Whether it’s the purple hues of the Catskill Mountains under a grand sunset, or an architectural detail that grabbed your attention while walking the streets of Hudson — here’s our go-to list of picturesque places where you can shoot a selfie to rock your Instagram account. Click, post and share your best shots while visiting Upstate’s Downtown, Hudson, NY. (And don’t forget to hashtag #HudsonNY <3! )
1. Olana NY State Historic Site
Olana State Historic Site was the Persian-Victorian home and studio of renowned Hudson River School painter Frederic Edwin Church, who believed curating a magnificent vew of the landscape was an important part of architectural design. Finished in 1872, the villa at Olana is a unique mix of Victorian architectural elements and Middle Eastern decorative motifs. Book a tour of the house and grounds, or find your own way around. Suggested Shot: Crown Hill on Olana’s southwest edge, where trees were cleared to restore the Church-designed panoramic views of the home and its 250 wooded acres.
2. Promenade Hill
Situated overlooking the Hudson river, at the foot of Warren Street on the west side of Front Street, is Promenade Hill. Designed in 1785 as a public park, it provides access to scenic vistas of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains. Suggested Shot: at sunset with the river and mountains behind you.
3. The Hudson Athens Lighthouse
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Sitting in the Hudson River between Hudson and Athens, the lighthouse began operation in 1874, and served as a manned lighthouse until 1950. Now automated, it still guides ships passing on the Hudson River between Hudson and Athens. Suggested Shot – from Henry Hudson Waterfront Park off of Front Street.
4. Greenport Conservation Area
This 625-acre site includes 5 miles of trails, with wonderful views and a variety of terrain including meadows, forests and streams. Pack a picnic – great spots abound for a snack and a selfie, especially the many scenic overlooks with stunning views of the Hudson River and its North Bay. Also make a point to visit the Harrier Hill Gazebo for more breathtaking vistas.
5. Sitting On or Surrounded by Your Favorite Antiques or Design Wares
With over 60 antique shops along Front Street and Warren Street, you can meander the city taking in the beauty of historic furniture and collectible home décor. Now with the opening of Antique Warehouse, close to the waterfront, there are even more collectibles to see. Nothing beats the sense of discovery that comes from making a great find while searching a brick-and-mortar antique shop. Whether you’re a homeowner or interior designer looking for that whimsical or perfect piece, Hudson is an inspiring destination for your furniture and décor hunt.
6. Hudson’s Historic Train Station
The New York Central Railroad originally built Hudson’s train station in 1874. It is the gateway to Hudson, NY, from New York City and Canada, and is Amtrak’s third busiest destination in the entire state of New York! Within walking distance of the vibrant downtown, it is the oldest continuously operated station in the state.
7. Admiring a Hip Indie Retail Storefront Window Display or with Your Favorite Find
Discover Hudson’s retail therapy, situated in one of the many lovingly resurrected historic buildings on Warren Street and the surrounding area. The mile-long, prime shopping district hums with visitors exploring small, proprietor-curated boutiques. These independent shops exude innovation and entrepreneurship. Hudson is known for design-oriented shops including home, fashion, accessories, housewares, art and books. (Hint: Find your favorite window display or cherished buy and snap away.)
8. At Your Favorite Bar, Pub or Restaurant or Food Truck with a Drink in Hand
Whether it’s lavender lemonade, thick dark hot chocolate or the latest cocktail made with local liquors and bitters from one of Hudson’s mixologists, there’s always a perfect drink to have in hand for a selfie. The assortment of buzzing bars and atmospheric farm-to-table restaurants focusing on regional and seasonal fare captures foodies’ attention from near and far.
9. Admiring Hudson’s Rich Architectural Treasures
Walking through Hudson one can’t help but notice the variety of architectural details that have been painstakingly and elegantly restored. From the influence of the original Dutch settlers, to grand Queen Anne mansions and detailed Victorian manors, to charming homes with mansard roofs and overhanging eaves, the diverse architecture offers a visually rich history that makes this city uniquely picturesque. (Suggestion: Become part of Hudson’s history on Instagram by taking a photo with your favorite architectural element)
Laura Powers is a native Manhattanite growing roots in Hudson, New York. She is a photographer , as well as Founder and Communications Consultant at Powers Media Inc., which specializes in publicity strategies, social storytelling and creative content.
