From last week’s record-breaking blizzard to the potential for 80-degree days on the horizon, New York sure knows how to keep us on our toes when it comes to the weather. One day we’re layered head to toe, braving icy commutes, and the next, we’re tempted to trade our coats for sunglasses. Yet despite these dramatic mood swings, spring is unmistakably on its way.
Though our groundhogs predicted six more weeks of winter, those weeks are flying by, even though they’ve surely given us a run for our money in the process. And while we eagerly anticipate warmer days, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the scenic winter getaways that this season has gifted us: snow-dusted landscapes, frozen lakes, and the quiet beauty of frost-covered streets.
That said, winter isn’t quite ready to hand over the reins just yet. Even as temperatures rise, there’s still time for one last winter adventure, and you can look no further than Hudson, NY.
This two-hour glide up the river on Amtrak’s Empire Service takes you to a town where the historic architecture of Warren Street looks even more striking against a crisp, white sky, and where the “quiet beauty” you’re craving is paired with world-class art and cozy, fire-lit lounges.
🚂 The Train Ride
The magic begins the moment you pull out of Moynihan Train Hall. As the city skyline fades, the Empire Service transforms into a moving theater seat for one of the most stunning rail journeys in the country
If you’re able, snag a seat on the left side of the train—the tracks hug the Hudson River so closely you’ll feel like you’re gliding directly over the water. Look our for bald eagles as well, who tend to hang out around the river bank this time of year, according to the New York State department of Environmental Conservation.
In these final weeks of winter, you’ll witness a dramatic natural spectacle: massive jagged ice floes drifting down the river, shimmering against the backdrop of the snow-dusted Palisades and the distant, moody peaks of the Highlands. It’s two hours of stunning, uninterrupted scenery.
For booking and more information, see Amtrak’s official website.
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⛰️ The Frozen, Wintery Falls
While Hudson is famous for its town charm, the real “storybook” moment lies just a short trip from the station at High Falls Conservation Area. Here, the Agawamuck Creek drops a staggering 150 feet—the tallest waterfall in Columbia County.
In the deep chill of late winter, the rushing waters partially freeze into intricate, crystalline sculptures and towering columns of blue ice. The hike to the overlook is short and sweet, offering that crisp, pine-scented air that provides the perfect reset before you head back into the bustling town center.
📷 Main Street
Aptly referred to as “Upstate’s favorite downtown,” Warren Street is the heart of Hudson, NY, where historic charm meets modern flair. Lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, this bustling street is home to an eclectic mix of antique shops, art galleries, cozy cafés, and farm-to-table restaurants.
The street also pulses with culture: weekend markets, live music, and seasonal festivals bring a lively energy to the cobblestone sidewalks, while the Hudson River just a short walk away adds a scenic backdrop that’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you’re hunting for unique finds, indulging in gourmet bites, or simply soaking up the small-town charm with big-city style, Warren Street captures the essence of Hudson in every step.
🛍️ Shopping And Dining
Hudson is a playground for the aesthetically inclined, offering a sophisticated “après-train” scene that rivals Manhattan’s best neighborhoods. Whether you’re hunting for a mid-century masterpiece or the perfect sourdough, here is where to stop:
- The Shop: Duck into The Spotty Dog Books & Ale, a cozy bookstore housed in an 1889 firehouse. It’s the ultimate winter refuge where you can browse over 10,000 titles or shop for professional art supplies with a local craft pint in hand.
- The Find: Get lost in The Antique Warehouse, a massive collective near the waterfront (Door 21) filled with everything from industrial relics to farmhouse chic. For something more modern, visit Minna for ethically sourced, high-design home goods that bring a pop of color to a winter day.
- The Eat: For a true winter treat, grab a table at Wm. Farmer and Son for their “Appalachian Onion Soup” and hearth-cooked comfort food. If you’re in the mood for a French getaway, Le Perche serves world-class croissants and wood-fired baguettes in a space that feels like a hidden corner of Lyon.
- The Newcomer: If you’re looking for the latest buzz, head to the recently opened Soluna Cafe Cantina on Green Street for an incredible Cuban sandwich or a “playful” creative latte to fuel your walk back to the station.
While the city keeps us guessing with its unpredictable spring fever, why not lean into it by getting in the last few wintery experiences of the season? There’s a rare kind of magic in catching winter’s final bow from the window of a train. ❄️