Planning a daytrip to Beacon
Beacon Engine fire house on East Main Street.
Just 60 miles north of New York City, Beacon, NY is an artistic and cultural gem in the heart of the Hudson Highlands. With an almost mile-long Main Street, it’s also a mecca for those who love to explore independent shops. And it’s a must-visit for foodies with a passion for international and diverse cuisine.
First-time visitors to Beacon should be prepared to redefine what they imagine a small Hudson Valley city to be. Stay a day, stay a weekend, or a week. Between artwalking, shopping, eating and drinking, and exploring Beacon’s natural beauty, there’s so much to do. Whatever your expectations, don’t rush, take it all in and enjoy. There’ll always be a next time.
Set within a five-mile radius, Beacon is a highly walkable city. In fact, Walk Score rates it as a “walkers’ paradise” with a 96 out of 100 score. So, leave the car behind, and get some exercise while doing your bit to help the planet.
Take the train
If you’re coming from Manhattan, leave early to make the most of the day. Take the MTA from Grand Central and you’ll be here 90 minutes later, at the most. The journey offers spectacular views of the Hudson River as well as Storm King and Breakneck mountains. Top tip: stash cellphones and appreciate the spectacular view. If you’re lucky, you may just spot a bald eagle or two.
Once at Beacon Train Station, take the Loop bus waiting outside to either Dia Beacon or stay on to get to Main Street. Both are also walking distance. For Main Street, it’s a simple five-to-10-minute walk along West Main Street (or Beekman Street) depending on your exit. Street signs will guide the way.
Visit Dia Beacon
The entrance to Dia Beacon.
To get to Dia Beacon, just turn right onto Beekman Street and a two-minute walk will take you to Dia’s elegant orange gates. Weekends can be busy, so it’s helpful to book a timeslot online in advance. For the hungry or thirsty visitor, Dia Beacon Café by Homespun Foods offers delicious lunch and snack options and everything to drink from coffee and tea to a curated offering of fine wine.
Main Street’s a must
Beacon’s Lower Main Street.
Once you’ve immersed yourself in Dia’s jawdropping art collection from the 1960s to the present day, head to Main Street. We’d hate for you to miss out.
Visitors on a Second Saturday—that’s every second Saturday in the month—will find special art, music, and cultural events across the city, including opening receptions for many of the galleries here. Follow our Stories and Posts on Instagram for all the latest, hyperlocal event news.
So much to do
Because Beacon is home to more than 70 eateries, wine bars and coffee and tea shops, and more than 80 independent stores, there’s literally something for everyone. (Now you can see why we recommend staying for more than a day or visiting often!)
With so many options, we recommend exploring our Shopping, Eating & Drinking, and Arts & Culture directories to curate a personal experience. See our Events page for the top events of the week and weekend.
Restaurants we love
Enjoy Himalayan food at Momo Valley.
Here’s just a handful of restaurant suggestions for inspiration:
Breakfast
Yankee Clipper Diner | 397 Main Street | A classic American diner with endless delicious options
Moreish at Hudson Valley Food Hall | 288 Main Street | Full English breakfast (includes vegetarian option)
Beacon Bread Company | 193-195 Main Street | Breakfast Enchiladas
Lunch/Brunch
Momo Valley | 455 Main Street | Incredible vegan options available including a beautiful thukpa soup topped with scallions
Towne Crier Café | 397 Main Street | Highlights include an authentic Cuban black bean soup, Chicken wings, and Taste of the Middle East Platter
Nansense Afghan Restaurant | 2 Eliza Street | Double burger with Masala fries, small bites including Mantu and Banjan and some beautiful rice bowl vegan options
Dinner
Café Amacord | 276 Main Street | Upscale American fare set against a vintage Italian background
Brothers Trattoria | 465 Main Street | Italian restaurant offering delicious pasta and pizza in a super-friendly setting
Melzingah Tap House | 554 Main Street | American fare, craft beer, and an upbeat vibe day and night
Until next time…
The Beacon Beacon 🧡