend a leisurely weekend in just the town of Hudson if you take the train up, or you can drive up and explore the Hudson Valley region , with its incredible restaurants, local farms, art galleries, historic homes and vintage shopping.

I just got back from a girl’s trip to Hudson and although it was the second time I’ve been, the town totally surprised me!

Here’s a travel guide to Hudson, NY covering everything to see, do and eat on a weekend trip from New York City.

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Quickly jump to:

• About Hudson, NY
• Getting There
• How Many Days

Where to Stay

• Things to Do
• Day Trips & Nearby Activities

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What Hudson is Famous For

Hudson was the first city to be chartered by the United States.

Named after the famous English explorer Henry Hudson, the town has had quite the cycle of booms and busts. 

Originally settled by the Mohican Indians, the land was first purchased by the Dutch in the early 1700s, then by Quaker whalers after the Revolutionary War.

The Quakers were worried the British might return after the war to re-seize land, so they left the coastally unprotected towns of Nantucket and New Bedford looking for a more inland location.

They settled on Hudson, due to its prime location at the head of the Hudson River, and soon developed the area into a busy port town. They even laid out out a proper city grid!

You’ll still find whale logos in town today, on some street signs and business logos.

By the 19th century, Hudson became the center of inspiration for landscape painters in the Hudson River School of art.

The town transitioned from a rich seaport to a bustling industrial town, with factories making fire engines, brickworks, iron cement and more.

Wealthy merchants and factory owners built many of the impressive homes found throughout Hudson today. They built a motley mix of architecture styles – everything from Federal to Victorian to Queen Anne – but all of the grand buildings, whether neglected or beautifully restored, are still charming.

When industry left the northeast in the late 20th century, Hudson wasn’t spared.

The town fell into neglect for many years… until it was rediscovered and refreshed by antique dealers, who liked the old architectural buildings. Artists and writers followed, and the rest is history. 

Today, Hudson’s hip-happening!

The city is one of the most architecturally diverse cities and urban transplants have opened everything from cheese shops to taco stands, traditional art galleries to coffee shops mixed with motorcycle dealerships.

Fun Fact : Hudson is home to the highest percentage of self employed people in all of New York State!

How to Get to Hudson from New York City

Nyc to hudson via public transit.

Hudson is one of the few towns along the Hudson River with its own train station, making it convenient for those of us without a car.

To get there, take Amtrak from New York Penn Station. It’s about a 2 hour ride, one way, and the train is pretty comfortable. 

Download the Amtrak app on your phone to browse the schedule and book tickets.

I recommend booking your tickets in advance, because prices vary significantly depending on how far out you book, and what day and time you’re riding.

For example, the Friday night train fare cost us $66 USD a person, but the return trip on a Monday morning was only $39 USD.

In general, Amtrak fares are pretty overpriced. 

Once you arrive, Hudson’s train station is conveniently located near town, about a 5-10 minute walk from bustling Warren Street.

Tip : The train route follows the Hudson River and the views are beautiful! Sit on the right side for the best view. 

Do You Need a Car to Visit Hudson?

While you can get to Hudson easily via the train, if you can, I suggest driving.

Hertz and Sixt have affordable car rentals all over the city. I’ve used both in the past, just depending on car availability and price.

I also recommend checking out Auto Europe , which aggregates rental rates from all the car rental companies.

Check rental car rates for your dates here .

From NYC, the 120 mile drive is incredibly scenic and straightforward, passing through farm country with some beautiful views, especially in fall. 

Plus, having a car gives you so much more flexibility, since part of the appeal of visiting Hudson is exploring the surrounding Hudson Valley area.

I’ve been to Hudson both with and without a car, and I’d say it’s just more convenient to have a car .

When we tried using Ubers and Lyfts to get around, we had a really difficult time finding drivers even in peak season. We waited 20 minutes to find a driver, and then couldn’t find one at all when we needed a return ride.

You can also use local cab companies, but they charge about double what ride-sharing apps cost. There are lots of great activities just 30-45 minutes outside Hudson that are only convenient if you can drive yourself!

How Many Days to Spend in Hudson

Hudson is a bit like the ‘Downtown’ or ‘Brooklyn’ of Upstate New York.

It’s exploded in popularity, with lots of new restaurants, bars and boutiques opening all along Warren street.

There’s enough to see and do to keep you busy for a day or two, so Hudson is a great small town to use as a base for exploring the Hudson Valley region.

• For the outdoors-y , you’re at the foot of the Catskill Mountains, with plenty of great hiking and skiing options. 
• For the culture  aficionados , there’s dozens of antique shops, independent art galleries, award winning restaurants and pick-your-own organic farms. 

If you have time for a long weekend trip, I’d suggest 3 nights and 2 days in Hudson.

If you’re coming from New York City, you can take the Friday late afternoon train after work, and arrive in time to relax and have dinner and drinks.

Then you have the full weekend to explore the town and surrounding Columbia County, before grabbing an early morning Monday train back to the city.

Where to Stay in Hudson

As I mentioned, Hudson is a great town to base yourself in to explore the Upper region of Hudson Valley.

Aside from the great shops and restaurants in town, Hudson is within a 30-40 minute driving distance of great hiking and famous historical sites.

Here are 3 of the best hotels in town, but I have a full guide on where to stay in Hudson with more tips!

The Inn at 34

Lots of people who come to Hudson love antiques.

If that’s you, you’ll love this luxurious historical inn , run by a lovely couple Robert and Marie, who have liberally decorated the house with stunning art and antique furniture. 

We stayed here on our first visit to Hudson and loved the décor. All of the rooms are unique in layout and furnishings, and the hospitality here is warm and personable.

The owners live and work at the inn, grow their own herbs and vegetables, and even bake their own bread and pastries.

Best of all, this is one of the best lodging options in town that includes breakfast with your stay. It’s  homemade and served communally in the ground floor dining room each morning, so it’s a nice way to meet other travelers. (Well, at least it was on our trip pre-covid!)

This is a great option for couples and travelers who like a more personal vacation experience.

Book rooms: Booking.com , Hotels.com | Check rates: TripAdvisor

The Howard Hotel

On our most recent visit, we stayed at The Howard . The modern inn has clean spacious rooms and is connected to popular Italian restaurant Ca’Mea.

The beds were incredibly comfortable and the bathroom was all marble and tile, with sustainable bath amenities.

What’s nice about this property is everything is modern and updated . I’m talking keypad entry, smart TVs with Netflix, and an all day coffee and tea station.

If you’re extra cautious about COVID and want to be in-and-out without interacting with a front desk or other travelers, The Howard is perfect.

Finally, this property has a great location right on Warren Street. It’s a quick 5 minute walk from the train station and near all of the popular restaurants and shops in Hudson. Stay here if you don’t have a car!

Book rooms: Booking.com | Check rates: TripAdvisor

Rivertown Lodge

The city’s most unique boutique hotel is definitely Rivertown Lodge .

The historic landmarked building was once an old movie theater, but today has been completely transformed into a two story, 27 room modern hotel. 

The lobby, bar and rooms are decorated in a cozy Scandinavian-meets-Hipster style. Guests can borrow vintage bikes to ride around town and take advantage of the beautiful bar and tavern.

We had brunch at the on-site restaurant, which has moved outdoors due to Covid. Everything was delicious!

If you like thoughtfully designed hotels and unique food, stay here! This is a great option if you have your own car (otherwise it’s a far 25 minute walk from the train station).

House Rentals in Hudson

And of course, if you prefer to be more isolated, there are plenty of Airbnbs and VRBO home rentals in Hudson .

Most are less conveniently located but if you have a car and are traveling with a group or family, renting a home is very convenient! You can read our guide to Hudson’s best airbnbs here .

Book Hudson house rentals here .

Best Things to Do in Hudson

Here are the best things to do in Hudson, New York!

1. Walk Along Warren Street

Start off your weekend with a walk down Hudson’s main boulevard: Warren Street!

Downtown isn’t so much a section as it is this mile long single street . Very colorful and photogenic, you could easily spend the entire day popping in and out of the stores on Warren if you like to shop. 

There’s art galleries, jewelers and home goods stores, but the main thing you’ll find on Warren Street are antique dealers . 

If you’re not into shopping, walk on Warren anyway to see the 100+ year old buildings, many of which have been restored and painted in pretty shades of pastel. 

If you get tired, Warren Street is also home to Hudson’s best restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and cocktail bars!

2. Shop Till You Drop

Antiques dealers were the first to revitalize Hudson, so you’ll find a seriously impressive range of home furniture shops in town.

In fact, Hudson might just be the antique hot spot of the Hudson Valley and entire New York region!

With over 60 shops and a massive waterfront warehouse, you could literally spend all day in and out of the shops, hunting for vintage treasures.

You never know what you’ll find…

But one guarantee, it won’t be a bargain ;)

3. Try the Pastries at Breadfolks Bakery

On our first day in Warren, we noticed an exceptionally long line of people waiting outside this dark storefront. It turns out – the shop was a bakery and coffee shop!

Breadfolks just opened in August 2020 but it’s already become the most popular stop in town.

The organic bakery offers a range of coffee, teas and matcha drinks that are delicious, but the main draw is their fresh baked bread.

Ditch your attempts at making sourdough and grab the real deal here instead. Their savory croissant sandwiches, Danishes and selection of petit fours are heavenly .

We loved it so much we came back 3 times!

Make sure to try the kouign amann and pistachio financiers.

4. Look for Vintage Treasures at the Antique Warehouse

We spent nearly all day on Warren, going inside every antique boutique that caught our eye. Our favorites were Magic Hill and Finch.

But if you want a less curated and more treasure trove approach, head just outside the main drag to the Antiques Warehouse. 

This massive lot is like a flea market of stores all mish-mashed together. There’s antique doors, chandeliers, cabinets, clothes, shoes, jewelry – everything you could want.

My friend nabbed vintage Ferragamo varina heels for $50, a gorgeous old Coach bag for $40 and lots of other great finds. 

To get here, head towards the train station and walk about 5-10 minutes south, towards Hudson Basilica. Warehouse 21 is right behind, in an empty parking lot. (Google Maps wasn’t quite accurate, just walk ~5 minutes farther)

It’s worth the walk!

5. Take in the View at Henry Hudson Riverfront Park

Henry Hudson Riverfront Park is located at the edge of town right along the water.

If you need a break from all the shopping, the quiet benches and relaxing views make for a nice short escape. Sit and watch the boats go by or see the colorful changing of the leaves in fall!

The park isn’t that well maintained, so I’d suggest going on a sunny afternoon. Even better, stop by Talbott & Arding in downtown Warren to pick up a to-go picnic!

They’re a local provisions shop with a pretty extensive menu of sandwiches, salads and cookies. We especially loved their gourmet cheese and meat selection. Everything they offer is simple and delicious!

6. See Hudson’s Historic Homes

Hudson’s architecture makes this town SO photogenic. 

The Quakers created the city’s original grid layout of 50 by 120 foot lots, but wealthy merchants built their homes in a variety of grandiose styles. 

You’ll find everything from asymmetrical Queen Anne homes with wrap around porches to colorful Victorians with towers and turrets.

There are also symmetrical Georgian estates and grand Italianate mansions.. and all the various home styles are mixed right in next to each other!

Most of the large buildings were once banks and factories, but have been converted into residential and commercial buildings as part of the (expensive) restoration process. We couldn’t help but look at all the real estate listings in town.

If you want to learn more about Historic Hudson and the local preservationist efforts, occassionally historic homes undergoing restoration will be open for tours. A couple years ago, the Dr. Oliver Bronson House was quite popular to visit.

Check out Design Hudson to see if you can take a tour!

7. Eat at Hudson’s Best Restaurants

You know how I said Hudson felt like Brooklyn?

The restaurant scene in Hudson is no exception. There are tons of choices when it comes to places to eat in town, many of which source local ingredients, offer farm-to-table meats and organic produce and are beautifully designed.

We (unfortunately) didn’t get to eat  everywhere  but everywhere we tried was very good. 

Refuel with comfort pub food at 235 Warren Bar and Grill. The unassuming bar had such great burgers and entrees that we came twice! Try the fried calamari, burgers, fish & chips, pumpkin pasta and pan roasted chicken with mashed potatoes – everything was excellent.

Ca’Mea was great for rich Italian food and Rivertown Lodge had a delicious savory brunch.

8. And Try a Cocktail (or two!)

For entertainment, stop by Helsinki Hudson for live music, great drinks and finger lickin’ good barbecue.

For cocktails, head behind a nondescript antique store to find Backbar , a cool funky cocktail bar that serves small Malaysian style plates and a delicious slushy mezcal, made with chili infused aperol and fire smoked agave syrup.

For a classy evening, order wood fired pizzas at Oak Pizzeria Napoletana . They have everything from cheese and charcuterie boards to seafood, plus an extensive wine list.

Here’s a short list of some of the best restaurants in Hudson:

• 225 Warren Bar and Grill for delicious, affordably priced comfort food
• Helsinki Hudson for live music and great BBQ
• Talbott & Arding for soups, salads, sandwiches and cheese plates (to go)
• Ca’mea for Italian classics and fresh made pasta
• Rivertown Lodge for brunch, small plate and cocktails
• Moto Coffee for waffles and coffee inside a motorcycle shop
• Le Perche for French
• Grazin’ for burgers
• Food Studio for Vietnamese
• Lil Deb’s Oasis for Latin

Try to make reservations for dinner if you’re visiting in peak season, like summer or fall.

9. Watch a Performance at the Historic Hudson Opera House

Hudson is also home to the oldest theater in New York state.

At one point, the Hudson Opera House was the venue of choice for prestigious individuals like Susan B. Anthony, Teddy Roosevelt and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

The historic Opera House was recently restored in 2017, after sitting abandoned for over 50 years. Not only are the acoustics excellent for music, it doubles as a popular event space for weddings, galleries, festivals and more.

We didn’t go in, but admired the view from the excellent bakery across the street :)

10. Explore the FASNY Museum of Firefighting

Just outside town, you’ll find the FASNY Museum of Firefighting.

It’s a great place to take kids, with plenty of firefighting vehicles, equipment and objects on display. The museum also houses firefighters’ gear and lots of immersive displays that you can explore on a self guided tour.

11. See the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse

One of the most elegant lighthouses on the Hudson River is this iconic landmark, right in between the towns of Hudson and Athens.

It was originally built in 1874 and still works today to navigate ships around the middle ground flats of the Hudson River.

From July to October, you can tour the lighthouse up close on the second Saturday of each month. Just check their events page before you go for the ferry schedule.

The boat ride takes about 10 minutes and afterwards, you can pop over to Athens to visit the town across the river! That’s also where the better views are (and then after, pop into Crossroads Brewing Co).

Hudson Cruises also offers scenic cruises on the river. They do a popular sunset tour, Friday evening Murder Mystery tours and Sightseeing cruises in fall foliage season.

Day Trips From Hudson, NY

Here are some fun day trip options from Hudson!

12. Explore Opposite the River

Just across the Hudson River, you can explore the quaint small towns of Athens and Catskill. In Athens, there’s the popular Crossroads Brewery. In Catskill, you’ll find a Main Street and lots of cool new shops. 

13. Pick Up Fresh Produce at a Local Farm

There are a couple orchards 20-45 minutes outside Hudson. If you want fresh produce, or to pick your own berries and peaches, head to an orchard on a weekend afternoon! 

16. Play in Art Omi

This outdoor sculpture park is great for adults and kids. Pack a picnic and make a day of it – this place is huge!

Giant sculptures dot the backwoods of Art Omi and all of them are unique. Most blend into the countryside. Read more about visiting Omi sculpture park here .

17. Explore Opus 40

Quarryman Harvey Fite created this large environmental sculpture park in Saugerties. 

It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen, with curved pedestals, platforms and stone ramps across 6 acres of a bluestone quarry.

18. Explore Olana State Historic House

Frederic Edwin Church was one of America’s most famous landscape artists in the late 1800s. He painted massive canvases of the Hudson Valley from his home at Olana.

Today, you can visit his compound to see the best views of Hudson Valley for yourself. Only guided visits are allowed, so call ahead in advance to reserve a time.

When we visited, we were pretty blown away by the home. Church was a master of the Hudson River School and loved traveling the world – especially the Middle East. His home is like an omage to his travels, with a mix of Victorian, Persian and Moorish architectural styles. It’s really unique!

You can also skip the 90 minute guided tour to just explore the grounds (Church owned 18 acres of land). There’s a perennial garden that’s really pretty and on the day we visited, a Vintage Car group had overtaken the parking lot with cute cars. 

19. Visit Thomas Cole National Historic Site

If you liked Olana, there’s another painter’s home and grounds nearby.

Thomas Cole is another famous American landscape painter and at the National Historic Site, you’ll find his old art studio, restored as it would have been in his time. 

Guided tours are available to see Cole’s art work and home. Don’t miss the stunning view of the mountains!

20. Walk to Bash Bish Falls

Want something a little more active?

Head to nearby Taconic State Park to get your steps in. The park straddles New York and Massachusetts and is just a 30 minute drive from Hudson.

Inside, you can fish, hike or see the waterfall!

21. Hike the Greenport Conservation Area

For an entire day of greenery, head to “the countryside” of Greenport Conservation.

On this 736 acre conservation area, you’ll find plenty of scenic landscapes, views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains, and over 7 miles of hiking trails. 

There’s even a fully wheelchair accessible trail!

22. Meditate at Won Dharma Center

For something a little different, head to the Won Dharma Center for a spiritual awakening.

The bold architecturally modern building offers both daily meditations and longer retreats (check the schedule before you head out) as well as self-guided meditation walking trails. 

It’s funny looking back over the years. I’ve been to the Hudson Valley many times, and each visit has been so different. I guess it just goes to show there’s lots to do in the area!

Have you been to the Hudson Valley? What do you recommend?

Visiting NYC – Travel Checklist

Road Trips | There’s so much to see and do in Upstate New York, but one thing you need is a car. I recommend taking a road trip in Spring and Summer, or in early Fall to see the leaves change.

Hertz and Sixt offer affordable car rentals from New York City. You can also price compare on Auto Europe , an aggregator that pulls rental rates from all the car rental companies. Check rental car rates for Hudson Valley here .

Accommodation | Upstate New York has tons of hotel options – from luxurious Gilded Age getaways to romantic b&bs and quaint inns. In peak season, book hotels in advance to save, or check here for last minute deals .

If you have a group of people or want to stay in the countryside, rent a house on Airbnb . It’s especially great if you want to hike and don’t mind being a little farther from town!

Insurance | Lastly, be sure to visit Upstate New York with travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

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Blue hour on gorgeous koh samui, thailand, notre dame de paris, visiting the house of waterford crystal factory …, where to stay in reykjavik: northern lights, ….

Don’t miss Ca’mea Restaurant. The food is fabulous! They also offer the Inn at Ca’Mea with beautifully appointed rooms!

Yes, we ate at Ca’mea – thought the food was decent! The Inn at Ca’Mea is closed, I think they rebranded to ‘The Howard’, which is actually where we stayed. Very comfortable rooms and convenient location.

It was a great establishment before it was Ca’mea and The Howard. But it went out of business due to gentrification. There are a million places in NYC like this, why do City people come upstate just to turn upstate into downstate? We don’t want 6$ cups of coffee or second hand clothes that are too expensive for most locals to afford. You City folk are like a virus. Find a new place and start replicating until you destroy it. Enjoy your brunch.

Dont miss lunch ar The Makers And visit the Dia Museum at Beacon !! And don t miss Storm King Park about 1 hour and a half drive

are there any good massage spots?

Hi, Hudson is a city, not a town- thanks!

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The dreamy upstate city boasts award-winning hudson valley restaurants, unique storefronts, and the freshest new york air around..

In the whole of the Hudson Valley, Hudson is perhaps the most Instagram-famous city of them all. The upstate locale attracts an endless slew of New York City weekenders in need of a 180-degree escape from Big Apple life. The retreat exists as a unique destination in the wide expanse of northern New York. Amid farmlands and forests, Hudson packs enough attractions, restaurants, and shops to keep visitors occupied for a year.

Let this 24-hour guide get you started, but feel free to wander and explore as the day progresses. We guarantee you’ll get sidetracked by a quirky store or eye-catching art exhibit at least once during your trip.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Anna V (she/her) (@annavictoriaphotography)

9 a.m. – Chow down on a charming breakfast at Tanzy’s

This adorable eatery feels like a throwback to afternoons spent at grandma’s house. Cozy up at one of the quaint tables for a no-frills breakfast that will fill your stomach and warm your soul. The pancakes, a fan favorite, are bigger than your face, so only order the full stack if you’re really hungry. Otherwise, the Tanzy Breakfast Plate is the best value for money. For $11, you can enjoy one pancake, two eggs, a piece of bacon, ham, and sausage, a Taylor pork roll, and home-fried potatoes.

223 Warren St, Hudson 518.828.5165

One of the mansions I wanted to visit for the longest time… Olana Estate is built in the Middle Eastern, particularly Persian, style as the Churches loved to spend lots of time there. Beautiful place, nothing like any other mansions in the State of New York. #olana #olanaestate #historicsite #newyorkstate #upstateny #travel #localtravel A post shared by Alina Ivanova (@this__was__epic) on May 20, 2018 at 9:36pm PDT

10:30 a.m. – Channel your inner artist at Olana State Historic Site

As the former home of acclaimed Hudson River School artist Frederic Church, the Olana State Historic Site stuns with an expansive landscape, Hudson River views, one-of-a-kind works of art, and global architecture. The grounds are open daily to the public throughout the year for hikes, walks, and outdoor enjoyment.

5720 State Route 9G, Hudson 518.751.0344  

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Governor’s Tavern (@goviestavern)

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12 p.m. – Eat a gold-star lunch at Governor’s Tavern

Just off Warren Street, Governor’s Tavern serves only the best. With local, grass-fed pasture-raised beef from Kinderhook Farm in Valatie, the eatery will make your mouth water at the thought of the State Grill Burger, served on a brioche bun with frizzled onions, cheddar cheese, pickles, and horseradish aioli. Grab a craft beer at the gleaming wooden bar, then order a side of curry ketchup to give your sandwich extra spice. Vegans and vegetarians, Governor’s Tavern has you covered, too! The Beyond Burger is available on request. 

