Photo by Beacon Transplant Photography

There's something quietly magical about Beacon, NY that keeps drawing me back season after season. Perhaps it's the way the light catches the Hudson River in late afternoon, or how Mount Beacon's colors transform so dramatically throughout the year. As someone who built a business around celebrating seasonal shifts through botanicals, I've found Beacon to be a kindred spirit—a place where natural beauty and creative energy intertwine in the most inspiring ways.

Since opening The Floral Society and moving to Beacon several years ago, I've witnessed this riverside town's continued evolution while somehow maintaining its soulful character. What began as occasional weekend visits has blossomed into a deep connection with this special corner of the Hudson Valley. For those planning a visit, I'm delighted to share my personal guide to experiencing Beacon through every season. You'll soon see why it's one of the perfect weekend getaways from NYC. 

Shopping: Thoughtfully Curated Treasures

Beacon's Main Street stretches for just over a mile, but within this walkable span you'll discover some of the Hudson Valley's most discerning independent boutiques. The shopping experience here isn't driven by consumption but by curation—each space offering a distinct point of view through limited-edition collaborations and artisanal discoveries.

Photo by Beacon Transplant Photography

The Floral Society (161 Main Street) - I'd be remiss not to mention our own sanctuary of botanical inspiration. We opened our Beacon location to showcase our thoughtfully designed objects, dipped taper candles, unique gifts and limited-edition textile collaborations in a space that honors slow making and intentional living. Join us for a cup of tea at our counter or a quick chat about your plants. We’re excited to be the pickup location for Wing Ming Farm’s flower CSA program starting June 2025. 

Photo by Greta Tucker Photography

Flora Good Times (197 Main Street) - A plant lover's paradise with rare specimens, handmade ceramics, and botanical curiosities arranged in Instagram-worthy vignettes. Their knowledgeable staff offers advice on cultivating urban jungles in even the smallest spaces. Shop their seasonal flower bar to celebrate nature’s bounty.

Kaight (512 Main St) Kaight quickly became my go to shop for a wardrobe pick-me-up, but what really brings me back over and over again are the lovely shop keepers. They always greet you with a warm, genuine smile and take an interest in who you are and what you’re looking for. The shop features well made, sustainable fashion brands and makers. Every piece I’ve acquired are timeless pieces that will remain in my wardrobe for many decades to come. 

The Cheese Shop (378 Main St) stocks local cheese and products along with specialty imported snacks and everyone's favorite food products.  You can also snag a fresh sandwich from the counter to take with you or to eat there. 

Artisan Wine Shop (180 Main St) Focusing on smaller producers, this quaint shop carries the best-value wines (many of them organic, biodynamic, natural/low-intervention), passionately made ciders and small-batch spirits. Don't be shy to ask for a recommendation or something chilled. The staff is very helpful and kind. 

Little King (199 Main St) is a well-curated design store that has been recognized as one of the best shops in the Hudson Valley. They specialize in Nordic and Japanese design with an emphasis on timeless design classics. They partner with brands, makers, and producers that prioritize sustainability and green initiatives in their production and packaging process. 

Witch Please (498 Main St) is one of those stores that has been around for a long time, but you may have missed them. They recently expanded into a larger space making it easier to find them and you won’t want to miss it. If you’re into the spiritual and metaphysical realm. They offer card readings that are worth every penny. 

Stanza Books (508 Main St) is my go-to bookstore and a must stop on your Beacon journey.  Locally owned, fully stocked and owned by the most knowledgeable shopkeepers. They embrace my questions and requests for book recommendations that never disappoint. 

Dirty Bacchus (380 Main St) is a unique wine shop with a focus on natural wines that express terroir without intervention—perfect for the curious palate.

Zakka Joy (177 Main St) For those drawn to heritage aesthetics, Zakka Joy brings Japanese-inspired home goods to Beacon. From indigo-dyed textiles to minimalist stationery, their carefully selected merchandise celebrates the beauty of functional design and natural materials.

