If you’re looking for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway, we’ve got just the place. One of our favorite escapes is Hudson, New York. This vibrant city is filled with so much to see and do. Often referred to as America’s coolest little city, Hudson’s friendly, funky vibe is a welcome retreat.

We love to stroll along Warren Street – the city’s mile-long main drag. This artsy strip is as much known for its mid-century modern antiques as its hip, historic charm. Hudson’s mix of Federal, Victorian and Queen Anne style buildings that once housed banks and factories in days gone by have been renovated into inviting shops, restaurants and bars. You can leisurely spend the day window shopping or gallery hopping. Kick back with a cocktail in a nearby lounge. Grab some outstanding farm-to-table fare. And spend the night in one of the warm, yet sophisticated, hotels and inns.

With so much at your fingertips, it’s no wonder Hudson, NY is a top travel destination. This hot spot for design junkies and foodies is just a short train ride on Amtrak from Manhattan or a picturesque drive from Dutchess, Ulster, Orange, Westchester and Columbia Counties. With its one-of-a-kind finds and fabulous cuisine choices, it’s our go-to place for inspiration and relaxation.

We like to take a “Grand Tour” approach to design that mixes and matches styles – what we like to call Traditional, Modern, Tribal and Fun – and Hudson is a great hunting ground. You can browse incredible galleries and antique shops for the décor that speaks to an international vibe, which integrates new and old items to create a timeless, layered look that tells the client’s story in interesting and inviting ways. There are also choices of fabulous places, from American to European inspired, to enjoy a bite to eat – whether that be a scone and hot tea at a cozy café or a skirt steak and glass of wine at one of our favorite night spots.

Located along the Hudson River, the city was once a vital seaport supporting livelihoods from whalers to merchants, similar to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. As you explore the streets and avenues, you are surrounded by a stunning mix of 18th, 19th, and early 20th century buildings that housed everything from shops and distilleries to banks and warehouses. If you’re a lover of historic architecture, you can easily get lost in all the intricate elements featured on these extraordinary buildings. Throughout the centuries, the city endured economic upturns and downturns, always redefining itself. Its latest transformation into a thriving downtown is the result of those drawn to Hudson’s charm and architecture – artists and entrepreneurs – who lovingly made Hudson into a happening city where you’ll want to spend the day or a weekend.

What isn’t there to love about Hudson?

Top Hudson Favorites

Knowing our principal designer Marina Case’s affinity for Hudson, Michael Bruno, founder of 1stdibs, a marvelous online marketplace for design pieces, asked her to share some of her favorite spots in the city for his newly launched Tastemakers Guide. Below are her picks for the guide, along with some more places on her must-not-miss list.

Le Perche
This bistro and wood-burning bakery, housed in an old bank, evokes Parisian vibes. Their baked goods are particularly outstanding, with the pistachio cream croissant topping the list. The menu includes fresh interpretations of French classics along with seasonal dishes made from locally sourced farm goods.

Wm. Farmer and Sons
The restaurant, bar and guesthouse that make up Wm. Farmer and Sons feel like a 19th century throwback with an edge. The crafted cocktails and gas lantern lights truly set this place apart – and the oysters, wine and locally-sourced food are excellent.

The Maker Lounge
Travel to London without leaving the states. The Maker Lounge’s eclectic design exudes comfortable European ambiance with its candlelit corners, welcoming couches and chairs, hand-carved fireplace, and gorgeous bar. And the cocktails are quite tasty!

Swoon Kitchenbar
The “older” sister restaurant to La Perch, Swoon Kitchenbar is the perfect spot for a romantic night or a fun afternoon with friends. The food, often made from local products, is consistently delicious and beautifully presented. Their skirt steak is one of my favorite dishes.

The Wick
If you’re looking to stay somewhere special, The Wick is the spot. Originally an 1860’s candle factory, the building was transformed into a boutique hotel with an old meets new vibe. Architectural trim, spa-like bathrooms and historic elements seamlessly blend to create a fresh feel with a nod to the past.

Churchtown Dairy
Venture a bit outside of Hudson to one of the most impressive farms in the Northeast. Churchtown Dairy was founded by Abby Rockefeller, whose family has been a long-time champion of sustainable agriculture and unprocessed food. The 250 acres on which the dairy sits, had been purchased by Abby’s mother Peggy, along with other struggling farms to keep them safe from development. After Peggy passed away, Abby requested the Churchtown property to build the dairy. The barn with its vaulted dome is simple, yet a stunning feature against the vast farmland. The biodynamic raw milk dairy, which is focused on regenerating the land and the people working for it, is committed to creating a whole system farm where nothing is wasted. The barn houses 28 cows and their calves, all lovingly cared for, along with a number of pigs. In addition to its biodynamic milk, Churchtown Dairy creates ethically-produced cheeses and grows medicinal plants. The milk and cheeses, along with select cuts of beef and pork, organic herbal teas and elixirs, and a variety of local products are available at its store. Stop by the barn and watch a milking, stroll through the healing gardens and pop into the shop. You can learn more about visiting Churchtown Dairy and its frequent events on their website. The Red Shutters team is honored to be working on the interior design of the farmhouse.