14 South 7th St, Hudson 518.697.5609

The newly restored stage at @hudsonhall1855 was a beautiful setting last night for @seraphbrass! Susan B. Anthony spoke from this stage several times! Thanks also @2notehudson for your lovely gifts of your beautiful lip balm, we appreciate it very much! 😀â¤ï¸ðŸŽ¶ðŸŽº #seraphbrass #brass #yamaha #brassquintet #chambermusic #tourlife #hudsonny #saveourhistory #hudsonoperahouse A post shared by Joanna Ross Hersey (@joannarosshersey) on Apr 29, 2018 at 8:24am PDT

1 p.m. – Take a tour of Hudson Hall

Housed within the historic 1855 Hudson City Hall building, Hudson Hall at Hudson Opera House is a hub for all things art. Visit at 1 p.m. on weekends for a tour of the restored building. Throughout the year, take advantage of the curated performance schedule, which packs in dance performances, book clubs, artist receptions, and more.

327 Warren St, Hudson 518.822.1438

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2:30 p.m. – Shop in style along Warren Street

With its reputation as the upstate extension of Brooklyn, it only seems fitting for Hudson to skip Main Street in favor of the oh-so-chic Warren Street. Shoppers can find everything along this stretch of road, from antiques and books to beauty, clothes, and even millinery . Lose yourself for hours among the various vintage treasures and baubles that hide on the shelves of the picturesque shops.

P.S. This is an ideal spot for holiday shopping, since you’re bound to find more than a few one-of-a-kind goodies for even the most challenging recipients.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Spotty Dog Books & Ale (@spottydogbooks)

8 p.m. – Grab a brew at The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

Don’t leave town without making a pit stop at The Spotty Dog, the hybrid bookstore and bar that serves up a top-notch selection of beer to go with its lined bookshelves. Local breweries feature prominently on the tap menu, which includes beers from Crossroads in Athens and C.H. Evans in Albany. Ciders, wines, and bar snacks are available as well.

440 Warren St, Hudson 518.671.6006

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by David Corpuz (@david_corpuz)

9:30 p.m. – Sleep over at The Hudson Milliner

The number of cozy inns and B&Bs that line the streets of Hudson are enough of an excuse in and of themselves to extend your stay. Keep it local on Warren Street by heading to The Hudson Milliner, a guesthouse and inn with industrial, vintage décor. Suites are named after styles of hats, such as The Top Hat, The Bowler, and The Fedora. Don’t be surprised if you walk away with more than one interior idea for your own home. Two former Brooklynite artists own the space, after all.

415 Warren St, Hudson 917.930.4302

Related: Everything You Need to See and Eat in New Paltz

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The secret’s out on hip little Hudson , a charming and trendy enclave (pop. 6,200) fronting the Hudson River, some 120 miles north of NYC (and just an Amtrak train ride away). This is the countryside at its most chic, a sort of “Brooklyn north,” brimming with buzzing food-and-drink establishments; stylish hotels and design-forward boutiques; midcentury antique shops and modern art galleries; and high-caliber music and cultural venues, much of which comes clustered around the picturesque and walkable main drag, Warren Street.

Built upon the fine architectural bones of a once bustling 18th- and 19th-century river port city–turned–raucous 20th-century industrial center, Hudson's post-industrial decline in the late 20th century has been remarkably reversed over the course of the last few decades. Fast-developing and firmly gentrified, the community today is a bona fide hipster haven, a city of comparative affordability for priced-out New York City creatives and entrepreneurs who've planted their flags here. Find your own reasons to fall in love with this small riverside city.

Stroll Along Warren Street

Photo credit: Dan Region

Hudson’s epicenter is its photogenic main strip, the mile-long Warren Street, a window-shopper’s paradise. The colorful patchwork of 18th-through-early 20th-century structures (part of a protected historic district) comes packed with inviting and trendy mom-and-pop spots for dining, drinking, entertainment, and shopping. You’ll find loads of art galleries and antique shops here; options for gallery hopping and antiquing are so robust in Hudson, in fact, that they each warrant their own entry on this list (see below).

Among the eclectic array of boutiques, you’ll find options for clothing (try de Marchin for chic threads for men and women or Sideshow Clothing Co. for vintage duds), perfumes ( 2 Note ), toys (The Bee’s Knees), furniture and home decor ( Lili and Loo ), jewelry ( Ornamentum Gallery ), and more.

Two quirky hybrid establishments are destinations in themselves: Hit up popular bar/bookshop combo Spotty Dog Books & Ale , featuring programming like live music and trivia nights, or try Flowerkraut , selling blooms alongside fermented vegetables.

Go Antiquing

Photo credit: Finch

A quick stroll down Warren Street, with some spillover into the waterfront warehouses, reveals Hudson as the truly world-class antiquing destination that is. With more than 60 antique shops throughout the city, hunting for antiques here is a sport all its own. In fact, the antique dealers who began setting up shop here in the 1980s, proliferating ever since thanks to a steady following of keen-eyed collectors and decorators, are oft credited with reviving Hudson and luring it out of its post-industrial economic decline.

Expect high-quality (and oftentimes high-priced) collectables and furnishings burrowed away in shops and stalls helmed by well-informed shopkeepers, with a special focus on midcentury modern and contemporary pieces. On Warren, antique boutiques that stand out in the crowd include Finch , for vintage furnishings, or newcomer Tom Swope Gallery, for antiquities. On the waterfront, you’ll find The Antique Warehouse, an antiques emporium that comes chockablock with antique-packed stalls.

Peruse Art Galleries

Photo credit: Carrie Haddad Gallery

Alongside antiquing, Hudson is a mecca for gallery-goers – little wonder, given its history as an arts center dating back some two centuries when it attracted painters from the famed Hudson River School like Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church (both of whom resided within a few miles of town). You’ll find some three dozen art galleries gathered mostly along Warren Street today, a continuing testament to Hudson’s appreciation for the arts.

Some galleries to seek out include the Carrie Haddad Gallery , highlighting regional artists (it’s Hudson oldest existing gallery space, dating to 1991); John Davis Gallery , for contemporary works by emerging and established artists; and Stair Galleries , known for its live auctions.

Visit Olana State Historic Site

Photo credit: Andrew Nelson 

Speaking of art, no art aficionado can pass through Hudson without a visit to Olana , the onetime home and studio space of Frederic Edwin Church. Revered for his work with the 19th-century Hudson River School of American landscape painting, the hugely popular Olana State Historic Site is made up of Church’s Persian-inspired home (designed by architect Calvert Vaux) and 250 acres of landscaped grounds, which were designed by the artist himself and are considered to be one of his masterpieces. The Hudson River and valley views here, a tapestry of meadows, woodlands, an artificial lake, and an ornamental farm, may very well look familiar to fans of Church’s work, as they were immortalized in some of his paintings.

Just be sure to book house tours well in advance, as admission is via guided tour only. Inside, you’ll glimpse Church’s personal collection of furniture, artwork (including a few pieces of his own), and tapestries from around the globe, as well as his home studio.

Catch Some Live Music or Performing Arts

Photo credit: Club Helsinki Hudson

After dark, Hudson is just getting started, thanks to several top-notch music venues and event spaces. Multidisciplinary arts center Basilica Hudson is the brainchild of rocker Melissa Auf der Maur (formerly of Hole and Smashing Pumpkins) and her husband, indie filmmaker Tony Stone. Occupying a reimagined industrial factory dating to the 1880s, the venue puts on diverse programming spanning music, film, literature, film, art exhibitions, and annual events like the weekend-long September music-and-arts fest, Basilica Soundscape, or the semiannual Basilica Farm & Flea, showcasing Hudson Valley artisans, farmers, and collectors. Another cultural heavyweight is music venue Club Helsinki Hudson , touting an eclectic lineup of live acts, with an adjacent Southern/soul food eatery and event space. It’s also set within a revamped 19th-century industrial space .

Hudson Hall  at the historic Hudson Opera House dates to 1855 and contains New York State’s oldest surviving theater; it puts on a year-round schedule of cultural programming, including concerts, theater, dance showcases, exhibitions, readings, and more. Finally, Time & Space Limited (TSL) is worth visiting for arthouse film screenings and original theater productions.

Check Out the FASNY Museum of Firefighting

Photo credit: FASNY Museum of Firefighting

The interactive and engaging FASNY Museum of Firefighting is dedicated to all things firefighting and is a particular hit with families and history buffs. Educational and entertaining, you’ll find more than 60 types of firefighting apparatus on display, including numerous antique fire engines. Several exhibits invite hands-on exploration for children, including the Jr. Firefighter Challenge Course, complete with poles to slide down and ladders to climb, as well as designated fire trucks on which kids can dress up in firefighter gear and sit behind the wheel.

Sail Out to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse

Photo credit: Jeremy D'Entremont / Getty Images

Dating to 1874, the picturesque Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, built in the Second Empire architectural style, marks the northernmost lighthouse on the Hudson River and is still operating today. Perched on a river isle between Hudson and the small town of Athens just across the way, the lighthouse is accessible via guided seasonal boat tours – run in partnership between the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society and Hudson Cruises – that operate on the second Saturday of the month between July and October. Sailings leave from the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, which also offers a pleasant land-based vantage point to look out onto the lighthouse anytime of year.

Stock Up at the Hudson Farmers Market

Photo credit: Shannon Greer

The largest farmers market in Columbia County, the longstanding Hudson Farmers Market offers a selection of farm-fresh produce and artisanal products from more than 30 local vendors. Among the regional growers and producers, look out for a variety of stalls hocking veggies, fruits, herbs, eggs, meats, fish, nuts, mushrooms, baked goods and breads, honey, mushrooms, pickles, cut flowers, and more. The market runs on Saturdays (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) from late April through mid-November, at 6th Street and Columbia Street; it moves indoors (at 601 Union Street) on select Saturdays in off-season, too.

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A Weekend Guide to Hudson, New York

Hudson has long been a favorite among New Yorkers looking for a quick weekend getaway (or a second home, for that matter), thanks to easy train connections and a plethora of vintage and antique furniture stores, art galleries, and cocktail bars to dip into once you’re there. But a new hotel is giving design lovers yet another reason to check in for the weekend: The Maker, which opened amid the pandemic this summer, channels the creative spirit that has defined Hudson for the best part of three decades.

Hudson lies just 120 miles north of the boroughs, and its proximity to the snaking Hudson River and numerous hiking trails also makes it a prime fall destination , with the surrounding mountains turning electric shades of orange and red come late September. Plus, there’s plenty of architecture to take in among the foliage: Queen Anne mansions, Victorian townhouses, and 19th-century warehouses and factories all make nods to Hudson’s storied past as a whaling hub, international trade center, and most surprisingly, a red light district. Here’s how to plan a trip to Hudson—and what to do once you’re there.

Getting there

If you’re ready to start taking public transportation again, the Amtrak Empire Service runs direct from New York’s Penn Station to Hudson and takes two hours; from Albany, the journey takes just one hour. The train traces the river the whole way, so choose your seat wisely for the best view—on the left side if you’re traveling north, the right if you’re traveling south. Once you arrive, the train station is only a 10 minute walk from the center of town, but an Uber ride takes just five minutes and they’re readily available.

Where to stay

Until recently, Hudson was lacking in decent hotel options, but a slew of openings over the past few years has remedied that. Following the lead of Wm. Farmer and Sons , an 11-room inn and restaurant on Front Street, hotels like The Wick , housed in a former 18th-century candle factory, and the retro, Workstead-designed Rivertown Lodge have provided solid options. The latest addition is The Maker Hotel , which hugs a sunny corner of Warren Street, and operates at a limited capacity to allow for extra cleaning protocols . Sprawled across three historic buildings, the 11-room property feels like an extension of the design inspiration you find in the stores and galleries that surround it—almost every piece of furniture is either one-of-a-kind or vintage, from 1970s lights sourced in Paris and antique Moroccan rugs to mid-century furniture bought back to life by a local furniture restorer.

The Artist suite at the newly opened Maker Hotel in Hudson, New York

Each of the hotel’s four suites are an ode to a type of “maker”—The Writer, The Artist, The Architect, The Gardener—and all rooms have details like Italian linen robes, thoughtfully chosen artwork, and Fresh bath products (the hotel’s owner also founded the beauty brand), as well as obligatory bottles of hand sanitizer. Downstairs, you’ll find a cafe serving all-day breakfast and a restaurant in the conservatory, both of which have outdoor seating, as well as a low-lit, velvet-clad cocktail bar tucked inside the adjacent 19th-century carriage house. (Hudson is currently operating at 50 percent indoor dining capacity, but if your comfort zone isn’t there yet, food can be ordered to your room via an iPad.) There’s a heated pool, too, if you time your trip for that last gasp of warm weather, but as the leaves begin to turn it's the library you’ll likely want to curl up in, complete with a Strand-curated book collection to leaf through.

Hudson has grown into a major shopping destination for furniture lovers, and for good reason: the city is rich with stores stacked floor-to-ceiling with everything from hard-to-find mid-century designs and globally sourced antiques to present-day designers like Brooklyn-based Peg Woodworking . Kickstart your day at the foot of Warren Street, the city’s main thoroughfare, and work your way up, stopping at places like Finch , where you might find a colorful 1950s Eames rocking chair or sleek 1930s Swedish smoking table, and Red Chair On Warren , filled with antique French glassware and twinkly chandeliers. (If lugging a piece of rare furniture back home on Amtrak fills you with dread, most stores will deliver directly to your home for a fee.)

For vintage clothing and home goods, don’t miss Enkyu/LikeMindedObjects . Founded by designers Elise McMahon and Enky Bayarsaikhan, the former photography studio on the corner of Park Place and Warren sells items like Klein-blue floor lamps and groovy, turmeric-colored ottomans alongside recycled denim and handmade jumpsuits. Nikki Chasin is also worth popping into for playful prints and rotating art displays (pick up one of her patterned face masks while you’re there), as is the Quiet Botanist for bunches of dried flowers and scented incense papers. 

Beyond shopping, there are hiking trails at the Greenport Conservation Area or visitors can catch a 13-minute Uber to the family-owned Crimson Leaf Alpaca Farm .

A citrus dish at outdoor spot Lil Deb's Oasis

Where to eat

It’s hard to miss Grazin’ Diner , which operates out of a 1940s stainless steel diner car. Come Saturday or Sunday lunchtime, locals and weekenders can usually be found waiting for a table or to picking up one of its top quality, grass-fed burgers. The organic diner sources its ingredients from its own farm, and even the sodas are homemade. For dinner, head to Lil Deb’s Oasis , which is currently operating as Fuego 69 at the back of Rivertown Lodge. The pan-Latin restaurant serves self-described “pescatarian hippie food” like tuna crudo, scallop and jalapeño skewers, and buckwheat flatbread slathered in tahini-miso spread, while also hosting takeovers from restaurants like Brooklyn-based Krueng Cambodia. Even better, 69 cents from each item sold goes to racial justice organizations. Other spots to bookmark include the cozy restaurant at Wm. Farmer and Sons and the newly opened Kitty’s Market for rotisserie chicken and sides. Before you leave, stock up on the latter's chocolate chip buckwheat cookies for the journey home.

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Maker Hotel

Hudson Merchant House

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11 Best Things to Do in Hudson, NY (Hudson Valley Getaway Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Hudson, New York? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway and escape from New York City, a day trip, passing through on a New York road trip, or looking to explore more of what the Hudson Valley has to offer!

After visiting recently, we definitely decided we need to come back, this is now one of our absolute favorite towns in New York to visit! From the cool lighthouse smack dab in the Hudson River, beautiful downtown with historic buildings full of cool shops and restaurants, and of course, the antique shopping here is next level!

Oh and fun fact about Hudson, NY. Did you know Hudson holds the remarkable distinction of being the first incorporated city in the United States? Its origins trace back even before the signing of the Treaty of Paris following the formation of the thirteen colonies!

Getting to Hudson, NY

If you haven’t already started planning your trip to Hudson, New York you might be wondering your options to get here. While if you plan on making a weekend getaway out of stopping in Hudson or want to take advantage of exploring all the amazing things to do in the Hudson Valley and amazing things to do in the Catskills nearby, you’ll definitely want to have a car.

If you’re coming from New York City and just want to visit the town and explore what to do in Hudson for a day trip or overnight, you’re in luck! The Amtrak stops at the Hudson Station in downtown Hudson along the Empire Service Train . You can take the Amtrak train here and easily spend the day or two just enjoying the best things to do in Hudson around downtown by foot.

What to do in Hudson, New York

Shop up and down warren street.

I am a big shopper when we travel, more specifically I really like vintage stores, record stores, antique shops, and just really cool independent boutiques even if I am just ‘window shopping’. One of my personal favorite things to do in Hudson was wander up and down Warren Street!

From the Public Square to Promenade Hill Park, it’s exactly one mile. This mile features the most darling 19th-century storefronts, street art, eateries, and fabulous shopping at all the small boutiques.

We mention a few of our favorites as their own in this guide, but so many great shops. Batterby House is a beautifully curated home goods store, and John Doe Records is full of gems like rare vinyl and used books. FINCH Hudson is another home goods store with a graceful industrial vibe.

MINNA is a treasure trove of ethically handmade household items and accessories. Westerlind has a lovely selection of quality essential outdoor wear was fun to browse, we actually saw a few of their shops around the Hudson Valley on this trip.

And Magic Hill Mercantile was charming with its quirky midcentury modern designs. They also have their own line of clothing and accessories based on original art pieces!

• Olana State Historic Site

Just a 9-minute drive south of Hudson, New York is Olana State Historic Site . This gorgeous old estate is perfect if you love historical sites, unique architecture, and the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley and Catskills.  

Olana was an estate created by Frederic Edwin Church, a well-known and prolific landscape painter in the Hudson River Valley. Church bought the estate to create a home for himself and his wife and it was a continuing project of Church’s in the last half of the 1800s.

Today, the breathtaking estate is a house museum and park with amazing hillside views of the Hudson River. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the main villa of Olana features Orientalist architecture with a blend of Victorian, Persian, Italian, Moorish, and Middle Eastern styles.

You can tour the house and see the unique home and collections from Church’s travels around the globe. Olana includes Church’s art studio, and there’s a museum and gift shop as well.

The park is open daily until sunset and is open to the public for free, but if you want to take a tour inside the estate, you can only do that Friday through Sunday from 11 AM to 3:45 PM.

There are different hour-long tours, including walking and riding tours of the beautiful 250-acre estate, as well as main-floor and second-floor tours. The rest of the time, you have access to the ground which is perfect for enjoying a walk or picnic with sweeping views.

• Shop at John Doe Records and Books

One of the most fun things to do in Hudson for vinyl lovers is spend time browsing the collection at John Doe Records. Definitely take some time here, this is the spot for vinyl in Hudson.

There aren’t many places like this place left anymore, but we have to say that there are nice amount of these types of shops scattered throughout the charming towns in the Catskills and towns in the Hudson Valley .

When you walk in, you’re hit with that comforting smell of old books, vintage items, and of course a vast collection of used music from vinyl to CDs.

Searching for a specific LP record or a favorite CD from the early 2000s? They’ve got you covered, and everything is reasonably priced.

John Doe Records is the kind of place you can pop into or spend a few hours knocking through the bins. There are old vinyl records, towers of CDs, used books, comics, posters, vintage clothing, and more. Stop by any day between noon and 6 PM when you’re on Warren Street.

• Dine at Kitty’s Restaurant and Market

Ahh, one of our favorite things to do in Hudson, New York was eating! Across Front Street from the Hudson Amtrak station is Kitty’s Restaurant . They have the BEST brunch in town and you should make it one of your first stops while you’re here!

What makes it one of the best things to do in Hudson, NY is the entire ambiance of the place, we loved the interior, the food, and of course their grocery/pantry section.

If you don’t have time to dine in, grab some snacks and drinks at the front on your way to explore Hudson or make reservations (recommended but not required) for brunch at the light-filled café. You’ll enjoy hot coffee, breakfast sandwiches, fresh pastries, and wedge salads made with local ingredients.

If you’re doing a day trip from New York City to Hudson, we recommend planning your first meal here since it’s next to the train station!

After 5 PM, the restaurant opens for dinner reservations, which is an entirely different experience! Kitty’s serves up American comfort classics with elevated touches that include seasonal ingredients found in the region. And if you come for dinner, the drinks are top-notch and include local brands.

• Henry Hudson Riverfront Park

On the other side of Front Street, along the banks of the Hudson River is Henry Hudson Riverfront Park. It’s named after Henry Hudson who was a voyage exploring the area commissioned by the Dutch East India Company in search of a northwest passage to Asia, this is when he came across what we know now as the Hudson River, named after him.

This is a beautiful park that’s perfect for a nice walk with views of the Hudson River. You can watch the boats go by, read historic markers, and check out a few landmarks.

At the northern end of the park is a boat launch. There are walking paths and a pavilion with benches where you can enjoy the sights.

You can see the Hudson Athens Lighthouse from the park and look for the statue of Henry Hudson. At the southern end of the park are a playground and restrooms.

• Hudson Athens Lighthouse

I’m not going to lie, this is one of my favorite lighthouses in New York! It’s smack dab in the middle of the Hudson River (there are actually currently 7 lighthouses on or in the Hudson River, but there used to be a dozen!), and during our trip, it was starting to have a bit of a flurry and it just looked so isolated and cool out there all alone.

In the 1850s, Hudson was a bustling port city with boats coming through on their way between Albany and New York City. But a shallow spot in the river called the Middle Ground Flats caused accidents and so a lighthouse was built to navigate boats around it! Thus, the Hudson Athens Lighthouse was born.

The lighthouse was a manned lighthouse from the 1870s through the 1950s when it became automated. Today, the Hudson Athens Lighthouse is a beloved historical landmark where you can tour a museum and learn about the history of the uniquely square structure.

From early April through September or early October, seasonal tours are offered that leave from the docks near Henry Hudson Riverfront Park. You make reservations through the Hudson Ferry Company website.

Then, on the given date and time, you’ll meet your guide near the gazebo and cross over on a ferry. You’ll learn about the history of the lighthouse, go inside and see what it was like to be a lighthouse keeper, and climb the tower!

• Drink and Shop at Spotty Dog Books & Ale

One of our favorite things do to in Hudson was enjoy an after-dinner drink (and shop for books) at the Spotty Dog Books & Ale . It’s a charming bookstore inside a historic firehouse, and there’s a bar inside!

Spotty Dog opened in 2005, and the owners have done a wonderful job honoring the memory of the firehouse. We both just love this combination of things! And let me tell you, after having a drink and feeling a little tipsy, I definitely get more adventurous when buying books!

