Yes, Hudson in the fall is an obvious pick. But hear us out, because the once-sleepy New York town has transformed dramatically in recent years — and autumn is when it truly shines. Sure, there are enough leaf-peeping opportunities and local farms to satisfy even the most passionate Fall Person™.
But you could also spend an entire weekend exploring the buzzy restaurants, fantastic bakeries, eclectic shops, and stylish accommodations (stay at The Maker, which feels like the world’s chicest library) that now fill downtown. Plus, at just over two hours from NYC by car or train, it’s a weekend escape that’s doable on a whim — or before the holiday madness sets in.
👟 Hudson earns its nickname as “upstate’s downtown,” largely thanks to Warren Street — a lively main drag lined with boutiques and cafes that feel more Williamsburg than small-town New York. First, fuel up with a buttery croissant from Mel the Bakery. Then browse quirky greeting cards at The Social Type, pick up a dried floral bouquet at The Quiet Botanist, buy country-chic clothes at Jamestown, and flip through new releases at The Spotty Dog Books & Ale.
You can also live out your Architectural Digest dreams at Hudson’s many home-design and antique furniture stores: midcentury fans should check out Neven & Neven Moderne to admire its collection of chairs; Ina Garten acolytes will love shopping for French glassware at Red Chair on Warren; and those with endless patience will find treasures at the 40,000-square-foot Antique Warehouse, just a short walk away.
🍂 Part of the beauty of a trip to Hudson is that it’s surrounded by many equally charming towns, all within driving distance. Art buffs should head to Beacon, home to superb galleries like BAU and Dia Beacon, a massive contemporary art museum that’s worth the trip alone.
Outdoorsy types should trek to the area around High Falls, where you’ll find — you guessed it — an impressively tall waterfall, Minnewaska State Park Preserve (Severance fans might recognize Awosting Falls), and maybe Mandy Patinkin. Finally, for a little bit of everything, visit Kingston, another Brooklyn-like town with top-notch restaurants, excellent shopping (don’t miss Clove & Creek), colorful art studios, expansive green space, and rich history as New York’s first capital.
🍴 Let’s be real: Hudson’s food and drink scene is half the reason to visit. For New York’s best bagel (don’t come for us), go to Circles and order an everything bagel, topped with cream cheese, shiso, cucumbers, red onion, and chili crisp. Want to eat Bolognese surrounded by stunning floral arrangements and a cozy fireplace? Of course you do, so make a dinner reservation at Feast & Floret.
Or, for something more casual, swing by Mr. Cat Brasserie, a hotspot with French bistro vibes and a farm-fresh menu that includes crispy fries, baked Parisian-style gnocchi, and moules-frites. Wherever you eat, end the evening with one of The Hereafter’s inventive cocktails (we’re partial to The House Dirty martini).