A breeze from the river passes through the walkways of the downtown area, while book stores, coffee shops, and boutiques buzz with locals and visitors alike. Live music flows through the streets, with local musicians booking gigs at restaurants and outdoor venues. As the evening sets in, couples clink wine glasses and light from the local restaurants flood the streets to create an ambient atmosphere. This is Downtown Historic Hudson, otherwise referred to as ‘the Brooklyn of Upstate New York’.
While the Hudson River has always been source of vitality to the towns success, the trades it’s been known for have varied. In the 18th century, Hudson was known as a whaling town and trade port city. The thriving industry of the 19th century was brick firing, eventually transitioning to a home for industrial plants in the 20th century. Today Hudson stands as a popular upstate getaway destination, and saw a surge of popularity in the pandemic of 2020. Artistic transplants moved to the area, continuing to build the creative foundation & art scene this area fosters so well. Explore the nationally acclaimed restaurants, incredible hiking trails, local boutiques, eclectic coffee and tea shops, and lots of entertainment venues within a short drive. We’ve curated this list of things to do within a day trip next time you stay with us.
In The Morning:
Start your day with a little dose of magic … we mean, coffee. Supernatural Coffee is a local hotspot for mystic lovers and coffee fanatics alike. Enjoy well crafted coffee drinks, freshly baked goods, and a little mysticism. Here you can take a home a crystal or a bag of roasted coffee beans from one convenient location. If the supernatural is not your vibe, the REV Coffee is the place for you. Relax on one of their vintage couches and enjoy the local art on the walls while sipping on a brew from their ethically sourced coffee beans. With such a uniquely cozy atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home to stay a while. Verdigris Tea & Chocolate is the bucket list trip item for the tea lover with a sweet tooth.
After you’ve been properly caffeinated, spend some time walking the nature trails at the Greenport Conservation Area. Origins of the site are accredited to members of the Mohican Tribe, who founded and preserved the land in the 17th century. Today, this 736-acre nature preserve is only short drive from the downtown area, containing seven miles of hiking trails to be explored. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the vast preserved nature, surrounded by the Catskill Mountains and incredible views of the Hudson River. If it’s the wintertime, no problem! This conservation area is idyllic for cross country skiing & snowshoeing.
Stroll down to Henry Hudson Riverfront Park and look out for the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, a historic landmark built in 1846, that is operational to this day. If weather permits, book a tour to the lighthouse with Hudson Cruises. These tours usually run from July through October, and offer a variety of experiences like traditional site seeing cruises, luxury dinner cruises, and even an interactive “whodunnit” style Murder Mystery cruise.
In The Afternoon:
In the earlier afternoon, you may be able to catch the Hudson Farmers Market. With two locations (one downtown, one a short drive away), you’ll have a good chance of being able to check out the local vendors. As Columbia County’s largest farmers market, you’ll have your choice of organic produce, herbs, eggs, meats, baked goods and breads, and more! Buy a few things and pack a nice picnic for yourself. Alternatively when planning lunch spots, there are so many good restaurants to choose from, most within walking distance of downtown public parking. Grab a wood fired sourdough pizza from Baba Louie’s Pizzaria for a hearty bite to eat. If you’re in the mood for some tapas and well made brews, The Spotty Dog is a bookshop/brewery where you can have a pint while reading your favorite new book.
Once your cravings have subsided, peruse the historic streets of downtown. Pop in and out of the local brick and mortar boutiques, supporting the small businesses. Flowerkraut is the perfect place for those with a green thumb and an eye for design. Fig & Bella is a textiles and home boutique, with a fabulously curated collection of artisan goods. Those in search of whimsical vintage and handmade accessories will love Proprietors, located on Warren Street. Music lovers will need to check out John Doe Books & Records, the best place to snag a deal on records, books, and other eclectic goods.
While you’re on Warren Street, you’ll have to include some antiquing! There are roughy 60 antique stores all within the area, with Warren Street being the most popular destination to shop about. One of the most popular stops you’ll make is at The Antique Warehouse, a warehouse with a highly collectable curation of antique furniture and decor. Treasure hunt at Antigo, a warehouse filled with vintage and antique vendors, selling everything from fashion, furniture, home decor, and more.
For those who would rather spend some time with the historical side of Hudson, your afternoon can be spent at one of the historical sites or museums in the area. The Fasny Museum of Firefighting was established in 1925 and has amassed an impressive collection of firefighting artifacts that are on display, including vintage rescue vehicles, gear, equipment, photos, articles, and other paraphernalia. Before leaving, families can say hello to Molly the Dalmatian, the resident mascot of the FASNY Museum. Plan a visit to the Olana Estate, Frederick Church’s Hudson Property. Book a guided tour of the property to see the magnificent views of the skyline, or walk through The Artist’s House, getting a personal view of the impressive collections of furniture, art, and textiles once belonging to the Church family.
In the Evening
Dine at one of Hudson’s finest restaurants. The nationally recognized Helsinki Hudson doubles as a restaurant & music venue, where you can enjoy southern inspire cuisine while live music plays. Sip on craft cocktails at WF&S, a barroom & restaurant that offers seasonally inspired cuisine.
After dinner, attend a performance! The Basilica Hudson is a reformed 1880s industrial factory turned multidisciplinary arts center. Events can range from musical performances to markets, talks, and film screenings. Dance the night away at Avalon Lounge, a live music venue/dance club with Korean influenced menu. In the space there is a bar room, an upstairs lounge & pool table, and a performance room/dance floor.
After touring the town of Hudson, stay at one of our three local Hudson Valley properties in Woodstock, Tannersville, or East Chatham!
We hope this list inspired your next day trip to Hudson, New York. Thanks for reading.
The team at {verdigreen} hotels