Although weekends are often packed with studying and fun events to attend on campus, I have to admit that one of my favorite pastimes is hopping in my car with friends and traveling to a nearby town. From Rhinebeck to New Paltz, I have spent many hours wandering in and out of the vintage stores and coffee shops that these picturesque Hudson Valley mainstays offer. One spot, however, holds a special place in my heart: Beacon. Admittedly, I stayed at a hotel in Beacon—The Roundhouse—the night before move-in day my first year–so maybe my perspective is slightly swayed by nostalgia. Regardless, I truly believe that there is something for everyone in Beacon. Roughly a 30-minute drive from campus or just two Metro-North stops away, the town is highly accessible from a transportation standpoint. Most shops and eateries are on the Main Street, which is both convenient and easy to navigate. Each time I have been—and, yes, I have been many, many times—families and friend groups have dotted the sidewalk, contributing to an overall energetic and pleasant atmosphere. Sounds interesting? Well, lucky you. I have curated a list of restaurants, shops and activities for a day well-spent in Beacon.
To Shop:
Blackbird Attic
Although I usually struggle to find affordable clothing at curated consignment (rather than thrift) shops, I had plenty of luck at Blackbird Attic. Each clothing section is neatly sorted, and they offer a variety of sizes and cater to many different groups—they even had a children’s clothing section the last time I went. A highlight for me is their jeans section, featuring styles from boyfriend to bootcut. I had incredible luck the last time I went, scoring a pair of black Roberto Cavalli jeans in their sale section for only $20. The jeans were such a win that they were worth the trip alone, but lo and behold, I spied a pale pink, gorgeously ’80s Gunne Sax by Jessica McClintock top (if you know, you know). I had been searching for ages for a Gunne Sax that would not break the bank, let alone an authentic Gunne Sax at all. I genuinely could not believe my eyes that I found one. This shop alone is almost worth the 30 minute drive.
Hyperbole
The adorable decorations and curated mug collection drew my attention at first glance. If I had to use one word to describe this store, it would be versatile. They offer a delightful clothing selection, artwork and cards. The main attraction, however, is the jewelry. One of my most-complimented pairs of earrings—stunning clay handmade drops featuring a blue teacup-esque pattern—was purchased here. A big jewelry trend right now is stacked rings. Whether you opt for a funky mixed metal set or chunky stones, Hyperbole can cater to every ring-wearer’s taste. The employees are super helpful if you are having a ring-related shopping crisis, or if you just want advice on how to spruce up your jewelry collection.
Mountain Tops Outfitters
Although I grew up along the Appalachian Trail, I am surprisingly not a huge hiking gal. But I must admit I have a soft spot for a good outdoors-wear store. What can I say, I am a Pennsylvania girl at heart. Mountain Tops Outfitters has a great selection of clothing, hiking shoes and accessories, as well as water bottles both trendy and practical. Last time I was there, there was an adorable dog trotting around the store that I was elated to pet. I had fun flipping through the hiking guides that they had and eyeing the Patagonia fleeces adorning the walls. If you are part of the Vassar Outing Club, this might just be the perfect store for you.
To Eat:
Hudson Valley Food Hall
This place truly has something for everyone. As a food hall, it houses numerous stalls with cuisines from around the world. Are you with a picky eater? No problem, there is great mac and cheese at Miz Hattie’s Southern Barbeque. Craving some spice? Dulce Cielo Mx has delicious tacos that have the perfect amount of kick. Have a sweet tooth? They are opening an ice cream spot called Five Pennies Creamery in Spring 2024. The energy is fun and lively, with great music blasting while patrons line up at each respective stall. If you feel so inclined, you can even sample from more than one spot.
The Vault:
This restaurant is perfect for dining with a group—their speciality is tapas. Their truffle fries are to die for. I have also recently been on a shishito pepper kick, and theirs are cooked to perfection and served with a side of zesty ranch. Although the booths and tables are comfortable, they also have a shaded outdoor seating spot. Beyond their usual tapas menu, they also offered unique omelet options for brunch, such as broccoli and cheese, as well as mushroom. The Vault is super accommodating if you want to make substitutions (my mom switched her roast out for a side salad).
