Things To Do
in Hudson
Hudson is a charming, bilingual village on the Lake of Two Mountains west of Montreal, known for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and waterfront. The town blends a relaxed small-town atmosphere with a lively arts community, independent shops, and seasonal festivals. Visitors enjoy the marina, picnic-friendly parks, and a well-preserved historic core centered on Main Street.
Hudson is a popular base for day trips to nearby parks and hiking areas while offering a quieter alternative to urban Montreal.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the historic center of Hudson, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the well-preserved architecture and unique boutiques. Stop by the Hudson Village Theatre to check out any local performances or art exhibitions that may be on display.
In the afternoon, visit the Hudson Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and heritage of the area through engaging exhibits. Enjoy lunch at one of the quaint restaurants, sampling local delicacies and seasonal dishes. Afterward, explore the nearby parks or take a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and historical anecdotes about the town.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a waterfront restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner while taking in stunning views of the Ottawa River. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the river promenade, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. If you're in the mood for entertainment, check out any live music events or community gatherings happening that evening.
Start your day with an early morning hike at the nearby Parc de la Rivière-du-Nord, where the crisp air and beautiful scenery will invigorate your spirit. Bring along your binoculars for some bird watching as you stroll along the trails, keeping an eye out for the diverse species that inhabit the area. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, listening to the soothing sounds of the river and birds chirping.
After your morning exploration, head back into town for a wholesome lunch at a local diner, trying out their specialty sandwiches and homemade soups. Once nourished, visit the nearby nature reserve, where you can partake in guided tours or educational programs focused on local wildlife and conservation efforts. Capture stunning photos of the lush landscape and perhaps spot some more birds in the afternoon light.
As evening approaches, consider visiting a local art gallery that showcases the work of Hudson's talented artists, often featuring nature-inspired pieces. Afterward, indulge in dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. Conclude your day with a bonfire at your accommodation or a nearby campsite, sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular café) | $3-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (base fare / short trip) | $6-15 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $6-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque, walkable village with a strong arts community and heritage architecture
- Easy access to waterfront activities and nearby parks for outdoor recreation
- Bilingual community with welcoming local shops and seasonal markets
- Quieter, more relaxed pace than Montreal while still within driving/rail distance
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options than a large city
- Some businesses and services are seasonal and close in winter
- Public transit options are more limited outside commuter hours — a car helps
- Fewer specialized medical facilities locally; major hospitals are in larger nearby centres
Places to Visit in Hudson
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque, tree-lined thoroughfare with heritage houses, galleries and colourful storefronts — great for street and architectural photography.
Marina docks, boats and expansive lake views provide classic sunrise and sunset shots and reflections on calm water.
Well-maintained Victorian and early-20th-century homes with manicured gardens — ideal for detail and façade images.
Small parks and grassy bluffs offer panoramic views of the Lake of Two Mountains and distant shorelines.
Vibrant scenes, stalls, and local characters during summer markets and events — good for candid and lifestyle photography.
Food in Hudson
Hudson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Quebec's iconic comfort food of fries, cheese curds and gravy — an easy find at casual eateries and pubs in and around Hudson.
Must-Try!
Traditional Quebec meat pie available at bakeries and some cafés, especially around the holidays or at local markets.
Local maple syrup, taffy and confections — sold at markets, specialty shops and used in many desserts on local menus.
Local and regional cheeses and cured meats featured on tasting boards at bistros and delis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A summer market offering local produce, baked goods, artisan foods and prepared snacks — great for picnic supplies and regional products.
During festivals and summer weekends you’ll find pop-up food vendors offering everything from smoked meats to ice cream and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Hudson is bilingual, but French is the official language of Quebec; greeting people in French (Bonjour) is appreciated. Most residents also speak English, especially in the village.
Residents value polite, friendly interactions and a relaxed pace — be courteous, hold doors and say thank you after service.
Many waterfront and garden areas are private; stick to public paths and respect signage.
Keep noise to a minimum in residential areas, especially late evenings, and follow rules about waste sorting and recycling.
Safety
Tipping in Hudson
Ensure a smooth experience
In Quebec, tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants, 10–15% for taxis and round up for café/bar service. For table service check if a gratuity is already added for large groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; tap payments and mobile wallets are common. Cash is accepted but less often used. Small vendors at markets may prefer cash — bring a modest amount.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, pleasant weather with long daylight hours; ideal for boating, markets, patios and festivals. Expect more visitors on weekends and fine opportunities for water activities and outdoor dining.
Crisp days, beautiful fall foliage and cooler evenings; great for scenic drives, hiking nearby ridges, and photography. Pack layers as temperatures can vary widely.
Cold with snow and ice; the village is quiet and charming under snow, good for winter walks, nearby cross-country skiing and cozy indoor dining. Roads and sidewalks can be slippery — bring warm clothing and traction for shoes.
Variable weather with thawing and muddy conditions; gardens and trees bloom later than in the city. Some outdoor amenities and seasonal businesses reopen gradually, so check schedules.
Hudson at Night
Hiking in Hudson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About a short drive away, Oka offers varied trails, forested routes, dunes and a popular beach on the Lake of Two Mountains — good for day hikes, birdwatching and summer swimming.
A nearby hill with short but rewarding trails offering viewpoints, mountain biking and seasonal activities; popular with locals for quick outdoor escapes.
Easy, scenic walks along the shoreline and through the village — suitable for photographers, families and gentle strolls.
Airports
How to reach Hudson by plane.
The main international airport serving Montreal, about a 35–50 minute drive depending on traffic; offers international and domestic flights and good car rental options.
Regional airport south of Montreal with some charter and general aviation services; closer for private flights and some regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hudson has a mix of English- and French-speaking residents, with many families and long-term anglophone presence alongside francophone neighbours.
Many residents commute to Montreal and surrounding employment centres, valuing Hudson for its village lifestyle and transport links.
The town attracts retirees and seasonal homeowners seeking lakeside living and quiet surroundings.
A small creative community of artists, gallery owners and local entrepreneurs contributes to the village character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is widely popular in Quebec — youth leagues, community rinks and local enthusiasm for the sport.
Water sports are common on the Lake of Two Mountains, including sailing, kayaking and recreational rowing.
Organized community soccer, baseball and recreational sports are common for families and youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hudson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés and bistros (salads, sandwiches, cheese plates). Larger or more specialized vegetarian dishes are more common in Montreal, so ask staff about daily vegetarian specials or custom options.
Vegan choices are available but limited; cafés can often adapt dishes, and markets sell produce and plant-based snacks. Call ahead for more complex vegan meals.
Many places offer gluten-free bread or menu notes but cross-contamination may occur; smaller kitchens are accommodating if you explain your needs.
Staff at independent restaurants are generally helpful — inform them about allergies in advance and double-check ingredient details.