LUXE Optique (181 Main St) Those seeking eyewear with personality should visit the aptly named Eyeglass Shop, where frames range from classic tortoiseshell to architectural designs that double as wearable art. Their knowledge of fit and face shape makes finding the perfect pair feel like a personalized styling session rather than a medical errand.

Sybil and Sibling (500 & 504 Main St) Sister stores Sybil and Sibling sit side by side on the west side of Beacon. Sibling offers the sweetest selection for little ones and the perfect gift for the special kid in your life. Sybil sits next door offering unique home decor and gifts.  

Utensil (143 Main St) offers kitchen implements and tableware that transform cooking from chore to ceremony. Their collection of wooden spoons, each one unique in grain pattern, sits alongside handmade ceramic platters that make even the simplest meal feel considered.

Hyperbole (484 Main St) remains a local favorite for their eclectic mix of modern design pieces and vintage finds. The shop owners have an uncanny ability to source objects that feel simultaneously familiar and surprising—the kind of things you never knew you needed until you see them displayed on their perfectly styled shelves.

Colorant (146 Main St) celebrates color in all its forms, from natural dye kits to hand-dyed textiles. Their workshops offer visitors the chance to explore ancient color traditions while creating something uniquely their own.

Hunca Muncas (145 Main St) draws you into their whimsical world of thoughtfully picked books, miniatures & sustainable toys for littles. 

Dining: From Morning Rituals to Evening Indulgences

Beacon's culinary landscape embraces the ethos of sophisticated simplicity—establishments that honor ingredients and craft while eschewing pretension. These are spaces where the provenance of each component is considered as carefully as its presentation.

Momo Valley (455 Main St) is hands down the best restaurant in Beacon and possibly the Hudson Valley. The Neopoleasan menu has two sides, one for vegetarian patrons and the other for meat eaters. I love how they split the menu this way to give everyone equal options. Everything is made to order and fresh, when ingredients run out, which they do, the dish is struck from the menu for the evening. If you’re going on a weekend make sure to make a reservation, because this is no longer a hidden gem. If you’re dining here for the first time, you have to get the platter, so you try a bit of everything. The fresh momo are a must-have as well. My favorite are the chicken, but the vegetarian option is delicious as well. 

The Wild Kitchen & Bar (416 Main St) is Beacon’s newest dining experience brought to you by the same people as Kitchen and Coffee and offering farm to table cuisine, almost vegetarian café & bar with fast casual lunch. Full service dinner will be available summer 2025. 

Ziatun (244 Main St) serves authentic Palestinian cuisine in a quaint setting with outdoor seating on the sidewalk. It’s worth ordering a few different dishes and sharing. 

Dave the Butcher (232 Main St) is the newest spot in town offering a fresh meat counter along with a short menu and yummy drinks. You can snag a few extras in their grocery section if you're taking things to go or sit and enjoy a meal in the garden. Their burgers look simple, but are some of the tastiest burgers I've ever tried. 

Nilufer’s Home Kitchen (135 Main St) is a great spot for a leisurely meal. The owner serves authentic Turkish food and sells small trinkets and Turkish goods. We recommend the sampler. 

Beacon Bread Company (193 Main St) serves breakfast, lunch and brunch on the weekends. Their bread is made in house and if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot out front you can enjoy the sunshine on a beautiful day. 

Lyon Share (246 Main St) When you're in search of that relaxed charm, city-feel dining experience. Lyonshare celebrates the public house ethos with great quality food and genuine, enjoyable staff. Solo? Snag a bar seat and unwind with a (signature drink/ burger fries). If you have a little more time to feel special, make a reservation and enjoy an evening with the soundtrack of the live grand piano.

