One of my best friends from college got married in Hudson, New York this summer (about 2 hours north of NYC), and the wedding was the perfect opportunity to explore a new part of the country we’d never been to before.

We arrived to Hudson in the middle of a heatwave, but it was still magical. The photo above is from my girlfriend’s reception at the Basilica Hudson. See? Magic.

Rehearsal dinner #OOTD. Dress: Zara, headband: Little Poppy Co.

Hudson is about two hours north of New York City either by train or car.

The drive is beautiful and scenic — and from what I’ve heard the train ride is just as lovely. If you rent a car, you’ll pass by Woodbury Commons, an outdoor outlet mall known for their luxury stores (think: Prada, YSL, and Gucci standalone outlets, complete with security guards and lines out the door).

We stopped by the outlet mall on the way back from the wedding on the Fourth of July, and although I didn’t buy any luxury goods (I go to France for those!), I did spy a blue python Trio at Celine that was drool-worthy and found some good stuff at James Perse and Lululemon.

Eating and Shopping in Hudson.

Nearly everything is on Warren Street, which runs from the U.S. 9 to Front Street, (whcih “fronts” the Hudson River).

If we lived closer (i.e., not in Hawaii!), I would have definitely spent more time in the furniture stores — Hudson has earned a reputation for its art galleries and antiques stores.

Pick up cheese, crackers, and charcuterie at Olde Hudson, a little market with all the essentials in the middle of Warren Street. 449 Warren Street. We also bought whole milk (in a bottle, so quaint!) for our daughter.

Drop into at Le Perche Bakery and Bar for a cup of joe ($3) and delicious flaky pain-au-chocolat ($4.25) in the morning. They also serve lunch and dinner. Le Perche Bakery and Bar, 230 Warren Street.

For a delicious sandwich, try The Cascades at 407 Warren Street. Soft, fresh bread, salty meats, mmm. Try the Mount Denali for a delicious turkey/bacon sandwich or the Mount Rainier if you're in the mood for corned beef and pastrami. Yummmm...

Nearer toward the center of town (and across ) is Nolita's Bakery and Cafe -- an unassuming breakfast joint serving hot coffee and really good bagel sandwiches ($4.25 each). Service was a little slow, but the food was yummy and super cheap. They also serve paninis in the afternoon. 454 Warren Street.

For fusion Asian and mesquite-smoked tequila, head for BackBar, an eclectic hangout with a cute courtyard. (It was 1000000 degrees out so we ate inside). The sesame noodles were especially yummy, and the papaya salad was refreshing. 347 Warren Street.

Where to Stay

We stayed at Wm. Farmer and Sons, a cute property with a contemporary b&b vibe (but without the second “b”) on Front Street.

If you appreciate a great B&B, check out 26 Warren. Most of the action in Hudson is on Warren Street, and it makes for a lovely walk. 26 Warren is run by David Brown (my friend’s dad!), who promises a delicious 3-course vegetarian breakfast to guests.

Long Weekend in Hudson, New York

Hudson is about two hours north of New York City either by train or car.

Eating and Shopping in Hudson.

Where to Stay

Read More About Visiting Hudson