How Much Do You Know About Hudson?

Hudson is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Hudson has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Nestled just 15 minutes east of St. Paul and 30 minutes east of Minneapolis, Hudson is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You're still within the Twin Cities metropolitan area, so you can enjoy all the excitement and amenities of the big city while still taking it easy in Hudson's friendly and laid-back atmosphere.
• Hudson is located near the Willow River State Park, which offers beautiful views and recreational opportunities. The park offers beautiful views of Willow Falls and the Willow River Gorge and features many nearby activities for the family to enjoy.
• Hudson was named by its first mayor, Almon Day Gray, in 1852 because the St. Croix bluffs reminded him of the Hudson River. Hudson was originally called Willow River and was renamed to Buena Vista before its modern name.
• Hudson is home to one of the oldest standing structures in Wisconsin, the Octagon House. Built in 1855, this eight-sided house was a marvel of engineering for its time and is now a popular historical site.
• Hudson is home to several unique shops and boutiques. One of the most interesting is the Purple Tree Gift Shop, which specializes in fair trade products from around the world.
• Hudson has a thriving arts scene, with several galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. The Phipps Center for the Arts is a popular destination for theater productions, concerts and art exhibits.
• Hudson is a popular destination for beer lovers. The city has several breweries, including the Hop & Barrel Brewing Company and the Pitchfork Brewing Company, which offer a variety of craft beers and often host live music and events.
• Hudson offers a stunning landscape that is as unique as it is picturesque. The city's downtown retail district and charming "Old Town" residential district hug the tranquil river valley, while "The Hill" residential and retail areas, along with the vibrant business and industrial parks, stand tall on the scenic hills and majestic bluffs that overlook the St. Croix River.
• Hudson is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From upscale restaurants like San Pedro Cafe and Pier Five Hundred to casual eateries like The Village Inn and The Nova, there's something for everyone.
• The St. Croix River is a popular spot for recreational activities like boating, fishing, tubing and river cruises. It is a designated National Scenic Riverway and is known for its natural beauty.
• Hudson is home to several parks, including Lakefront Park, which offers views of the St. Croix River and the historic Hudson Pier. Lakefront Park also features a playground, picnic areas and a beach.
• The Hudson Food Walk offers a three-hour guided tour of local restaurants and speciality food shops. It showcases the diversity of the local dining scene, from classic American dishes, Latin-inspired small plates, craft cocktails and stunning desserts from recently-opened St. Croix Baking Company. You’ll want to bring your appetite. The tour includes tastings at six destinations.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.