Fall in Hudson: Small Town Charm, Big City Magic

Tucked along the St. Croix River Valley not far from the Twin Cities, you’ll find a charming small town that boasts big-city magic. Every autumn, Hudson, Wisconsin bursts with leaves turning red, gold and orange, and the community’s friendliness paired with top-notch experiences make moments here all the more memorable.

Hudson is lovely in any season, but it’s especially great for autumn adventures with friends and family. From delicious local restaurants to the stunning waterfalls at Willow River State Park, we’ve divided the Hudson fall experience into 3 can’t-miss segments: downtown, riverside and out in nature. Whether you and your travel companions stay for a week or a weekend, explore all three for a complete and uniquely Hudson experience.

Downtown Hudson's Charm

The first thing you’ll notice along 2nd Street, Hudson’s downtown main street, is its menagerie of local gems. From home stores to fashion shops, confectionaries to restaurants, local is a way of life here. And the charm is real — whether it's the city’s window-decor competitions or the downtown’s brick-only building regulation, strolling with friends down 2nd Street is full of stop-worthy surprises and picture-perfect selfie backdrops.

For the epitome of fall Hudson charm, book a ride on the Hudson Trolley. Set under spectacular fall color, you and your friends or family can choose from a variety of tours: historic, haunted, wine for the adults, storytime for the kids and more.

Where To Eat in Hudson

Eating in downtown Hudson is an experience worth savoring and sharing. With its variety of one-of-a-kind restaurants, it’s easy to find something for the whole family.

Raise a toast with craft cocktails and a New York-style slice at Pedro’s Pizza Lounge. You can also try some of the best wings in town (try the Bree’s Knees with honey and Nashville spices) at Barker’s Bar & Grill. Get dessert to-go from St. Croix Baking Company, run by Chef Froke (Oprah Winfrey likes his red velvet cake), or local favorite Knoke’s Chocolates & Nuts, with fall-themed sweets like caramel apples and chocolate leaves.  

There are so many options, but it’s easy to sample several with the Hudson Food Walk. On this 3-hour culinary tour, you and your crew can taste multiple local staples. The Food Walk’s friendly guides also give a taste of Hudson’s vibrant history, all revolving around the food you’re eating. From there, you’ll know exactly where you want to eat throughout the rest of your time in Hudson — and what you’ll want to take home with you.

Riverside Along the St. Croix

A two-block walk from Hudson’s 2nd Street will bring you right up to the banks of the St. Croix River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. A hand-in-hand stroll among the fall color along Lakefront Park, spanning most of Hudson’s St. Croix River shoreline, is sure to spark some unforgettably golden moments. And don’t miss a chance for a picture under the iconic Hudson Arch, or maybe even a free concert at the bandshell.

What To Do Along the St. Croix River

The perfect kick-off to time spent along the St. Croix is sharing a meal on the patio of Pier 500. Try the brie cheese curds with lingonberry ketchup — they’re classically Wisconsin with a gourmet twist.

At the top of our Hudson-in-fall must-dos is a St. Croix River Cruise. Bring the family aboard for a 2-hour fall color tour, or choose from a variety of other tour options. Enjoy a family meal at your seats in the ship’s dining room, then venture out onto the open-air decks for an uninterrupted view of the St. Croix River bank’s show-stopping color.

Explore the local art scene with a visit to the Phipps Center for the Arts. The galleries here always feature new and unique works by regional artists in many mediums. Time your trip right, and you’ll catch Hudson’s autumn Spirit of St. Croix Art Festival along the river.

Out in Nature: Hudson's Natural Beauty

Whether with family or friends, Hudson’s outdoors are sure to awe, inspire and refresh. And as an official Tree City USA, the leaves are sure to deliver eye-popping color every fall.

Where To Go for More Fall Color

From forest trails to city overlooks, Hudson has more than its fair share of fall’s natural beauty.

When fall arrives in Hudson, Willow River State Park is a must-see. Hike more than 17 miles of scenic trails to cascading waterfalls framed by brilliant shades of red, orange and gold, or bring your canoe or bikes to experience the colorful landscape from a new perspective. If you're not ready for the day to end, pitch a tent and gather around the campfire for an evening of stories, stargazing and unforgettable autumn memories together.

If you're craving a quieter way to experience fall, head to Perch Lake, a hidden gem just 15 minutes from Hudson. This peaceful, non-motorized lake is the perfect place to slow down and soak in the season. Paddle a kayak or canoe through colorful reflections, cast a line together or simply listen for the crunch of leaves and the call of a loon echoing across the water.

Wrap up your Hudson getaway with one last unforgettable view. Head to Birkmose Park or Prospect Park, where sweeping overlooks reveal the St. Croix River winding through a patchwork of brilliant fall color. As the sun begins to set, gather with friends, take it all in and relive your favorite moments from the trip while the sky glows above the colorful landscape.

Use our Fall Color Report to see live fall color conditions — it’ll help you time your Hudson adventure for the most colorful moments.