Hip Hudson has emerged as one of upstate New York’s coolest destinations in recent years, brimming with trendy cafés and eateries, antique shops and innovative galleries. A magnet for New Yorkers looking to escape the city for the weekend, Hudson offers a broad range of accommodation options — from simple self-catering apartments to characterful luxury hotels. Our pick of the best places to stay in Hudson includes a restored heritage property with a funky retro vibe and a buzzing restaurant specialising in laid-back brunches.

Since its recent revival (catalysed by LGBT New Yorkers making the most of the area’s affordable house prices), Hudson is booming as a hub of creativity, home to a well-heeled artistic crowd. Whilst gentrification has updated much of the city centre, a stroll through the outskirts of town is a reminder of Hudson’s industrial origins as a thriving port for whalers and merchants. A trip to the carefully preserved Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, out on the Hudson River, is a brilliant way to reconnect with the city’s trading past. Other sites of interest include the FASNY Museum of Firefighting and the imposing Olana Mansion, a Hudson Valley gem designed by landscape painter Frederic Edwin Church.

Back in the heart of Hudson, Warren street is lined with quirky vintage shops, swish galleries and top-notch restaurants. There’s great local produce at the Saturday farmers’ market, ample opportunities to marvel at artwork and interior design, as well as a lively programme of annual events at Hudson Hall, a heritage arts venue. Don’t miss the Hudson Music Festival, an intimate musical extravaganza which takes place every September, or the array of fabulous foodie festivals happening throughout the year.

Whether you’re eager to admire artwork, catch some live music, cycle around the city, or eat and drink to your heart’s content, Hudson is all geared up to delight. Lovely during the long summers, but wonderfully cosy in the picturesque autumn and winter months, the best places to stay in Hudson promise an enticing fusion of the city’s industrial origions and its creative twenty-first-century community.

The Best Places to Stay in Hudson

For Boutique Chic

• Rivertown Lodge is a seriously cool 27-room cinema-turned-hotel. Lovingly restored by owners Kim & Ray, the Art Deco property showcases traditional crafts and local artwork in chic communal spaces and beautifully decorated bedrooms. Pick this place for heaps of vintage character, free bikes-for-borrow, and delectable brunches at the Tavern, the onsite eatery. A hip Hudson retreat, ideal for cosy upstate exploring.
• The Maker is an opulent, romantic hideaway with just 11 marvellous guestrooms set across three townhouses. Lavish rooms feature lots of dark wood and warm red tones, which are reflected in the library, bar and restaurant. Kick back by the pool after a big day out! An indulgent couples' haven.
• The Wick promises 55 swish, slick rooms and suites in a converted riverside candle factory. Think contermporary style and high-end in-room amenities, as well as a sleek gym, restaurant and bar. A chic boutique option for families (who can book a two-room suite), couples or business travellers.

For an Intimate B&B

• The Inn at 34 promises an appealingly laid-back vibe in an elegant nineteenth-century property. The four rooms feature vintage Gothic beds, Jacobean chests and unique artwork, whilst home-cooked breakfasts are a highlight. Tranquil and well-placed for visiting Hudson's historic district.
• Hudson B&B is an eighteenth-century Federal property with three classic, cosy rooms decorated by the interior designer owner. Elegant design meets striking period architecture to create an appealing haven for well-heeled travellers. Very romantic.
• Batterby House offers five retro rooms with luxe linens and funky vintage touches in a renovated rectory. Expect friendly owner-managers and all the mod-cons, as well as record players, a vinyl collection and a games room. Book the whole B&B for a big trip with friends or a family holiday with teenagers.

For Foodies

• Wm. Farmer and Sons is a foodie favourite, with 15 cool, understated rooms set above a trendy, industrial style-inspired restaurant and bar. Menus change weekly, but you can expect delights like locally-sourced Hudson Valley duck & beans, Island Creek oysters or smoked pork belly accompanied by quirky craft cocktails. A gourmet treat.

For Great Value

• The Nest features five fresh, contemporary suites just minutes from downtown Hudson. Stay here for the stylish interiors, great value and the appealing independence offered by the kitchenettes, snack bar and pretty shared terrace. Very well-priced.

For an apartment or holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to New York's JFK Airport, and continue your journey to Hudson by taxi or train. The trip should take around two hours by road or rail from New York City. Alternatively, you can catch a flight to Newark or Albany and travel to Hudson from there.
• Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for the warmest weather. The winters are freezing but very cosy, and autumn is beautiful.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Albany.
• Check out all our Hudson Valley recommendations.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in New York State.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hudson