Beacon, New York has repeatedly topped Budget Travel’s annual list of the coolest small towns in America. Nestled in the Hudson Highlands and sidled up alongside the Hudson River, this quaint little town of just over 13,000 residents boasts some big vacation value. With its thriving contemporary art scene, innate natural beauty, beloved local charm, and endless array of family-friendly activities, it’s no wonder visitors agree that this little town is so ‘cool’. The best way to enjoy your time in Beacon is from the cozy comfort of the Bespoke Beacon House. This four-bedroom, two-bath rental home is conveniently located only one block from Main Street. It is tastefully decorated and offers a comfortable, clean, homey experience for visitors. With its fully stocked kitchen, open living space, and backyard deck complete with fire pit and view, it is truly like a home away from home!
Famous Contemporary Art Scene
Beacon is famous for its contemporary art scene. It is home to dozens of fantastic museums and galleries, including the Dia Beacon, one of the largest contemporary art galleries in the U.S. Located right on the banks of the Hudson River inside a recycled former Nabisco box-printing factory, the Dia Beacon opened in 2003. It proudly exhibits exquisite art from the 1960s to the present in a stunning 160,00 square foot space that is sure to impress.
Located just outside of Beacon to the south is the highest point in the Hudson Highlands, Beacon Mountain. The mountain, known as Mount Beacon to the locals, features two summits that are each nearly 1600 feet above sea level and are accessible to hikers by trails. The south peak is the more manageable of the two and offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife. The summit is a challenging 1000-foot vertical gain via stairs and switchbacks from Mount Beacon trailhead, but the adventurer at heart will be duly rewarded for the effort with an unforgettable panoramic view of the river valley below.
Main Street
For a less strenuous day, visitors can check out Beacon’s endearing Main Street. Visitors are delighted by this friendly, walkable strip brimming with old-fashioned Americana charm and appeal. Dotted with local eateries, artisan shops, art galleries, charming boutiques, and more, it has been named one of the most beautiful Main Streets in America. One of the most popular stops on Main is Hudson Beach Glass, located inside the refurbished firehouse, which houses both a glass-blowing gallery and a shop filled with unique handmade treasures. Main Street is only a short one-block walk from the Bespoke Beacon house and offers an array of fun activities, delicious food, and unique shopping opportunities for the entire family.
On Sundays, Beacon hosts a farmer’s market as well as the seasonal Beacon Flea Market. Shoppers come from all over the area to sift through booths filled with vintage antiques, unique handmade crafts, and locally produced foods at these bustling, open-air markets located in the heart of Beacon. Visitors are certain to find some one-of-a-kind handmade items, collectible antiques, or delicious homegrown goodies to take home with them from the Sunday markets.
Beacon, New York has been repeatedly touted as the ‘coolest small town in America’ and for good reason. This quaint little town in the Hudson Highlands is located approximately two hours north of New York City and is packed full of hometown goodness, bountiful activities, natural beauty, and endless opportunity for relaxation and adventure. Book a stay at Bespoke Beacon home today and come enjoy all the coolness this destination has to offer.