Weekend Guide to Beacon + Cold Spring
photo by Justin Jamison
For all those New Yorkers looking for a quick weekend getaway, Beacon and Cold Spring have become the hotspot destinations in the Hudson Valley. Accessibility, nature, good food, and relaxing activities to do all have the makings of the types of weekend getaways that New Yorkers crave after hectic workweeks.
Small, but not-so-sleepy little towns, Beacon and Cold Spring can easily be combined in one weekend, thanks to their proximity to one another and size. If you have a car, it's an easy 12 minute drive from one town to another, or a quick train stop on the Metro-North.Both Beacon and Cold Springs' main to-do's for shopping and eating lie on the main street of each respective town, but there are plenty of outdoors activities (pending on what season it is) and other exploring to do.I’ve been to both towns numerous times over the last few years and it’s exciting to see local business flourish and new ones come in, as well!
I’ve rounded up all my favorite spots for you guys in one easy weekend guide to Beacon and Cold Spring here, for your perfect upstate NY weekend getaway. The guide is organized by where to stay, eat, and explore in both Beacon and Cold Spring.
WHERE TO STAY
Roundhouse Beacon
I honestly don't think there's a better place to spend your weekend than the Roundhouse. It's a popular and historic spot for New York weddings, so you can imagine just how pretty the property is. Situated right atop the Beacon waterfalls that you can see from some of the guest rooms, the restaurant, and the bar lounge, the building is true to its name for its round structure.
The modern rooms are airy, minimalistic, and luxurious with sleek design. While you're a guest, you really get peace and quiet thanks to the tranquil aesthetic and vibe. The furniture is all locally crafted and custom made, like the ultra-comfortable bed fitted with a cozy alpaca blanket. Wake up in the morning to your Keurig coffee maker in your plush bathrobe, then head downstairs for a complimentary hot breakfast (with the best bacon ever, seriously) in the restaurant overlooking the Beacon falls.
Update: For my most recent visit to Beacon, we stayed at the penthouse suite in the roundhouse (see that tub in the slideshow above!) and it was UNREAL. A patio overlooking the falls, that circular tub in the middle of the room, massive bathroom/vanity area, and shower. What a dream!
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
FOR COFFEE + SMALL BITES
IN BEACON
Ella's Bellas Beacon- It's an all gluten-free bakery, but you wouldn't know it. Fresh coffee, food, and baked goodies, this is a one-stop pit stop for everyone. Don't miss the whoopie pies, ginger-spice cookies, and oatmeal cookies. Yep, I had all 3...
Bank Square Coffeehouse- A cozy, no-frills coffeeshop with a million and one flavors and fun espresso drinks. It's not your "Instagram-aesthetic" coffeeshop, but this hits the spot on a chilly fall and winter day while exploring in Beacon.
IN COLD SPRING
The Pantry- This tiny coffeeshop (along with a wine/beer + artisanal good shop) is a 10-min drive away from main street, but it's worth the jaunt. Delicious pour-overs from in-house roasted beans.
*UPDATE: The Pantry now has a shop that is integrated with Cold Spring Apothecary, right on Main Street. A definite must!
Moo Moo's Creamery- Awesome awesome homemade ice cream with great texture. I had the blackberry and the peanut butter, and it was like a PB&J. Grab a scoop (1 will suffice- huge portions) and enjoy it on the Cold Spring waterfront, just steps away.
FOR DINNERS + SIT-DOWN MEALS
IN BEACON
Roundhouse Restaurant + Lounge- The best place for a drink in town, bar none. Delicious cocktails and a solid selection of wines and beers, cozy up by the fireplace and plush leather chairs. The food is also a solid take on new American fare, using local ingredients— and don’t miss out on the fries because they are SO good.
The Vault- A classic restaurant for everyone. From bread + cheese and oysters, to seafood and steak, The Vault uses fresh ingredients for classic and well-executed food. I had the grass-fed steak, and it was wonderful. Also the $5 beer/cider menu and local-themed cocktails are a plus.