Quinn’s (330 Main) Far from average, this stop is a culture bomb known for eccentric live music and authentic Japanese soul food paired with a curated selection of exceptional sakes, craft beers, wines and spirits. The atmosphere at Quinn’s is unlike any other. Have a night under the red lights and kickback in the heart of Beacon’s nightlife scene

Hakan (462 Main St) Some may visit Hakan for their chocolates, but their coffee selection and pastries are out of this world. We suggest an iced cortado with a sweet or savory pastry, followed by a petite chocolate. Don’t forget to peek in the back to see where the magic happens. 

Kitchen & Coffee (420 Main St) Kitchen & Coffee is a vegetarian restaurant that has figured out how to make healthy food that actually tastes good. Everything on the menu is memorable but the Bahn Mi bowl and the sweet potato burger is what keeps me coming back. Their daily soups and homemade bread is noteworthy as well. Sit in the window seat if you’re by yourself or grab a table on the back patio if you plan on staying for a while. 

Peaceful Provisions (383 Main St) It’s not every weekend you can get a scratch-made vegan donut, but you'll find them here at Peaceful Provisions. Made by two artisan sisters, these donuts will have you reimagining vegan pastry. From a 24/48 hour cold proof to all creams, curds, and custards made in house, you can taste the time quality and attention put into the bites you will enjoy from this shop. Keep in mind they’re only open Friday-Sunday and can sell out of donuts. 

Coopers (47 E Main St) Named after the owner’s beloved dog, Cooper- this casual American pub and restaurant offers a delicious menu and classic drinks. Just off the beaten path, the beverages include an array of local beers on tap, as well as locally distilled spirits. Find them for happy hour, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch! 

Café Amarcord (276 Main Street) This intimate Italian restaurant sources heirloom produce from farms within a 30-mile radius. Their naturally leavened sourdough and house-made pasta programs have developed a cult following among food enthusiasts.

Meyer's Olde Dutch (184 Main Street) Elevating the humble burger to artisanal heights with grass-fed beef ground daily, house-fermented pickles, and small-batch hot sauces. Their cocktail program featuring New York State spirits is equally impressive.

Matcha Thomas (179 Main Street) A Japanese-inspired café specializing in ceremonial-grade matcha and minimalist pastries. The serene, plant-filled space with its handcrafted ceramic vessels offers a mindful counterpoint to the typical coffee shop experience.

The Roundhouse (2 East Main Street) We love this spot for its waterfall views and commitment to hyperlocal sourcing. The building is a converted mill complex oozing character and charm. When the weather is nice check out the patio seating or grab a stool at the bar for a drink. 

Dolly’s (7 Garrisons Landing, Garrison NY) To be clear, Dolly’s is 15-20 minutes south of Beacon, but I couldn’t resist adding it here because it makes for the perfect stop on your way back to Manhattan. If you’re taking the train, you can hop off at the Garrison stop and walk 100ft to the restaurant. If you’re driving it’s conveniently right off of 9D as you head south. The view and ambience is worth the stop. 

Moreish (207 Main St) was located in the Beacon food hall before opening up a permanent restaurant space. Focused on British staples in a quaint setting. 

Bars & Beverages: Gathering Places With Character

Beacon's drink culture transcends mere consumption, focusing instead on craft, provenance, and atmosphere—spaces where the ritual of drinking becomes an experience unto itself.

Big Mouth (387 Main Street) In a plethora of cafes, Big Mouth serves an approach to specialty coffee that gets you involved in the true essence of caffeine and community. Their menu is a full-range exploration of the classics including elevated house blends,  chai, lattes and house-roasted single origins served three ways. Peek into the in-shop roasting room and get a view of the brew which embodies their respect for sustainably-sourced coffees that showcase the origin and quality of each roast. 

Matcha Thomas (179 Main St) This sister-owned teahouse is a community favorite. Their focus on the deepest sense of wellness is reflected in their Uji Matcha lattes, artisan bubble teas and a serene space you don't want to leave in a rush. Their collaborative spirit permeates the seasonally crafted menus and fills out the shop with individuals daily. “Matcha for the people”

Paul Brady Wine Bar (344 Main St) is a shop and bar that is a celebration of wines, beers, ciders, and spirits, all produced in New York state. Snag a seat at the bar and enjoy a charcuterie board with your preferred drink. They’re all yummy. 