The architecture is stunning and features reclaimed wood and iron fixtures. It’s a beautiful place to pick up your next read and relax with a beer or glass of wine. The store features all the topics you might be looking for, including local history and children’s books. If you’re looking for a gift, Spotty Dog also sells unique gifts and children’s toys. And they have a great art supply section.

At the bar, you can tell they love what they do! Spotty Dog carries a selection of mainly local ales (and can give great recommendations if you’re not familiar) and sustainably-sourced wines. And if you don’t drink, don’t worry. There’s coffee, tea, kombucha, soda, and more. Plus, they offer high-quality cheese plates that pair well with their drinks and are perfect for nibbling while you read.

• Eat Dinner at Lil’ Deb’s Oasis

We already mentioned that one of the best things to do in Hudson was eat, and Lil’ Deb’s Oasis is one of the reasons why! Located on Columbia Street, a short walk from Public Square is the most fun and delicious restaurant in town and a total must for dinner!

This vibrant restaurant fills up, so it’s best to make a reservation or be prepared to wait for a table. Even if you wait, it’s worth it!

Inside, Lil’ Deb’s is a wild and fun experience with neon lights, disco balls, different colors, local art, and excellent music. The establishment is very LGBTQIA+ affirming and it’s a warm, welcoming environment for all guests.

The restaurant serves a variety of authentic dishes from across Latin America, including plantains, fish fries, rice and beans, tamales, and more. Lil’ Deb’s uses only seasonal local ingredients and the menu is known to change weekly, or even daily! The restaurant also keeps different craft beers in stock and has a list of fun cocktails.

We loved our time here so much that we even bought their cookbook!

• Spend Hours at The Antique Warehouse

One of the best things to do in Hudson for antique and vintage lovers is exploring the massive Antique Warehouse, located off the southern end of Front Street. Antique shopping in the Hudson Valley is like no other place, and this spot is on steroids! We spent over 3 hours here and could have spent more!

The warehouse is 40,000 square feet, and they claim to be the largest antique warehouse in the northeast. It’s the kind of place that rents space out to different vendors, so you have a wide range of prices and specialties. You’ll find vendors selling reclaimed architectural items, including entire historic bars and every kind of light fixture.

There was even an old apothecary in the mercantile section. We saw enough antique furniture to fill a castle, and there we talked to the coolest vintage clothing vendors who sell wardrobes for big productions and TV shows for studios’ wardrobe departments! I found a few cool items from her actually! (her booth was called Vintage Clothing of the Past).

In fact, Scott and I both found cool vintage clothing here, he found a cool on hunting jacket and we both walked out of here feeling like we hit the jackpot.

Plus, it’s where the Hudson Brewing Company is located, so your trip can be an entire relaxing afternoon.

Check out the Antique Warehouse in Hudson any day of the week. They open at 10 AM most days, except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays when they open at 11. And the warehouse closes at 5 PM during the week and at 6 Friday through Sunday.

More Antique Shopping

Up and down Warren Street are a ton of other antique shops you don’t want to skip over. There’s Antigo , with its organized chaos of costume jewelry, antique clothing, tchotchkes, and nostalgic pieces.

We thought White Whale Limited WAS AWESOME. Unlike many antique stores, it was light and airy, and not at all overwhelming with bric-a-brac stuffed everywhere. And this place is one of a kind, with unique collections from around the world. You’ll find things like vintage Kenyan loincloths, tribal masks, early 20th-century medical implements, and more! This is a great place to pick up artwork, too.

And another stop that really stood out to us was A Collector’s Eye . This is your classic antique store, and it’s definitely where to come if you’re looking for World War II memorabilia! The owner has a huge collection with everything from clothing to weapons, and they’re more than happy to find what you’re looking for.

• Hudson Brewing Company

The Hudson Brewing Company is a great stop on the backside of the Antique Warehouse. It’s a nice place to enjoy a drink after all that shopping and we think it’s one of the best things to do in Hudson.

The taproom is spacious with tons of indoor and outdoor seating, we visited in winter and took advantage of the spacious indoor area with games.

There’s a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere with regulars and music. The menu at the Hudson Brewing Company is impressive with a variety of the brand’s stouts, ales, sours, ciders, and more. They also offer wine, spirits, and classic cocktails. And the food menu features a solid list of bar food, like burgers, wings, and pizza.

At the Hudson Brewing Company, you’ll find families, couples, and singles all hanging out. There are games throughout the space and their calendar includes fun events like drag shows and luaus! And they’re a dog-friendly place as well.

The brewery is open every day of the week, but hours vary. Monday, they’re only open from noon to 5. Tuesday through Thursday they’re open from 2 to 8 PM, and Friday through Sunday from noon to 10 PM.

Where to Stay in Hudson

While you’re planning what to do in Hudson, consider an overnight trip with a stay at The Maker Hotel . You’ll find this dream of a hotel on the corner of Warren and N 3rd Street. It’s a beautiful place to stay, with a timeless bohemian feel and unique touches.

The owners of The Maker ran a successful fragrance brand by the same name before they decided to open the hotel! In fact, you can shop the brand’s entire line in the lobby. Or ask for a tour of the gorgeous historic building which features an eclectic blend of industrial, Art-Deco, and midcentury-modern styles.

You can choose from decadent studios, rooms, and suites that continue the elevated interior design. Guests have access to parlors and libraries where they can cozy up with a book by the fireplace. And The Maker has a café and juice bar, a restaurant, and a speakeasy-type lounge.

Or, if you are visiting by car and don’t mind driving a short distance around 20 minutes away is Gather Greene . This is where we stayed during our weekend in the Hudson Valley, which is a great base for exploring around.

They have such a cool little retreat overlooking the Catskill Mountains from their hillside tiny cabins. These thoughtfully designed cabins may seem small, but they have the perfect nooks and crannies to tuck away your luggage and you can wake up to an incredible view!

During the summer months its near impossible to stay here as they prioritize wedding parties. However, in the late fall through early spring it’s much easier to book one of their cabins for a romantic or cozy stay! If you ask us, in the winter it’s really cool because it’s fun to feel like you’re in a snow globe watching the snowfall!

They have complimentary breakfast items in the main lodge area every morning, games you can borrow, and common areas to hang out if you’re with a party. At night they do s’mores by the fire and you can sit under the stars while you warm up fireside.

The cabins do not have wifi or tvs, but we found ourselves spending hours playing board games! It’s a really cool stay and a cool option for where to stay near Hudson, New York!

Best Things to do in Hudson (Post Summary):

• Shop up and down Warren Street
• More Antique Shopping!

Hudson, New York is famous for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and its location along the picturesque Hudson River, which played a crucial role in the region’s trade and transportation history.

The town of Hudson, NY is very walkable! Most of the top things to do in Hudson are along or around Warren Street. There are a few things to do nearby that you can easily call a rideshare to and it will be less than a 5-minute drive.

Yes you can take the train to Hudson, the Amtrak Empire Service Line stops at Hudson Station, which is in the heart of downtown.

Yes! Hudson, NY is easily visited in a day or two days at most. It’s a small town loaded with great shopping and restaurants!

Enjoyed this guide for what to do in Hudson, NY? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

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The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Hudson, New York

Updated September 2023

After spending a blissful long weekend exploring Hudson, New York, I wanted to share my guide for visiting. All of the best places to eat, where to stay from Airbnbs to hotels, and the things you have to do in Hudson.

This was my first trip to upstate New York and the Hudson Valley after many years of having it on my list. It was everything and more that I expected — truly a wonderful spot to go in the fall. I could imagine that all seasons there provide something special, the beauty of having a true four seasons. In the fall, Hudson felt like a postcard, with vibrant foliage and cozy spots to hang out. It was everything I dreamed of for a fall road trip from the city.

Hudson is a charming city along the Hudson River, full of antique shops and incredible dining. Its proximity to the Catskills and other outdoor preserves makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring the region. So if you’re planning on doing a road trip out of New York City, I recommend grabbing a car and making Hudson your first stop.

Here’s a look at the ultimate weekend guide to Hudson, NY.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Hudson:

• The Amelia , for the best romantic stay
• The Wick , for the best-elevated stay
• Wm. Farmer and Sons , for the best design-for-dollar stay

For more, hotel recommendations check out my full guide to the best hotels in Hudson !

Travel Tip: The best way to explore Hudson is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in New York, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Book your car with Discover Cars here .

The Weekend Guide to Hudson, NY

What to know before hudson, new york, time of year to visit hudson, new york.

With strong seasons, Hudson makes for an exciting time to visit year-round. Whether you pop in during the fall foliage or even do a winter trip, there is a lot to enjoy from season to season. We personally went in the fall to experience the fall foliage and take advantage of cozy restaurants and cafes.

Amount of Time in Hudson, New York

I recommend a minimum of two nights to enjoy the town of Hudson itself. If you’re planning on visiting the surrounding valley or Catskills, you could stay as a home base for 4-5 nights.

How To Get To Hudson, NY

From manhattan.

There are a few ways to get to Hudson from the city. My recommendation is to rent a car if you want to make a road trip to it. There is so much to see in the Hudson Valley and experience nearby. Your other option if you want to forego the car, is to take the train. You catch it at Grand Central Station and it is the Metro-North Railroad, taking around 2 hours with one switch. Once you arrive in Hudson, you can easily walk the main street from the train station. Just consider choosing a well-located accommodation if you forego a car.

Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in New York, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

Where To Stay in Hudson, New York

This old hudson airbnbs by zio & sons.

Not one, but two Airbnbs available by the lovely by Zio & Sons are available for rent in Hudson. We had the opportunity to stay at the Farmhouse which is fitted with three bedrooms and one bathroom. It is such a cozy space, the home is lovingly designed and feels inviting. The Airbnb is well located in the center of Hudson, NY so you can easily explore the main Warren Street where all the restaurants and shops are. I would highly suggest booking either the Farmhouse or Maison in advance as it is a popular Airbnb listing.

Wm. Farmer and Sons

15 chic, mid-century modern rooms are available at Wm. Farmer and Sons . It’s an intimate stay and at the hotel is a restaurant and cocktail bar. I love that they also have very family-friendly and pet-friendly rooms available to book. Book the best rates here .

The Amelia is a 19th Century Queen Anne-Style house that has recently opened in the heart of Hudson. It’s well located and guests will enjoy a quiet stay as it only has 8 rooms. Book the best rates here .

The Maker Hotel

The newest boutique hotel to open in Hudson, The Maker Hotel is home to a cafe, restaurant, and lounge in addition to their beautiful 11 guest rooms. It is an elevated stay, with rich details and belle epoque decor. Plus, it’s one of the only hotels in Hudson that has a swimming pool. Book the best rates here .

Where To Eat in Hudson, New York

The maker cafe.

Inside the Maker Hotel, the Maker Cafe was our spot for both breakfast and lunch. They have a lovely pastry bar and coffee bar for the morning. At lunchtime, I really enjoyed their fried chicken sandwich. We came in here another time as well for coffee one morning.

Feast & Floret

Feast and Floret was one of our favorite meals for both the ambiance and food. Order the pasta of the day as it is so good and be sure to grab a bouquet from the bouquet bar on your way out. While the patio is really cozy in the fall, being inside was wonderful as the design is so stunning.

The Restaurant at Wm. Farmer and Sons

Located inside the hotel, The Restuarant at Wm. Farmer and Sons has a wonderful, upscale menu. It may be worth making reservations in advance on the weekend. It is a very relaxing location to eat lunch and you’re not far from the train station so you can walk to hear.

WYLDE Hudson

A cute cafe and shop that is a good spot to pop in for coffee. They have a little bit of everything and would make for a good spot to work from for the day.

Supernatural Coffee + Bakery

Supernatural is the spot for coffee in town. I’d recommend it here first for your caffeine needs. It’s the spot to start your time exploring Warren Street.

MOTO Coffee/Machine

MOTO was our favorite coffee in town. We stopped in here multiple times. It’s set inside a motorcycle shop and a good place to hang out and enjoy an espresso.

Lil’ Deb’s Oasis

Such a fun spot to eat dinner! It is loud and bright, and a lot going on so be prepared to be very stimulated. However, the food is delicious, a great mix of Pan-Latin food. We loved everything for dinner here, especially the empanadas.

Kitty’s Market & Cafe

We went to Kitty’s twice just for the breakfast sandwich, they are SO good. Their coffee was also wonderful.

Best Things To Do in Hudson, New York

Stock up on provisions at talbott & arding.

If you are in for a long weekend, I recommend popping over to Talbott & Arding to stock up on all the essentials. They have a lovely cheese and charcuterie selection, local veg, bread, and more. It’s super well-curated and if you’re in the mood for a sandwich, grab one here too!

Shop on Warren Street

One of the main draws to visiting Hudson is the never-ending list of antique stores set in historical buildings. Almost every other store on Warren Street is a home decor or antique store. Some of my favorites from the time there were FINCH Hudson and Red Chair on Warren . Spend a good afternoon popping in from one shop to the next as you stroll down Warren Street. If you’re looking for florals, head to the dried flower shop called the Quiet Botanist in town too.

Go Apple Picking at Philip Orchard (Claverack)

A highlight for us was the opportunity to go apple picking, a very seasonal and classic experience in the Hudson Valley. I did a bunch of research and Philip Orchard was only 15 minutes away from Hudson so we went there. The best part of this visit is that you could drive your car into the orchards and park more conveniently. We spent the better half of a day picking out apples to enjoy the rest of our trip.

Spend a Day Hiking the Minnewaska State Park Preserve

One of our days in Hudson was spent driving down to Minnewaska State Park Preserve . It’s a park known for its incredible fall foliage and year-round, family-friendly trails. I would recommend on the weekend arriving early (before 11am) as the lots do get full. You’ll want to bring any food/water that you may need for the time there.

We did the easily accessible trail around Lake Minnewaska and did it casually in jeans and sneakers to give an idea of the difficulty. Afterward, we made our way over to the area of Accord, and had lunch at Arrowood Farms distillery and brewery, though I wish we had gone down the street at Westwind Orchard (their food/cider looked better).

A Few Other Things to Do During Your Visit to Hudson:

• Visit the Omi Sculpture Park
• Stroll the Henry Hudson Riverfront
• Go to the Catskill Mountains
• Visit the Olana State Historic Park
• Beer Tasting at Hudson Brewing Company

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

I use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

I use Priority Pass to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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The Best Things to Do in Hudson, NY

Welcome to Hudson, beautifully situated along the Hudson River. This once modest village, now a vibrant destination, is perfect for a unique weekend getaway just a 2-hour distance from New York City.

Hudson is known for its maritime and industrial history. Today, it is a cultural hub bustling with shops and art galleries. Hudson is also considered to be one of the most beautiful towns in New York State .

From strolling down Warren Street, lined with antique stores, to relaxing at the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, the town offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Step into Hudson, where each street is a discovery, and every corner tells a story of revival. It’s more than sightseeing – it’s immersing yourself in a town rich with history and buzzing with modern vitality.

Getting to Hudson, New York

Traveling to Hudson Valley, New York, is an adventure in itself. The best way to get there is by car, offering you the freedom to enjoy a scenic road trip through the charming Hudson River towns or the majestic Catskill Mountains.

If you prefer to sit back and relax, consider taking the train. A roughly 2-hour journey from Penn Station in New York City on Amtrak will get you to Hudson. After a 10-minute stroll, you reach the charming town center. 

When To Travel to Hudson, New York

Deciding when to visit Hudson, New York, depends on what you’re looking for. Each season adds its charm.

Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the lush greenery and outdoor activities, with the landscape bursting into life and the streets buzzing with energy.

Visiting in the Fall is excellent if you enjoy the foliage that is especially stunning on nearby hiking trails.

Winters are quieter but equally magical, especially if you enjoy the thrill of a snow-covered small town.

Where To Stay in Hudson, New York

Finding the perfect place to stay in Hudson, New York, is key to enjoying this charming town. Whether you prefer the unique character of a boutique hotel, the luxury of modern amenities, or the cozy feel of a historical inn, Hudson has something to suit every taste.

Here’s a look at three top accommodations that promise a memorable stay: Nest Hudson, The Wick Hudson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, and WM Farmer and Sons.

Nest Hudson

Discover the Nest Hudson, a newly renovated boutique hotel ideally located in the center of downtown Hudson. Just steps from all the shops and restaurants, this hotel offers a prime location for exploring the town.

Experience the charm and convenience of staying in the heart of Hudson, making your visit memorable and comfortable​​​​​​​​.

The Wick Hudson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Stay at The Wick Hudson, a unique 55-room boutique hotel that once was an 1860s candle factory. Now lovingly restored, it offers a mix of king and queen rooms and Junior and Luxury suites.

Enjoy amenities like a 24-hour front desk, fitness center, restaurant, and rooms with TV, fridge, and free Wi-Fi. The Wick combines historical charm with modern luxury​​​​​​​​ in Hudson, New York.

WM Farmer and Sons

Experience the cozy ambiance of WM Farmer and Sons, an intimate 15-room hotel in historical Hudson. Known for its eclectic charm and comfort, this 1830’s Inn features beautifully designed rooms, a restaurant, and a barroom.

Enjoy authentic farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails during your stay. WM Farmer and Sons provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere and perfectly blends history and modern hospitality​​​​​​​​.

Best Things to Do in Hudson, New York

Discover Hudson’s hidden gems as you journey through its attractions, offering you an unforgettable experience in this vibrant town. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Hudson, New York.

1. Wander Down Warren Street

Warren Street is the main street of Hudson, New York. Walking down this mile-long street, you’ll find over 60 unique shops, boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and cafes. It’s not just a shopping destination; it’s a journey through the town’s history and culture.

Every step takes you past historic sites and beautiful buildings, each with its own story. Whether browsing for treasures in antique shops or enjoying a coffee at a cozy cafe, Warren St offers a charming and vibrant experience that captures the essence of Hudson.

2. Peruse the Ethically Sourced Crafts at Tradewinds

Step into Tradewinds, a heartwarming non-profit store in Hudson where every item tells a story of care and conscience. This socially conscious shop is a treasure trove of ethically sourced crafts.

You’ll find beautifully handcrafted pottery and ceramics, cozy knitted wear, delicately made candles, and charming felted ornaments as you explore. Each piece here is not just an item to take home but a testament to thoughtful craftsmanship and ethical sourcing.

3. Enjoy Your Reading with a Beer at The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

Step into The Spotty Dog Books & Ale, where over 10,000 books meet the comfort of a craft beer in a historic 1889 firehouse setting. This unique haven in Hudson lets you pair your love for reading with the enjoyment of a locally sourced pint.

Here, you can browse a wide array of books and then relax with a beer from the finest breweries in the northeast. The Spotty Dog isn’t just a bookstore or a bar – it’s a charming escape where history, literature, and local tastes come together for a delightful experience.

4. Go Antiquing at The Antique Warehouse

Head over to The Antique Warehouse in Hudson for an antiquing adventure. This 30,000-square-foot warehouse is a treasure trove of antique furniture, vintage clothing, and unique collectibles.

As you explore the three floors of this charming building, you’ll find an endless array of exceptional pieces that will transport you to a different time.

Whether you’re looking for a unique piece to add to your collection or simply appreciate the beauty of antiques, The Antique Warehouse is a must-visit in Hudson.

5. Check out the Hudson Athens Lighthouse

Set in the middle of the Hudson River, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse is a beacon of history dating back to 1874. As one of the seven remaining lighthouses along the river, it continues to guide ships today.

To truly appreciate its historic charm, join a tour with Hudson Cruises. These 1.5-hour tours, available in summer and fall, offer a unique opportunity to experience the lighthouse up close and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Hudson River.

It’s not just a tour; it’s a journey into the past of this picturesque region.

6. Stop for Treats at Verdigris Tea & Chocolate

Pause your Hudson adventure at Verdigris Tea & Chocolate, a charming spot that’s part tea shop, bakery, chocolate shop, and café all in one. You’ll find a delightful array of teas for discovery and enjoyment here.

Indulge in their vegan cookies and treats selection, perfect for a sweet pause in your day. And don’t miss out on their popular lavender lemonade, a refreshing choice that’s become a local favorite.

Verdigris is a cozy nook in Hudson, ideal for a relaxing break filled with delicious flavors and warm hospitality.

7. Get Your Espresso Fix at Hudson Roastery

For a perfect coffee break, head to Hudson Roastery in Hudson. This vibrant and welcoming café is the go-to place for your favorite coffee and espresso. Treat yourself to their delicious croissant, a delightful companion to your coffee.

The cafe’s bright and beautiful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a morning pick-me-up, or a relaxing afternoon pause. Hudson Roastery isn’t just about great coffee; it’s an experience of comfort and taste in the heart of Hudson.

8. Enjoy the Food at Baba Louie’s

Baba Louie’s in Hudson invites you to enjoy their specialty: delectable wood-fired sourdough pizzas . This pizza haven caters to all tastes, including various vegan options. Customize your pizza with vegan toppings to create your perfect pie.

Not just about pizza, they also offer a range of delicious in-house vegan soups. Baba Louie’s combines the warmth of a traditional pizzeria with a modern twist on ingredients, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a slice of culinary delight in Hudson.

9. Enjoy the Atmosphere at Wunderbar Bistro

Step into the welcoming atmosphere of Wunderbar Bistro in Hudson, where American comfort food meets diverse dietary preferences. This cozy restaurant offers a delightful variety of options, including vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Treat yourself to their mouthwatering Impossible Burger or savor the unique flavors of their falafel burger. Wunderbar Bistro is the perfect spot to enjoy classic comfort food with a modern, inclusive twist.

Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just exploring new tastes, this restaurant caters to all, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

10. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine at Ca’Mea Restaurant

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italian cuisine at Ca’Mea Restaurant in Hudson. Known for its delicious savory brunch, this restaurant offers a taste of Italy right in the heart of town.

Whether you’re craving a classic Italian dish or trying something new, Ca’Mea’s menu will surely delight your palate. The warm and inviting ambiance makes it the perfect place for a leisurely brunch, where you can enjoy expertly prepared Italian favorites in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

11. Sip a Delicious Cocktail at The Maker Lounge

Step into The Maker Lounge , an intimate bar set in a 19th-century carriage house. Surrounded by leather-clad walls and grand ceilings, you’ll be transported to a world of elegance. Choose from an array of craft cocktails, wines, and local beers, and savor delicious savory plates.

Whether nestled by the hand-carved fireplace, seated at the captivating bar, or enjoying the evening on the patio, The Maker Lounge offers an exquisite experience in Hudson​.

