Voted the “#1 Coolest Small Town in America” by Budget Travel, the City of Beacon features a picturesque, walkable main street corridor with no shortage of delicious culinary options or immersive artistic experiences. Don’t miss Dia Beacon, a large collection of contemporary art housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory on the banks of the Hudson River – not far from the dock for the late Pete Seeger’s Sloop Clearwater, a replica of the vessels that sailed the river centuries ago. Enjoy the city’s growing craft beverage scene and sip local brews, spirits and more. Hike to the top of Mount Beacon for spectacular Hudson Valley views. Outside the city center, visit Mount Gulian Historic Site, home of the pioneering Verplanck family and the headquarters of unsung hero of the American Revolution, General Friedreich Von Steuben.

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Check out the Empire State Trail, which is a 750-mile path connecting people to New York’s spectacular natural beauty, cultural heritage, iconic landscapes and unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities. The trail connects urban centers, village main streets and rural communities from New York City through the Hudson River Valley, west to Buffalo along the historic Erie Canal, and north to the Adirondacks. For more information, visit empiretrail.ny.gov.