Wonderbar (449 Main Street) If you're here just for the evening and looking for a one stop, all-inclusive outing, make your way to Wonderbar. This speakeasy style bar serves craft cocktails and small bites that deliver “delicious” every time. Why one stop? Once you're satisfied at the bar with a bite, head over to the connected 3-screen movie theatre “The Beacon” and enjoy a blockbuster or independent film in the historic 1930’s building. 

Hudson Valley Brewery (7 East Main Street) Their experimental sour IPAs and distinctive can art have earned them cult status among craft beer enthusiasts. The minimal concrete-and-wood taproom hosts limited bottle releases that draw crowds from across the Northeast.

Denning's Point Distillery (10 North Chestnut Street) This small-batch distillery crafts award-winning spirits using Hudson Valley grains. Their tasting room offers flights and cocktails showcasing their bourbon, rye, and gin in their purest expressions.

The Vinyl Room (396 Main Street) A natural wine bar meets record shop, where orange wines and pet-nats are paired with carefully selected vinyl. The knowledgeable staff curates both liquid and musical offerings with equal passion.

Nature & Hiking: Breathtaking Vistas & Mindful Escapes

Photo by Beacon Transplant Photography

The landscape surrounding Beacon offers some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in the Hudson Valley—experiences that connect you to the same natural world that inspires our botanical work. The juxtaposition of culture and nature makes Beacon one of the best weekend getaways from NYC. 

Mount Beacon Fire Tower Hike For those seeking both challenge and reward, this extended version of the popular Mount Beacon hike leads to a restored fire tower offering 360-degree views of the Hudson Valley. The early morning light creating a gradient of blues and purples across the landscape is worth the pre-dawn start.

Bannerman Island Kayak Tour (departing from Long Dock Park) - Experience the Hudson River from water level while paddling to this mysterious island with its crumbling Scottish-style castle. Mountain Waters Outdoor Company offers small-group guided tours that include historical context and access to areas closed to regular visitors.

Malouf's Mountain Sunset Camp For an elevated camping experience, this hike-in, hike-out campground provides platform tents with memory foam mattresses and optional meal packages featuring local ingredients. Their more remote sites offer remarkable solitude just 90 minutes from Manhattan.

Constitution Marsh Sanctuary (nearby in Cold Spring) - This Audubon-protected tidal marsh offers a contemplative boardwalk trail where you can observe migratory birds and native plants. Visit at dawn when the mist rises off the water for a nearly transcendent experience of stillness.

Minnewaska State Park (a scenic 40-minute drive) Just beyond Beacon, this preserve features crystalline sky lakes, dramatic cliff edges, and miles of carriage roads perfect for trail running or mountain biking. The glacier-carved landscape feels worlds away from urban concerns.

Art & Culture: World-Class Creativity

Beacon's artistic identity extends far beyond the monumental Dia:Beacon that put it on the cultural map. Today, the town hosts a sophisticated ecosystem of galleries, studios, and creative spaces that rival major urban centers while maintaining an approachable intimacy.

Dia:Beacon (3 Beekman Street) This former Nabisco factory houses one of the world's most significant collections of minimalist, conceptual, and light-based art. The Richard Serra installations alone justify the visit, their massive steel forms creating an almost metaphysical experience of space and weight.

Magazzino Italian Art (a 20-minute drive in Cold Spring) This private museum dedicated to postwar and contemporary Italian art offers a contemplative experience with its Arte Povera collection and site-specific installations. The architectural dialogue between building and landscape is itself worth studying.

Ethan Cohen KuBe (211 Fishkill Avenue) Housed in a repurposed former high school, this satellite of the NYC gallery presents museum-quality contemporary art in a raw industrial space. Their artist residency program brings international perspectives to the local scene.