You can even check out the Maker Hotel, which offers a swimming pool, library, and a secret garden—a perfect way to relax after exploring the sights of Hudson.

12. Explore Olana State Historic House

Visit the Olana State Historic Site, the former home of artist Frederic Edwin Church, near Hudson. This unique estate showcases a Persian-inspired villa set amidst a 250-acre picturesque landscape.

The site, blending Victorian, Persian, and Moorish architectural styles, contains Church’s artworks and items from his travels. Olana, significant in the Hudson River School of Art, offers guided house and grounds tours.

It’s connected to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site via the Hudson River Skywalk, creating a complete artistic experience. Open year-round, Olana is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

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A Weekend Getaway Guide to Hudson, NY

Next time an empty weekend pops up on the calendar, consider taking a trip upstate for a few days. Just an hour or two up the New York State Thruway can open up a whole new world away from the madness of the city. There are several small towns that are popular amongst city dwellers, including New Paltz and Woodstock , each of which provides fresh air, main streets lined with mom-and-pop shops, farm-to-table dining, and scenic views. Add another town to your upstate itinerary: Hudson, NY is the ultimate upstate getaway for anyone who still wants a more city-like feel during their trip.

Hudson is sometimes referred to as the “Brooklyn of upstate,” because it is filled with high-end antique shops, thrift stores, family-owned businesses, music, and art. It’s impossible to actually do everything in Hudson in just a single weekend, but we’ve gathered a guide to help get the most out of the town as possible. Read on for the perfect weekend itinerary while in Hudson, NY .

Where to Stay

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by The Amelia Hudson (@theameliahudson)

When traveling with a larger group or just looking for a more homey feel, there are countless Airbnb options in Hudson. The homes are large, often historic, have outdoor space, and are highly rated by previous guests.

For other homey options, check out the B&Bs in town. The Amelia is located in the heart of Hudson and has a fun mix of historic and modern vibes complete with a large pool in the backyard available for guests. The Queen-Anne-style former residence has eight beautiful private rooms and access to shared amenities.

The Hudson Mariner is an old Captain’s home, originally built in 1810, and has a nautical theme done with class and luxury in mind. There are 16 private rooms available, most with direct access to the porch or backyard. Located right on Warren Street, the B&B allows guests easy access to shopping and dining in town.

If looking for hotel options, The Wick, Hudson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a boutique property that boasts elegance and style with a contemporary design near the Hudson River. The Maker Hotel has a secret cocktail bar and is housed in three historical buildings — the website describes it as “a curated sanctuary with an eclectic fusion of design from nineteenth-century Industrial Design, La Belle Époque, Art Deco, and Mid-Century periods.”

Read More:  Weekend Getaway Guide: Raleigh, North Carolina

Things to Do

There’s no shortage of things to do while visiting Hudson. First and foremost, shopping is an absolute must. The town is filled with unique mom-and-pop shops, mostly located on Warren Street, which stretches for an entire mile across town. We recommend spending an afternoon walking up and down Warren Street and stepping into any store that catches your eye.

There are boutique fashion stores, thrift and vintage stores , record shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and bookstores lining the main strip. FINCH has antiques, vintage furniture, and high-end clothes available. Five + Diamond sells vintage clothing from the 1920s through the 1980s. John Doe Records + Books has been in the community for over two decades and prides itself on having niche and obscure records and cassettes. The Batterby House Shop has tons of fun trinkets and home goods to pick through. There are also CBD and Delta 9 gummies for sale. If looking for a variety, we recommend The Warehouse at Hudson — a 50+ vendor open market that sells vintage, repurposed, and new items.

Stop into Spotty Dog Books + Ale for a bookstore with a bar inside — or is it a bar with a bookstore inside? The team serves up local beer and wine for patrons to sip on while shopping for their next reads. It’s the kind of place to easily kill an hour — or three.

Poured Candle Bar is another bar combination scenario — but this time guests can pour drinks and pour candles at the same time. The Poured staff takes guests through the process of designing and making custom candles , including picking out original scents, mixing oils, pouring wax, and inserting the chosen wick. After giving the candle a name, Poured prints out custom labels including the date the candle was made. This is the perfect rainy afternoon activity, or girl’s trip event before hitting the town for dinner and drinks. The best part — each candle is completely one of a kind, the perfect souvenir from the trip.

If beer is the move for the afternoon, check out Hudson Brewing Company , which is the first brewery in Hudson to open since Prohibition. Other options include Union Street Brewing Co. , Upper Depot Brewing Co. , and Return Brewing (which is temporarily closed due to it being outdoors).

While walking around, make sure to take in the historic homes that line the streets, on Warren Street and beyond. Most of the homes are Victorian-style design, but renovated with modern amenities, giving them a truly luxurious feel. For a detailed list of the historic buildings in town, check out storyofhudson.com .

If history is of interest, make sure to trek off the beaten path of Warren Street and make your way to Olana State Historic Site . Olana was home to famous painter Frederic Church, and is now a historic site and museum in Hudson. Church was part of the Hudson River School of American Painters, a mid-19th-century group of artists who painted romanticized landscapes of the Hudson River Valley and the surrounding area. Tours of the property show off some of upstate New York’s best views, and the walls of the mansion are covered in Church’s artworks.

See More: A Hike + Winery Date In Rockland County, NY

Places to Eat

Before starting the day with a shopping spree, stop by Supernatural Coffee for a coffee and a pastry to fuel up. The spot is light and airy, and a strong cold brew is on the menu. We recommend one of the signature lattes and a blueberry scone, if available. Visitors can also stop by Hudson Roastery , a coffee and wine bar that serves up organic coffee drinks, freshly-baked croissants + pastries, sparkling botanical teas, cheese + charcuterie boards, and a selection of red and white wines, among other items.

There is no shortage of great lunch spots in town. Grazin’ is located in a classic American diner building, and serves up farm-to-table food — particularly known for the burgers. The welcoming staff brings that small-town feel to the experience.

Cafe Mutton is a walk-in-only restaurant with great brunch vibes, including plates like crepes with maple syrup or a country pâté sandwich.

Ever went to a speakeasy but instead of a cocktail, ordered a Miso-Butter Garlic Noodles? BackBar is a Malaysian restaurant located behind an antique shop on Warren Street. This is also a great spot to check out later in the evening when looking for a cool spot to grab a drink, as there is a full bar on location.

When dinner finally rolls around, enjoy a more upscale evening at Swoon KitchenBar . The menus change daily, and the waitstaff is extremely well-informed about the cooking process and will explain each dish in detail. If available, don’t skip the homemade pastas. If drinking a cocktail, the Health Margarita is particularly refreshing on a warm evening.

Another option for lunch or dinner is Feast + Floret , an Italian restaurant that has antipasti + salads, vegetable dishes, meat, fish, pasta, desserts, drinks, and a wine menu. If wine bars are the vibe of the night, try Bar Bene or The Maker .

No matter how a weekend is spent in Hudson — whether it’s filled with activities or just resting while surrounded by nature — it’s sure to be a weekend well spent. The town provides the perfect amount of that upstate vibe, while still being a vibrant, walkable community.

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11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Hudson, NY

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger spent much of her youth and her 20s in the Hudson Valley, and visits the area now when she returns to New York.

Hudson, New York is often referred to as "the Brooklyn" of the Hudson Valley. Whether or not the city takes that as a compliment is another story. But what it means is that Hudson, N.Y. is the cultural, artisanal, artistic capital of the Hudson Valley , where historic architecture and words like "craft" and "small batch" are always tossed around. Hudson has become a cultural haven many miles north of New York City.

This stunning jewel of a city is packed with things to do, from award-nominated restaurants to boutiques, galleries, and coffee shops. Architecture dates back to the town's foundation, and the Hudson River provides views for days.

The Hudson Valley is also veined with hundreds of miles of epic hiking trails , and Hudson provides a home base from which to explore it all. The town also happens to be a hot spot for musicians , so you can bet that there is always a performance to catch any night of the week.

For New Yorkers, there is no better place to explore the Hudson Valley than Hudson. Figure out the top attractions and best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in Hudson, NY.

1. Step into a Masterpiece at Olana State Historic Site

2. wander warren street, 3. catch a live performance, 4. tour the art galleries, 5. cruise the hudson, 6. visit the fasny museum of firefighting, 7. sail to the hudson-athens lighthouse, 8. browse the hudson farmers' market, 9. get lost in the greenport conservation area, 10. take note of the historic architecture, 11. cross the hudson river, where to stay in hudson for sightseeing, hudson, ny - climate chart.

The Hudson River was the inspiration for a mid-19th-century American art movement of landscape painters known as the Hudson River School. One of the most famous of these landscape artists was Frederic Church . His former home is in Hudson, NY, and today, it is possible to take a tour of the stunning building and its grounds.

The Olana State Historic Site was once the home of Frederic Church, his wife Isabel, and their four children. He purchased 126 acres of land in 1860 just south of Hudson—a former sketching spot he used to frequent. Originally he and his wife built what they called a "Cosy Cottage," where they lived until 1866 when they purchased an additional 18 acres and designed Olana.

The main house at Olana is perched atop a hill, mixing Victorian design with Middle Eastern decorative themes. Inside viewers will find the numerous paintings, sculptures, and furnishings that Frederic and Isabel collected throughout their lives and travels.

The now-250-acre estate is lined with carriage roads, blanketed with forest, and has an artificial lake, all of which are primed for exploring. It's a wonderful introduction to Hudson, and the artistic movement that was inspired by the surrounding region.

Address: Cosy Cottage 5720, NY-9G, Hudson, New York

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Upstate New York

The main artery of Hudson is its picturesque Warren Street, which runs for a mile, flanked with colorful, historic buildings. It has been the main commercial avenue since the 18th century. Today Warren Street is known for its vibrant mom-and-pop storefronts, charming restaurants, dozens of art galleries, and antique stores.

Warren Street is also the heart and soul of Hudson's historic district . The district branches off to Union and Allen streets, and traces the historic arch of Hudson's architecture from century to century. The earliest buildings can be found along Warren, as well as Lower Union and Front streets, which go as far back as the city's founding in the 18th century.

And speaking of antique stores, Warren Street is a paradise for treasure hunters. There are more than 60 antique stores throughout the city, but the highest concentration is certainly along Warren Street. Start at Finch , which is known for its vintage furniture. There is also Tom Swope Gallery , among others.

The residents of Hudson, NY love their live music, with venues around town playing everything from classical and opera to rock, indie, and funk.

Start at Hudson Hall , built in 1855 as City Hall. Today, it is a 21,000-square-foot theater and performance hall, as well as a gallery. The official name is Hudson Hall at the Hudson Opera House.

Hudson also hosts the annual Hudson Jazz Festival , which has run for more than three years. The event spans several days and hosts many performances at Hudson Hall.

Fun fact: Rocker Melissa Au Der Maur (of Hole and Smashing Pumpkins) has Basilica Hudson , a multidisciplinary arts center that lives within an industrial factory dating to the 1880s.

Hudson Hall

• Address: 327 Warren St, Hudson, New York

Basilica Hudson

• Address: 110 S Front Street, Hudson, New York

As one of the original outposts for out-priced Brooklyn hipsters, you can imagine the gallery game in Hudson is on point. But its art history, as you now know, dates back to the founding of the Hudson River School. Today there are more than 35 art galleries in Hudson, continuing its reputation as a haven for the arts.

Start with the Carrie Haddad Gallery , which opened in 1991. Today, it showcases mid-career and emerging artists from all over the Hudson Valley. Check out paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and photography.

Another to know is the Stair Galleries , which has a reputation for its live art auctions.

Kristen Dodge founded SEPTEMBER in 2016 as a rotating platform for artists across a variety of disciplines but mostly highlights women-identified an LGBT artists. It features artists mostly from Upstate New York, Brooklyn, and Boston.

Carrie Haddad Gallery

• Address: 622 Warren St, Hudson, New York
• Address: 449 Warren St #3, Hudson, New York

One of Hudson's biggest tourist attractions is the Hudson River itself, and getting out on the water is one of the top things to do to soak up the stunning natural surroundings. Hudson Cruises is a local favorite for sailing out on the river.

Hudson Cruises has more than 15 years of experience taking visitors out onto the water for sightseeing trips and river tours. The fleet of three ships offers several different types of experiences. The Marika yacht, for example, is perfect for luxury dinner cruises, while The Spirit riverboat is known for lively sightseeing cruises.

Lil' Spirit is the pontoon boat that ferries between Hudson and Athens, NY across the river. It is also the boat that does the historic lighthouse cruises out to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, which is a historic treasure in this part of New York State.

Every Friday, Hudson Cruises hosts a Murder Mystery cruise, which brings professional actors on board for a "whodunnit" skit that brings guests in on the action to uncover clues.

Address: 196-498 Water Street, Hudson, New York

You'll never learn as much about the history of firefighting as you will in Hudson. The town's interactive FASNY Museum of Firefighting pays homage to all things firefighting related, and is a great way to spend a few hours with the family.

The museum, established in 1925, has one of the world's best collections of American firefighting artifacts. The space spans more than 50,000 square feet and has 90 vintage and rare fire engines, some that date back to 1731. One particular exhibit details firehouses of the 19th century, and includes a look at fire apparatus and equipment from the 1800s.

In addition, visitors will find thousands of pieces of equipment, photographs, art, and a massive library. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, which is great for kids. Kids also love the Jr. Firefighter Challenge Course, which has poles to slide down and ladders to climb.

Address: 117 Harry Howard Ave, Hudson, New York

A beacon of the Hudson River, the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse dates back to 1846 and is the northernmost lighthouse on the Hudson River. This still-operational structure sits on a small island halfway between Hudson and the town of Athens across the river. Midstream between Hudson and Athens is a large mud flat, which is submerged at high tide. The lighthouse was constructed to warn ships about the danger.

Seasonal boat tours run to the lighthouse , in partnership with the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society and Hudson Cruises . These sailings run the second Saturday of the month between July and October.

If you'd rather see the lighthouse from land, Henry Hudson Riverfront Park has one of the best vantage points . The small green space right on the banks of the Hudson River is a popular spot for residents to spend some time with a book or a picnic soaking up the views.

Like any good Hudson River town worth its organic produce, Hudson offers a sensational farmers market. The Hudson Farmers Market is open on Saturdays in two locations through the fall and indoors through December.

The Hudson Farmers' Market is the largest farmers market in Columbia County , bringing together more than 30 local vendors to sell produce, herbs, eggs, meat, baked goods and breads, honey, pickles, flowers, and more.

In addition to delicious munchies, the Hudson Farmers' Market has a music tent that shows off weekly live music from local artists. A community tent is also set up to pass on information about certain community projects around the Hudson Valley.

Address: N 6th Street, Hudson, New York

Walking distance from downtown Hudson sits the Greenport Conservation Area , a 736-acre site with seven miles of trails . The protected area is a wonderful place to visit for locals and visitors to weave back and forth on the trails that open up to stunning views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains.

Come winter, the trails are perfect for cross-country skiing , making it a perfect year-round spot.

All types of trails exist at Greenport, from mowed grass and packed earth to a 1.5-mile accessible trail . Keep a lookout for bald eagles and ospreys.

The site was originally land that belonged to the Mahican Indians in the 17th century. The Dutch purchased the land in 1661 and used it for farming. In 1992, the Open Space Institute purchased the land with the intention of transforming it to the conservation area that we know it as today.

Address: 319 Joslen Blvd, Hudson, New York

The original settlers of Hudson were the Quakers. They were responsible for the city's grid layout. While the Quakers are simple and modest, the town's wealthy merchants constructed lavish mansions and townhomes. Wandering downtown is the best way to take a step back in time to discover the historic architecture.

Hudson has everything from Georgian-style estates to Queen Anne homes with sweeping wraparound porches. The highest concentration of historic buildings are closest to the waterfront and continue up the hill on Union, Allen, and East Allen streets.

The Seth Jenkins House at 115 Warren Street was the home of the first mayor of Hudson and was built in the Federal Style around 1795. The First Presbyterian Church , built in 1837, is a principal landmark, as well.

A short drive over the Rip Van Winkle Bridge will take you from Hudson into Athens, NY. Athens is a historic river village , and a really adorable town to explore for an afternoon if your home base is Hudson.

Athens was incorporated in 1805, with much of its history that can be traced to the 17th century. In fact, Athens has some of the best-preserved architecture in the Hudson Valley , with roughly 300 structures within two historic districts.

The scene in Athens is much quieter than over in Hudson, but you will find a charming riverfront village scene, complete with Victorian, Greek Revival, and Federal architecture; cozy restaurants and cafés; and the Athens Cultural Center , which is an exhibition and performance space.

Not far from Athens is the small town of Catskill, NY . This bustling river town has its own collection of shops, antiques, historic architecture, and easy access to the rolling Catskill Mountains .

Catskill is also where you can discover the Thomas Cole National Historic Site , which is another former home of a Hudson River School artist, much like the Olana State Historic Site over in Hudson. The house is called Cedar Grove, and both it and Cole's former studio are open for tours and workshops.

Luxury Hotels:

• The Wick, Hudson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a 4-star property set in a repurposed candle factory from the 1860s. Lovingly renovated, it is now a boutique hotel with a mix of rooms and suites. Most rooms have high ceilings and maintain original historical elements. The property is pet-friendly. It also has an electric vehicle charging station.
• The most luxe B&B in Hudson, Batterby House is inside a Queen Anne style Victorian mansion from 1900. This property features gorgeous parquet floors, stained glass windows, and a mahogany stairway. Pocket doors and 10-foot ceilings are other appealing perks. Rooms have quality pillowtop mattresses, vinyl record players, and Bluetooth speakers. It is a family-friendly inn.
• Wm Farmer And Sons Boarding and Barroom is a charming 15-room hotel in the heart of Hudson. The rooms and suites are super comfy, with luxe beds, high thread count sheets, and fluffy pillows. The inn dates back to the 1830s and has a restaurant serving farm-to-table fare.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A 16-room boutique property, Hudson Whaler Hotel has a central location in downtown Hudson. Renovated in 2021, this hotel embraces its historic past with some modern touches. Kids stay free here.
• The Nest Hudson is another boutique option downtown. It has just five suites set in a restored 100-year-old building. Families will like the two-bedroom suite. Free parking is available. There are complimentary snacks and beverages offered 24/7.
• The rooms at the Hudson Mariner guest house are well-appointed with comfy beds and lots of space. The location is on the edge of downtown, but there are still quite a few restaurants within walking distance.

Budget Hotels:

Serving up a free continental breakfast, the two-star St. Charles Hotel is a good budget option that still has charm. Public spaces feature Victorian ceilings and antiques, and the rooms have microwaves and fridges. This hotel is pet-friendly.

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Local Getaways: An Upstate Escape to Hudson, New York

With the recent opening of the maker hotel, plus several new restaurants, now’s the time to visit the small town of hudson, new york..

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The view through the library to the conservatory restaurant at the Maker Hotel, which opened in August in Hudson.

Photo by Francine Zaslow

If you’ve listened to the news—or ahem, recent presidential debates—you may be under the impression that life in New York City is grim in 2020. While it’s certainly no ghost town, small businesses and restaurants have struggled to stay open and have been shutting down at an alarming rate—almost 6,000 closed between March 1 to September 11, according to data from Yelp .

Just 120 miles north in the small town of Hudson, the opposite appears to be happening. Since this summer, the 6,000-person town has seen a boutique hotel, a bakery known for its sourdough bread, and a natural wine bar all open on Warren Street, the one-mile long main street that cuts its way from the Hudson River up to Route 9.

This recent burst of entrepreneurial spirit in this once industrial town incorporated by whalers in the late 18th century isn’t exactly new. Brooklynites have been decamping there for the past few years—opening hotels, bakeries, and restaurants—a continuation of a renaissance that began in the 1980s when artists and antique dealers moved in and opened up shops along Warren Street. If you’re interested in seeing what the buzz is all about, here’s how to plan a weekend getaway to the town of Hudson.

Where to stay in Hudson

The Writer studio at the Maker Hotel has an oak fireplace and built-in bookcases from the 1800s.

Book now: from $350/night, themaker.com

Owned and designed by the cofounders of the beauty and skincare company Fresh , Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, the Maker Hotel opened in August 2020. Each of the spacious 11 rooms features a completely unique design that blends decor from the Belle Epoque and art deco periods—with plenty of midcentury furniture to drool over. Choose from the four Maker Studios—the slightly industrial “Architect,” the bohemian “Artist,” the lush “Gardener,” or the cozy, book-filled “Writer”—or go for the 1920s Parisian-inspired Terrace Lofts that each come with private roof decks and the largest daybeds you’ve ever seen. Spread across three historic buildings, the property also has a sultry cocktail lounge , which has been open since 2018, as well as a café and a restaurant offering seasonal American dishes from chef Michael Poiarkoff, formerly of Brooklyn’s Vinegar Hill House. A circus-themed fitness center is also in the works, with Moulin Rouge–inspired decor and acrobatics equipment like gymnastics rings and pommel horses.

Modern Glass House Airbnb

Book now: from $707/night, airbnb.com

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom modern glass home is ideal for families who want to spread out a bit. Just a five-minute drive from town, this home also has a hot tub, making it ideal for winter getaways.

Things to do in Hudson

Shop for dried flower arrangements or other small gifts at the Quiet Botanist.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

Shop local on Warren Street

Chain stores are few and very far between in Hudson, even on its main drag. Take your pick from a mix of antique shops—seemingly one to suit every type of style from 19th-century France to midcentury modern—and stores selling new items from local makers.

The Quiet Botanist : At first glance, the Quiet Botanist looks like the kind of place where a good witch doles out love potions and charms. In reality, it’s a modern apothecary that sells everything from dried floral arrangements to beauty products and teas.

Red Chair : Of the many antique shops in Hudson, Red Chair is one of the best (even Martha Stewart has been spotted here). Focusing mainly in French antiques from the 17th to 19th century, this shop has been around since 1997. You’ll find glassware in the front, but don’t miss the quirky ephemera in the back of the shop. If you’re on the hunt for furniture, be sure to carve out time to visit the Antiques Warehouse Hudson down the hill closer to the train station.

Hudson Wine Merchants : Whether you’re on the prowl for a four-pack of bottled negroni for a picnic or want to bring back some Hudson Valley–made souvenirs, Hudson Wine Merchant is your spot. Open for curbside pickup currently, this wine shop is fully stocked with wines from around the world, plus local spirits and ciders from places like Cooper’s Daughter Spirits and Left Bank Ciders .

