GREAT GETAWAYS

Just an hour north of Manhattan lies a convenient weekend getaway for Long Islanders.

Beacon, N.Y., has emerged as a Hudson Valley hub for contemporary art, great food and cocktails, boutique shopping and natural charm — including a downtown waterfall.

And since it’s becoming near-impossible to get around Manhattan without hitting a ton of traffic — no matter the time — if I find a great spot that doesn’t require hours of travel, I become a repeat visitor.

That’s how Beacon became my go-to for ditching town.

Where to stay

Choosing a hotel is probably the most simple part of planning a trip to Beacon. For me there’s one choice. And it’s all anyone needs.

The Roundhouse

The Roundhouse, a historic boutique hotel in the heart of the downtown, is nestled next to the waterfalls of Fishkill Creek. This once boarded-up Industrial Revolution-era textile factory was restored and revamped into a 51-room chic hotel.

The rooms’ repurposed beams, exposed brick and high ceilings fit the history of the property. 

The hotel has two buildings, with one having rooms with floor-to-ceiling window views of the falls.

If you’re going, especially for the first time, spring for a waterfall room.

Nothing beats waking up to the relaxing sound of the falls.

Fun fact: The owners of The Roundhouse are from Huntington and Massapequa.

Featured photo: The Roundhouse (Facebook)

Where to eat

Let’s start with a disclaimer: I am not a foodie and I hate truffle. I envy those who are adventurous with food, but that’s not me. With that said, Beacon is definitely a foodie town! So though it took me a while to figure out what to eat at most places, if you have a liberal palette you will be fine. Excited, even.

The Vault

Continuing with the theme of old things turned new, The Vault is a former bank that serves brunch and dinner. Brunch was my favorite, particularly the chicken and waffles. If you’re going with friends, ask for the Mimosa Party, it’s a bottle of Prosecco with the OJ on the side.

Sukhothai

The drunken noodles here were some of the best I ever had. If you enjoy Thai food, this is place is a must.

Enoteca Ama

Wood-fired is my favorite style of pizza, though I understand that’s sacrilegious for a native Long Islander. But after a long day, and maybe a long hike, I just want a quick dinner and to get back to my cozy room. There are plenty of simple pies at Enoteca Ama for picky eaters like me, but some fun combinations for the adventurous.

If you love their pizza, you can also check out their nearby sister restaurant, Cafe Amarcord.

Yankee Clipper Diner

I felt like I stepped back into 1946, when this diner was opened.

I’m talking mirrored walls, red leather dining chairs, full-on retro. But also not trying to be retro?

More like they just haven’t changed the place since it opened, and I mean that in a good way. I always appreciate a good diner that does the basics and does it well.

The Roundhouse Restaurant

Where do I start? The filet mignon, charred on the outside, cooked to perfection on the inside, the blistered shishito peppers, yellow fin tuna. This restaurant is a non-negotiable.

If you are heading to Beacon, book your reservation now.

Where to drink

Unlike food, when it comes to drinks, I want to try everything. The cocktail scene in Beacon is my favorite part. 

Benmarl Winery

Located about 20 minutes from Beacon in Marlboro, N.Y., this winery has some of the best views of Hudson Valley you’ll ever experience. When you walk the grounds you will find some adorable curious little goats. Be sure to make a reservation before you go! This is a truly can’t miss excursion.

Hudson Valley Brewery

Named one of the Top 11 breweries in the Hudson Valley by Hop Culture, this brewery is a day-drinkers dream that’s right on Main Street. Known for their collaborations, there’s always something new to try. Don’t skip the tour either! (It’s free, but you need reservations.)

Wonderbar Beacon

This Art Deco bar looks as good as the drinks taste. They pride themselves on their creative cocktails, that do change seasonally, but never disappoint. Just be patient with the bartenders.

They take this seriously.

Melzingah Tap House

As a bourbon lover, I had to try the Smoked Pear Old Fashion.

I personally love traveling in the fall and winter, and a little warmth to the chest from a smoked old fashion can really set the tone for a wonderful evening.

I was pleasantly surprised by Melzingah, as normally a place has either great beer, or great cocktails, but rarely both.

Craft beer drinkers can enjoy a flight from their rotating selection of 23 craft beers.

The Vinyl Room

Have you ever been to a vinyl record cocktail bar?

I hadn’t, before stumbling upon The Vinyl Room. And the tunes are unmatched, along with the cocktails. You can spend five minutes in The Vinyl Room and appreciate how much thought went into this bar. Sunday is my favorite, as they have “Vinyl Sessions,” a curated selection of LPs spinning from noon to 10 p.m.

The Roundhouse

If you don’t get the best weather when you go, you have an amazing bar right downstairs at the Roundhouse. Call to see if the cocktail lounge is open; it has a fireplace with a very winter lodge feel. They also have a bar in the restaurant and serve drinks outdoors during the warmer months.

Sightseeing

Bear Mountain is about 25 minutes from downtown Beacon. Most of the trails are considered moderately challenging. Keep in mind, this is a huge attraction — featuring some of the best views and trails in the Hudson Valley — so it does get crowded.

Other hikes and trails with moderate terrain and great payoff views include Mt. Beacon and The Fishkill Ridge Trail.

Make sure you go see the waterfalls next to the Roundhouse at night, as they are up-lighted and magical. 

Shopping

Clothing and Gifts: The Snooki Shop, La Mere Clothing and goods, Beacon Bath & Bubble, Solestad House, Hudson Valley Vinyl.

Just keep walking down Main Street, there are dozens more! 

Art: This town seriously loves art, so go check out some galleries.

I recommend Hudson Beach Glass and Dia Beacon.