Hudson, WI

Hudson is a small riverfront city in St. Croix County, Wisconsin, with a population of roughly 13,000 residents. It sits along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, which forms the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota, and is known for its preserved late-19th-century downtown, bluff-top views, and its role as a getaway destination for visitors from the Twin Cities. Hudson is located approximately 30 miles east of downtown St. Paul, Minnesota, and roughly 30 to 40 minutes by car from the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area, making it a convenient escape that still feels distinctly small-town.

Just across the river, Stillwater, Minnesota offers a complementary historic experience with 19th-century river-town architecture, waterfront parks, and a celebrated lift bridge. Visitors can reach Stillwater in about 10 to 15 minutes via the river crossing, and the two towns together form a popular weekend pairing for travelers exploring the lower St. Croix valley.

A short drive southwest of Hudson brings visitors to Willow River State Park, a Wisconsin state park known for its namesake waterfall, hardwood forest, and miles of hiking and cross-country ski trails. The park is approximately 10 miles from Hudson and provides a quieter outdoor alternative to busier regional destinations, with campgrounds, picnic areas, and overlooks that draw day-trippers and overnight visitors alike.

Hudson's own downtown, centered along Second Street, features brick storefronts, locally owned shops and restaurants, and the historic Octagon House, an eight-sided home built in the 1850s that is open for seasonal tours. The walkable core overlooks the river bluffs and serves as the main gathering place for community events throughout the year, including antique fairs, riverfront festivals, and holiday celebrations that draw visitors from across the region.

Together, these offerings make Hudson a compelling base for short-term rentals. It combines small-town character, scenic river and bluff landscapes, nearby state parkland, and easy access to the Twin Cities, appealing to couples, families, and outdoor travelers who want a quieter setting without straying far from urban amenities or the region's larger cultural draws.