Taste ciders

Fall is apple season and local makers in upstate New York excel in fermenting the abundance of fruit that grows throughout the region.

Rose Hill Farm : Sure, you can go apple-picking and eat cider doughnuts hot out of the fryer at Rose Hill Farm, located about 20 miles south of Hudson in Red Hook. But what sets it apart from other pick-your-own farms is its taproom , which serves about a dozen different kinds of wild fermented sparkling ciders and wines. There are plenty on tap to go around, but if you want to bring souvenirs home, show up close to opening and buy bottles right away. On a recent visit, they were virtually sold out by 1 p.m.

Left Bank Ciders : Just across the Rip Van Winkle Bridge from Hudson in the town of Catskill, Left Bank Cider makes its ciders and meads from ingredients all sourced from within an hour of its cellar. Its taproom is currently open for both indoor and outdoor seating and offers flights and bottles of its housemade ciders, plus other local New York State beers, wines, and spirits.

Enjoy the views at Olana State Historic Site

Once home to Frederic Church, a pioneer of the 19th-century Hudson River School of art, Olana State Historic Site is now a 250-acre living museum. The Persian-style mansion filled with Church’s art is open to the public currently, but its hilltop location also makes it great for taking in the views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley while exploring the five miles of carriage roads on site.

Explore Art Omi

Art Omi is an open-air sculpture and architecture park located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Hudson near the town of Ghent. It’s free to enter and open from dawn until dusk. Go for a stroll to explore the ever-changing landscape with more than 60 works of art on display. It’s also a great picnic spot—stock up on sandwiches and cheese from Talbott & Arding on Warren Street beforehand.

Where to eat and drink in Hudson

Be sure to order the burnt ends hash for the table at the West Taghkanic Diner.

West Taghkanic Diner : Located just off exit 80 on the Taconic State Parkway, the West Taghkanic Diner is an essential stop on your way into or out of Hudson. After stints at restaurants in Napa Valley and Copenhagen, chef Kristopher Schram took over this 1953 diner in 2019. While the menu is classic diner food—pastrami reuben sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes, turkey clubs—everything is made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Indoor dining is closed currently due to coronavirus, but the expansive garden has amply spaced picnic tables and a full outdoor bar.

Breadfolks Bakery : Located mere steps from the Maker Hotel, Breadfolks is another recent addition to Warren Street. Currently open from Friday to Monday, it already draws lines in the mornings for its naturally fermented sourdough breads and French pastries like canele and kouign-amanns. If you get there early enough, you might also be able to snag something called a “baklava cruffin,” which is essentially a cupcake-shaped croissant glazed with honey and dusted with pistachios. Unsurprisingly, these sell out fast.

Feast and Floret : Hudson’s acclaimed restaurant Fish and Game recently shuttered permanently and reopened earlier in October 2020 as Feast and Floret, an Italian restaurant serving dishes like rigatoncini alla norma and pork ribs with cipollini and Concord grape reduction.

Kitty’s Market Café : Just opened in September, this casual café and market has made its name in town for its egg and cheese on a sesame bun breakfast sandwiches (sauerkraut is free, bacon is an extra $2). Its location directly across from the train station also makes it an ideal spot for getting a rotisserie chicken plate to go for lunch if you’re taking Amtrak home. Keep an eye out for an upcoming sit-down restaurant next door plus a natural wine shop on Warren Street from the same owners.

Sonder : After COVID hit, chef-owner Dan Bagnall permanently moved to his Hudson Valley home from New York City and opened this natural wine bar on Warren Street in August. The small plates menu changes often, but expect lots of locally sourced, vegetable-forward dishes like minted snap peas with homemade ricotta served in the cozy Scandi-chic dining room.

BackBar : If you’re looking for a casual spot with plenty of outdoor seating for happy hour, head to BackBar on Warren Street, which also serves chicken lemongrass dumplings, black pepper wings with fish sauce glaze, and other Malaysian-inspired dishes.

Fuego 69/Lil’ Deb’s Oasis : While the main location of Lil’ Deb’s Oasis remains closed due to coronavirus, this tropical comfort food restaurant is operating as Fuego 69, an outdoor pop-up in the back of Rivertown Lodge every evening Thursday through Sunday as long as the weather holds up. In the spirit of giving, 69 cents from each item sold is donated to racial justice organizations and community causes.

The best way to reach Hudson from New York City

• If you’re driving from New York City, the fastest route is along I-87 and takes two hours. The most scenic route, however, is along the Taconic State Parkway, which takes a little over two hours. From Manhattan, take FDR Drive to I-87 to the Sprain Brook Parkway where it meets the Taconic State Parkway in Westchester County and head north. At exit 80, take NY-82 toward Hudson/Ancram.
• You can also take Amtrak directly to Hudson from New York City. The train ride from Penn Station takes two hours and costs about $30 each way. You may need to call a taxi or order an Uber to get to your hotel, depending on how far you want to walk with your bags.
• If you’re coming from Boston, hop on I-90 and drive west for approximately three hours. Keep in mind that as of late October, nonessential travel from Massachusetts to New York is being discouraged.

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How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Hip, Historic Hudson, New York

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• Types of Travel
• United States
• Weekend Getaway

The words hip and historic don’t ordinarily go hand in hand. The fact that they do in Hudson, New York, the Revolutionary-era town roughly 2.5 hours north of New York City by car, 2 hours by Amtrak, describes this small city’s enormous appeal. The river for which it was named lies at one end of the gentle slope of mile-long Warren Street, the main thoroughfare, which is lined with shops offering men’s and women’s clothing, home decor, books, jewelry, artisanal baked goods, artwork, and antiques of all periods and from every part of the world, including a terrific selection of mid-century modern. It can take 20 minutes or two days to walk Warren Street’s length. As a frequent visitor from my home nearby in the Berkshires, my advice is to spend at least two days, because in addition to myriad shops are wonderful eateries, arts venues, and places to spend a night or three. Or more.

On a Saturday or Sunday afternoon when the weather is fine, Warren Street is for strolling. Locals and visitors stride, perambulate, or linger to admire a colorful storefront, leaf through a sidewalk display, or enjoy an ice cream cone. A reggae beat lures some to the record store and its collection of old vinyl. The scent of Mexican food or grilled burgers tempts others. At night, the varied fare at local restaurants and bars — and live music and theater performances — offer plenty of options. On a weekend in Hudson, life is good.

Hudson’s Beginnings

Warren Street starts at the river, named after the English explorer for the Dutch East India Company whose 85-foot ship was the first European craft to sail it. The Hudson is tidal all the way up to Albany, New York’s state capital. It’s also deep. In 1609, Henry Hudson and his crew of 20 ventured 130 miles upriver from New York Harbor. In 1614, where Albany is now, they established a trading settlement. Fast forward to the American Revolution, when the British navy blockaded coastal New England: Nantucket ship owners found safe haven for their whaling vessels in these waters and founded the city of Hudson. The Hudson River sloop, a single-masted craft, with a mainsail, jib, and topsail, was devised here: One of these — the Experiment — was the second American ship to sail directly from the colonies to China, setting out in 1785 and returning in 1787 with a cargo of silks, satins, tea, and the porcelains we still call “china.”

Hudson doesn’t make a big show of this history, but many of its wood-clapboard and brick buildings were built in the 1700s; others date from the Victorian era. Today, the city is a great place for a girls’ trip, a romantic getaway, or a day trip from the Berkshires or Hudson Valley .

Things To Do In Hudson

Shop Till You Drop

If you like to shop, you’ll love Warren Street. Two of my favorites for clothing are at opposite ends of the street: Kasuri , at #1 for upscale designer items, and Bolor, at 2 Park Place, for cool, limited-edition, locally designed items. (As of this writing, Bolor does not have a website.) Even if I’m not shopping for jewelry, I like to visit Ornamentum for its contemporary art jewelry, including one-of-a-kind pieces. If I’m in a Boho mood, my go-to is 620 LOCAL for wonderful artisan-made bags and clothing. For home decor items and gifts, I rely on Lili and Loo , Dish Hudson , and Hudson Home ; being a fan of imported block-printed cottons, I usually stop in at Les Indiennes . On a recent visit, I discovered The Quiet Botanist botanical apothecary. And, if you’re an antiquing addict like me, Warren Street is a rich vein. The key is to browse the incredible gamut, from museum-quality Asian pieces and Federal furniture to mid-century classics; the object(s) of your desire are likely to be here. The best source for information before visiting is the Hudson Antiques Dealers Association: Hada Antiques .

FASNY Museum Of Firefighting

Hudson is home to the world’s largest and most extensive museum focusing on the social history and science of firefighting. I was surprised at how very cool this place is. Located at 117 Harry Howard Avenue, FASNY ’s fascinating collection spans centuries, from Viking axes to a 1970s 1,000-gallon diesel-powered tanker and modern protective gear, and virtually any historic equipment and apparatus you might name. The museum also presents artwork and photography and has a shop, which is a great place for unusual gifts.

Performing Arts

In this eclectic little city, you never know what performing arts event will be happening. I love going to the Hudson Opera House, also known as Hudson Hall , at 327 Warren Street, for its live performances, including the annual jazz festival. Basilica Hudson , 110 South Front Street, is another place to check for its weekend events and art exhibits. Also on my list is Stageworks , at the theater in a renovated warehouse at 35-37 Cross Street, for experimental productions. Currently, I am mourning the pandemic closing of Club Helsinki , a happening restaurant and music venue at 405 Columbia Street; check to see if it’s open when you visit because it’s great when it’s on. For current offerings visit the Hudson NY Events Calendar .

The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

“Where is human nature so weak as in the bookstore?” Henry Ward Beecher asked. Clearly a rhetorical question, and all the more so when book buying and craft beer conspire. At The Spotty Dog Books & Ale , 440 Warren, the 10,000 books are enough to weaken me. They also carry toys and books for kids and a large selection (not for kids) of lagers and ales running the gamut of hoppiness. I never go to Hudson without stopping in here and love the author readings they present. And, even if you never get to Hudson, check out their online shopping, special order abilities, and audiobook downloads.

Henry Hudson Park

While near the train station one day — a reliable stop for its restroom facilities — I stumbled across this park along the riverfront on Broad Street, between the railroad station and the water. That day, a light breeze tickled the fronds of the giant willow tree, the sunlight danced upon the water, and cement tankers plied to and fro past the Hudson Athens Lighthouse to the south. The park’s Victorian-style gazebo was a lovely place to while away the time, and the park’s lawn would be the perfect spot to picnic, play frisbee, or just enjoy a sunny afternoon. 

This extraordinary 120-acre outdoor sculpture park and 1,500-square-foot gallery, located at 1405 County Route 22 in Ghent, New York, a 20-minute drive from Hudson, showcases an amazing international collection of contemporary work and offers residency programs for artists, writers, translators, musicians, architects, and dancers.

Olana State Historic Site

Any aficionado of Hudson River landscape paintings or “exotic” Victorian architecture will want to make a pilgrimage to Olana , the late-19th-century home of Frederick Church, a seminal figure in the distinctively American Hudson River School. Set on a rise overlooking the river an easy 10 miles by car from Hudson at 5720 NY-9G, Church’s home incorporates myriad Persian features, and the landscapes he designed here are breathtaking. Visitors can explore the 250-acre estate via walking tours and electric carriage rides. Olana’s grounds are open year-round; the house is open on select days depending on the season.

Check here for open dates and times and to buy your tickets in advance online.

Hudson Chatham Winery

I don’t drink alcohol, so in the interest of full disclosure, I have to say I have not taken advantage of all The Hudson Chatham Winery offers, though my friends certainly have. Located at 1900 Route 66, in Ghent, New York, this is a lovely spot where you can bask in the late afternoon sun while you or your friends sip sustainably farmed wine made here from 18 different hybrid grape varieties that thrive in this climate. Besides wine, there are cider and other options, complemented by cheese and charcuterie, so even I was smitten by the place.

Best Restaurants In Hudson

You can’t walk a block on Warren Street without seeing a restaurant or two, whether you want breakfast, lunch, dinner, a snack, or the makings for a picnic. The food scene here is fabulous, with high-quality farm-to-fork restaurants, selections for vegans and vegetarians, French bistros, contemporary American cuisine, gourmet delis, artisan bakeries, and, ethnic Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese food. It’s really hard to go wrong. Check out the Eat & Drink section at Visit Hudson in addition to my recommendations below.

Pro Tip: For dinner, some places offer casual dining or unreserved seating in the bar, but to be safe, make a reservation in advance.

William Farmer & Sons

When I want delicious, locally sourced, seasonal New American cuisine, I head to Wm. Farmer and Sons , which is located at 20 South Front Street, near the river and the train station — a place you might miss because it’s not on Warren Street. They serve from morning till night, there’s an active bar scene, and reservations are recommended in the dining room. They also offer some inn rooms should you wish to reserve a place to stay.

Le Perche And Swoon Kitchenbar

These two are sister restaurants. Don’t be fooled by the name of Le Perche Bakery and Bar . Located in a former bank at 230 Warren Street; this is a wonderful French restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Eat in their lovely dining room or on the patio. I’m also a fan of their wood-fired baked goods. Their sister restaurant, Swoon , 340 Warren, is a perennial favorite for its New American cuisine and a menu that changes daily. 

With a colorful, larger-than-life portrait of Frida Kahlo presiding here even as she might in Mexico, La Mision , at 621 Warren Street, serves up tasty, authentic Mexican fare in a casual setting with tables indoors and a sidewalk cafe. Their appetizer portions are enough for my lunch, and most of their items are designed to please even those who aren’t usually enamored of south-of-the-border cuisine.

Ca’Mea Restaurant And Inn

If you yearn for some well-prepared northern Italian food, seek out Ca’Mea . A long-time presence at 214 Warren Street, it offers seating in two intimate, upscale dining rooms and its courtyard garden, the favorite choice in warmer months. The Howard Hotel , a good choice for accommodations, is in the same historic building.

Other restaurants worth a visit are the Red Dot Restaurant and Bar , NOLITA CAFE, Hudson , Hudson Food Studio for Vietnamese fare, Oak Pizzeria or Baba Louie’s for wood-fired pizza, and Le Gamin or Patisserie Lenox for satisfying French bistro food. For take-out, Warren&Vine , Talbott & Arding , Breadfolks , and Olde Hudson are great. 

Best Hotels In Hudson

There’s a lot of buzz around this elegant, upscale venture. The hotel at 306 Warren Street offers stylishly appointed guest rooms and is connected to adjacent buildings that house a cafe, a conservatory and patio for dining, and Lounge, a popular evening gathering spot for the style set.

The Hudson Whaler

For a city with Hudson’s history, it makes sense that a nautical theme and a blue palette dominate the Hudson Whaler , an inn in a restored Victorian at 542 Warren Street. Its 16 suites offer electric fireplaces, and amenities include a gym and complimentary chocolate from nearby Vasilow’s Confectionery .

The Inn At 34

This B&B is set in an 1840 Greek Revival at 34 South Second Street, just off Warren. Comprising four rooms and furnished with English antiques, its old-fashioned charm includes delicious breakfasts with ingredients from its own garden and area farms.

Nest Hudson

A 1920s Arts & Crafts building houses Nest Hudson at 330 Union Street, near Warren and City Hall Plaza. Comprising five suites, one of which is on the ground floor, its amenities include front and back porches and a private backyard with picnic tables.

When Gladys isn’t traveling, you’ll find her tending her garden in the Berkshires, roaming the streets of New York, doing yoga, indulging her passion for photography and writing, or applying her architectural expertise to her real estate business.

LITTLE SHERPA TRAVELS

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• Dec 23, 2021

The ultimate weekend guide to Hudson, New York without a car: Just 2 hours from New York City

Updated: Dec 25, 2021

Hudson is the perfect weekend destination in Upstate New York, with small-town charm, amazing restaurants, shopping and conveniently located with access to public transportation.

Here is our guide to everything you need to know to plan your perfect weekend away in Hudson New York, including how to get there and get around without a car from New York City, the best accommodation, top things to see, do eat and drink.

How to get to Hudson from New York City: via Amtrak

To get to Hudson from New York City you can take t he Amtrak train from Penn Station directly to Hudson Station which is around a 2-hour journey with multiple departure times per day. Be sure to pre-book online, the earlier you book, the more you save. Ticket prices start from around USD 30 one way per person.

TIP: The train ride follows the Hudson River and offers beautiful scenery, heading north from NYC be sure to sit on the left side of the train to enjoy the best views of the river. Also as seating is not pre-assigned arrive early and be in line first once the boarding platform is announced at the station to get a window seat.

How to get around Hudson without a car:

Hudson Station is just a 5-minute walk from the start of Warren Street, which is the main street where all of the cafes, restaurants, bars and shops are located. If you're visiting Hudson for a weekend we recommend staying on or as close as possible to Warren street with plenty of options for accommodation walking distance from the station. There is more than enough to do for a full weekend within this area staying on foot.

If you do plan to rent a car while there, we recommend booking one in advance, as there are not any direct options at the train station to do so. However, if pre-booked, many car rental companies will come and pick you up from the train station to collect your car.

Where to stay in Hudson New York:

We recommend a 2-night stay in Hudson, close by to Warren Street if travelling without a car. There are many small charming boutique hotels in this area. If you book via our affiliate links in this post we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Here are a few options fro m booking.com

Top things to do in Hudson, New York for a weekend:

Have brunch at le perche bakery and bar:.

Le Perche Bakery and Bar is located on Warren Street in the heart of Hudson, enter into a cozy French restaurant and wood-burning bakery. You will be greeted with the sight and smell of freshly baked sourdough and pastries by the counter. If you wish to sit by the bakery take a seat at the bar for a drink. At the back of the restaurant, both indoor and outdoor dining options are available. The food is seasonal and the menu features locally-sourced farm-fresh goods. If visiting for brunch we recommend the avocado toast and fries.

Stroll down Warren Street:

Warren Street is both long and charming enough that you could spend your entire weekend here, taking in the colourful and quaint buildings, stopping at cafes, picking up gourmet produce or hunting for antiques and vintage finds.

Have Cocktails at the Maker Hotel's Maker Lounge:

On your way to dinner be sure to stop by the Maker Lounge for a cocktail. We loved this cozy romantic space located at the entrance of the upscale boutique maker hotel.

Enjoy a Farm to Table Fresh dinner at WM Farmer and Sons:

The WM Farmer and Sons is a farm to table fresh restaurant located on Front Street in Hudson open between Tuesday and Sunday nights. They serve up craft cocktails, don't miss the Golden Glow if on the menu, which was our personal favourite, featuring a local AppleJack spirit made with Hudson Apples, Lemon and Honey. It will be hard to choose between all of their high-quality main meals, we opted for the chicken liver as an appetiser and wagyu beef steak as our entree and both were outstanding. We ended the night with an apple pie and vanilla gelato, the perfect seasonal dessert coming up to Christmas.

Pick up morning coffee at Hudson Roastery:

If you're looking for the perfect spot for your morning coffee stop by Hudson Roastery, located overlooking the green space of 7th Street Park (which is also worth a stroll through). If visiting during the summer, enjoy the coffee outside on the charming white tables and chairs or in winter cozy up indoors.

Enjoy the historic houses of Hudson:

One of our favourite parts of a visit to Hudson was simply just walking around and admiring the historic victorian era houses with their colourful doors. Be sure to stop for a few photos to add to your Instagram feed.

Go Antique Shopping at the Antique Warehouse:

Be sure to leave space in your suitcases when you plan a trip to Hudson as you will most likely be going home with some antique or vintage finds. Warren Street is full of antique stores to browse, however, our favourite finds in Hudson were the Antique Warehouse , home to everything you can imagine looking for and just a 5-minute walk from the Amtrak Station. The space is over 300,000 square feet, hosting a variety of small businesses selling antiques within the building. This includes everything from clothing, accessories, furniture, lighting, home decor and more.

Visit the Hudson River and Hudson-Athens Lighthouse at Hudson River Park:

Just a short walk from Warren Street and the Amtrak Station is Hudson River Park, which offers stunning riverfront views over the Hudson Athens lighthouse built-in 1974. The lighthouse is still in use today, serving to support navigation along the Hudson River. If visiting between July to October it is possible to book a tour of the lighthouse on the second Saturday of each month.

Pick up some dried flowers from the Quiet Botanist:

If you're looking to fill your home with floral decor, be sure to wander down the hidden brick alleyway off Warren Street that will lead you into the Quiet Botanist S tore. Even if you don't buy anything here, this store is worth a visit just for how beautiful it is inside.

Have lunch at Feast and Floret:

Dining Feast and Floret w as one of our favourite meals of the weekend. Enter to what also looks like a boutique flower store where you and create a bouquet of flowers with various local Hudson Valley botanicals, priced by the piece. It makes for a beautiful dining experience being seated indoors by the fresh florals. You can also pick up some of their freshly made local honey sold onsite. In case you miss picking up a jar, be sure to try their warm flatbread with the ricotta and honey so you can still taste the honey. We also recommend the arancini balls and our highlight of the meals was the pasta. We opted for the special of the day which was a tuna lemon butter seashell pasta.

Taste the Bread at Breadfolks Bakery:

Breadfolks Bakery looked like one of the most popular stops along Warren Street, we walked past multiple times during the weekend and it was always busy. After tasting their fresh bread, we can see why. We tasted a fresh slice of the pesto and sun-dried tomato bread, but their sourdough options also appeared to be very popular. They are also a great stop for a takeaway coffee.

Stop for breakfast or a giant hot chocolate at Le Gamin Country:

We loved the retro interior diner feel of stepping in to Le Gamin Country , th ink cozy booths at the back, vintage signs on display and a menu of french breakfast delights. We recommend the bowl of hot chocolate and lemon & sugar crepes.

Places to skip for food but you could just get a quick drink - Lil Deb's Oasis:

Before visiting Hudson almost every blog and tourist guide we read recommended a visit to Little Deb's Oasis. We can see why when you step inside to the colourful neon lights and decor that will make you feel like you're in a fun 1970s space movie. However, we found the food taste and quality along with the cocktails to be disappointing. We tasted the big lettuce salad, sushi rice salad, sticky ribs and one of the enchilada dishes, none of which stood out as worth the price. If you're planning a visit, we'd recommend just going for a beer and wine before moving along to get food elsewhere.

We hope you enjoyed our weekend guide to Hudson, New York. To see more of our other USA destination guides click here .

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OUR AIM: is to help more people experience the world in just a weekend. We hope through sharing our easy-to-follow short break and weekend travel guides we can inspire others to make the most of their weekends and precious annual leave.

