24 Hours in Hudson: How to Spend a Day Trip in Columbia County

The dreamy upstate city boasts award-winning restaurants, unique storefronts, and the freshest New York air around.

Wikimedia Commons | Photo by Acroterion

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.

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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

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  

 

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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

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.

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327 Warren St, Hudson
518.822.1438

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.

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

 

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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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