8 A.M.
After an early morning drive or trip via Metro North, fuel up at Kitchen & Coffee (420 Main Street) for gluten-free, vegetarian toasts and bowls, coffee and tea.
9 A.M.
The Hudson Valley has some of the most scenic hikes in the entire state. Catch a ride on the city of Beacon’s free loop bus to the trailhead for Mount Beacon. It’s a steep mile up to explore the ruins of the abandoned Mount Beacon Incline Railway, casino and hotel but worth it for panoramic views of the valley. Extend your hike to reach the summit and climb a fire tower for even more impressive views.
NOON
You’ve worked up quite an appetite, but why decide on just one place? Snack your way through the Hudson Valley Food Hall & Market (288 Main Street). This melting pot features a variety of vendors, from Nicaraguan cuisine to southern barbecue and oysters. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, head to Glazed Over Donuts (315 Main Street) to customize your own over-the-top treat.
1 P.M.
Have an artful afternoon exploring Dia Beacon (3 Beekman Street), a contemporary art museum on the banks of the Hudson. The light, airy space was formerly a Nabisco box factory and features artists with ties to the East End, including Dan Flavin and Richard Serra.
3 P.M.
Shop your way along Main Street, where there’s no shortage of carefully curated clothing boutiques and locally made wares, from unique jewelry at Lewis & Pine (133 Main Street) to handmade pieces at Hudson Beach Glass (162 Main Street). Bookworms will love Binnacle Books (321 Main Street) and plant lovers will love checking out the decor and accessories at Flora Good Times (197 Main Street.) Stop in Stella’s Fine Market (155 Main Street) for New York made foodie finds. Find small-batch apothecary goods at Beacon Mercantile (493 Main Street) and for ‘everything else,’ there’s the Solstad House (488 Main Street), a unique general store.
7 P.M.
Ease into the evening with pre-dinner drinks at one of the area’s many breweries. Try a sour IPA at Hudson Valley Brewery (7 East Main Street), a hard cider at Two Way Brewing Company (18 West Main Street), or a 100% New York farm-to-pint brew at Industrial Arts (511 Fishkill Avenue).
8 p.m.
Cap off the day with dinner at the Roundhouse (2 East Main Street), a beautiful restaurant and hotel with views of Beacon Falls. The menu spotlights seasonal ingredients from local farms, wineries and distilleries. Try the Hudson Valley Duck Breast and Hudson Valley Apple Crisp!
Staying over?
Just 70 miles north of NYC, Beacon is ideal for a day trip. But if you’re looking to make a weekend of exploring the Hudson Valley, you can stay at the Roundhouse, where rustic charm meets luxurious accommodations in the hotel on the property. Splurge on the penthouse for a balcony overlooking the falls, heavenly king size bed and a huge circular soaking tub.
