Hudson, NY: History, Art and Dining

• What is Olana State Historic Site?
  • Olana State Historic Site is the former home and estate of renowned landscape artist Frederic Edwin Church.
  • It is one of the few fully intact artists' home, studio, and estate complexes in the United States.
• What can visitors see at Olana State Historic Site?
  • The site showcases the picturesque landscape and working farm designed by Church himself.
  • Its centerpiece is an eclectic villa with breathtaking valley views.
  • The villa, designed by architect Calvert Vaux, is an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian, Persian, and Moorish styles.
• Why is Olana State Historic Site significant?
  • The site is a designated National Historic Landmark.
  • It is considered one of the top attractions in Hudson, NY.
• Are guided tours available at Olana State Historic Site?
  • Yes, guided tours of the house are available from November through April.
  • The tours begin at the visitor center and explore locations such as Frederic and Isabel Church’s bedroom suite and the Evelyn and Maurice Sharp Gallery.
  • Visitors can also enjoy walking through the beautifully maintained surrounding grounds.

5720 NY-9G, Hudson, NY, Phone: 518-828-0135

• What is the FASNY Museum of Firefighting?
  • FASNY Museum of Firefighting is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of firefighting in New York.
  • Located in the scenic hills of Columbia County, the museum features exhibits that highlight the evolution of firefighting tools, techniques, and heroism.
• What exhibits can visitors see at the museum?
  • The museum displays a variety of firefighting equipment, vehicles, and artifacts, including rare Viking axes and vintage firetrucks.
  • Visitors can explore historical firefighting tools such as fire extinguishers, speaking trumpets, and life belts.
  • The museum also houses a collection of firefighters' gear, including helmets, turnout coats, self-contained breathing apparatus, and fire boots.
• Are there guided tours available?
  • Yes, the museum offers self-guided and guided group tours to explore the history of firefighting.
  • Visitors can participate in interactive educational tours featuring immersive activities and displays.

117 Harry Howard Avenue, Hudson, New York, Phone: 518-822-1875

• What is Hudson Cruises Inc?
  • Hudson Cruises Inc offers a variety of public and private cruises on the Hudson River and throughout the beautiful Hudson River Valley.
  • The company features three different vessels, including the 100-foot luxury yacht 'Marika', which is used for special events.
• What types of cruises does Hudson Cruises offer?
  • Hudson Cruises provides a selection of scenic and adventure tours catering to different tastes.
  • Popular options include the Friday evening Murder Mystery Tour and the Weekend Hudson Valley Sightseeing Tour.
  • Tours highlight scenic landmarks such as The Sleeping Giant of the Catskills and the Wall of Manitou in the Hudson River Valley.
• Can tours be customized for special events?
  • Yes, Hudson Cruises offers customized tours for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions.
  • Guests can book private charters to create a personalized and memorable experience.

Water Street, Hudson, New York, Phone: 518-822-1014 or 914-388-2949

Where to Eat

• What is WM Farmer and Sons?
  • WM Farmer and Sons is a charming inn and restaurant located in Hudson, opened in 2015 by married duo Kristan and William Kirby Farmer.
  • The restaurant pays tribute to the Farmer family’s culinary legacy, honoring William's father, who played a significant role in establishing the business.
• What kind of dining experience does WM Farmer and Sons offer?
  • Guests can enjoy seasonal farm-to-table fare at dinner from Tuesdays through Sundays.
  • The menu features high-quality entrées such as jerk North Carolina quail, barbecue king prawns, and black rice bibimbap.
  • A selection of craft cocktails is also available, along with gourmet bar bites and a raw oyster bar.
• What accommodations are available?
  • Guests can stay overnight in the Merchant House or in the inn’s historic 1830s-era Mansard building.
• What other amenities does WM Farmer and Sons provide?
  • Next door, the Mercantile serves espresso-based beverages throughout the day and rum drinks by night.

20 S Front St, Hudson, NY 12534, Phone: 518-828-1635

• What is Swoon Kitchenbar?
  • Swoon Kitchenbar is a popular dining destination known for its contemporary and innovative cuisine.
  • Owned and operated by chefs Jeffrey and Nina Bachinsky-Gimmel, the restaurant offers a fresh and creative menu that changes daily.
• What kind of food does Swoon Kitchenbar serve?
  • The menu features modern American cuisine with a variety of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Popular appetizers include bacon-wrapped dates, smoked salmon mousse, and roast cauliflower salad.
  • Entrées include spice-rubbed skirt steak, grilled swordfish, and pan-roasted bluefish with sides like shoestring fries, creamy mash, and freshly made salads.
• What beverages are available at Swoon Kitchenbar?
  • The bar serves a variety of craft cocktails, including martinis made with boutique vermouth.
  • Guests can also enjoy a selection of fine wines from France and Spain.
• What is the ambiance like at Swoon Kitchenbar?
  • The restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, featuring modern décor and a welcoming ambiance.
  • Guests can enjoy a convivial dining experience with top-notch service.

340 Warren Street, Hudson, New York, Phone: 518-822-8938

• What is Cafe Le Perche?
  • Cafe Le Perche is a Parisian-style bistro located in the heart of Hudson.
  • It is housed in a former bank building on Warren Street and offers an authentic French bakery & bistro experience.
• What is Cafe Le Perche known for?
  • The café is renowned for its freshly baked bread and pastries made using traditional French techniques.
  • Signature items include slender baguettes with crisp crusts, melt-in-your-mouth croissants, and rustic loaves, baked daily in an authentic oven from Percheron, France.
• What can guests expect from the menu?
  • For brunch, guests can enjoy sweet and savory pastries, bread, eggs, and pancakes paired with freshly brewed coffee and squeezed fruit juices.
  • The café serves light meals for lunch and dinner, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and entrées like steak, salmon, and pasta.
• What beverages are available?
  • The café offers a selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and beers to complement the dining experience.

230 Warren Street, Hudson, New York, Phone: 518-822-1850

• What is Red Dot Restaurant?
  • Red Dot Restaurant is the oldest restaurant and bar in Hudson, offering a welcoming and relaxed dining experience.
  • It serves a diverse menu of international and all-American cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
• What kind of food does Red Dot Restaurant serve?
  • The menu features a variety of innovative dishes that take diners on a culinary journey around the world.
  • Appetizers include hummus and baba ganoush, Maine cod cakes, and black bean quesadillas.
  • Entrées feature favorites such as fish and chips, chicken pot pie, sirloin steak, and Thai vegetable curry.
• What desserts are available?
  • Guests can end their meal with classic desserts such as tiramisu, crème brûlée, or cheesecake.
• Does Red Dot Restaurant offer brunch?
  • Yes, guests can enjoy a delightful brunch on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

321 Hudson Street, Hudson, New York, Phone: 518-828-3657

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• What is Hudson Athens Lighthouse?
  • Hudson Athens Lighthouse is a picturesque and historic lighthouse situated at the crossing point between Hudson and Athens in the middle of the Hudson River.
  • Built in 1874, it features a unique Second Empire architectural style and remains one of only two lighthouses still standing in the river.
• Why is Hudson Athens Lighthouse significant?
  • The lighthouse is considered a national treasure and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • It has served as a vital navigational aid for river traffic for nearly 150 years.
• Can visitors explore Hudson Athens Lighthouse?
  • Yes, the lighthouse offers guided tours during the summer that provide insight into its history and significance.
  • Tours include a relaxing cruise along the Hudson River with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hudson, New York 12534, Phone: 518-828-5294