Looking for historic charm, art galleries, and river views? Head to Hudson! Nestled along the east bank of the Hudson River, this upstate New York gem has transformed from a whaling port into a haven for creatives, foodies, and antique lovers. Whether you’re strolling down Warren Street or admiring Catskill Mountain sunsets, Hudson is perfect for a weekend getaway or stylish retreat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hudson is from May through October. Spring and fall bring mild weather, farmers markets, and foliage, while summer is perfect for river walks, festivals, and al fresco dining. Winter offers cozy vibes and holiday shopping without the crowds.
How to Get There
- By Train: Amtrak runs daily service from New York City’s Penn Station to Hudson (about 2 hours), with the station just a short walk from downtown.
- By Car: Hudson is located on Route 9 and easily reached via the Taconic Parkway or NYS Thruway, about 2.5 hours north of NYC.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Albany International Airport (ALB, 1 hour) and Stewart International Airport (SWF, 1.5 hours).
Where to Stay
- The Maker Hotel – Boutique luxury with design-forward rooms, a garden café, and library lounge in the heart of Hudson.
- Rivertown Lodge – Former 1920s movie theater turned into a stylish boutique hotel with Mid-century flair and great dining.
- Wm. Farmer and Sons – Cozy inn and tavern with historic character, gourmet food, and curated suites steps from the waterfront.
Top Attractions
1. Tour Artistic Splendor at the Olana State Historic Site
Rating: ★★★★★
© Courtesy of pbaird - Fotolia.com
-
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
2. Explore Heroic History at the FASNY Museum of Firefighting
© Courtesy of Ancher - Fotolia.com
-
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
3. Set Sail on the Hudson with Hudson Cruises
© Hudson Cruises Inc
-
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
4. Dine and Stay in Style at WM Farmer and Sons
© WM Farmer and Sons
-
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
5. Savor Inventive Dishes at Swoon Kitchenbar
© Swoon Kitchenbar
-
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
6. Enjoy French-Inspired Bites at Cafe Le Perche
© Courtesy of thodonal - Fotolia.com
-
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
7. Grab a Cocktail or Comfort Fare at Red Dot Restaurant
© Red Dot Restaurant
-
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
If you are a photographer:
8. Admire River Views from the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse
© demerzel21/stock.adobe.com
-
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
Plan Your Trip