Fun Things to Do: Unique Experiences

Beyond the expected categories, Beacon offers distinctive experiences that speak to contemporary sensibilities—activities that combine authenticity, aesthetic pleasure, and meaningful connection.

Tintype (149 Main St) is a wet plate collodion portrait studio creating heirloom, handmade portraits on tin (tintypes) and glass (ambrotypes) in a 19th century technique that is hauntingly timeless and incredibly archival. You’ll walk away with a one of a kind object that is meant to be handed down for generations. Book ahead to make sure you get to walk away with this special keepsake. Walk-ins are welcome but not guaranteed. 

The Beacon (445 Main St) is a 3-screen movie theatre featuring blockbusters and independent fils in a historic theatre setting from the 1930s. They serve popcorn and adult beverages. Pop into Wonderbar before or after for a bite and yummy cocktail. 

Alchemy (418 Main St) is new to Beacon and is the spot we all had no idea we needed, but we can’t live without now. Yin Yoga with Julia is my favorite class to join and I never forget to leave time for the sauna, steam room and cool shower in their gorgeous facilities. Think green roman marble and unique tiles. If you have time for a massage, I highly recommend the 90-minute option. It was one of the best massages I’ve ever had and you’ll regret only booking 60 minutes. 

Long Dock Park (23 Long Dock Rd) was once a vital rail link which was turned into a riverfront destination for the young and the old. You can simply stroll through rehabilitated wetlands and meadows, drop a fishing line or just sit down by the water for the view. Kids love climbing on the rocks and trees down by the beach and you may be lucky enough to catch a drumming circle. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding rentals available through Hudson River Expeditions

Hudson Beach Glass (162 Main St) serves as both a glass blowing studio and shop where you can purchase their unique creations. Classes fill up quickly and far in advance at certain times of the year, so make sure to book ahead. 

Happy Valley (296 Main St) is an arcade bar featuring all the best old school video games like Donkey Kong, Pinball, Pac-man and so many more. Don’t forget to snap a photo in the photobooth to take home as a keepsake. 

Super Secret Projects (484 Main St, Gallery in the back) The gallery you don't want to keep a secret is tucked behind the backdoor of  Hyperbole, a maximalists dream shop that carries new, secondhand and vintage pieces. Super secret projects is an artist-run gallery that brings the meaning of art community  to life through social nights, workshops and monthly shows for all.  Check out an evening art opening every second Saturday

Beacon Flea (6 Henry St) This seasonal outdoor market is operational on fine weather Sunday’s 8am-3pm. The variety of beacon flea vendors makes this market fresh and engaging with offerings in vintage collectibles, antique curiosities, and handmade products. 

Distortion Society (155 Main St) Distortion society was founded by a husband-and-wife duo Bradly Silver (a tattoo artist) and Michelle Silver (a painter). Merging eclectic styles of tattooing and contemporary art exhibitions, DS aims to blur the lines between body art and fine art, breaking stigmas associated with each space, putting into question the ideas of high brow vs lowbrow art and elevating both the gallery and tattoo experiences through their intersection.

The exhibition space at the front features bimonthly presentations of national and international artist's work; the tattoo studio features accomplished resident and guest tattooers working in a range of unique styles.

Beacon Farmers Market (Veterans Place, Sundays 10am-3pm, May-November) This producer-only market transcends the typical farmers market experience. The carefully vetted vendors include heritage grain bakers, natural wine producers, and foraged botanicals that often inspire our seasonal arrangements. The prepared food section features several James Beard-nominated chefs testing new concepts.

Hudson River Expeditions (178 Main Street) Their guided sunset kayak tours offer a uniquely meditative perspective on the river valley. The twilight paddle concludes with local cheese and natural wine on a secluded beach accessible only by water.

Places to Stay: Rest & Restoration

Beacon's accommodation options reflect the town's commitment to thoughtful design, authentic experiences, and connection to place—each offering a distinct perspective on Hudson Valley hospitality.

