It’s easy to let the weeks leading up to the largest gift-giving holidays of the year slide past until your low-grade anxiety about what to get your partner turns into a full-on panic attack as you frantically browse Amazon on December 21. But this holiday season, why not go easy on yourself and pair your hunt for the perfect gift with a little Hudson Valley R&R?
With its gloriously convenient Amtrak station and easy driving distance from most of the Mid-Hudson Valley, Hudson is an easy choice for a quick day trip or a leisurely weekend jaunt. Its bustling blocks of vintage and antique shops, refined home furnishing stores, art galleries, men's and women's jewelry and fashions, and local terroir-driven restaurants mean that you’re bound to find something for everyone on your list (plus some much needed me time, too).
Hudson's compact downtown boasts over 200 one-of-a-kind, proprietor-owned shops and restaurants. So to help whet your appetite, we’ve set you up with a perfect place to start—a sampling of the new places popping up on Warren Street, plus a few festive events to check out while you're there.
1. Gestalt New York
Start your day at this curated design showroom, which boasts an array of contemporary furniture, lighting, and home accessories from international makers. The pieces’ striking lines and clean forms speak a language all their own.
2. Faire Hudson
Next, stop by Faire, where you’ll find handcrafted statement jewelry in sophisticated, hazy jewel tones alongside a selection of fair trade clothing and gifts. Their jewelry line, Faire Collection, was founded in 2008 by Hudson native Amanda Judge with an eye towards bettering labor practices in the jewelry industry.
3. Willa's Bakery Cafe
When you’re ready for your midmorning caffeine re-up, pop into Willa’s Bakery Cafe. Named for the owners' adorable pup, they offer a daily selection of pastries and breads baked in-house, as well as heartier options for breakfast and lunch. Be sure to grab a morning bun for the road—because a back-pocket pastry never hurt anyone wearing an oversized
alpaca sweater.
Hudson is also rolling out the festive red carpet for three weekends after Thanksgiving, which means you’ll have an array of holiday happenings to organize your day of shopping around.
Friday, November 29-Sunday, December 1 will play host to the 23rd annual Basilica Farm & Flea Holiday Market. The evening of Saturday, December 7 will see the return of Winter Walk, a Hudson holiday tradition that boasts carolers, sparkling storefront displays, and fireworks on the Hudson River. And Sunday, December 15, the Hudson Business Coalition and Hudson Festival Orchestra are co-hosting the Community Holiday Sing, a sing-a-long of classic carols accompanied by a brass quartet.
5. Lawrence Park
After you’ve found the perfect gift for everyone on your list and you’re feeling all smug, pop into Lawrence Park for a self-congratulatory holiday tipple. If you’re into a glass of something natural (and really, who isn’t these days?), this wine and cocktail bar will surely have something cheery and bright to reward the end of your gifting expedition—and add a little warmth back into your cold-flushed cheeks.
