Hot Getaway: Pack Up For A Chic Retreat To Hudson

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It's official: Upstate New York is the new Hamptons. In fact, over the past couple years, loads of creative locals have been escaping to Hudson for it's offbeat charm, cutting-edge design, and old-school art (it's home to the Hudson River School of Painters and still nurtures tons of contemporary artists). If you don't want to hop a train (which, by the way, drops you off from Penn Station right at the foot of Warren Street, the town's central strip), it's also an easy trip by car: The drive is just about 2 hours, and man is it scenic. So, pack up your duffel and fill it with some boho pieces from LOFT to blend in with fashion-forward townsfolk. Trust us, if you're sick of the touristy feel of the East End, we suggest hot-stepping it to Hudson before everyone else does.

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Here's what to see and do in this upstate summer weekend getaway:

GETTING THERE: Hudson is just over two hours north of New York City, by train on Amtrak or by car via Interstate 87.

Above, from left: Democracy of Nevermind Jean Vest, $118, available at Farfetch; Samantha Pleet Herbaceous Romper, $240, available at Bona Drag; Kurt Geiger Sienna Sunglasses $205, available at Kurt Geiger; LOFT Printed Bucket Tote, $34.99, available here; Ouidad Moisture Infusing And Refreshing Spray, $16, available at Sephora.

STAY: Union Street Guest House: This early 19th Century Greek Revival hotel is an old-school architect's dream, with period details that even a novice will appreciate. Steps from Courthouse Square, the hideaway has got some pretty modern amenities—think wireless internet, a space-age Gym, and 24-hour service. Book the Thunderbird suite if you're feeling extra special.
349 Union Street; 518-828-0958; doubles from $100.
hudson-trip-loft-2

Above, from left: Dogeared Friendship Bracelet, $50, available at Nordstrom; Bantu High Waist Printed Bikini, $200, available at Net-a-Porter; Adriano Goldschmied Khaki Cutoffs, $165, available at Calypso
; Anthropologie Striped Spectrum Journal, $28, available at Anthropologie; LOFT Coral Bib Necklace, $44.50, available here.

SHOP: Mark McDonald: This alum of the NYC retail scene shipped off to Hudson in 2003, turning an 8,000-square-foot former department store into a shop selling mid-century modern furniture, lighting, objects, ceramics and jewelry. Swing by to pick up (or just ogle!) everything from an Alvar Aalto lounge chair to some Art Smith earrings, but don't forget to bring your credit card: The prices are not as vintage as the wares.

555 Warren Street; 518-828-6320.

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Above, from left: Les Prairies de Paris Sandal, $215, available at Yoox; LOFT 4-Pocket Sailcloth Jacket, $69.50, available here; Pendleton Oversized Towel, $48, available at Urban Outfitters.

EAT: Swoon Kitchenbar: It's not hard to see why this Hudson gem was rated one of America's best restaurants by Zagat, with mega-fresh food like fried Duxbury Oysters and local lamb belly confit that will have you swooning. There's also a rustic wooden bar that offers up some hearty cocktails and a huge selection of vino. Plus, owners (and couple) Jeff and Nina Gimmel are maybe the cutest restaurateurs ever.

340 Warren Street; 518-822-8398.

PLAY: Olana: The Persian Style mansion of Hudson River School artist Frederic Erwin Church reminds us of something out of Harry Potter. Stop by for a host of awesome activities, from Tai Chi lessons to lectures (check the schedule to see what's up). Plus, the nature trails and the Evelyn & Maurice Sharp Gallery are always an easy option for some local fun.

5720 Route 9G; 518-828-0135; entrance on guided tours only, reservations recommended: $7 adults, $5 seniors and students, and children under 12 free.