Poppy's Burger- THE local burger spot to get grass-fed burgers and fries. Think In-n-Out meets a cozy upstate restaurant.
Beacon Falls Cafe- Sandwiches, burgers, and classic bar food like crispy calamari and wings make it an easy winning dinner after a long day on your feet.
IN COLD SPRING
Hudson Hils- The perfect spot for Sunday brunch. A huge menu of egg dishes, gluten-free pancakes, this was my favorite place for breakfast in town throughout all my visits.
Cold Spring Foundry Cafe- Cafe meets diner food. A reliable place for sandwiches, burgers, and a good solid breakfast with the gang before going off to hike!
WHERE TO EXPLORE
FOR SHOPPING
IN BEACON
More Good- Homemade organic syrups, bitters, teas, and spices, I stocked up on several holiday gifts here! You might have seen some of their syrups in Whole Foods around New York- they'd be the perfect homemade seltzer base or a fun way to dress up recipes.
Hudson Beach Glass- Historic shop with beautiful blown glass dishes, souvenirs and more. I spied their soap dishes inside my hotel room at The Roundhouse too!
Dream in Plastic- Super adorable shop with everything from whimsical cards, gifts, beauty products, and more. Think Paper Source meets Anthropologie, with a more down-to-earth twist.
Reservoir- Loved this little local boutique. I picked up a sweater for my mom and resisted picking up a million baby clothes for my future niece. Beautifully curated selection of clothes and more.
IN COLD SPRING
Cold Spring General Store- Exactly what the name of the store is! One of my favorite shops in Cold Spring- artisanal, local goods, from food to drinks, clothing, home goods, and more. It's a great assortment of local New York brands, and a great place to pick up gifts if visiting from out of town.
Old Souls- The coolest store for the outdoorsy friends in your life. Camping and hiking gear, clothing, and more for the thirsty explorer, mostly catering to guys' favorites. Also a great place to pick up gifts for the men in your life!
Cold Spring Apothecary- A dream for all things beauty and bath! All their products are made from natural, non-toxic ingredients, and made in-house. The apothecary also has a selection of teas, and a small menu of spa treatments like scrubs and spray tans.
Burkelman- Oh the restraint to be had to not buy everything in this design store! Gorgeous pillows, blankets, and rugs, along with beautifully selected plating and kitchen goodies.
SIGHTSEEING
IN BEACON
Dia Beacon- Museums are not usually near the top of my priority list while traveling, but Dia is absolutely worth the visit and $15 entry fee. A beautifully large and open space filled with such visual eye-candy, it's easy to get lost in here for a few hours. There's also a cute cafe and museum bookstore you shouldn't miss on your way out!
Beacon Farmer's Market- Now, this farmer's market is only open on Saturdays in-season and is on the smaller side, but it's the place you want to go to get your produce if you're planning to cook during your weekend stay
Mount Beacon Hike- A great hike to do if you don't have a whole lot of time. It's perfect for the person who doesn't have a lot of hiking experience but wants something relatively physically challenging. It takes about an hour to go up and an hour back at a moderate pace, and there's a section of a lot of stairs, but your reward is a beautiful expansive view of the Hudson.
IN COLD SPRING
Stonecrop Gardens- This is one to not miss, as it's more of a property to explore than just a simple garden. During fall, you get gorgeous views of foliage and views, and during the spring and summer, you get a bounty of flowers to explore and see- the gardens are only open April-October though, so catch it then. About a 15 minute drive from Main Street in Cold Spring, and you could spend hours exploring the property.
Waterfront- If taking the Metro-North train, you'll be dropped off at the end of Main Street right by the classic waterfront. Just beautiful views through all seasons, and the perfect place to sit and enjoy a scoop of ice cream from Moo Moo's Creamery.
