It never gets old visiting all of the idyllic, picturesque towns on the East Coast. There are dozens to choose from, but Beacon, NY is no exception – even though it is a smaller town with a population of under 15,000, there is so much to do (with gorgeous views in the background the whole time!). Explore their mile long downtown Main St. and eat/drink to your heart’s content at any time of year.
How to Get There
Before talking about the exciting activities available, there are some simple logistics on how to get to Beacon and where to stay. A day trip is always a good idea too if you’re short on time, and you’ll still be able to hit all of the popular spots in a decent amount of time.
By Train
A popular destination for people wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of NYC, the easiest way is to take the Metro-North from Grand Central or the Harlem 125th station. Recently, the MTA has created a convenient all-in-one app to buy tickets, check track numbers, and see train times – and it is pretty darn accurate.
Be careful to buy tickets to the Beacon station and not Beacon Falls (which is in Connecticut!!). My biggest tip is to sit on the left side of the train when facing north to see the beautiful views of the Hudson River and colorful hills during the majority of your ride.
Know that getting an Uber may take longer in Beacon with the number of drivers available. Be prepared with walking shoes as the walk from the Dia Beacon to the downtown area is around 20-25min, but is quite relaxing and enjoyable.
By Car
For locals with a car, there are several street parking options and parking lots. It is recommended to park a little ways off of Main Street to avoid the traffic – parking by Hudson Beach Glass is a good option. All green areas on this map are available to park at 24/7. Be sure to double check signage!
Where To Stay
There are a few hotels, but this AirBnB is only a quick walk away from the Downtown area and is a reasonable price. The same house also has cheaper options if sharing a bathroom doesn’t bother you.
Things to Do:
Enjoy a Unique Contemporary Art Museum
Dia Beacon
One of the most popular activities in Beacon, this modern art museum is a part of the 11 locations managed by Dia Art. It is a 10 minute walk from the train station and the perfect activity to do after sitting on the train for 1.5 hours if coming from NYC. The art is unique and interesting for people who are not familiar with modern art either. A few tips – I would buy timed tickets ahead of time to save time, and the coat check is free!
Walk and Take in the Sights
Fishkill Overlook Falls
Walk in the park and see/hear the relaxing waterfalls. At night, the falls can be lit up too, providing a beautiful and unique sight. Bring a book or snack and sit on one of the benches to enjoy a quiet morning/afternoon.
Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park
Need to get more steps in after sitting on the train or in a car? Walk by the water at this beautiful park located right on Hudson River. Another great place to walk your dog and enjoy the views.
Explore the Dozens of Downtown Shops
There is not enough time in a few days to explore all of the unique stores in Beacon, but below is a list of just some of what Beacon has to offer. If you walk along Main Street from North Ave (Two Way Brewery) to Verplanck Ave (Fishkill Overlook Falls), you’ll catch most of the shops to see (especially great if you don’t have a car).
- The Snookie Shop – A piece of Jersey Shore in the Hudson Valley. Maybe you’ll see Snookie?!
- Berte – Curated home and lifestyle shop, all items sharing a unique style.
- Vintage : Beacon – A consignment shop with well thought out pieces to shop and try.
- La Mere Clothing and Goods – The cutest boutique with new and old items, all with the same bright and fun look.
- Binnacle Books – Books for all ages (and they may have an amazing deal!).
- Play Toys and Gifts – A shop filled with toys and gag gifts for all ages.
- Hudson Beach Glass – Recommended to go on a sunny day, see the talented artists at work and peruse homemade glass items.
- Stella’s Fine Market – Find all of the up and coming small food businesses here – from seasonings to seafood and snacks, you’ll definitely find something that peaks your interest.
Enjoy Beacon’s Food Scene
A highlight of visiting new places is seeing what kinds of food they have to offer. Beacon has a great variety of cuisines and price points to satisfy anyone’s cravings, using local and fresh ingredients from the Hudson Valley. Many NYC establishments purchase from Hudson Valley purveyors to use in their own dishes.
Coffee+Dessert
- Little King – A cafe with thoughtfully curated lifestyle items in the back (don’t forget to try a cute pastry.
- The Chocolate Studio – With the nicest owners, try anything chocolate covered here. It’s recommended to grab some chocolate covered coffee beans and walk at Fishkill Overlook Falls.
- Håkan Chocolatier – Creative artisanal chocolates with distinctive flavor options.
- Miss Tea – An organic tea house with many flavor collections and teaware.
- Peaceful Provisions – Vegan donuts and treats (that you will forget are vegan!). There will probably be a line in the mornings.
- Big Mouth Coffee Roasters – A transparent, specialty coffee roaster with the calmest atmosphere.
- All You Knead – Who doesn’t like artisan, handmade baked goods?
- Glazed Over Donuts – Made to order and customizable donuts – watch them being made in the window!
- Alps Sweets Shop – A candy store and production facility with a whole host of classic candy.
- Bank Square Coffee Shop – A coffee shop that serves light snacks and craft beer – a place to talk and relax.
- Matcha Thomas – Don’t feel like drinking coffee? Try some matcha lattes, boba, or teas that are the prettiest colors.
Lunch+Dinner
- Melzingah Tap House – Modern American food and beer (try to get a reservation!)
- Sukothai – Homestyle thai food for those comfort food days
- The Vault – Share tapas with a group (or yourself!)
- Wonderbar Beacon – A beautiful cocktail bar serving solid small plates (still thinking about the Charred Broccolini)
- Momo Valley – If you haven’t tried Nepalese food, now is the time to venture into Momos (dumplings).
- Yankee Clipper Diner – A Beacon classic with a dish for everyone
- Happy Valley Arcade Bar – Play retro games, drink, and have some small bites
- Meyer’s Olde Dutch Food and Such – Everything is good here.
- Two Way Brewing Company – A brewery with their own kitchen, but you can also bring your own food (there is a dedicated game room in the back!)
Sunday Specials
Farmer’s Market and Flea Market
It’s so amazing to see even more local business at the farmer’s market and flea market – and the best part is that they are so close together. You can easily spend a few hours at both, browsing and supporting local artisans and shops. The Hudson Valley is rich with diverse agriculture and talented artists. FYI – the farmer’s market is open for the Winter season, but the flea market is closed until April each season.
Conclusion
There are so many things to do in Beacon – whether you are visiting from NYC or just live within driving distance and want to visit. It’s always a treat to have such a beautiful town with mountains and hills in the background, creating a unique atmosphere. It’s definitely a place to visit and get to know during any time of year.
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