Glazed Over
I love a fun dessert shop, and this doughnut joint delivers. You can customize your doughnut, or pick from pre-selected flavor combinations. It would be fun to split a box with friends and do a little taste-test session, or you could just enjoy the box all to yourself. I particularly admire their more daring combinations—you can even put bacon on top if a sweet-salty duo suits your fancy. They also offer coffee and tea if you need something to pair with your sweet treat.
To Drink:
Kitchen and Coffee
On Easter Weekend, my family and I stopped for a pick-me-up at Kitchen and Coffee. My dad is a bit of a tea snob, and my mom is a bit of a coffee snob, but both parties were pleased with their drinks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting; the windows allow plenty of bright natural light in. Although my London Fog was delicious, the real highlight was the mini chia pudding cup with fresh fruit that I got as a little snack. They made the chia pudding in house, and it was like eating tiny, coconutty clouds. I do not know why, but the pudding really had a grip on me. I definitely want to go back and check out the various toasts they serve—lemon hummus and crostini, yes please!
Matcha Thomas
If you are like me, you are obsessed with tea—specifically, matcha. Coffee just makes me too jittery, and matcha just seems to hit the perfect balance of energy without restlessness. Luckily, Beacon offers a tea house specifically catered to that perfect green beverage. Sure, you can go with a classic hot (or iced) matcha, but Matcha Thomas also offers a number of fun variations and other teas. Not to mention, all of their drinks are both vegan and gluten free, which is great if you are traveling with friends or family who have dietary restrictions. Although I have not personally sampled them, I have been eyeing the rose and elderflower varieties for the next time I go.
Bank Square Coffeehouse
This spot is a Beacon classic. But, I do not want to simply grant them ol’ reliable status, because they truly never disappoint. For train travelers, this coffeehouse is in close proximity to the train station so it makes for the perfect first stop on your Beacon adventure. For the warmer months, they have a super cute outdoor seating area. I do not know much about coffee or espresso, but they have some seriously high-tech coffee-making appliances. And, hey, the drinks taste good, so I guess that means they are working. I also recommend their frozen chai and smoothies if you are in the mood for something refreshing.
To do:
Beans Cat Cafe:
The storefront that caught my eye the most the first time I went to Beacon was Beans Cat Cafe. Through the glass, I gazed at a sleeping tabby cat surrounded by fellow furball friends, all being petted and played with by customers. So, for the next trip I planned, I made sure to make a reservation at the cafe (walk-ins are welcome if a reservation falls through, but I highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time). The cafe side provides your typical lattes and pastry selection, but the main attraction is the cat room. Before entering, the employees will give you a quick rundown of how to handle the cats and other guidelines. While I was there, I sat on the floor and let the cats crawl all over me, occasionally using a fishing rod toy to capture their attention. The best part is that all of the cats in the cafe are available for adoption, and their website features plenty of adoption success stories.
Hudson Beach Glass:
This place is just the coolest. They have a half-outdoor, garage-door-style setup where you can view the various glassware they produce, almost like a mini-museum. I am always amazed at how intricate the detail is, and how vibrant the colors are. You can purchase vases, plates and other artisan glass products, or just watch the magic happen. They also offer glass-making classes, which I personally have not done but are for sure a bucket-list experience. If you celebrate Christmas, there are some awesome ornaments they make around the holidays that would make a great gift for parents.
Binnacle Books:
What is a trip to a small town without going to a local bookstore? This shop first drew me in with their outdoor $1 book selection, which is great if you are looking for a good read on a budget. The store itself is small, with books seemingly spilling out at every end. The employees are super friendly and helpful, and they boast a variety of different genres. Despite the multitude of books they sell, the store is still highly organized and super inviting. I recommend this stop for any English majors or correlates or, well, anyone!