For those looking to kick around in the immediate area, here are some things to explore.
These are all hyper-local -- great options for a short excursion, even if you're only staying the weekend!
Not only a place to stay, this place has a restaurant with an excellent reputation in the area.
While it runs the gamut from king trumpet mushrooms to steak tartare, I've heard the most rave reviews for its burgers.
It also, allegedly, has dollar oysters for happy hour on Mondays and Tuesdays.
(*perhaps not the best option for the vegetarians amongst us.)
The Maker was founded by a couple from Ukraine and Russa several years ago. They found the old building, fell in love with the space, and wanted to make something of it, thus renovations began. Today, it is one of the snazziest hotels, bars and restaurants in Hudson. Each bedroom is named for a Maker - an artist, if you will. The Architect, The Writer, etc.
The cocktails are fantastic, we only had some appetizers but can confirm it's worth trying if you're looking to get dressed up and have a night out. Reservations are required in advance.
For those who think summer is best served with a pilsner, lager, or kolsch, this brewery has built a reputation for interesting takes on those crisp classics.
Right in Hudson.
A perfect pairing of books and beer. We haven't yet explored this one, but if Josh has his way, you might find us there in the days before or after the wedding!
See the award-winning cheesemakers in action (and possibly their cows!).
15 minutes from Hudson or Philmont.
For those looking for a bit more diversity in their drink, head to Cooper's Daughter Spirits to try Black Walnut Bourbon, Mulled Peach Whiskey, Rhubarb & Honey Vodka, Cacao Maple Vodka, Thai Basil Liqueur, Raspberry & Black Pepper Liqueur, and many other unique offerings.
This is just 10 minutes from downtown Hudson, and only 7 minutes from Philmont.
Although we're getting married in the upper Hudson Valley, it was the Catskill region (on the other side of the Hudson River) and escape to the outdoors that first drew us to the area.
So for those of you as inclined to outdoor adventures as we are, here are some of our top picks.
A short, easy hike you can knock out in <40 minutes, this is a picturesque trek out & back with several waterfalls on route.
It's just minutes from our venue!
This trail starts in NY state and brings you to the highest, largest waterfall in the state of Massachusetts.
That said, the most popular trail here is very accessible. It's a 534 ft elevation gain over 2.1 miles, out and back, traversable in under 2 hours.
It's about 25 minutes from Philmont, 35 from Hudson.
From the Elka Park address above, you'll find the trailheads to several challenging hikes up Indian Head Mountain or Kaaterskill High Peak.
This is prime Catskills territory, so be prepared for steep climbs and, importantly, no cell service.
That said, it'll also put you in the heart of our favorite area!
Hands down some of the best chocolate croissants, bread, muffins and baked goodies in the area. They also have sandwiches, varying drinks, cheese, and other products from Europe.
This is one of our favorite bars. We actually considered it for our wedding because it feels like us. It's an incredible spot in the summers, and the building was originally a bank. An artist and his family bought it, gutted it, and designed Early Terrible as it currently stands. They have food and cocktails inspired by their roots, as well as quirky decor.
A great place for pastries, coffee, a beer, or books! When we first visited Kingston - about 50 minutes from our venue - it was recommended we check out this place.
Kingston is adorable, with a ton of stores, restaurants, cafes, and old stone homes.
Yet another way to keep yourself sipping on a broad selection of flavors on our wedding weekend, this cidery has a great reputation for a variety of top-notch ciders.
And yes, there is food, served by YummyKitchen.
A little whiskey distillery in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Open for tours, with a tasting and (optionally) light charcuterie included.
A great option for children! Gardens, crafts and animals!
Perfect for kids (or like the bride, kids at heart who are obsessed with creatures) - https://hhnaturecenter.org/
They have a few different locations depending on what you're interested in, with everything from maple tours to animals to star gazing.
Note that it's about 1.5 hours south of Hudson.
Just over 30 minutes south of Hudson, this aerodrome hosts old aircrafts from the late 1800s through the end of WWII, and if you catch them at the right time you can see live airshows or take a ride in a 1929 biplane.
A great area for hiking or going on a nice walk! It's about 90 minutes south of Hudson.