Hudson

Hudson was the first chartered city in the United States. It was first settled by the Dutch in the mid-17th century and called Claverack Landing. In 1783, the Proprietors, a group of predominantly Quaker whalers and merchants came, seeking refuge from the Revolutionary War-torn east coast and purchased the land from the Dutch. The Proprietors created a city plan consisting of a large grid, with the main street running west to east and lots measuring 50 by 120 feet, with 20-foot lanes behind. That grid largely exists to this day, with Warren Street at its center.

Early Hudson flourished early on thanks to the whaling, sealing, fishing, and shipbuilding industries. While it was never a premier whaling locale, Hudson’s early prosperity was a direct result of an industry with its origins in and around its deepwater port, and it remained a shipping and manufacturing center well into the 20th century. Although the city declined during the 1960s and 1970s, many of its abandoned and derelict buildings were reclaimed in the 1980s, and its former glory slowly began to re-emerge. Today, Hudson has transformed itself into vital art and antique center.

The mile-long business district – centered on Warren Street – boasts dozens of the first-tier antique and home furnishing shops, along with an eclectic mix of art galleries, restaurants, and performance spaces, housed in buildings that constitute “one of the richest dictionaries of architectural history in New York state.” Hudson’s vibrant culture and history are echoed throughout the region, making it a great starting point for exploring the communities of the Hudson Valley.

Every fall, ArtsWalk celebrates the best artists the city and region have to offer. On the first Saturday of December, Warren Street is transformed into a winter playground with jugglers, dancers, and horse-drawn carriages to mark the start of the holiday season.

Around Hudson, NY

There's plenty to do around Hudson, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp. For those looking to explore further, nearby towns like Catskill, Kinderhook, and Chatham offer their own unique attractions and charm. If you're interested in the lifestyle and amenities of the region, check out this guide to living in the Hudson Valley.

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Restaurant Manor Rock, Hudson Polish Delicatessen, and Hemlock Cocktail Bar. If you’re a foodie, you’ll also want to check out the best restaurants in the Hudson Valley for more culinary inspiration.

• Restaurant Manor Rock (Dining, 0.41 miles, 5 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• Hudson Polish Delicatessen (Dining, 1.53 miles, 6 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• Hemlock Cocktail Bar (Dining, 4.63 miles, 5 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• Cooper's Daughter Spirits (Dining · $$, 4.34 miles, 38 reviews, 4.9/5 stars)

• Via Cassia (Dining, 0.4 miles, 24 reviews, 4.9/5 stars)

• Meisner’s Heritage Farm (Dining, 3.74 miles, 6 reviews, 4.8/5 stars)

• Hudson Paddles (Active, 0.7 miles, 10 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• KS Fitness and Training (Active, 1.55 miles, 6 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• Captain Kidds Inn (Nightlife, 4.87 miles, 10 reviews, 4.9/5 stars)

• Bar Bene (Nightlife, 0.19 miles, 9 reviews, 4.9/5 stars)

• Catskill Cryo (Beauty, 4.61 miles, 5 reviews, 5/5 stars)

• Spa Sundara (Beauty, 0.53 miles, 5 reviews, 5/5 stars)

For more ideas on what to see and do, discover the top attractions in the Hudson Valley or browse top outdoor activities in the Hudson Valley for adventure seekers.

Schools in Hudson, NY

The following schools are within or nearby Hudson. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. If you’re considering other communities for education or lifestyle, you might also want to explore Rhinebeck, Kingston, Saugerties, or Woodstock for more options in the Hudson Valley.