WE ARE: An Australian and British married couple living in Australia, which we recently moved back to after 7 years exploring Asia. By week we manage data forecasting and engineering projects. By the weekend we wander. This is the story of our weekend travels. We are passionate travellers who love taking photos, eating and going on adventures.  We hope you enjoy our travel blog.

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Things to Do in Hudson NY: Ultimate Guide to Exploring Hudson

Posted on Published: February 7, 2022  - Last updated: July 30, 2024

Categories Blog , New York , Small Town Guides , Travel Guides , United States

There are so many fun things to do in Hudson NY, especially if you love exploring small towns, going antiquing and shopping, and enjoying delicious restaurants and cafes. Hudson is situated along the Hudson River, so there are also some beautiful natural spaces to discover.

While Hudson was once an unremarkable village and even became quite rundown years ago, the town is completely revitalized and has become quite the destination. Many people from New York City travel to Hudson as a hip place to visit for the weekend. There’s beautiful old architecture and painted buildings, art galleries, coffee shops, and it’s a hub for antique collectors.

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

In this travel blog post, I’ll detail all the best things to do in Hudson, New York, United States. I drove there and spent the night, and then I took an entire day trip in Hudson. New Yorkers love visiting Hudson, but I also recommend making the trip down from Montreal or Toronto, too.

This itinerary is also perfect for spending a weekend in Hudson, especially if you’re thinking about spending more time in the Hudson Valley region. Use this guide to plan your own little walking tour of the town. Put on a pair of good walking shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Hudson NY: Shop on Warren Street

Warren Street is the main attraction in Hudson, New York. It’s the main street in town with the vast majority of the shops, boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and cafes. There are over 60 shops with all kinds of souvenirs, unique finds, and vintage treasures you’ll adore.

The first thing you’ll want to do, aside from shopping, is take notice of any historic sites and magnificent buildings. I also loved admiring all of the old historic buildings and intriguing architectural features. Here are a few of my favorite shops in town. I’ll go into more detail about the restaurants and cafes later in this blog post.

Flowerkraut: Plants and Floral Shop

Flowerkraut is a design focused floral and indoor plants shop. I loved wandering around this peaceful and beautiful store, even though I couldn’t technically buy any plants (I wouldn’t be able to bring them across the border to Canada).

The owner showed me this really unique plant called the “sensitive plant”. If you gently touch its leaves, they fold inward before your eyes. I also loved seeing the wide arrays of succulents and floral displays. If you’re looking to add a bit of greenery to your home, Flowerkraut is the place to be.

Tradewinds: Fair Trade and Ethical Boutique

Tradewinds is a socially conscious shop with something for everyone. There are unique handcrafted and fair trade items made by artisans all over the world. Tradewinds is a non-profit retail store that aims to do a lot of good within the community, too. They provide work to those with disabilities, teaching retail skills while providing meaningful work and wages.

There are so many beautiful wares at Tradewinds. There’s pottery, ceramics, knit wear, candles, felted ornaments, and all kinds of lovely things for your home. If you’re looking for a one of a kind gift or you love shopping at ethical boutiques, head directly to Tradewinds.

The Spotty Dog Books & Ale

The Spotty Dog Books & Ale was once the home of an old firehouse, dating back to 1889. Nowadays, you can go shopping for books and enjoy a pint at the bar (the best of both worlds!).

While the shop doesn’t look that big from the outside of it, you’ll find over 10,000 books at Spotty Dog Books & Ale. There’s also lots of cute merchandise, especially things related to book lovers and cat lovers. I went shopping at Spotty Dog and loved their selection and variety of books and wares. On the beer side of things, they serve mostly local craft beer from the northeast.

John Doe Books & Records

John Doe Books & Records is the best place to go record shopping in Hudson, NY. It’s the place in town to find vintage and obscure records, books, cassettes and other ephemera. Aside from the antique shops, the record stores and book stores are other really popular places in Hudson as you’ll find so many cool things.

The owner has also hosted concerts, live music, book readings, and other events since opening the shop in Hudson back in 2002. You can’t miss this quirky shop when you visit Hudson as it’s a great place to check out.

Things to Do in Hudson NY: Go Antiquing

Hudson is one of the best places to visit in New York for antique stores and there are dozens of them lining Warren Street and beyond. Between the antique shops and the galleries, you could quite literally decorate your entire house after a visit to Hudson.

Some of the best antique stores include the Antique Warehouse, the Hudson Mercantile, ANTIGO, White Whale Limited, FINCH Hudson, Neven & Neven Moderne, Naga Antiques, Sutter Antiques, and Red Chair on Warren. There are lots of antique furniture stores and shops featuring prized collectibles.

The majority of the antique stores in Hudson are located on Warren Street, while the Antique Warehouse is a short distance away on Front Street. Simply go for a walk around town and you’ll find all of them.

Things to Do in Hudson NY: Henry Hudson Riverfront Park

Henry Hudson Riverfront Park is a beautiful greenspace in the town of Hudson. Going for a walk here is one of the best things to do in Hudson. I loved strolling down by the banks of the Hudson River to admire this beautiful landscape.

The park pays tribute to Henry Hudson, the man who dropped anchor in New York Harbor in 1609. There’s a monument to Henry Hudson at the park. There are also basketball courts, dog-friendly spaces, playgrounds, restrooms, and lots of trees. It really looks beautiful in the spring when everything begins to bloom. I imagine that it would look gorgeous in the autumn with fall foliage, too.

Hudson Athens Lighthouse

If you gaze off into the distance, you’ll be able to spot the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse in the middle of the river. This lighthouse dates back to 1874 and helps guide ships to this date (it is no longer manned, however). It is one of seven remaining lighthouses on the Hudson River.

While it is possible to catch a glimpse of the lighthouse from the edge of Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, you can also take a tour to the lighthouse. Hudson Cruises tours depart from Hudson and Athens in the summer and fall, and it’s 1.5 hours long. You’ll learn more about the history of the lighthouse and have the chance to get up close.

Things to Do in Hudson NY: Drink Coffee and Tea

There are so many delicious coffee and tea places to try all along Warren Street. I’m a bit of a coffee addict, so I managed to try two coffee places in one day, as well as a tea shop. The tea shop also happens to be a chocolate shop with lots of vegan options.

Supernatural Coffee

Supernatural Coffee and Bakery is an amazing coffee shop in Hudson, New York. They’ve got all of your favourite coffee and espresso beverages. I also loved that they served a vegan morning glory muffin, too.

It’s a bright and beautiful cafe that has a number of tables, should you wish to stay a while or even work on your laptop. I stopped here for my morning cup of coffee and a muffin, and it was the perfect way to start the day. This coffee shop happens to be my personal favorite.

Verdigris Tea & Chocolate

Verdigris Tea & Chocolate is a tea shop, bakery, chocolate shop and cafe in historic Hudson. There are dozens of different varieties of tea to sample, as well as an assortment of chocolate based beverages and coffee.

As for the bakery, I was delighted to see several vegan cookies and treats. I decided to order their popular lavender lemonade as I was thirsty after walking all over town, along with a vegan cookie. It was the perfect midday snack and drink.

REV Coffee is a comfortable coffee shop that feels just like home. There are rooms with vintage couches and chairs, and there’s all kinds of interesting art on the walls. Their coffee is ethically sourced and organic from Just Coffee Cooperative.

I decided to order an iced coffee with almond milk and enjoyed a little bit of it on their front patio as it was such a nice day outside. Then, I continued my walk around Hudson, coffee in hand.

Best Restaurants in Hudson NY (With Vegan Options)

One of the best things to do in Hudson NY is try all of the restaurants. There’s so much delicious food that you’ll likely have a difficult time deciding. Sadly, one of my favourite spots in town was a Mexican restaurant that has sadly since closed down. But, there are many other great vegan-friendly establishments to try.

Baba Louie’s

Baba Louie’s is a pizza place serving woodfired sourdough pizza. They serve vegan pizza, including a vegan pizza that you can order and make your own pizza with the toppings you prefer. There are also vegan soups that are made in-house.

Wunderbar Bistro

Wunderbar Bistro is an American comfort food restaurant with vegan and vegetarian options on the menu. Everything is clearly marked on the menu as vegetarian or vegan. There’s an impossible burger, a falafel burger, the market salad and the grain bowl. Plenty of good food at this restaurant to accommodate all dietary preferences!

Lil Deb’s Oasis

Lil Deb’s Oasis describes themselves as “tropical comfort food in the heart of the Hudson Valley”. They offer several vegan options on the menu, marked with a “vv”. This includes the plato tropical, gambas a la macha, and a rosewater pudding for dessert. I’d love to try this place when I return to Hudson!

Issan Thai Star

Issan Thai Star is the best Thai restaurant in Hudson where most options are gluten-free and can be prepared vegan upon request. There are several appetizers that are marked as vegan on the menu, and be sure to specify which entrees you’d like to be prepared as veg dishes.

Where to Stay in Hudson, New York

There are lots of great places to stay in Hudson, New York, ranging from hotels with fantastic locations to boutique properties. Many guests enjoy staying in historic homes that match the antique-chic vibes that they’re looking for when antiquing in town. Here are my top choices for hotels and accommodations in Hudson.

St. Charles Hotel

I spent the night at the St. Charles Hotel because I wanted something that was a good price and a great location that didn’t necessarily need too many frills. I really only wanted somewhere to rest my head at night, and the St Charles Hotel did the trick. I also liked the fact that this hotel is located inside a historic building.

This is only a two star hotel and only had the most basic amenities, but I had a really comfortable night’s sleep here. It was quiet, cozy and clean. There’s complimentary parking and I left my car there the next day as I explored town. Every room has a microwave, a small fridge, a TV, and free Wi-Fi.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

Inn at 34 is an accommodation in Hudson with a great location, right in the middle of town. You’ll stay inside an old home that fits perfectly with the style of antique hunters. This inn is warm and inviting, and all stays come with breakfast in the morning (vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available upon request). All guests can use the complimentary Wi-Fi, all units have private bathrooms, and you’ll have access to the terrace.

The Wick Hudson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Wick is a boutique hotel in Hudson with a fantastic location right in town. This is a more luxurious hotel with more amenities than the other properties I previously mentioned. There’s a 24 hour front desk, a fitness center, and a restaurant on-site. The guest rooms are clean and spacious rooms, and they have a TV, a fridge, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

More Hotels in Hudson and the Hudson Valley

Do you want to compare all of the hotels and properties in Hudson, NY? Use this handy map to see everything that’s available, compare prices, locations, and more.

Getting to Hudson, NY

When I visited Hudson for an overnight trip, I drove myself there. I embarked on a road trip to a travel conference that took me through Albany , Dutchess County , and Portsmouth (New Hampshire) on the way to Maine.

After my stay in Portland , I stopped in southern Maine for a couple of days before staying in upstate New York and Hudson on my way back to Toronto. Hudson is also a very popular weekend trip from New York City. The best way to reach Hudson is by car on a road trip of the Hudson River towns or through the Catskill Mountains.

If you don’t have your own car, you can always rent a car. This will give you the flexibility to travel to Hudson, as well as other nearby attractions and neighboring towns. I love booking my rental cars through Discover Cars because you’re able to compare prices and find the best deals.

You can also take the train to Hudson from New York City. Take the Amtrak train from Penn Station in New York City. You can walk from the train station to everywhere in town that I mention in this blog post. I recently took the train from NYC to Albany, and there are several beautiful towns along this route (Rhinebeck, Beacon, and Poughkeepsie, to name a few).

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

More Things to Do in New York State

Since New York is only a quick drive across the Canada/USA border for us, we’ve spent lots of time exploring this state. Here are more travel blog posts to help you plan your trip to NY.

• The Best Things to Do in Albany (2 Day Itinerary)
• Watkins Glen Itinerary (1 Day in Watkins Glen)
• Road Trip Around Dutchess County, NY
• Things to Do in East Aurora, New York
• Fun Things to Do in Buffalo, NY

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Vintage Rail Excursions from New York City

Sip, eat, and relax aboard beautifully restored 1940s railroad cars from the long-lost New York Central Railroad. Your journey takes you on a land cruise along the majestic Hudson River as you take in sights and hundreds of years of history.

A Great Road Trip: the Hudson River Valley

Last Updated on April 5, 2024

Estimated reading time: 19 minutes

Updated for 2024

By Jim Ferri

The Hudson River Valley is only a 45-minute drive from the busy streets of midtown New York City .

But this beautiful, peaceful and historical place couldn’t be more different than Manhattan and many of the things Gotham is noted for . It’s overflowing with natural beauty, history, and culture. And it has enough farm-to-table dining options to keep any foodie busy for months. It’s also the oldest wine-producing area in the USA.

The Hudson River river is named for Henry Hudson, an Englishman sailing for the Dutch East India Company, who explored it in 1609.

More were soon to follow, including the Pilgrims, when they set sail in 1620. On that sailing, the Pilgrims were actually headed for the Hudson River Valley, not Plymouth near Cape Cod. They only turned north when they encountered low winds and shoals along the American coast.

Travelers still seek it today since it’s a perfect 2-3-day getaway from New York City .

Hudson River Valley History

In the 18th century, the river valley and its people were written about by Washington Irving , the author of Rip Van Winkle and  The Legend of Sleepy Hollow . Irving is acclaimed as America’s first internationally acclaimed author.

In the 19th century, the Hudson River Valley and its river became the inspiration of the Hudson River School of landscape painting. It was not a school per se, but a group of painters influenced by romanticism and an American pastoral style.

By 1895 enough of the wealthy and hoity-toity of New York City had built homes in the Hudson River Valley that The New York Times called them “the little colony of millionaires up the river.”

How to Get to the Hudson River Valley

The best way to see the Hudson River Valley is by car since it provides you with flexibility. But if you’re not used to New York City driving, you may reconsider renting a car in NYC. After all, with the key comes the problem of navigating a way out of often-congested Manhattan.

Alternatively, you could take a short train ride to a town in the Hudson River Valley, rent a car there, and later return it before returning to NYC by train. This is quite a bit easier (and less expensive) than renting a car in Manhattan and battling its legendary traffic.

To reach the places you’ll read about here, take the Hudson Line from NYC’s Grand Central Station. The train ride to Tarrytown is less than an hour, to Poughkeepsie two hours, and to Rhinebeck about a three-hour ride total, after changing trains at Poughkeepsie. Continue on the train up river a bit more and you’ll come to Albany , the New York State capital.

The Hudson River Valley trip that follows is based on my drive from New York City, through the Hudson River Valley, and then returning by car to upper Manhattan. If you decide to take the train + rental-car option, you can jump in mid-trip anywhere along the way.

Driving the Hudson River Valley / Setting Out Along the River

Although you can also do this trip in reverse – starting in Sleepy Hollow – I decided to cross into New Jersey and first drive up the Hudson River’s west bank. There are a several places I wanted to see in that area.

Leave New York City via the George Washington Bridge (GWB), which connects northern Manhattan with Fort Lee, NJ. It’s actually the busiest bridge in the world, with an upper level (known locally as “the George”) and a lower level (“the Martha”). Just be sure to take the upper level and use one of the right two lanes to take exit 74, the first exit in New Jersey, for the Palisades Interstate Parkway.

It’s a scenic 42-mile ride from the GWB to New York’s Bear Mountain State Park , with about 11 miles of the parkway in New Jersey.

I decided to make a quick stop at the very first exit and drove down to the river for a nice downstream view of the river, the GWB, and the towers of Manhattan. If you stay on the parkway, about 1 mile north of Exit 1 there’s also the Rockefeller Lookout, a pull-off overlook. It’s open 24 hours a day, but there are no facilities.

Bear Mountain

At the end of the Palisades Interstate Parkway, take Exit 19 to the Perkins Memorial Drive on Bear Mountain. Follow the drive through the woods to the top of 1,284-foot Bear Mountain. During the Revolutionary War, the Americans had two forts here to block any advance up the river by the British. The views of the river from the top are still as beautiful now as they were back then.

The mountain is part of the 5,000+ acre Bear Mountain State Park , which includes hiking trails, campgrounds, etc. and the Bear Mountain Inn and restaurant. There are also Hudson River Valley cruises up the river from New York City.

Bear Mountain State Park

3006 Seven Lakes Drive Bear Mountain, NY 10911 Tel: (845) 786-2701 https://parks.ny.gov/parks/bearmountain/

On to West Point, a Famous Hudson River Valley Academy

From Bear Mountain, head north on Seven Lakes Drive toward US-202 /Route 9W. Take 9W north to West Point, about a 15-20 minute drive.

Exit at Rt 218 toward Highland Falls/West Point and follow the road, whose name changes along the way – Rt 218 / Main Street / West Point Hwy / Thayer Road. Then, on Thayer Road, turn right into the parking lot for the West Point Academy, adjacent to the West Point Museum . (You’ll know you’re at the right place by the tank on the corner at the intersection.)

All things considered, the best way to see the campus West Point and get an understanding of what you’re seeing is to take the one-hour bus tour of the grounds. Sign up for it in the Visitor’s Center to the left of the museum.

West Point Military Academy

West Point Tours 2107 New South Post Road West Point, NY 10996 Tel: (845) 446-4724 https://westpointtours.com/ History and Tradition Cemetery Tour: Adult Ages 12+ $22, Child, Ages 3-11 $17, Infant Ages 2 and Under Free West Point Story Tour: Adult Ages 12+ $19, Child, Ages 3-11 $15, Infant Ages 2 and Under Free

Storm King Art Center

When departing West Point, backtrack through Highland Falls the way you came in. When you reach 9W / Rt 218, turn right and continue heading north. After about 10 miles / 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at the Storm King Art Center in New Windsor, NY, an incredible 500-acre outdoor art museum , probably unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Adjacent to Storm King Mountain, the museum presents large-scale modern and contemporary art, scattered about its 500 acres. Consequently, it’s a wonderful place to go for a relaxing walk while exploring both art and nature. It is also one of the largest collections of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the US. It’s beautiful.

1 Museum Road  New Windsor, NY 12553 Tel: (845) 534-3115 https://stormking.org Storm King Ticket Prices

Off to Hyde Park

After exiting Storm King, turn left and follow 9W north to US84 and the Newburgh–Beacon Bridge. Then you will have a choice.

You can continue on 9W north to the Mid-Hudson Bridge and cross the river into Poughkeepsie, a little Hudson River Valley city halfway between New York and Albany, the state’s capital.

Or you can take the Newburgh–Beacon over to the east side of the Hudson and then take US 9 north. I chose the latter since I felt it would save me some time, and I was already into the afternoon.

I took US 84 to US 9, then headed north at the town of Fishkill.

Speeding up US 9 into Hyde Park, I passed The Culinary Institute of America . It’s a place I always wanted to visit if nothing else, but to pinch a few recipes. There are four restaurants here, but you’ll need reservations for three of them.

The Apple Pie Bakery Cafe is the only one that does not take reservations. It is takeout/grab and go with limited seating. It is no longer a table service restaurant.

The Culinary Institute of America

1946 Campus Drive Hyde Park, NY 12538 Tel: (845) 452-9600 https://www.ciarestaurantgroup.com/new-york-restaurants/

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Home

But that day, my sights were set on history, not food. I had the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Home and Presidential Library in my sights.

The Hyde Park estate was Roosevelt’s boyhood home when the Georgian colonial house was known as Springwood. Consequently, there’s plenty of Roosevelt memorabilia and the requisite Presidential Library. Nearby is the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, where the First Lady lived later in life.

Unfortunately, during my initial visit to Springwood I had very mixed feelings. The museum , etc. was excellent, as many U.S. Presidential museums/libraries tend to be. But the FDR home itself was in a state of disrepair. Thankfully, however, repairs have now been made to Springwood.

I much enjoyed wandering about the grounds, through the barn and fields, and seeing the grave site of Franklin and Eleanor in the garden. And I enjoyed standing on the crest of the lawn looking out across the forest to the beautiful Hudson River Valley in the distance. Make a stop here.

Be aware that, as with all Presidential homes and libraries, the home is operated by the National Park Service and the Library and Museum is operated by the National Archives, so information for the two are located separately.

If you don’t purchase tickets ahead of time, you can purchase tickets for both on-site at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Educational Center.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Home / Library

4097 Albany Post Rd Hyde Park, NY 12538 Tel: (845) 229-5320 https://www.fdrlibrary.org/hours

The Vanderbilt Mansion

You should also stop next door at the 54-room beaux-arts Vanderbilt Mansion , another National Historic Site and remnant of the Gilded Age. It is one of several homes owned by Frederick William Vanderbilt – grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt , the family patriarch who created the family wealth.

Surprisingly, its 200-some-odd acres are one-third of the original property. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River Valley, it has formal gardens, expansive manicured lawns, woodlands, and numerous auxiliary buildings.

The New York Times article referring to “the little colony…” described this Vanderbilt purchase as “the finest place on the Hudson between New-York and Albany.” See for yourself.

Vanderbilt Mansion

4097 Albany Post Road Hyde Park, NY 12538 Tel: (845) 229-7770 https://www.nps.gov/vama/index.htm

Rhinebeck and a Special Hotel

My destination that afternoon was the Village of Rhinebeck, another 20 minutes or so north. In addition to being a pretty Hudson River Valley village, Rhinebeck also has 300 sites on the National Register of Historic Places . There are also plenty of historical mansions tucked away outside the town.

In Rhinebeck, I also wanted to see my cousins Ed and Gail, whom I hadn’t seen in a while. Thankfully at the last minute, they were able to get me a room at the famous Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn, the oldest Inn in America.

It’s a great little Hudson River Valley hotel where I was soon to join George Washington, Benedict Arnold, Alexander Hamilton, and many others who slept, ate, and drank here. The Inn’s tavern is the original traveler’s Inn, the Traphagen Tavern, built in 1704. It still has the original wide plank floor on which the founding fathers walked.

But there’s even more history at the Beekman . It was a quarrel in its tavern that precipitated the duel in which Aaron Burr killed Alexander Hamilton. Even the Continental Army gets into the picture – one of its regiments drilled on the front lawn in preparation for the American Revolution.

And though he lived just down the road, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was also a regular guest. He concluded each of his four political campaigns for New York Governor and US President with speeches from the front porch.

Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn

6387 Mill Street Rhinebeck, NY 12572 Tel: (845) 876-7077 https://www.beekmandelamaterinn.com

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in the Beautiful Hudson River Valley

I was off early the next morning to another famous place in Rhinebeck, the 60+-year-old Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum . It’s America’s first flying museum of antique aircraft and replicas, with the emphasis on “flying museum.” The founder of the museum, Cole Palen, grew up in the Hudson River Valley in the 1930s firmly believing “It isn’t an airplane if it doesn’t fly.”

