Beacon, New York, is a little city with a lot of personality. Beacon is a pleasant city with strong art scene, a lively Main Street, and plenty of outdoor activities. It is located on the banks of the Hudson River and is surrounded by gorgeous mountains. This simple guide will help you make the most of your time in Beacon, whether you’re there for a weekend or a longer visit.
1. Explore the Art Scene
Dia Beacon
Dia Beacon, a world-famous contemporary art museum in a former Nabisco factory, is the best part of Beacon’s art scene. Richard Serra, Louise Bourgeois, Dan Flavin, Andy Warhol, and many other artists have huge pieces on display in the museum. The art works fit wonderfully in the industrial area, and the galleries are full of natural light. You should plan on spending at least two hours walking through the museum and its gorgeous gardens by the Hudson River.
Other Art Galleries
Beacon is packed with smaller galleries and studios. Check out Hudson Beach Glass, located in a restored firehouse, where you can watch glass-blowing demonstrations and shop for unique pieces. BAU Gallery and Mother Gallery are also worth a visit for their rotating exhibitions of local and international artists.
Second Saturday Art Walk
If you’re in town on the second Saturday of the month, don’t miss the Second Saturday Art Walk. Galleries and shops stay open late, and there’s live music, wine, and special events all over Main Street. It’s a lively celebration of Beacon’s creative spirit.
2. Stroll Down Main Street
Beacon’s Main Street is the heart of the town. It’s lined with cozy cafes, boutique shops, vintage clothing stores, and artisanal craft shops. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to organic goods and quirky gifts.
Where to Shop
PLAY: Fun gifts and toys for all ages.
Zakka Joy: Beautiful stationery, plushies, and unique accessories.
Reservoir & Wood and Vintage Beacon: Great for fashion and home goods.
Where to Eat
Beacon’s food scene is diverse and delicious. You’ll find everything from upscale dining to casual cafes:
The Roundhouse: Enjoy seasonal, locally sourced dishes with views of a stunning waterfall.
Bank Square Coffeehouse: A local favorite for coffee, craft beer, and cider.
Beacon Bread Company: Perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Quinn’s: Asian-fusion cuisine and live jazz music.
3. Dive Into History
Beacon has a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
Mount Gulian Historic Site: Visit this colonial homestead, once the headquarters for General Von Steuben during the Revolutionary War.
Madam Brett Homestead: Explore this restored colonial-era house to learn about Beacon’s early days.
4. Enjoy the Outdoors
Mount Beacon
Walking If you enjoy the outdoors, you have to go to Mount Beacon. The walk is hard but worth it; it takes you to the top, where you can see the old casino ruins and the gear house of the antique incline railway. The views over the Hudson Valley, the city below, and the Catskills in the distance are amazing.
Madam Brett Park
Madam Brett Park has a lovely waterfall and a scenic walk along Fishkill Creek that is easier on the feet. It’s an excellent place to take pictures and watch birds.
Beacon Waterfront Park
At the Beacon Waterfront Park, you can walk along the river, have a picnic, or launch a kayak. The park is great for families because it has playgrounds and open places for everyone to enjoy.
Fishkill Overlook Falls
Located at the end of Main Street next to The Roundhouse, this small bridge overlooks a lovely waterfall. It’s a peaceful spot for photos or a quiet moment.
5. Experience Local Events and Culture
Beacon Farmers Market
Held every Sunday from spring through fall, the Beacon Farmers Market is the place to find fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and handmade crafts from local vendors. It’s a lively spot to mingle with locals and sample farm-to-table treats.
Town Crier Café
Catch live music at the Town Crier Café, a legendary venue on Main Street. Enjoy folk, jazz, blues, and pop performances in a cozy setting. Check their calendar for special events and ticketed headliners.
Annual Events
Beacon hosts many fun events throughout the year:
Beacon Repair Café: Bring items that need fixing and learn how to repair them with help from volunteers.
Lit Lit at the Howland Cultural Center: A monthly open mic for writers and poets.
Beacon’s Big Button Game Show: A night of trivia and games allowing teams to compete against one other in a pleasant way.
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6. Savor the Craft Beverage Scene
Beacon is home to several craft breweries and distilleries:
Denning’s Point Distillery: Take a tour and enjoy a tasting of locally made spirits in a historic building downtown.
Local Breweries: Sample craft beers at Bank Square Coffeehouse or other local pubs along Main Street.
7. Where to Stay
Beacon offers a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to cozy inns:
The Roundhouse: A stylish hotel with river views and an excellent restaurant.
The Dutchess Hotel & Day Spa: Located on Main Street, this hotel is perfect for art lovers and those seeking relaxation.
Swann Inn of Beacon: Nestled at the foot of Mount Beacon, close to hiking trails and Main Street attractions.
8. Tips for Visiting Beacon
Getting There: Beacon is about 80 minutes by train from New York City on the Metro-North Hudson Line. The train station is a short walk from Dia Beacon and Main Street.
Getting Around: Most attractions are within walking distance, but you can also use local taxis or rideshare apps.
Best Time to Visit: Beacon is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are especially scenic with blooming flowers or colorful foliage.
Sample Itinerary for a Weekend in Beacon
Day 1:
- Arrive by train, walk to Dia Beacon, and explore the museum.
- Stroll along Main Street, shop, and grab lunch at a local café.
- Go to Hudson Beach Glass and see a glass-blowing demonstration.
- Hike up Mount Beacon for sunset views.
- Dinner at The Roundhouse.
Day 2:
- Breakfast at Beacon Bread Company.
- Browse the Beacon Farmers Market.
- Go to Madam Brett Park or rent a kayak and go on the Hudson.
- Explore more galleries or catch a live show at Town Crier Café.
Conclusion
Beacon, NY, has the best mix of art, history, nature, and small-town charm. Beacon welcomes you to slow down and appreciate the best of the Hudson Valley, whether you’re walking through world-class museums, hiking beautiful trails, or eating with a view. Plan your trip today and find out why so many people enjoy this “Coolest Small Town in America.”
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Beacon, NY?
The best time to visit Beacon is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the natural surroundings are at their most beautiful.
2. Are there any kid-friendly activities in Beacon?
Yes! Kids will enjoy hiking up Mount Beacon, visiting the Beacon Farmers Market, or exploring the Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries.
3. Can I rent bikes in Beacon?
Yes, there are local shops where you can rent bikes and explore the town and its surrounding areas on two wheels.
4. Is Beacon a pet-friendly destination?
Beacon is pet-friendly, with many outdoor areas, such as the Hudson River Waterfront and Mount Beacon, where dogs are welcome.
5. How far is Beacon from New York City?
People who live in the city can easily commute to Beacon by train in around 90 minutes.
6. What are the must-see attractions in Beacon, NY?
Some must-see attractions in Beacon include Mount Beacon for hiking, Dia:Beacon Museum for modern art, and the Beacon Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods.
7. How long does it take to hike Mount Beacon?
The hike to the summit of Mount Beacon usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is not too hard, but views are worth the effort.
8. Can I visit Beacon for a day trip?
Absolutely! Beacon is an easy day trip from New York City, with many attractions like Dia:Beacon, hiking trails, and local shops that can be explored in a single day.