Beacon is the quintessential American small town. With its cozy feel and charming streets, Beacon is like something out of a storybook. In recent years, this industrial, historic city has become increasingly popular.
If you’re looking for a quick, easy getaway from NYC, Beacon is a perfect choice.
Where is Beacon?
Beacon is located in Dutchess County, New York. It is about 70 miles from New York City. The commute is about 1h 50 min.
Beacon’s history
Beacon has a very rich and significant history. Wonder where the city got its name? During the Revolutionary War, signal fires were built on top of Mount Beacon to alert George Washington of British troop movements.
Here’s another fun fact. During the 1800s, Beacon was known as “The Hat Making Capital” and was home to almost 50 hat factories, coming second only to Danbury, Connecticut. Not to mention, Beacon also played a role in the early movie industry.
It’s important to note that the success of Beacon is also due largely in part to the contributions of Ron and Ronnie Sauer. The husband and wife developers first arrived in Beacon in the 1980s. During that time, Beacon was a decrepit and struggling city. However, Ron and Ronnie saw something unique in Beacon and invested in its future. As young families moved in and businesses opened, Beacon became an attractive and affordable place to visit and settle in.
If you want to learn more about Beacon’s history, be sure to check out the Beacon Historical Society.
Beacon today
Beacon experienced a new-age revival beginning with the opening of the renowned modern art museum, Dia:Beacon in 2003.
Today, Beacon is a lively city with a flourishing arts and food scene. You’re guaranteed to find lots of fun activities to fill your itinerary.
How do I get to Beacon?
- By car: To get there from NYC, take either the Sprain Brook Parkway North, I-87, or Palisades Interstate Parkway North. Tip: Free street parking is available along Main Street
- By train: From Grand Central Station, take the Metro-North train on the Hudson line towards Poughkeepsie, and get off at Beacon. The commute is about 1hr 50mins. Tip: if you intend to visit Dia:Beacon, consider purchasing an MTA ticket package to save money. With this package, you also receive admission to the museum. Check out their website for the latest pricing information
- By plane: Fly into John F. Kennedy International Airport, then take highway I-678 North into Beacon
Where to stay
The Roundhouse – An upscale hotel housed in a former factory building. This hotel sits right next to the stunning Beacon Falls
Beacon Hotel – Boutique, vintage hotel with a trendy restaurant and lounge. They host live music every week!
Springhill Suites Fishkill – Laid-back, modern, suite-style hotel with scenic mountainside views in Fishkill, NY. It’s conveniently located about 10 minutes from Beacon.
Fun things to do
In Beacon, you have endless options of things to do. You’ll find beautiful state parks, ancient castles, award-winning breweries, dessert shops, and so much more.
Mount Beacon – Take a scenic hike at the beautiful Mount Beacon. At the end of your hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views stretching from the Hudson Highlands to the Catskill Mountains
Free and open year-round from dusk to dawn
Bannerman Castle – Take the ferry to Pollepel Island and enjoy a guided tour of Bannerman Castle. The ancient structure is an abandoned military surplus warehouse formerly owned by entrepreneur Francis Bannerman in the early 1900s. Bannerman Castle also hosts special events such as movie nights, theatrical events, and holiday-themed activities
Cost: $37.50 for adults / $32.50 for children
Fishkill Overlook Falls/Beacon Falls — If you love waterfalls, be sure to add Fishkill Overlook Falls to your list. It’s located on E. Main Street next to The Roundhouse restaurant and hotel. Tip: the falls light up in the evening, so be sure to stick around for that!
Free and open year-round
Artsy things to do
See beautiful art at Dia:Beacon – This museum is a true staple of Beacon culture that has dramatically transformed the city and drawn visitors from around the country. In fact, it’s one of the largest modern art museums in the United States. The famous museum was formerly a Nabisco box printing factory. Today, it features large-scale installations and contemporary art from the 1960s to the present.
Hours: Friday — Monday, 11 am to 6 pm. Advanced reservations required. Cost: $15 general / $12 for students and seniors
Check out murals along Main Street – Be sure to stroll down Main Street to see the vibrant murals. Believe me, street art in Beacon is like nothing you’ve ever seen, and truly reflects the diversity of the city.
Where to shop
Utensil Kitchenware – Stylish, affordable kitchenware. We picked up some unique, homemade seasonings and kitchen trinkets
Lewis & Pine – Home goods store selling beautiful jewelry and stationary
Play – A mix of toys, books, and other nostalgic gift items
Lucky Thirty One – Women’s clothing boutique
Hudson Beach Glass
Hudson Beach Glass – Glass studio located in a restored firehouse, selling handcrafted functional glass and jewelry. They also offer art workshops and classes (temporarily halted due to the pandemic)
Zakka Joy – Gift shop with stationary, housewares, accessories, and bath products
Binnacle Books – Quaint bookstore with a wide selection of new and used books
Where to eat
The Roundhouse – Upscale restaurant, hotel and event space overlooking the beautiful Beacon Falls (see above)
Ama Enoteca – Wood fired kitchen and bar serving authentic Italian cuisine
Glazed Over Donuts – Fresh, homemade donuts and sundaes. Try their newest edition, the donut ice-cream sundae!
Beacon Pantry – Specialty grocery store and artisan cheese shop serving domestic and imported cheese, charcuterie, European style sandwiches, unique chocolates, and fine pastries
Meyer’s Old Dutch – Laid-back, modern, burger joint serving specialty burgers and craft cocktails. The food here is pretty good and the prices are affordable. Highly recommend the simple salad and dirty fries. Life’s about balance, right?
Beacon Creamery – Charming ice cream shop serving unique, all natural ice cream and frozen treats
Bank Square Coffeehouse – Artsy coffee shop serving delicious baked goods and lunch items
Beacon Bread Company – American bakery and bistro serving a variety of pastries and all day breakfast
Two Way Brewing Company – Taproom, brewery, and game room/event space
Royal Crepes – Crêperie offering delicious, unique crepes. Choose from sweet flavors like mixed berry or cinnamon bun. Or go savory and choose buffalo chicken with tomato, or salmon and feta.
I hope this guide has provided you with a wide scope of fun things to do in this wonderful city. Have you ever visited Beacon? Have I convinced you to add it to your list? Let me know in the comments! If you’re looking to experience more of the Hudson Valley, check out this post.
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