Founded in 1785, Hudson, New York is a river town with an artsy vibe of galleries, shops and eateries that is steeped in history. The Hudson Whaler, formerly The Barlow, in the middle of downtown, embraces both.
What began as a professional building in 1906 is now an intimate boutique hotel. The Hudson Whaler’s mix of old and new is aesthetically pleasing and extremely well done. It originally opened as The Barlow, then changed owners and received a revamp in 2021. It now sports more of a nautical theme, so check the official website or Hotels.com for current photos. This review is from when it was under the former ownership.
A modern design glass fireplace keeps company with modern, comfy couches and vintage style chandeliers. The polished wood of the banister of the stairway and the building’s baseboards are original, as is the stained glass window that’s a staircase main feature. The Art Deco features have been preserved throughout.
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Other visual interests are the paintings and photographs of the Hudson Valley that line the walls. Some depict the beauty and majesty of the Hudson River and its banks. Others capture aspects of the town of Hudson.
The exercise room in the basement is one of the most visually interesting hotel exercise rooms I’ve seen. Instead of covering up the stone and brick walls of the foundation, they are the main design feature. Super cool.
The Barlow is truly a hotel with a sense of place where connection to the community is key. A chalkboard shows updates of town happenings and guests are encouraged to explore the region and the culinary bounties in town that range from upscale gourmet to quick bites.
When you step into a guest room, you step into an oasis of luxury.
Attention to details and a relaxing stay is evident from the plush bedding to the modern furnishings and fixtures. Each room has an electric fireplace, refrigerator, Keurig coffee maker and a large flat-screen TV equipped with DirectTV.
The bathroom of the King Suite, the largest has a large soaking tub that is fabulous. The shower, a walk-in multi-spray version is equally splendid.
What I liked about this room is the alcove where the queen sleeper couch and stylish chairs provide a place for visiting. Look out the window for a birds-eye view of Warren St. and the heart of Hudson.
The Barlow’s location is perfect for exploring on foot, or using as a hub to explore the Mid-Hudson Valley region.
If you are in the area, check out Olana, artist Frederic Edwin Church’s estate that is now a museum. Church was one of the founders of the Hudson River School movement that emphasized American landscape paintings.
King Suite Room
A trip to Olana will add to an appreciation of The Hudson Whaler that is helping to keep the essence of what makes this part of upstate New York so special.
Along with the King Suite, rooms include: Queen Standard, Queen Deluxe, both with one queen bed, King Deluxe, and Family Suite with two queen beds. Rates start at $190. You can book at The official website for The Hudson Whaler or check out Booking.com or Hotels.com for deals.
Post and photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein
Hi Jamie,
Great story and review of The Barlow. We love the Hudson Valley and never knew of this place.Now that we have linked up with Hotel Scoop we might get out of here once in a while.
Jim and Cathy
Thanks Jim! You two would really like Hudson. The Barlow is definitely your kind of hotel and there is one dog friendly room!