Written by Hudsonia
Hudson is Family Friendly. Who Knew?
Never mind its reputation as a Millennial Mecca. From the antsy five-year-old to the too-cool-for-school young teen (and their long-suffering parents), Hudson offers a scaled version of interesting, fun activities for everyone.
What to do?
Well, Trixie, of course, has a list.
Kayaking /Canoeing
Hudson Paddles – Explore the Hudson River by kayak or canoe, even paddleboard for the fit and adventurous!
Hudson Paddles
Launch from solid footing at Hudson’s Waterfront Park (108 Water Street) to circumnavigate Middle Island. See bald eagles soaring above, blue herons flushed from the marsh, fish jumping mid-river. Single/tandem kayaks, life jackets, child-size paddles provided; tours can be arranged.
Text/call 518.992.5787 for more information or email hudsonpaddles@gmail.com
Swimming
No, Hudson doesn’t have a community pool, we have a lake! Oakdale Beach, right in town (N. 6th Street) walking distance from Warren Street. Lifeguards on duty. Bring your own drinks/lunch/snacks. Best of all: It’s FREE.
Family shopping
Why should Hudson’s shopping fun be limited to grown-ups? In a town that values small, local shops, there are some gems for kids. Of course, your children are respectful and understand the meaning of “look, don’t touch,” right?
White Whale 410 Warren St.
Stop in for the unusual bibelot, sculpture/art, antiques, silver pieces, occasional taxidermy and animal artifacts. It’s like going to your favorite aunt’s – the one who traveled the globe and brought it all home.
Actual hours can vary, but posted as Monday-Sunday, 11-5. 518.755.6441
Tradewinds 409 Warren St.
This is a must. A socially conscious non-profit gift shop run by Columbia County’s COARC. The shop specializes in high quality local/distant hand-made goods that bring a smile in their whimsy, and a fuller heart with the knowledge that purchases support a vision beyond commerce.
Hours: Mon/Tues 10-2; Wed-Sat 10-5; Sun 12-4 518.697.5100
The Spotty Dog 440 Warren St.
Spotty’s is a Hudson institution. Currently not open for browsing but the incredible staff will translate your literary interest into the perfect read. Like Harry Potter? They’ll suggest what else you’ll love. Spotty’s defines what independent bookstores are meant to be, and this one, in a saner world, serves beer and wine, too. Come for a book, stay for the party.
Hours: Tues/Wed/Thurs & Sat: 12-5 518.671.6006
Verdigris 135 Warren St.
Officially a tea and chocolate shop. I shouldn’t have to say anything further. But I will. It has, hands down, the best root beer float you’ll ever have. Limited outside seating allows for savoring one of the 100-odd varieties of tea, their homemade snacks, savory or sweet, or their famous lavender lemonade. Go inside to pick up a chocolate treat – or bagful – in addition to a rainbow of teacups, teapots, and anything that has to do with boiling water.
Hours: Closed Tuesday, otherwise daily 10-6. 518.828.3139
Family Friendly Eats:
Be advised that traditional “kid menus” are often not on the menu but with some clever ordering you get can the job done. Recommendations below – an incomplete list – are particularly family-friendly.
225 Warren Bar & Grill 225 Warren St; Lunch/Dinner
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-9
518.697.8225
The Cascades 407 Warren St; Breakfast/Lunch
Mon-Sat 8-3 (Sat 9-3)
518-822-9146
Nolita 454 Warren St; Breakfast/Lunch
Hours: Mon-Sun 8-3
518.828.4905
Red Dot 321 Warren St; Brunch/Dinner
Hours: Fri-Mon 5-10; Sat/Sun Brunch 11-3
518.828.3657
Grazin’ Diner 717 Warren St; Weekend Brunch/Lunch/Dinner
Hours: Mon-Fri 12-8; Sat/Sun opens at 9 for Brunch
518.822.9323
What else is there?
- Olana, the historic home of Hudson River School painter Frederic Church; Take a tour!
- Roam acres of the Art Omi sculpture park in nearby Ghent;
- Spark to the history of fire safety at the world’s largest fire-fighting museum, housed within the Volunteer Fireman’s Association of New York building at the edge of town. (shout out to Hudson’s own volunteer fire department)
- The museum chronicles the 300-year history of fire fighting in America, with informative exhibits and a nod to every young (and old) person who ever dreamt of becoming a fireperson.
- Yes, they have a Dalmation. What good fire museum wouldn’t have a Dalmation?
- Pick your own fruit at nearby Samascott Orchards (or buy to take back).
- Greenport Conservation Area – take a short walk for sweeping, 180-degree vistas of the Hudson River and beyond. Run around, or sit and meditate. #gratitude.
Bottom line? Even without water slides, safari parks, or roller coasters Hudson, like a circus, it is fun for all ages. And here, you are your own ringmaster. Enjoy!
Love,
Hudsonia
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