Day trip to Hudson from Albany
Hudson is 40 minutes south, packed onto one long walkable street of antique shops, restaurants, and 19th-century townhouses — plus Olana above the river.
Warren Street storefronts in Hudson, New York
Getting there
Drive south on the Taconic State Parkway or US-9 in 40 minutes. Amtrak runs 8 to 10 trains a day between Albany-Rensselaer and Hudson station, 25 minutes, $14 to $22. The Hudson station is a five-minute walk to Warren Street, which makes this the rare Hudson Valley day trip that's easier by train than by car.
What to do
Warren Street runs a full mile from the river up the hill. Start at the bottom near the Amtrak station and work up: antique shops, Hudson Wine Merchants, and independent galleries. Above Hudson on Route 9G is Olana, Frederic Church's Persian-inspired hilltop estate. House tours are $25 and must be booked ahead at olana.org; the grounds are $5 and open daily.
Where to eat
Lunch: Lil' Deb's Oasis for tropical-comfort plates ($18 to $24) or Grazin' Diner for a grass-fed burger ($16). Coffee at Supernatural Coffee. Dinner if you’re staying past 6pm: Backbar for wood-fired pizzas or Kitty's for a proper 3-course meal ($55).
Frequently asked questions
What people ask before they set off on this one.
Train if you plan to eat and drink on Warren Street. Car if you want to add Olana or Kaaterskill Falls on the same day.
Yes, but priced for New York City weekenders. Expect $200 for a chair you’d pay $60 for in a rural shop.
5 to 6 hours covers Warren Street and lunch. Add 3 hours for Olana.
The grounds are, with picnic-friendly overlooks. The house tour is strict and not recommended for kids under 8.
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