The Maker Hotel

My stay at The Maker Hotel in Hudson, New York solidified its status as one of my favorite independently owned hotels in the US

When I told Jonelle that I was planning a trip to Hudson Valley, her immediate suggestion was that I check out a stay at The Maker, an independent hotel in Hudson, New York.

Intensely curious, I began researching more about it. The Maker opened in 2020 as a luxurious boutique hotel with a unique, eclectic aesthetic that blends art, culture, and design. Founded by the owners of the cosmetics company Fresh and another investor, the hotel is known for its commitment to artisanal craftsmanship and personal storytelling.

After browsing the photos and thinking of the fun I would have photographing the landscape, I booked my stay.

Checking In & Tour

While making my way from 1 Hotel Central Park to the train station, I received a pre-check in call from Johnathon at The Maker. I was pleasantly surprised. It was a lovely conversation discussing when I expected to check in and where I should park my car. As I was taking the train from Manhattan to Poughkeepsie and then driving to Hudson, this was very considerate.

A few hours later, I arrived at The Maker. From the moment I opened the doors, I was instantly impressed by the ambiance and the decor.

It was – simply put – gorgeous.

After our earlier conversation, meeting Johnathon in person was lovely. I left my bags to be placed in my room with him, as I parked my car in my assigned parking space at the back of the hotel.

Returning to the check in room, I was led to the library and given a glass of Prosecco. Conversing with Johnathon, I effortlessly planned my next day of photography and exploration with his expert guidance.

His suggestions were ideal.

The hotel resides in a trio of restored historic buildings—a Georgian mansion, a Greek Revival building, and a carriage house—each intricately decorated. Johnathon gave me a tour of the hotel, from the gym, the steam room, the restaurant, the stunning bar, the pool and – of course, my room.

I honestly marveled at The Maker Hotel’s attention to detail. It was a complete expression of creating an atmosphere that merges luxury with creativity and authentic craftsmanship.

Everything, even the hand painted wallpaper in the rose room, is intentional.

Bedroom 2: My Own Personal Sanctuary

Each room at The Maker Hotel is a special experience, all its own. When Johnathon introduced me to mine, I couldn’t help but sharply inhale.

My room, Bedroom 2, was one of only two bedroom-style rooms in the hotel. It was everything I had imagined—and so much more.

One standout feature I absolutely loved was the heated flooring in the bathroom. It immediately reminded me of my stay at the Grand Hyatt Berlin. I absolutely love a heated floor.

I absolutely loved the rainforest shower.

With the water turned up as hot as I could stand it, it was glorious.

The Maker Hotel also provided an iPad,  with streaming services already logged in. I caught up on Ripley and some other Netflix shows I’d missed after cancelling my subscription.

This was a great touch – as the rooms do not have televisions.

Morning Delights: Coffee and the Paper in Bed

Each morning, a thermos of freshly brewed coffee was hung on my door in a bag. The first morning, it was accompanied by two crisp apples. Both mornings, the was accompanied with my requested half-and-half and sweetener.

This was absolutely perfect.

There’s something magical about savoring that first sip of coffee while still snuggled in bed. Especially with the Sunday edition of The New York Times in hand. It made me want to linger in bed forever. But with photos to take and adventures waiting, eventually, I had to peel myself away and get ready for the day.

Good Nights: The Turn Down Service of My Dreams

The Maker Hotel’s turn-down service brings a blend of indulgence and tranquility that stands out in both presentation and comfort. During check in, I was able to specify exactly when I wanted turn down service to commence.

It was incredible to come back from dinner and find a perfectly curated evening setup, designed just for me.

Placed on a try was a thermos of hot tea, a packet of CBD gummy sleep aids and a selection of rich, decadent chocolate truffles.

Walking Around Hudson

Meandering along Hudson’s Warren Street before dinner was charming, with a vibe reminiscent of the appeal I think people find at Hotel 1928 in Waco, Texas. Warren Street had its share of cute vintage shops and cafés. But, I couldn’t help but notice quite a few shuttered storefronts. The ambiance was photogenic due to the changing season. But, I truly felt it had a “curated shops for weekenders from Manhattan” feel.

Overall

Overall, it was my nights at The Maker Hotel that allowed my mind to release the stress and settle in to being on the East Coast. I absolutely loved coming back to it after exploring the area. The drinks at The Maker Lounge were outstanding. Same as with the dinner I enjoyed at The Maker Restaurant.

My stay was exactly what I needed. Sometimes, it truly does pay to give yourself the gift of relaxation and peace in a very hectic world.

For me, for a few days in Upstate New York, it was a pleasure to call my bedroom at The Maker Hotel, home.

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