Stretch your legs, grab a bite, and experience small-town charm—just minutes from the metro. 
 

If your travel plans already include Minneapolis, St. Paul, or even the Mall of America, there’s no reason not to add a little excursion to your route. Hudson, Wisconsin, is nestled along the scenic St. Croix River. It’s a quick detour that’s easy to reach, refreshingly walkable, and delightfully different. And you wouldn’t be alone in making the stop. According to recent travel trends, 63% of travelers say they’re likely to add a bonus destination to their itinerary. 
 

Whether you’re seeking a scenic pause, a local bite, or a few hours of stress-free wandering, Hudson is a worthy and welcoming stop. 
 

Photo Credit: © Digital Vow Videography
 

Just 20 to 30 minutes from the Twin Cities, Hudson offers several stops to explore and discover. Right off Exit 2, you’ll find local favorites like RJ’s Meats & Groceries, famous for its local food finds and award-winning meats; as well as Old Southern BBQ Smokehouse, known for its pit-smoked meats and scratch-made sides. kudos is a go-to for quality gifts and home accents that feel authentically local. 
 

For those who need to restock their road trip supplies or grab essentials, you’ll also find big box conveniences like Walmart, Fleet Farm, and more right nearby. It’s a stop that easily covers everything from a great meal to that forgotten toothbrush. 
 

At Exit 1, visitors can experience Hudson’s historic downtown. Park once and wander past boutique storefronts, cafés, riverfront parks, and public art—all within a few charming blocks. The town’s welcoming energy makes it a perfect stop for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. 

  
What to Do While You’re Here 
Eat Well and Local

Dining in Hudson delivers both variety and character. For a relaxed yet elevated experience, head to Pier 500, where riverfront views and crowd-pleasing dishes come together beautifully. San Pedro Café adds a splash of Caribbean flair, while Urban Olive & Vine pairs its wine list with frequent live music. No trip to Hudson is complete without a visit to Knoke’s Chocolates & Nuts, where you can indulge in nostalgic treats, rich truffles, and hand-scooped ice cream. 
 

Looking for something quick and casual near the highway? Milwaukee Burger Company draws fans for its over-the-top Bloody Marys and burgers, while Applebee’s Grill + Bar is a solid standby for family favorites. 



Stroll, Shop, and Explore

Hudson’s walkable downtown invites browsing at a leisurely pace. Antique lovers often start at Abigail Page Antiques or BackRoom Vintage, while creatives and gift-seekers gravitate toward The Bees Knees, Rose & Lavender, and The Purple Tree for their curated collections of thoughtful goods. Bookworms will appreciate the cozy atmosphere of Chapter2 Books, and art lovers should be sure to pop in to SEASONS Gallery, Hudson Art Gallery LLC, and Cream of the Crop Artists Gallery, which all highlight regional artists in a range of mediums. 
 

Once you’ve found a few treasures, a walk through Lakefront Park is the perfect way to unwind. Gently curving along the St. Croix River, this scenic public space offers benches, bathrooms, and shaded walking paths that are easy to navigate and great for strollers. For a splash of whimsy, explore the Art Bench Trail, a creative public art experience that’s fun for all ages. 

 

Hudson’s charm extends to its quiet corners. Pause for a photo or a deep breath at Birkmose Park, where river overlooks and wooded surroundings set the tone for reflection. Just beyond town is our famous Willow River State Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls, or the Hudson, Wisconsin campus of Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, with its trails and education area. Or simply sit on a bench downtown and savor a coffee or ice cream cone before heading back on the road. 


Photo Credit: Jessie Eckroad

  

Tips for a Smooth Stop 

Downtown parking is easy to find, with street spots and public lots available throughout the area (some with four hours of free parking). To simplify your visit, download the Passport Parking App before you arrive. Most shops and eateries are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with weekends bringing extra energy and foot traffic. A two-to-four-hour visit is just enough to recharge and rediscover the joy of unhurried travel. 

  

Whether you stay for an hour or spend the afternoon, Hudson offers more than a quick rest—it delivers moments worth remembering. Add it to your travel plans and see how a small detour can make a big impression. 

  

For more travel ideas and upcoming events, visit DiscoverHudsonWI.org. You might just find the perfect festival or riverfront concert waiting when you arrive.