Photo by Beacon Transplant Photography

The Roundhouse (2 East Main Street) This meticulously converted industrial complex represents adaptive reuse at its finest. Concrete, steel, and glass harmonize with organic elements in rooms featuring custom furniture by local craftspeople and floor-to-ceiling views of Fishkill Creek's cascading waterfall.

The Dutchess Inn & Spa (151 Main St) features a rooftop fire-side lounge with 360 views of Beacon and beyond and an array of spa treatments. They offer a variety rooms to satisfy varied needs, including an artist loft that is also used for their artist residency. 

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Beacon (Rt. 9D) *coming winter 2026 The Mirbeau Inn & Spa Beacon, a luxury spa and inn, is scheduled to open in early 2026 and will be located on the historic Tioronda Estate (also known as the Howland Estate) in Beacon, NY, along Route 9D. The property is being restored and will feature a blend of modern amenities and the estate's historical character, including a large spa, guest rooms, and dining options. 

A Perfect Weekend Itinerary in Beacon

For those seeking to experience the most considered elements of Beacon's culture, here's a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances discovery with moments of reflection:

Friday Evening:

• Check into The Roundhouse and request a waterfall-view room

• Stroll over to shop sustainably made clothing at Kaight and pick up a new book from Stanza book for your travels. 

• Aperitivo hour at the hotel bar with their signature herb-infused spritz. If the weather is nice, consider sitting on the patio. 

• Dinner and drinks at Dave the Butcher. Sit inside or if the weather allows their casual garden dining is delightful. 

• Nightcap at Wonderbar, asking the bartender to create something with their house-made amaro

Saturday:

• Morning yoga and sauna at Alchemy. If you have time, book a massage or red light therapy session. 

• Light breakfast of pastries and espresso at Big Mouth. Enjoy the sunshine on the front benches and the constant stream of passerbys. If you’re in the mood, snag a donut next door to enjoy with your coffee at Peaceful Provisions. The businesses are friendly and don’t mind bringing food between the two spots. 

• Dia:Beacon visit (arrive when they open at 10am to experience the Richard Serra gallery before crowds arrive)

• Late lunch at Momo Valley, focusing on their freshly made Momo and authentic dishes. 

• Afternoon visit to The Floral Society for our curated collection of floral, garden and design books featuring our favorite authors along with our dipped taper candles and unique gifts all inspired by nature. 

• Pre-dinner stroll through Denning's Point as golden hour illuminates the Hudson

• Dinner at The Roundhouse Restaurant (the tasting menu with beverage pairings is worth the splurge)

• Evening visit to The Vinyl Room for natural wine and carefully curated soundscapes

Sunday:

• Early morning kayak expedition on the Hudson with Hudson River Expeditions (the sunrise paddle includes cliff-side yoga)

• Brunch at Beacon Bread Company, where their fresh bread and classic brunch menu won’t disappoint. 

• Farmers Market exploration, connecting with local producers

• Final visit to The Floral Society to select one of our ceramic vessels or handmade iron candelabras—objects that will continue to bring pleasure and purpose long after your weekend concludes.

• Pop by Flora Good Times on your way out of town to pick up a new plant or bundle of flowers to bring home and The Cheese Shop for travel snacks. 

• If you’re headed back to the city and need dinner, stop at Dolly’s in Garrison for gorgeous views and yummy food. 

In Beacon, I've found that the most meaningful experiences emerge from following the rhythm of seasons rather than an exhaustive checklist. Like the practice of arranging flowers, the art of experiencing this town is about thoughtful selection, considered juxtaposition, and allowing space for unexpected beauty.

Whether you arrive seeking creative inspiration, culinary discoveries, or simply a moment to recalibrate away from urban intensity, Beacon offers a rare alchemy of natural beauty, cultural depth, and artisanal excellence. It's a place that rewards the observant visitor—one who arrives with curiosity and departs with not just photographs but a shifted perspective on what makes a place truly worth returning to.

More Beacon Resources

• Shopper's Guide To Beacon, NY
• Best Weekend Getaways From NYC