Top 9 Best Things to Do in Hudson Massachusetts

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Hudson MA, a small town a little off the beaten path with a great variety of restaurants, recreational activities, and even an impressive history museum.

Hudson Massachusetts is a small, largely bedroom community located west of Boston and east of Worcester along Highway 495. It could easily be overlooked as a sleepy and somewhat boring suburban town, but over the past few years, Hudson has experienced sparks of life.

Starting with the opening of the Rail Trail Flatbread Company and New City Microcreamery in the center of town, Hudson has experienced an influx of culinary destinations.

Add to that an extensive rail trail for cyclists, runners, and walkers that runs parallel to downtown as well as a community-focused farmer’s market, and even an exceptional history museum for a town this size, and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Hudson MA.

Families will find lots to do here too. Spend the afternoon at an escape room, roller skating at the local rink, learning about American history, or riding bikes down the Assabet River Rail Trail. Next, it’s easy to grab a bite at many of the local eateries. But most important, don’t forget to finish your outing with some of the best ice cream around at the New City Microcreamery.

9 of the best things to do in Hudson MA

So without further ado, here are nine of the absolute best things to do in Hudson.

Ride the Assabet River Rail Trail

One of the more fun things to do in Hudson MA is ride the town’s rail trail. This paved trail, which was formerly railroad tracks, runs parallel to the heart of the downtown and is only a few blocks away.

Because of its proximity to Hudson’s downtown shops and restaurants, it’s easy to spend a few hours riding bikes and then grabbing lunch or ice cream.

In total, the Assabet River Rail Trail in Hudson is currently 5.4 miles long, running through both Hudson and the neighboring town of Marlborough.

But serious riders can extend their distance by riding 4 miles on roads and then meeting up with the second half of the trail in the town of Stow. From here, the trail continues another 3.4 miles north to the South Acton train station.

Wander around Hudson’s downtown

While once a sleepy mill town, in recent years Hudson’s downtown has come alive. Numerous shops and restaurants have opened here making for a location that’s fun to explore.

For example, The Haberdash is a boutique with women’s clothing, jewelry, housewares, and gifts that also has locations in Worcester and Cape Cod. (77 Main Street) And further down, you’ll stumble upon Mullahy’s, an artisan cheese shop with other specialty foods, wine, and beer. (162 Main Street).

Traveling in the other direction down Main Street and across from the central roundabout is Crosenest. Here, you’ll find an apothecary alongside a number of small gifts such as candles, prints, jewelry, bags, and stationery, to name a few. (10 Main Street)

Get ice cream at the New City Microcreamery

One of the things you must do in Hudson MA is get some ice cream at the New City Microcreamery.

This isn’t your standard ice cream parlor. The Microcreamery features an ever-revolving list of some of the most unique (but tasty!) flavors around. Recent examples include Baklava, Saffron Apricot Almond, Ruthless (similar to a Baby Ruth candy bar) as well as newly conceived classics like Mint Chip (made with real mint), Bourbon Vanilla, and, of course, Chocolate.

Also distinctive about New City Microcreamery is the way they make their ice cream. After a refrigerated ice cream base has steeped for 24 hours, it’s frozen using liquid nitrogen. This unique process creates smaller ice crystals which result in a smoother, creamier texture.

Visit the American Heritage Museum

History buffs will want to make a stop at Hudson’s American Heritage Museum. This museum, mainly focused on U.S. military conflicts, is home to over 100 rare tanks, military vehicles, and artifacts from World Wars I and II, as well as other American conflicts. It delves into the history of major conflicts beginning with the Revolutionary War up to today.

A visit to the museum includes immersive exhibits and experiences including the ability to purchase tickets to ride in 5 of the museum’s tanks.

Hours: open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM except for select holidays. Admission for adults is $20 and for children under 12, $10 with special pricing for seniors, veterans, and active duty service members. (568 Main Street)

Grab a bite to eat

Over the past decade, Hudson has become a bit of a culinary destination with new restaurants frequently popping up.

One of the eateries that started this trend is the Rail Trail Flatbread Company (run by the same owners of the New City Microcreamery). Here, you’ll find not only a good family or casual dining experience but delicious salads, bowls, and, of course, flatbreads – all with unique flavor combinations that don’t disappoint. (33 Main Street)

A relative newcomer to the dining scene in Hudson is Wild Hare. Located off of Main Street, in The Landing at Hudson Mills, Wild Hare has a relaxed, yet modern vibe and features delectable dishes including some of the best breakfast pastries around. (43 Broad Street # B102)

Another casual dining option is Kith and Kin, an American restaurant with a modern flare, serving brunch on the weekends and lunch and dinner every day. (40 Washington Street)

Solve puzzles in Puzzlescape

Among the more adventurous things to do in Hudson MA is a visit to Puzzlescape. This immersive and interactive escape room consists of a variety of themed rooms, each with its unique storyline and challenges that are intended to challenge your problem-solving skills and creativity.

Participants must solve puzzles, find clues, and work together to escape the room within a set time limit. While each experience is designed for adults, older kids (ages 8 & up) will likely have fun playing along. (43 Broad Street, Suite C200)

Visit Ferjulian’s Farm

Among the best summertime things to do in Hudson MA is a visit to Ferjulian’s Farm. This farm was established in 1923 and has been passed down through four generations of the Ferjulian family. It’s known for its fresh produce, including corn, tomatoes, and pumpkins, which are grown on-site and sold at the farm stand from June through October.

In addition to produce, Ferjulian’s also offers a variety of homemade baked goods, local honey, and other specialty items. Visitors can also enjoy pick-your-own flowers opportunities such as tulip picking in the spring, and cutting from the farm’s flower garden beginning in July. The farm also hosts an annual sunflower festival. (7 Lewis Street)

Have fun skating at Roller Kingdom

A fun rainy day activity in Hudson is going skating at Roller Kingdom. This facility features a large roller skating rink, an indoor playground, an arcade, and a laser tag arena. Skating sessions are offered throughout the week, including themed events such as Glow Skate and Family Skate Night. Check the website for hours and prices. (5 Highland Park Avenue)

Shop at the Hudson Farmer’s Market

Looking for fresh local food and other locally-sourced products? Then head over to Hudson’s Farmer’s Market in front of the town hall. Recent stands have included fresh produce, dog treats, hot sauce, baked goods, pies, honey, and alpaca wool to name a few. This outdoor market generally runs from the middle of June to near the end of September and occurs on Tuesdays from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM except for a few holidays.

Visit other nearby towns:

Top 27 Best Things to Do in Worcester Massachusetts

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Concord Massachusetts