Today the non-profit Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum continues to collect, restore, and exhibit more than 60 aircraft. There are also air shows and biplane rides. Be Aware, however, that it’s only open seasonally (May 1 – Oct 31).

Unfortunately, I got to see neither since the Aerodrome wasn’t open since I arrived mid-week. However, one of the mechanic-restorers allowed me to wander around, which in itself was quite interesting. Try to time your arrival for an airshow or a plane ride.

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum

9 Norton Road Red Hook, NY 12571 Tel: (845) 752-3200 https://oldrhinebeck.org Find ticket prices and directions here.

Poughkeepsie and Locust Grove Estate

When leaving Rhinebeck, drive south on Rt 9 south to Poughkeepsie, a half-hour, 18-mile drive. Settled by the Dutch in the 17th century, Poughkeepsie’s claim to fame has always been famous Vassar College , one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country. Vassar is home of the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center , which has a good collection of ancient, medieval, Asian, European, and American art and objects.

However, today the spotlight is on the Walkway Over the Hudson, a 212-foot-high and 1¼ miles long, former railroad bridge converted into the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Linking Poughkeepsie with the town on Highland on the western bank, the bridge is now one of Poughkeepsie’s top attractions.

A 10-minute drive from the Walkway is Locust Grove Estate, the former home of Samuel Morse. It’s now a 200-acre public estate with an Italianate-style house and museum. Accordingly, given the original owner, it’s an excellent place to learn more about the invention of Morse Code, which changed communications in the world.

Locust Grove Estate

2683 South Road Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 Tel: (845) 454-4500 https://www.lgny.org

A Hudson River Valley Don’t Miss: Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown

When leaving Poughkeepsie, continue south on down US 9, NY 9A and NY 100 to Sleepy Hollow, about a 1:15 minute drive.

One of the most famous places in Sleepy Hollow is Philipsburg Manor, an 18th- century farm, milling, and trading complex that was worked by 23 slaves of African descent. 

Philipsburg Manor

381 N Broadway Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 Tel: (914) 366-6900 https://www.hudsonrivervalley.com/sites/Philipsburg-Manor-Upper-Mills-/details

Nearby is Kykuit, an elaborate beaux-arts house with Italianate gardens built in 1913 for John D. Rockefeller.

The Hudson River Valley country home of the Rockefellers, it’s filled with galleries of 20th-century art and beautiful furnishings. All tours (via shuttle bus) to the house begin at the Visitors Center at Philipsburg Manor.

381 N Broadway (Visitor Center of Philipsburg Manor) Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 Tel: (914) 366-6900 https://hudsonvalley.org/historic-sites/kykuit-the-rockefeller-estate/

Also nearby, a 5-minute drive from Philipsburg Manor, is the Union Church of Pocantico Hills, a small Hudson River Valley country church with steep gables. The church isn’t well-know for its architecture though, but famous for its stained-glass windows by Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall.

They were a gift to this unassuming country church from the Rockefeller family. Here you can see Matisse’s last work, the Rose Window, and nine windows by Chagall. They’re beautiful. ( tickets must be purchased online )

Union Church of Pocantico Hills

555 Bedford Road Tarrytown, NY 10591 Tel: (914) 366-6900 https://hudsonvalley.org/historic-sites/union-church-of-pocantico-hills/

More than anything else, Sleepy Hollow was made famous by Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”

In addition, you’ll find Irving’s grave in the famous 90-acre Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Moreover he has some notable neighbors there, including Elizabeth Arden, Brooke Astor, Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler, Samuel Gompers, and more.

You can purchase a map of the cemetery at the Philipsburg Manor museum shop across the street from the South Gate of the cemetery.

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

540 North Broadway Sleepy Hollow NY 10591 Tel: (914) 631-0081 http://sleepyhollowcemetery.org

On your way south to nearby Tarrytown, also visit “Sunnyside,” the picturesque, romantic home of Washington Irving on the Hudson. Many of Irving’s characters, from the Headless Horseman to Rip Van Winkle, helped make him America’s “Founding Father of Literature.” He also penned an extensive biography of George Washington while living at Sunnyside.

Be aware that tickets for Sunnyside must be purchased online.

3 W Sunnyside Lane Irvington, NY 10533 Tel: (914) 366-6900 https://hudsonvalley.org/historic-sites/washington-irvings-sunnyside/

Tarrytown and the Lyndhurst Mansio n 

In Tarrytown, you’ll discover the Lyndhurst Mansion, the southernmost of the lavish Hudson R iver Valley mansions . Constructed in 1838 in the Gothic Revival style, its most famous owner was Jay Gould, still remembered as one of the robber barons of America’s Gilded Age.

At Lyndhurst is a vast collection of art, antiques, and furniture, most original to Gould’s country house. It’s is surrounded by 67 landscaped acres, which include a conservatory and a rose garden. The estate also contains a turn-of-the-20th-century bowling alley and an original child’s playhouse.

It sits in a 67-acre park on the Hudson, just south of the Mario Cuomo Bridge, the southernmost of the large bridges that span the river. Incidentally, if you start your Hudson River Valley road trip in Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow, you could cross this bridge to reach Bear Mountain (a half-hour drive) and then continue on to West Point and Storm King.

Lyndhurst Mansion

635 S Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10591 Tel: (914) 631-4481 https://lyndhurst.org/ Driving the 38 miles to northern Manhattan via Rt 87 will take 1½ hours, depending upon traffic. Whatever you do, don’t make the trip during rush hour.

The  Historic Hudson Valley is a good resource to buy tickets and stay updated regarding opening dates and times for all of the sites in Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown listed above.

You may also enjoy: A Florida Gulf Coast Road Trip / A Great Family Vacation: a South Dakota Road Trip / The Maine Coast: A Great Summer Road Trip / Texas Road Trip: the Chisholm Trail / Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip

September 16, 2020 at 11:16 am

Jim, Great article and so much information. I have visited many of the places mentioned, but now that I am up in Poughkeepsie near Ed I will try to visit the ones I have not seen. Some are still closed at this time, but will keep checking for their opening.

September 16, 2020 at 11:20 am

Hi Wini! I didn’t know that you had moved but I think you made the right choice being near Ed. I mean, someone has to keep him in line… Jim

September 17, 2020 at 11:16 am

JIm, we are beginning to take road trips to see what the most beautiful part of New York State (i.e. upstate) has to offer. This article is great and I ran out of paper writing down all the places to either visit or revisit. Will have to check to see which ones are open right now but it gives us a great idea for a several day road trip! Thanks for a timely piece! Pat

September 17, 2020 at 12:00 pm

Hi Pat, As I was writing it I thought you two would enjoy the trip. Many things are closed (but still worth seeing from their gardens, etc.) or you must schedule in advance. You’ll enjoy the drive…it’s a great trip. Jim

April 2, 2021 at 1:37 pm

Interesting that you republished this this week. We had planned to meet Bob and Eileen down in the Hudson Valley last Spring, only to discover that every place we wanted to visit was closed. I recently looked at our destinations again this week, hoping to reschedule that trip, and was disappointed to discover still no tours at West Point, Culinary Institute still closed as is FDR home. Happily Rhinebeck Aerodrome is reopening for its weekend shows in June and the museum in May. The Hudson Valley is definitely a beautiful spot in New York!

April 6, 2021 at 10:24 pm

Hi Pat, As with anywhere you may travel, you have to keep checking on what is open and what’s not. Anything that is indoors (West Point, the Culinary Institute, etc.) will be the last to reopen.

March 15, 2021 at 5:48 am

Wonderful article, most of places I have visited, because I lived in Ossining, New York. Five generations on the Hudson River. My great grandmother lived in the town was it called Sing Sing, New York. Enjoyed reading it.

March 15, 2021 at 4:24 pm

Hi Wendy, I’m glad you enjoyed it and helped bring back some memories. It is a great area to visit.

March 17, 2021 at 8:36 am

Nice article. Only one question, where is the Bear Mountain Golf course? I’m a native Rockland resident, a golfer, and thought I knew all the nearby courses. Please fill me in.

March 18, 2021 at 7:25 am

Hi Scott, Well this is embarrassing. You’re absolutely right, there is no golf course at Bear Mountain. Unfortunately, I don’t remember who provided me with that information, but I’ve corrected the article. Thanks for bringing this to my attention.

April 7, 2021 at 11:14 pm

Great article! My family often travel from Maryland back home to the area, and can’t wait to start again. A couple of additions for your readers: When on the PIP, stop at the State Line Lookout. The historic wayside building has really good soup and the views of the Palisades often include tons of birds roosting on the cliffs, as well as a nice walking path. On the east side of the river, don’t forget Van Cortlandt Manor and the Old Dutch Church, especially in the Fall when the whole area does it up big for Halloween with the Great Jack-o-lantern Blaze at the manor and Johnathan Kruk telling The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in the church. We drive 4 hours just to see it all!

April 8, 2021 at 9:12 am

Hi Lori, The Hudson Valley is a great place, isn’t it? Thanks for all the added info.

April 12, 2021 at 12:53 am

I believe you left out some great spots to visit in Beacon and Cold Spring. When crossing the Newburgh-Beacon bridge get off of the first exit after the bridge. Take a right on to Rt 9d and Main St Beacon is a lovely place to explore with it’s many shops, restaurants and breweries. Beacon is also home to Dia Beacon. Dia Beacon, opened in 2003 in an old Nabisco box printing factory, presents Dia’s collection of art from the 1960s to the present. Beacon, being located on the Hudson River and on the edge of the Hudson Highlands has many wonderful trails including Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, Madame Brett Park and Mount Beacon Park. Madame Brett Homestead in Beacon is the oldest home in Dutchess County.

Head south on Rt 9d to Cold Spring passing beautiful scenery on the way of Storm King Mountain across the Hudson and pass the parking areas for hiking Breakneck Ridge. Cold Spring has a lovely Main Street. When you walk down to the river, there is a lovely park with a gazebo. A scene from the Barbara Streisand movie Hello Dolly was filmed here. There is a wonderful ice cream shop, Moo Moos Creamery where you can purchase delicious homemade ice cream. Walk back over to the park and take in the breathtaking scenery of West Point located south across the river. Take a walk at Scenic Hudson’s West Point Foundry Preserve. Head about a mile south on Rt 9d again and you will come to Boscobel, an esteemed Historic House Museum containing one of the finest collections of decorative arts including furniture from the Federalist Period. Boscobel has lovely gardens and overlooks the Hudson River

April 12, 2021 at 7:50 am

Hi Janine, Thank you for providing all of this information about places I didn’t get to on my visit. I’m lucky to have readers like you who share their knowledge of a place for the rest of us

June 13, 2021 at 2:34 pm

Any good spots to see bald eagles, other wildlife areas? Interested in visiting in the fall. Thank you

June 14, 2021 at 3:09 pm

Hi Rita, According to the NYS environmental folks in Bear Mountain State Park you can see, among others, Bald eagles, deer, coyotes, beavers, etc. Check here: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/83998.html

September 18, 2021 at 6:17 pm

Nice article…the Hudson Valley is really a wonderful place. Just wanted to point out that the museum at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is open 7 days a week from June through October. It is across the street from the airfield (on the parking lot side). There are four hangars full of aviation and automobile treasures from 1900 through 1940 on exhibit.

September 19, 2021 at 8:05 pm

Thank you for the info Tom.

September 22, 2021 at 6:01 pm

We are visiting the area for the first time during the first week in October… this article is by far the best I’ve come across to make planning easier (I’m not good at this!), so thank you.

I do have a question. We will be driving from our daughter’s on Stony Brook, Long Island, and am wondering how many days we should plan for this driving tour? I may have missed that information, but could you give me an idea?

Thank you so very much.

September 23, 2021 at 9:40 am

Hi Lesli, I’m glad the article was helpful. From your daughter’s house in Stony Brook it will take you 1 2/2 – 2 hours to get to the Palisades in New Jersey (depending on traffic) to start the trip. The entire trip should take you about 3 days depending upon how long you linger. And early October is a great time of year to do this trip. Have a great time! Jim

September 25, 2021 at 7:00 am

I just did a similar road trip from the Washington DC area. I stayed in an Airbnb in Irvington New York and launched my daily road trips from there. I recommend a day trip to Woodstock. There are so many great restaurants and shops there it’s worth it. Word of advice: if you’re going to storm king and you have a bicycle I would bring it if possible. They will rent you a bike but that is after you pay for admission; the place is so massive, over 400 acres, that it’s going to be really hard to see everything on foot. I would also bring a picnic because you’re going to want to spend many hours there.

September 25, 2021 at 2:17 pm

Thank you Gary. That’s a great idea about the Bike to Storm King. It’s really worthwhile seeing, and seeing it by bike would be great. Jim

September 25, 2021 at 6:13 pm

Gary — that’s a great idea re: a bicycle in Storm King – it’s the perfect place for it. Although I’ve always wanted to visit Woodstock, I’ve never made it there, although I’ve heard good things about it. Jim

October 13, 2021 at 9:41 am

Hello Mr. Jim Ferri,

So appreciative of your time in sharing not just the sceneries to behold, but the historic timeless value of each area. I always have in mind to use the I Love NY train post to explore more of Nature’s Bounty.

But recently, I used the Metro North train to the Poughkeepsie station to get to The Victory Wellness Center in Hyde Park, and has become familiar with the train stops and the very names of sites you mentioned.

A friend had said to me, that their co-workers talked about walking over some bridge, I told them there are several bridges along the Hudson River.

In addition to the I love NY Idea, plus the bridges, you have given a lifetime of landmark destinations for the family to explore each season, right at home.

Thanks so much for sharing. Della C N

October 13, 2021 at 1:26 pm

Thank you Della, that’s very kind of you. Jim

May 15, 2022 at 1:28 pm

Where’s the greatest village/area of them all – New Paltz?

Good stuff though otherwise. Cheers.

May 16, 2022 at 12:36 pm

Thank you Frank. I couldn’t get them all in. Jim

August 4, 2022 at 9:52 pm

Della wrote in October 2021 asking about a bridge for walking over the Hudson River. She was probably inquiring about Walkway Over the Hudson, a former train bridge that is 1.26 miles long. Parking is on the east, Poughkeepsie side and the west, Highland side, just north of the Mid-Hudson Bridge. Parking on Highland (Ulster County) side is level and leads easily onto the bridge. There are restrooms available. No motorized vehicles. Popular with bicyclists, walkers, joggers and dog walkers. Info on walkway.org. Various events are held and are worth checking out. The view is fabulous. More hiking is available at nearby Frannie Reese Park. If you don’t want to walk far, just go half way and get a gorgeous view of this majestic waterway. Enjoy.

August 7, 2022 at 11:17 am

Thank you for that info Annemarie. Jim

October 23, 2022 at 10:26 am

You can drive 15 minutes further south from Lyndhurst Mansion down to Yonkers & visit Untermyer Gardens Conservancy! With amazing views of the Hudson River & exquisite gardens, landscape with Roman marble columns over 500 years old. Samuel Untermyer was a wealthy lawyer who built the gardens for his wife. It is beautiful all year – open all year with free parking. (North Broadway, Yonkers) & when you’re done, take the train @ Getty’s Square back to NYC. (After you return your rental car.)

October 27, 2022 at 7:41 am

Hi Gina, Thanks for letting us know about Untermyer! Jim

May 9, 2023 at 5:33 pm

Thank you for this wonderful article, Mr. Ferri! My husband and I had pre-pandemic plans to explore the Hudson River Valley for at least 10 days and then extend our adventure into Acadia in Maine. Do you recommend such a journey now?

May 12, 2023 at 7:27 pm

Absolutely! Be aware, however, that it’s a long drive from the Hudson Valley to Acadia. But if you’re up for it, you should have a wonderful time! Jim

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21+ Hudson Valley Day Trips Worth Taking Now!

Trees, Mountains, the Hudson River, small towns and bustling cities. Welcome to the Hudson Valley, a mix of old and new, history and art. Because of all these things, it’s very easy to plan Hudson Valley Day Trips several times a year.

There is so much to do in the Hudson Valley, that it seems like the list is endless. With every season, comes new opportunities to do new and exciting things.

If you’re looking to plan your own perfect Hudson Valley day trips, I’m breaking down the top tips and the best things to do to make your Hudson Valley Day Trips successful, special, easy and most of all – Fun .

Ready to plan your own Hudson Valley day trips? Get inspired and start planning!

This article contains an affiliate link or two. I make a small commission for purchases made through links at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure for more info.

How to Plan Perfect Hudson Valley Day Trips

Things to know before you take your hudson valley day trips.

• Depending on the season, the weather in the Hudson Valley is not always predictable. Check the weather beforehand to make sure you are prepared for any changes.
• Weather is also vastly different depending on the area of the Hudson Valley where you are traveling: Lower Hudson Valley, Mid-Hudson Valley, Upper Hudson Valley. Plan accordingly.
• For Autumn: The best leaf-peeping times are between October and November. Leaves in the Lower Hudson Valley change over later than the ones in the Upper Hudson Valley.
• You can access many parts of the Hudson Valley without a car, but it’s best to have a car if you’ll be visiting several locations in one day or in a weekend.
• The Hudson Valley has many fantastic events going on throughout the year. There are events for art lovers, food lovers, music lovers, etc. Plan your getaway around an event and make it extra-special.
• Some of the locations listed in this post are open seasonally, typically from April through November. Check each individual website for updated information.

How to get to the Hudson Valley

– Taking Hudson Valley Day Trips by Train

Taking the train from New York City (Grand Central Terminal) to the Hudson Valley is quite simple. There are five train lines that will take you to different areas of the Hudson Valley.

The Metro North Train system is fairly reliable. Once you arrive at your stop, there are usually taxi services that can easily take you to your destination.

This makes this the perfect way for New Yorkers to explore the Hudson River Valley without a car.

Some towns are located near the train stations, so all you need are a good pair of shoes and you’re on your way!

The Metro North Lines are:

• Hudson Line
• New Haven Line
• Port Jervis Line
• Harlem Line
• Pascack Line

A list of the stops associated with the various Metro-North lines can be found here .

– Taking Hudson Valley Day Trips by Car

If you’re ready to get in your car and take one of great Hudson Valley Day Trips listed in this article, then make sure you’re prepared.

There are several highways/thruways that take you through the Hudson Valley from North to South or South to North. These include:

• The Taconic State Parkway
• The Henry Hudson Parkway
• The Bronx River Parkway
• The Sprain Brook Parkway
• The New York State Thruway
• Interstate 684
• and more….

Knowing where these particular highways/Thruways/Interstates takes you is very important because many do not intersect and will lead you to very different places in the Hudson Valley.

Mapping out your destination, beforehand, is crucial in planning your Hudson Valley day trips. Using Google Maps will be extremely helpful, as not only does it show you how to get to your destination, it also shows you estimated time of travel, alternate routes and offers suggestions for places to eat and other sites to see.

Looking for help planning a Road Trip? Reference my article all about what to do & Pack for your Next Road trip for a full list of Pre-Road Trip To-Do’s, as well, as a checklist of essentials you should always have before taking your next trip.

Hudson Valley Day Trips For Art Lovers

– storm king art center.

Take a stroll through this open-air museum in New Windsor, NY in Orange County NY. Storm King Art Center is home to large-scale sculptures and is an impressive place to visit.

In addition to the works displayed during the warmer months, they also have special events throughout the year. Recently, they have begun to open during the weekends during the winter.

This makes this a wonderful place to visit all year long and the view of Storm King Mountain is extraordinary.

It is no wonder why Storm King Art Center is one of the most popular Hudson Valley Day Trips from New York City.

READ MORE: Read my article all about my visit to Storm King Art Center

– Opus 40

This impressive sculpture created by Harvey Fite is located in Saugerties, NY in Ulster County NY, and is made of the blue quarry from this land. The most interesting part is that the sculpture is comprised of ramps and pedestals that you can walk on and the views of the Catskill mountains as the scenery.

You must see Opus 40 to believe it and you can visit this impressive place from May – November.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to Opus 40

– Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art

If you’re looking to spend the day in New Paltz, then a visit to the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art should be on your list.

In addition to being located on the campus of SUNY New Paltz, the museum houses over 6,000 pieces of art and is an important influence in the Hudson Valley when it comes to art.

Typically open year-round, they welcome all visitors to enjoy their permanent and temporary exhibits.

While there, check out Main Street and grab a bite to eat and/or visit one of the many great coffee shops. This is a great place to ‘get lost’ and is one of the best quaint town in the Hudson Valley Region.

– DIA:Beacon

Visit a former Nabisco printing plant turned into an art museum. Walk around DIA:Beacon, both inside and out, while admiring award-winning art and installations. Located on the banks of the Hudson River,

The permanent exhibitions and visiting artwork will mesmerize and inspire you. Open year-round, this museum is conveniently located near the Beacon Train Station and is a quick train ride from Poughkeepsie or anywhere else on the Metro North’s Hudson Line.

One of my favorite parts of a visit is visiting the gift shop, full of art books galore. It’s a wonderful place to get lost in your imagination.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to DIA:Beacon

– Katonah Museum of Art

Katonah, NY is a easy day trip either by car or train. Located in Westchester County, Katonah is a small town easily accessed through the Harlem Line of the Metro North.

Katonah Museum of Art houses amazing works in its art galleries and also on its grounds. In addition to the exhibition currently on view, the Learning Center is available for small family groups to reserve.

The museum also participates in the ‘Metro-North Getaways Program’. The program offers a round-trip train ticket to the Katonah Station and discounted admission to the museum.

While in Katonah, why not visit the remainder of this small town; from eateries to farms to parks. This the best way to spend a day.

– New York State Museum

One of the best things to do in Albany for free, a visit to this museum should be your next stop on a road trip through the Hudson Valley. Established in 1836, it is the oldest and largest state museum in the United States.

One of the best cultural institutions in New York, the Museum explores and expresses New York State’s significant natural and cultural diversity, past and present.

Click Below to see some items you should have during your Hudson Valley Outings that will guarantee a successful outing

– Because ‘you never know’ when an accident happens, you need a small, portable First Aid Kit , like this product in your life. This is a great buy for under $15 ————————- – If you’re going to be out all day exploring, you never REALLY know what the weather will be like. Even if you think you do know, it can start raining at any time, so this small life-saver is an essential item . This is another great buy on Amazon for under $15. ————————- – My favorite walking shoes, by far, are these because they are soft and the memory foam feels great on my feet. See the color and size choices here. ————————- – Looking great during your Hudson Valley outings is essential and this Hudson Valley Merchandise is perfect for any outing!

