A former Victorian-era convent in Hudson, New York, has a new life as a charming boutique hotel. The Hudson Navigator opens on May 1, with nine nautical-inspired suites, a library, and a quaint garden.
Located two hours from downtown Manhattan in the heart of Hudson’s historic district, the three-story hotel has been restored to honor its 19th-century origins, with original stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a grand staircase.
The hotel’s design concept celebrates Hudson’s history as the Northeast’s once-thriving whaling capital. “As a river town with a rich maritime legacy, Hudson has long been a hub for exploration, commerce, and culture,” Benjamin Rinzler, developer of The Hudson Navigator, told Travel+Leisure. “We wanted the hotel to reflect that heritage—not just in design, but in spirit.”
The town’s nautical legacy is echoed throughout the property—from bold whale murals and compass rose and anchor motifs to subtle navigational touches, such as star-patterned carpeting that references the celestial charts once essential to maritime navigation.
“By weaving in nautical details, historic references, and a sense of timeless adventure, we aimed to create a space that honors Hudson’s roots while offering modern travelers a luxurious stay,” Rinzler noted. “It’s our way of keeping the soul of the river and the history of the city alive and sharing it with every guest who walks through our doors.”
The nine guest rooms feature high-end touches like electric fireplaces, soaking tubs, and heated bathroom floors. All but one can accommodate up to two people, while Suite 1 has a queen sofa pullout and can sleep four guests. The hotel, set behind a white picket fence, also encompasses a library and a peaceful garden. Guests have complimentary access to the gym and cozy lobby at sibling hotel The Hudson Whaler, located just a ten-minute walk past Hudson’s charming Warren Street galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
The Hudson Navigator
Guests can explore the town’s renowned antique shops, dine at acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants like Lil’ Deb’s Oasis and Cafe Mutton, or catch performances at Hudson Hall, the state’s oldest surviving theater.
“We see our collection as more than just a group of hotels—it’s a storytelling platform for Hudson’s rich maritime identity,” Rinzler said, referring to the trio of Hudson hotels, which also includes The Hudson Mariner. “With The Hudson Navigator, we’re deepening that narrative, creating a network of properties that each offer a distinct yet connected experience.”
Nightly rates at Hudson Navigator start from $169 during the week and $349 on weekends, and you can book your stay at hudsonnavigator.com.
