Photos courtesy of The Hudson Whaler Hotel
The Warren Street hotel celebrates the Columbia County city’s rich history as a whaling port in the Hudson Valley.
Ahoy, visitors to Hudson!
Embark on a nautical-themed getaway to Columbia County’s latest boutique hotel, The Hudson Whaler. This homage to Hudson’s storied whaling history and importance as a port along the river debuted in late June 2021. Contemporary design and modern amenities blend with vintage elements and an unmatched attention to detail.
“We found that most visitors to Hudson knew little about the town’s rich whaling history. In the early/mid-1800s Hudson was one of the most important whaling ports in the country. Our name is a celebration of that piece of history,” Michael Glickman, partner of The Hudson Whaler Hotel, says. “Once inside the hotel, you will find a light nautical theme accentuated by four walls of the lobby’s map installation of the Hudson River from Manhattan to Hudson.”
Glickman and his partner Benjamin Rinzler restored the Warren Street structure early in 2021. The building, originally constructed in 1906, housed accounting, banking, and law firms, a dentist’s office, and a barber shop after its expansion in 1927. A fire ravaged the first iteration of the building, requiring a rebuild that created more space.
Its prime location places guests right in the heart of the city. During a stay at The Hudson Whaler, guests can explore the downtown on foot, sip wines at Sonder or Poured Candle Bar, grab a bite at the newly opened Feast and Floret or The Maker Hotel Restaurant, or tour the stately Hudson Hall. They can also take a short drive to incredible Hudson Valley destinations like Olana Historic Site nearby. However, one of the most unique experiences the town has to offer is back at the room.
The Hudson Whaler Hotel creates an incredible level of immersion. Guests enter an upscale lobby designed like the living room of a pampered ship captain. Vintage maps, wooden décor, and many original details instantly charm first-time visitors. A total of 16 suites across three floors welcome visitors into relaxing stays. The Hudson Whaler’s team meticulously curated its theming, and New York-based designer Harry Heissman expertly incorporated details of the port’s history.
“We were introduced to Harry through a nearby fabric mill that we contracted to produce the custom fabrics found throughout the hotel. Harry has such a wonderful eye for design and, upon our first meeting, he understood our vision right away,” Glickman says. His design captures the nuances of Hudson’s history along with its resurging identity as an artistic haven. Be on the lookout for all kinds of “Easter eggs” and nods to the region’s pelagic past.
The team restored the original handcrafted staircase that greets visitors in the lobby. They also filled the space with period-specific paneling, flooring, and other flourishes. Custom fireplaces and other labors of love demonstrate the talent of a master carpenter. Above, the team placed an Italian chandelier purchased right at Ida’s Eyes down the street. Deep, rich shades of brown contribute to the antique look. Conversely, the rooms bathe guests in soothing blue hues and white tones. Hallways display a jewel box design, mimicking the view sailors have as they make their way through the interior of a ship.
Plus, pieces from local artists and creatives also adorn the walls of many Hudson Whaler areas.
Up on the wall, local history nerds will notice a mural detailing the route of the Hudson River, from Manhattan to Hudson. Whaling ships and other subtle nods appear on the custom wallpaper in each of the lobby powder rooms. For an additional touch, guests of The Hudson Whaler snack on handmade chocolate whales crafted lovingly by Vasilow’s Confectionery in town.
“We knew that chocolate whales would be an ideal sweet to give to our guests. And, when it came to whom we should collaborate with, it was a no brainer,” Glickman says. “Vasilow’s has been around nearly 100 years.”
These delightful aquatic treats sit in each room’s refrigerator, complimentary with every stay. Beside them, thoughtfully selected and locally produced beverages and snacks are available for purchase. Recycled paper pulp insulation sound-proofs the old rooms, keeping staycations peaceful and quiet. Expansive windows allow natural light to pour into the suites. In the winter months, guests can cozy up by a personal fireplace—also decorated with whaling-themed wallpaper. King beds and deep soaking tubs lead to top-rate R&R.
Outside of the rooms, visitors can escape to private nooks and secluded spaces throughout The Hudson Whaler Hotel, including a tranquil courtyard just outside. Overnighters are welcome to settle in with a good book in the courtyard alone or enjoy a cold cocktail or glass of champagne with friends. Star-crossed lovers can even book a small-scale romantic wedding reception out here. Glickman and Rinzler’s other seafaring sites, The Nest, The Nautical Nest, and The Hudson Mariner—formerly a captain’s home in the 1800s— all serve as cute boutique wedding venues.
Sometimes the best ways to discover the rich history of the Hudson Valley is to experience it. On a weekend trip to go apple picking, skiing, hiking, or shopping through Columbia County, take refuge at The Hudson Whaler Hotel.
The Hudson Whaler Hotel
542 Warren St, Hudson
