Hudson, NH

Once known as the "shoe town" due to it's abundance of shoe factories in the Industrial Era, Hudson has progressed significantly throughout the years. Having been one of the first towns in the country to utilize steam power, Hudson paved its path for industrial progression. The spread of factories throughout the town ushered in waves of immigrants from Ireland and French Canada seeking employment opportunities, thus expanding the town's population. By the early 1900s, electric trolley lines were constructed throughout Hudson, directly connecting it to the surrounding towns of Leominster, Concord, and Marlborough. The simultaneous and continuous growth of industrial factories facilitated the migration of more immigrants from the major countries of England, Portugal, and Italy. Having nearly doubled in size over the last century, Hudson's population remains culturally diverse yet small and close knit.

With a fair distribution of major chain restaurants and independently owned international outlets, Hudson brings together an assortment of cuisines fit to please almost any crowd.

For an authentic Japanese dining experience, make your way to Dynamite Sushi. Locals love the affordable prices and diverse menu, so prepare to wait a little bit on a Friday or Saturday night. The menu lists all the traditional favorites but also offers creative twists such as its volcano roll. Besides Japanese food, the restaurant serves other Asian delights, including Thai iced tea and crab Rangoon.

When you want to treat yourself to an amazing breakfast or brunch without breaking your wallet, head to Suzie's Diner on Lowell Road. Locals rave about the eggs Benedict, or choose the salmon Benedict if you prefer. The meat lover's omelette and the corned beef hash win big thumbs up. This place makes your home fries to order, and if your kids want their chocolate chip and bacon pancakes in the shape of Mickey Mouse, just ask.

As far as nightlife is concerned, a night out can range from a casual evening at the bar to a lively and upbeat night at one of the many nightclubs scattered around the area. Although the town of Hudson itself does not offer the widest variety of nightly entertainment, a handful of locations are worth visiting. The Backstreet Bar & Grill, easy to find despite its name, has a couple of 9-foot pool tables when you want a game, and both the bartenders and the crowd put out a welcoming vibe. Don't miss karaoke on Friday nights.

The majority of residents in Hudson travel by car, although the convenient layout of the town makes walking a favorite transportation option as well. Major highways such as Interstate 495 and 290, as well as Massachusetts Route 85 and 62 run throughout Hudson, making trips to neighboring towns quick and simple. Additionally, a small number of bus routes as well as taxi services are available for public transportation. The town provides plenty of parking on local streets in addition nightly parking available in the Municipal Parking Lots on South Street.

The parks in Hudson open the doors to an array of recreational activities. The Cellucci Skate & Splash Park offers an assortment of interactive amenities for patrons of all ages. From the play ground, splash pad and built-in skate park to the bocce court and picnic areas located throughout the grounds, the park has something for everyone. Additionally, the park plays host to the weekly Arts in the Park series, a combination live entertainment show every Thursday that features acts ranging from puppeteers to musical artists.

Only a few minutes away from the Cellucci Skate & Splash Park is the Assabet River Rail Trail, a 12.5-mile long stretch perfect for biking, rollerblading or just a casual stroll. In addition to providing an excellent outdoor retreat, the trail also displays various works of art from both local students and muralists alike. You can find these displays among the six kiosks along the trail, as well as within the inner walls of the 290 connector tunnel, which features a mural dedicated to capturing the distinct quintessence of 1900s era train rides.

Living in the town of Hudson calls for a slightly above average cost of living at a rate 21.9 percent higher than the national average. Despite this fact, the prices associated with renting a living space are still fairly affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in Hudson starts at around $800, with prices towards $1000 for more luxurious living spaces. Gas prices sit at around 2.4 percent higher than the national average, and just in case you were wondering - a pint of beer costs about $5.

The Hudson shopping experience consists of a healthy variety of independently owned shops and nationally recognized chain retailers Fulfill all of your home improvements needs at Lowe's, pick up all your household necessities at the local Walmart Supercenter, or grab a quick item on your list at the CVS pharmacy. All of these great locations and many more are just a few minutes away from the town's center. Those seeking a unique shopping experience unlike any other in the area should make their way to Still Life Home, an elegantly laid out warehouse stocked with endless shelves of unique and vintage items, ranging from glassware to decorative clocks and centerpieces. It may prove to be all too easy to get lost in everything this locally favored consignment shop has to offer. With affordable pricing and more inventory than you can shake a stick at, there's sure to be something for everyone at Still Life Home. Hudson Art & Framing offers precisely what its name implies; it's stocked with an expansive selection of sculptures, paintings, unique decorations, and much more. The store also provides professional framing services to its customers. The knowledgeable and artistically inclined sales team provides exceptional customer service and is happy to answer any questions you may have. Market Basket fulfills all of your grocery needs with an expansive variety of goods, meats and fresh produce and is conveniently located only minutes away from the center of town.