Photo by Jeff Bucklew
Summer is finally here! It feels like we’ve been waiting forever for the sun to shine and the temps to rise. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to have an unforgettable summer – just head straight to Hudson.
Music in the Park
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a great summer music lineup at scenic Lakefront Park. This family-friendly music series is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful summer evening. Grab a chair and your favorite people for a night at the park. Concerts are free and starting in June, you can check out the Discover Hudson calendar for the lineup and updates. After the concert, head into downtown Hudson for a bite to eat or a glass of wine to end the night.
Come for the music, stay for the shopping, food and outdoor fun, and make it a Wisconsin weekend! There are so many great options for lodging in Hudson, including hotels with pools and free breakfast. There are also several Airbnb options located right downtown.
Tour Around Hudson
The Hudson Trolley runs all summer long and offers a variety of fun and unique tours, and summer is the perfect time to experience the beauty of Hudson on a St. Croix River Cruise. They both offer public tours or private events with food, music, and more. There’s also the Octagon House Museum, which showcases the town’s history and offers great tours and events for the public.
For all you animal lovers, head outside of Hudson a few miles to Eagle Eye Farm. This magical farm is home to the sweetest pack of alpacas, llamas, baby doll sheep and more. There’s even alpaca yoga offered on certain days!
Favorite Foodie Finds
Hudson has a variety of award-winning restaurants. A local favorite is San Pedro Café, where you’ll definitely feel like you’re on island time, especially if you grab a seat on their expansive greenhouse-like patio. This hot spot features flavorful food and Caribbean-style drinks. Another great option is Black Rooster Bistro, you’ll want to try the Campfire Old Fashioned. For elevated tacos, burgers, and nachos, make your way to Agave Kitchen. Some other downtown locations with mouth-watering offerings are Pier 500, Bennett’s Chop & Rail House – Hudson and Lolo American Kitchen & Craft Bar Hudson.
Love chocolate and ice cream? Add Knoke’s Chocolates to your list. This gourmet shop is filled with artisan, handcrafted truffles, English toffee, popcorn, and many more delightful goodies.
Don’t forget to sneak in some shopping while you’re here. Hudson has several great boutiques, so if you’re looking to dress up yourself or your home, just walk along Second Street where you’re sure to find something amazing.
Parks, Rivers, and Trails
Hudson is also home to 11 awesome parks. In addition to the phenomenal Willow River State Park waterfall, for which Hudson is known, Homestead Park offers several rentable activities to do on Perch Lake. Enjoy a family picnic and let the little ones burn off some energy at the nearby playground.
Located just outside of the Twin Cities, Hudson is the perfect place to explore, unwind, and make it a Wisconsin weekend with family and friends.