Hudson Valley Day Trips For Nature Lovers

The natural beauty of the region is astonishing. It’s no wonder why this beautiful scenery was the subject of many landscape painters. You can spend an entire day exploring the area by walking, running, hiking and cross-country skiing during the winter.

– Untermyer Gardens

A visit to Untermyer Park & Gardens is essential for anyone who wants to be amazed and enchanted.

This ‘Walled Garden’, located in Yonkers, NY, is an impressive place to spend an afternoon.

The park & garden overlooking the Hudson River is open year-round and, best of all, it’s free to visit.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to Untermyer Gardens

– Stonecrop Gardens

Discover a splendid garden high up in the Hudson Highlands with a visit to Stonecrop Gardens in Cold Spring, NY.

Open from April through the end of October, a visit to this magnificent garden is essentially perfect for any day away from the busyness of life.

– Walkway over the Hudson State Historic Park

Walk over the Hudson River on the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. Connecting Highland, NY to Poughkeepsie, NY, this spectacular structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open year-round.

It’s the perfect place for walkers, joggers, bikers and rollerbladers. They also host popular events throughout the year. The Walkway is part of the large rail trail system that connects explorers with many Hudson Valley towns and attractions.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to The Walkway Over the Hudson

– Croton Gorge Park & Old Croton Aqueduct State Park

You can fish, picnic, hike and take amazing photos of the Croton Dam and the spillway at Croton Gorge Park, located in Cortlandt, NY.

This popular park consists of over 90 acres and is the beginning of the Old Croton Aqueduct. Cross-country skiing and sledding are popular here during the winter.

Anytime is the best time to visit this wonderful place because with every changing season, the scenery offers something new to see.

– West Point Foundry

Known as the “outdoor museum”, the West Point Foundry in Putnam County NY, highlights the ironworks that manufactured America’s steam engines and pipes for New York City’s water system. There is also an audiovisual tour of the preserve that makes all the difference.

This popular park consists of over 90 acres and is located close to the Cold Spring train station.

– Visit one or several Hudson Valley farms and orchards

Many people don’t know this but, many Hudson Valley apple orchards are open during other times of the year and many DO NOT ONLY grow apples.

Several grow other fruits and vegetables and are open during the off-season because they also have farm stores and other amenities.

READ MORE: The Ultimate List of Hudson Valley Farms and what they Grow

– Bear Mountain State Park

With so many things to do at Bear Mountain State Park, it’s hard not to spend a whole afternoon there.

During the colder months, visitors enjoy ice skating, hiking, visiting the Trailside Museums and Zoo, and riding the Merry-Go-Round.

During the warmer months, visitors enjoy the zoo, swimming pool, walking, hiking, ball play and so much more.

READ MORE: Bear Mountain Activities to enjoy any time of the year

– Take a Hike

With so many places to hike, one of the most perfect Hudson Valley Day Trips is a hiking trip. Popular places include:

• Breakneck Ridge
• Anthony’s Nose
• Minnewaska State Park
• Mohonk Preserve
• Shawangunk Ridge

READ MORE: The Best Hiking Spots in the Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley Day Trips For History Lovers

Historic sites are abundant in the Hudson Valley. These cultural attractions allure many visitors to the area every year. From Sleepy Hollow to Hyde Park and beyond, there are so many places listed as a National Historic Site and are amazing to visit.

– West Point Museum & West Point Visitors Center

Take a guided tour of Historic West Point and the United States Military Academy offered by West Point Tours. Choose from a one-hour or two-hour tour and then make your way to the West Point Museum and Frederic V Malek Visitors Center.

Spend an afternoon at West Point Military Academy, the West Point Museum and the Frederic V Malek West Point Visitors Center.

West Point Museum collects, preserves, exhibits, and interprets historically significant artifacts pertaining to the United States Military Academy, United States Army and the Profession of Arms. It shows the importance of military history and showcases it with photos, memorabilia and dioramas.

The Visitor Center Exhibits include a full-scale cadet barracks room, a cadet uniform room, cadet daily life, academic fields of endeavor and the admissions process.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to West Point Museum & Visitors Center

– Boscobel House & Gardens

Visit one of the most majestic historic homes overlooking the Hudson River in Garrison, NY.

Boscobel House & Gardens is unique because it was saved in pieces and rebuilt in another area of New York as a piece of art.

The grounds are open for self-guided tours from mid-April through December, admission to the gardens, grounds and seasonal exhibition takes place Friday – Monday: 9am – sunset.

– Bannerman Castle Tour

Take a ferry ride on the Hudson River, from Beacon or Newburgh, and learn all about Bannerman Castle located on Pollepel Island.

They offer several tour options that do not disappoint.

Although you cannot enter Bannerman Castle, there are still plenty of photo opportunities on the tour. Open seasonally, they also host musical performances and outdoor movies during warmer months.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to Bannerman Castle

– Historic Huguenot Street

Here is another reason to visit New Paltz. Stroll down Historic Huguenot Street, lined with original 18th-century homes that are in their original village setting. It is a National Historic Landmark District and is one of the best places to visit while in New Paltz.

Open year-round for self-guided tours. Parking areas are located in several locations around the perimeter of this wonderful area.

From the Walkway Over the Hudson to Rhinebeck, my Hudson Valley merchandise captures the spirit of this beautiful area.

Check out my shop and find products that will inspire your next adventure, – washington’s headquarters in newburgh.

Stand where George Washington stood when visiting Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site in Newburgh, NY.

Open year-round for tours of Hasbrouck House, this majestic property overlooking the Hudson River played an important role during the last year of the Revolutionary War.

READ MORE: Read my article about my visit to Washington Headquarters State Historic Site

– Vanderbilt Mansion

The Vanderbilt Estate in Hyde Park is an 19th century Picturesque estate redesigned in an Italian manner when it was bought by the Vanderbilts and a good example of a rich man’s estate.

Besides the mansion, the highlight of a visit to Vanderbilt Mansion is a visit to the gardens. Frederick Vanderbilt bought the estate in 1895 and added the rose garden, pools and statuary and greenhouses. The Italian Gardens are in three parts: the annual garden, the perennial garden, and the rose garden.

READ MORE: See all the beauty of the Vanderbilt Mansion

Hudson Valley Day Trips for Wine, Beer, Cider & Spirits Lovers

– wineries in the hudson valley.

The Shawangunk Wine Trail is located between Ulster and Orange counties. Most of the 15 members of the wine trail are easily accessible by way of Interstate 87 and Interstate 84.

This 80-mile trail is full of award-winning wineries that not only offer tastings but also offer special events during the majority of the year.

It’s easy to plan a Hudson Valley Day Trip visiting these wonderful wineries .

Here is a sample of some of the popular locations: > Angry Orchards, Walden, NY > Benmarl Winery, Marlboro, NY > Brotherhood Winery, Washingtonville, NY > Palaia Winery & Meadery, Highland Mills, NY > Robibero Winery, New Paltz, NY

– Hudson Valley Breweries

If you prefer craft beer, then this Hudson Valley Day Trip will be full of fun! These 45+ Hudson Valley Breweries will be sure to please any palate.

– Hudson Valley Cideries

If hard cider is more your style, then these 15+ Hudson Valley Cideries are the best places for a Hudson Valley Day Trip.

– Hudson Valley Distilleries

Whiskey, Bourbon, Gin, and Vodka lovers, the Hudson Valley Distillery Scene is amazing! Make sure these Hudson Valley Distilleries are on your list for your next Hudson Valley Day Trip.

Tips for an amazing time during your Hudson valley day trips:

• Check the weather before leaving for your outing.
• Check your location’s website for up-to-date-information before leaving on your trip
• Have a back-up plan, in case something comes up.
• For additional tips, make sure to reference my guide for exploring the Hudson Valley like a pro

Until the Next Adventure…

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14 Beautiful Towns On New York's Hudson River

• These beautiful towns along the Hudson River in New York State offer stunning riverfront views, historic architecture, and charming attractions.
• Millbrook is one of the most beautiful towns in the Hudson Valley, with scenic landscapes, wineries, and quaint shops.
• Sleepy Hollow is a must-visit for horror fans in the Hudson region, with haunted sites and spooky experiences.

For those up to it, the extensive stretch along New York’s Hudson River is hands down one of the most scenic places in the United States. Up to 150 miles of jaw-dropping beauty line each side of the river that serves as a political boundary between the states of New York and New Jersey.

Perfect for excellent Hudson River road trips , this expansive stretch is also home to fascinating history and a place of important historical events, such as the Battle of Saratoga, where the Continental Army snatched a decisive victory, marking a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

Today, beautiful towns snug up to the river’s shoreline, providing a breathtaking spectacle that combines nature’s artistry and human workmanship. From Millbrook to Sleepy Hollow and more, discover some of the most beautiful Hudson River towns in New York that showcase what this part of the Northeast is all about when it comes to scenery, small-town charm, and American history.

UPDATE: 2024/02/12 00:07 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Discover Even More Beautiful Towns To Visit On New York's Hudson River

Each of the beautiful towns along the Hudson River in New York has its own unique charm, historic architecture, and stunning riverfront views, creating an enchanting experience for every visitor. This list was updated to include additional contenders for the best towns along the Hudson River!

10-Day Upstate New York Road Trip Itinerary With Scenic Stops

Scenic landscapes, wineries, farmer's markets, and quaint shops.

Discover the charm of Millbrook in the Hudson Valley with a day trip. Home to affluent New Yorkers, this quaint town offers architectural beauty and lush public gardens along Franklin Avenue.

Tourists can enjoy plenty of shops here, such as the Millbrook Antique Mall , and diverse eateries like Millbrook Diner and Babette’s Kitchen . They can also explore the unique Orangerie , Millbrook Vineyards , Hoofprint Cheese Company , Trevor Zoo , and Wing’s Castle.

Plus, given this town's location surrounded by lush greenery, Millbrook could also be considered one of the prettiest towns in the Hudson Valley to visit in the fall foliage season.

• Tourist attractions: Millbrook Antiques Center , Millbrook Farmer's Market , Merritt Bookstore
• Where to stay: The Millbrook Inn , Millbrook Country House , Wing's Castle
• When to visit Millbrook: Spring and fall

Poughkeepsie

Historic sites, the walkway over the hudson, and historic landmarks.

Poughkeepsie, New York, attracts tourists to discover its iconic Hudson Valley landmarks. A highlight is the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge , offering a scenic 1.28-mile hike with unparalleled views of the Hudson River. The extended Walkway Loop Trail features the intriguing Bridge Music installation on the Mid-Hudson Bridge.

Tourists can also explore historic landmarks and stunning architecture throughout the town, including the 150-year-old Bardavon Theater . Additionally, visitors can delve into the past at the Locust Grove Estate , once owned by Morse Code inventor Samuel Morse, and enjoy a scenic tour of Vassar College .

Meanwhile, Barrett Art Center provides a glimpse into local art, making Poughkeepsie a must-visit destination for history, culture, and picturesque landscapes.

• Tourist attractions: Walkway Over The Hudson , Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum , Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center
• Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express , DoubleTree by Hilton Poughkeepsie , Residence Inn by Marriott Poughkeepsie
• When to visit Poughkeepsie: May to mid-September

Antique shops, art galleries, and riverside charm

For an unforgettable weekend retreat in the Hudson Valley or a Catskills adventure, tourists can escape to Hudson, New York. Visitors can go to the Hudson Athens Lighthouse , a favorite among New York lighthouses, and enjoy ferry tours and tower climbs.

Additionally, visitors can indulge in antique shopping at the must-visit Antique Warehouse and enjoy Hudson Brewing Company nearby. Warren Street offers more unique boutiques.

• Tourist attractions: FASNY Museum of Firefighting , Olana NY State Historic Site , Hudson Hall
• Where to stay: The Amelia Hudson , The Wick, Hudson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel , Nautical Nest Hudson
• When to visit Hudson: Spring and fall

Cold Spring

Picturesque hikes, hudson river views, and quaint shops.

Cold Spring, a charming town worth about two hours of exploration, might seem modest, but beauty often thrives in small doses. Its Main Street, though brief, captivates with its charm. Despite its size, outdoor enthusiasts will find it exhilarating.

As one of the many beautiful towns on New York's Hudson River worth visiting, its splendor extends beyond the town limits; some of the main attractions nearby include Bannerman Castle, Hudson Highlands State Park, and West Point Foundry Preserve, each just minutes away.

• Tourist attractions: Bannerman Castle , West Point Foundry Preserve , Hudson Highlands State Park
• Where to stay: Cold Spring Hotel & Cafe , The Thayer Hotel , Pig Hill Inn
• When to visit Cold Spring: Summer

Old-world architecture, waterfront activities, and a lively historic district

Kingston located in the heart of the Catskills, in addition to its thriving arts community, has become a sought-after destination for tourism in New York. Visitors are drawn not only to the dynamic cultural experiences offered through frequent art shows but also to the charm of the city's historic sites and vibrant local attractions, making Kingston a multifaceted gem for both art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Visitors should be sure to check out The Kingston Stockade Historic District for some sophisticated dining, chic boutiques, and lively nightlife, while the Hudson River Maritime Museum is ideal for those looking to learn about the area's history. Plus, nature lovers can enjoy Forsyth Nature Center .

• Tourist attractions: The Stockade Historic District , Hudson River Maritime Museum , Forsyth Nature Center
• Where to stay: Hampton Inn Kingston , Hotel Kinsley , Courtyard by Marriott Kingston
• When to visit Kingston : January and February

10 Insta-Approved Places To See Fall Foliage In Hudson Valley

Trendy restaurants, museums, scenic hikes, and a lovely main street.

For travel enthusiasts looking for a vibrant and youthful atmosphere, Beacon is the ideal destination. The town is adorned with trendy restaurants, many of which provide a lively and upbeat ambiance, perfectly catering to its young patrons.

Beyond its urban hipster paradise, Beacon offers an abundance of hiking trails, providing a perfect balance for those who enjoy both the energetic urban scene and the tranquility of nature. Moreover, Beacon has one of the excellent Hudson Valley farmer's markets to explore, full of organic and local produce.

Whether indulging in the lively dining scene or exploring the extensive hiking options, Beacon promises a dynamic experience for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant and diverse setting.

• Tourist attractions: Hudson Valley Brewery , Dia Beacon , Scenic Hudson's Long Dock Park , Dia Beacon Art Museum
• Where to stay: The Roundhouse , The Dutchess Inn & Spa: Beacon , Beacon Bed and Breakfast
• When to visit Beacon: July and August

When feeling peckish in Beacon, pop into Melzingah's Tap House for a quick burger and down it with a local brew.

Huguenot Street, Mohonk Preserve trails, and college town charm

New Paltz is distinctly a college town, encapsulating much of the expected vibrancy and youthful energy. However, beyond the campus, the surrounding areas have beautifully crafted their own village-like character, exuding an attractive blend of bucolic charm and quaint beauty.

The external facets of New Paltz create an inviting atmosphere that goes beyond the academic setting; must-visit attractions outside of the college scene include Historic Huguenot Street , which is the oldest inhabited street in the US , along with Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary , which nature and animal lovers will enjoy.

Don't forget to do some retail therapy at Water Street Market and explore Mohonk Preserve for scenic nature and hiking trails.

• Tourist attractions: Historic Huguenot Street , Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary , Water Street Market , Mohonk Preserve
• Where to stay: Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection , Americas Best Value Inn New Paltz , Rodeway Inn & Suites New Paltz - Hudson Valley
• When to visit New Paltz: Summer

Boutique shops, old bookshops, historic buildings, and rural beauty

Once a railroad hub, Millerton today boasts historic buildings and several well-stocked bookshops, many of which are old, along with indie theaters and trendy coffeehouses where time gets to slacken its pace somewhat.

Oblong Books , for instance, is a booklover’s paradise, where a variety of books and other accessories make it one of the best spots in the town.

• Tourist attractions: The Millerton Antique Center , North East Millerton Library , Mountain Valley Farm
• Where to stay: The Millerton Inn Restaurant and Hotel , The Alander , The White Hart
• When to visit Millerton: Summer

Artsy culture, lively festivals, and serene mountain surroundings

Nestled in the backdrop of the Catskills, Woodstock is a household name and is among the many beautiful small towns on the Hudson River in New York.

While what put the town on the global map is a festival that bears the town's name—and which Brittanica mentions as the most famous of the 1960s rock festivals — the town of Woodstock today has lots of attractions , including outdoor markets, boutiques, and art galleries.

• Tourist attractions: Opus 40 , The Bearsville Theater , Historical Society of Woodstock
• Where to stay: The Herwood Inn , The Woodstock Inn on the Millstream , Woodstock Way Hotel
• When to visit Woodstock: June to September

10 Scenic Train Trips From New York City

Historic mansions, cute shops, and a charming village atmosphere.

Rhinebeck is vibrant is is easily one of the most scenic towns in the Hudson Valley, New York, having numerous attractions and a rich historical tapestry. To begin with, the town is part of the Hudson River Historic District, featuring approximately forty riverfront estates, and stands as one of the largest historic districts in the United States .

The town's allure lies not only in its bustling atmosphere but also in the grandeur of its well-preserved historic sites, including Wilderstein Historic Site , offering visitors a captivating journey through time as they explore the charm and significance of Rhinebeck's past.

Meanwhile, those up for stretching their legs and enjoying nature's scenery can go hiking in Ferncliff Forest - don't forget to climb the fire tower in this nature preserve!

• Tourist attractions: Ferncliff Forest , Wilderstein Historic Site , Drayton Grant Park at Burger Hill
• Where to stay: Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn , Rhinebeck Village Inn , Mirbeau Inn & Spa Rhinebeck
• When to visit Rhinebeck: May to September

Scenic river views, historic Hudson Valley sites, great restaurants, and a craft beer scene

Exploring the vastness of the Catskills, a mountainous wonder boasting raging rivers, sparkling lakes, and wooded trails, might be an endless adventure. However, the town of Catskill embraces the essence of the entire Catskills in a miniature form.

What's even more intriguing? Touring this village, where artists once rose to fame and achieved success, is like taking a nostalgic step back into history. In this compact haven, visitors can absorb the charm of the Catskills' natural beauty and its rich cultural legacy in the form of nature hikes and historic sites. Plus, the town is plush with historic Hudson Valley landmarks, upstate eateries, and a very busy craft beer scene.

• Tourist attractions: Thomas Cole National Historic Site , Hudson River Skywalk , Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables
• Where to stay: Peloke's Motel Catskill NY , Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Coxsackie , Piaule Catskill
• When to visit Catskills: September and October

Diverse dining and artistic places and Hudson River views

Once recognized as a shipbuilding hub, the town of Nyack has transformed into an enticing escape for New York daytrippers. Situated just 19 miles north of the Manhattan border, this waterfront paradise offers an idyllic setting and gorgeous scenery that is easily accessible.

With its picturesque charm and proximity to the city, Nyack attracts those seeking a quick retreat, providing a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere for a delightful day trip away from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

• Tourist attractions: Edward Hopper House , Nyack Farmer's Market , Elmwood Playhouse
• Where to stay: Hotel Nyack - JDV by Hyatt , West Gate Inn Nyack , Super 8 by Wyndham Nyack NY
• When to visit Nyack: May to September

Cornwall-on-Hudson

Splendid architecture, riverfront beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Nestled on the opposite side of the Hudson River, this charming community is a haven for nature lovers, offering an abundance of green spaces brimming with natural beauty. Additionally, it serves as an excellent destination for indulging in fresh and locally sourced delights, featuring a variety of offerings from local farmers, including delectable home-baked goods and farm-fresh produce.

Whether visitors seek outdoor tranquility or culinary delights, this quaint town along the Hudson River in New York is a perfect retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and savor locally sourced delicacies.

• Tourist attractions: Storm King State Park , Hudson Valley Gallery , Hudson Highlands Nature Museum
• Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Newburgh Stewart Airport , Beacon Hermitage , The Thayer Hotel
• When to visit Cornwall-on-Hudson: Mid-June to mid-September

10 Cozy Small Towns In New York State For Introverts

Sleepy hollow, legendary tales, a historic cemetery, and a scenic hudson river setting.

Fans of the mysterious, dark, and downright spooky will love exploring the famous village of Sleepy Hollow on the Hudson River . Sleepy Hollow welcomes visitors looking for a classic scare, thanks to the numerous terror tales and scary stories that it has become synonymous with. It boasts a handful of haunted sites with creepy pasts that should indulge horror fans. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is one spooky spot not to miss!

Additionally, the village hosts seasonal events and immersive experiences, providing an opportunity for visitors to delve even deeper into the eerie history and supernatural ambiance that permeates Sleepy Hollow. Perhaps the best time to visit the town is Halloween when Sleepy Hollow offers lots of spooky experiences .

• Tourist attractions: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , Philipsburg Manor , Kykuit
• Where to stay: Sleepy Hollow Hotel , Tarrytown House Estate on The Hudson , Castle Hotel & Spa
• When to visit Sleepy Hollow: October (Halloween is a must!)

Visit Sleepy Hollow in October for one of the best Hudson River Towns Halloween experiences and to tour the Old Dutch Church , which is only accessible at this time.

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Henry Hudson Bridge

Named in honor of Henry Hudson, the explorer whose ship, the Half Moon, anchored near this site in 1609, this bridge opened in 1936. It connects northern Manhattan to the Bronx and was built as part of the Henry Hudson Parkway by the Henry Hudson Parkway Authority. When it opened, it was the longest plate girder arch and fixed arch bridge in the world. Originally built with only one level, the bridge's design allowed for the construction of a second level if traffic demands increased. Within a year and a half the upper level was opened. The upper level carries northbound traffic; the lower one is for southbound traffic.

After a series of mergers, the Henry Hudson Parkway Authority became part of the Triborough Bridge Authority in 1941. Today the Henry Hudson Bridge remains one of Bridges and Tunnels' facilities, but the parkway is under the jurisdiction of New York City and New York State.

The bridge's neighbors to the north are the residential communities of Spuyten Duyvil and Riverdale, where single family homes, wooded estates, and large apartment complexes share breathtaking views from the sloping shoreline of the Hudson River and the Harlem Ship Canal. The Manhattan end of the bridge is in Inwood Hill Park, Manhattan's last remaining natural woodland, which is bordered by the residential community of Inwood.