The Hudson Valley has a lot going for it – but one of the best things is that you can get to some towns by train. No, not everywhere – and you can’t necessarily town hop. But if you’re based in NYC and looking for a day or weekend trip without a car, these three – Beacon, Rhinebeck and Hudson – are my top picks. The bonus is that the train tracks run parallel to the river, so the ride itself becomes part of the journey – breathtaking views that you just won’t see from the highway. At times, it feels like you’re inside a Hudson River School painting from the 1800s – dramatic cliffs, rolling hillsides, historic estates. Put on a playlist or a podcast and just sit back, relax and never once think about traffic.
Each town has its own distinct personality, but all share traits I consider essential for train travel – a walkable main street, indie boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, and that perfect mix of historic architecture with contemporary vibes. Once you leave the train station, everything is truly within walking distance. Some hotels offer bikes to borrow, and if you want to go beyond the main strip, you can always grab an Uber or taxi. So check MetroNorth and Amtrak and start planning!
I’m based in Westchester county – considered “upstate” by some New Yorkers, though true upstaters would laugh at that. After years of working in museums, galleries, magazines, and design, I now lead multi-day art-focused tours and curate day trips throughout the Hudson Valley. I’ve always been the go-to person for upstate everything, and I’ve turned that into creating Go Love NY. I’m obsessed with sourcing stops that are not only interesting, but beautiful, well-designed, and truly worth your time.
Beacon (80 minutes from Grand Central) has been considered a true arts destination ever since Dia Beacon opened in 2003, and there’s literally a mile-long Main Street with enough boutiques and eateries to fill a long weekend. The art scene has really grown since Dia – there’s the even more experimental (if you can believe it) KuBe Art Center, plus a couple of smaller galleries featuring local artists and makers. There’s also a free shuttle bus called the Beacon Loop that makes stops at the train station, Dia, and Main Street. Mount Beacon looms in the background, so you never forget you’re out of the city.
Rhinebeck (1 hour and 45 minutes from Penn Station) feels totally different from Hudson or Beacon. That’s probably because it was never an industrial town in decline – it’s been a country house spot for wealthy New Yorkers since the Gilded Age. The vibe is quiet and more refined, more like a low-key Hamptons. The train stops in Rhinecliff, just a five-minute ride from town by Uber or hotel pickup. Once you’re there, everything is walkable and full of charm.
Hudson (2 hours from Penn Station) is the biggest and busiest of the three towns. Once a bustling whaling port, it’s now packed with places to eat, shop, and stay – all centered around Warren Street. The 1.5-mile main drag is lined with everything from high-end vintage and local designers to fresh bakeries and cocktail bars. It’s great for strolling, people-watching, and finding the kind of store you didn’t know you were looking for.
Here are my recs for each:
BEACON
STAY
Round House – Industrial chic hotel overlooking the falls of the Fishkill Creek. It’s a wedding destination, so just be prepared to run into a bride on Saturdays.
The Factory – Just opened. A former bomber-jacket-factory-turned-boutique hotel, where each room has been designed by a different artist. A little nod to Andy Warhol, and you can even buy the art that’s hanging in your room.
The Dutchess Spa – Ten-room hotel with a basement spa, hydrotherapy pool, and a rooftop with views – nice to bring a bottle of wine there before dinner or after a warm stone massage.
EAT + DRINK
Kitchen + Coffee – One of my all time faves – this is vegan food done right! The cauliflower bowl with roasted butter beans, dates, and tahini is a must as far as I’m concerned, but the banh mi bowl, curried chickpea sandwich, and sweet potato burger all have loyal fans in my family. There’s usually a line, but it moves fast.
Beacon Bread Company – Not only do they bake their own bread daily, they are a “scratch kitchen,” meaning they make as much from scratch as possible. If you order a Reuben (and you should!), they’ve not only baked the rye bread that morning, they’ve also cured the corned beef and concocted the mustard in house. And they partner with local Hudson Valley farms for seasonal produce, cheese, butter and eggs.
Melzingah’s – With 23 beers on tap, I like to come here for a drink and make a meal out of the snacks. Spicy tuna crispy rice, Brussels sprouts, and polenta fries with a cold beer? That’s my kind of dinner. Honestly, most of my favorite spots in Beacon lean casual or lunch-y. It’s not really a fine dining town – and that’s part of the appeal.
Lyonshare – For years, this was Max’s on Main, the oldest bar in Beacon and a local institution. Now it’s been totally transformed by a Peter Luger alum. I haven’t been yet, but plan to go this summer with steak-eating friends.
Wonderbar – A fun cocktail bar with a vintage vibe. Think serrano mezcal with chamomile syrup and tea-infused gin with mint, chartreuse and orange bitters.
The Piggy Bank 2.0 – Love the name. It’s in a former bank, revival of an old Beacon BBQ favorite. The space still has the vault. If you love wings, try the bourbon-braised ones, which won this year’s Hudson Valley Wing Fest.
Ziatun – Palestinian mezze, grilled halloumi, and a cult-followed kofta burger. Don’t skip the za’atar fries. (Same owners as Beacon Bread Company, so no surprise that it’s great.)
Elixxer – With adaptogenic lattes and plant-based espresso drinks, this is not your basic coffee shop. Matcha fans will love it.
Peaceful Provisions and Glazed Over – Yes, Beacon has two donut spots on the same block. Peaceful Provisions serves fluffy vegan donuts that are so good you’d never guess. Glazed Over is a build-your-own experience, with tons of frostings, toppings, and drizzles – plus, they’re small enough to try a few. My daughter’s favorite is chocolate with peanut butter drizzle and oreo crumbs.
Zora Dora’s – Small-batch paletas (aka popsicles), handmade daily by a Culinary Institute grad. Flavors rotate with the season – I go for pineapple chile lime with sea salt in warmer months and the rest of the year, I usually get the “Muddy Hudson” with coffee, chocolate, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Towne Crier Cafe – Longtime local favorite for live tribute bands and dinner. I wouldn’t say people go for the food specifically, but it’s a fun night out.
Moreish – A proper English breakfast. The full works, including black pudding, baked beans, and bubble and squeak (English leftover vegetables fried into a hash). I’m looking forward to trying their new location, which is opening this month.
Pillow & Oats – The newest brewery in town, with a great list of Hazy IPAs, decent pizza and satisfying hot dogs. There’s always a crowd spilling on the sidewalk on sunny days.
Two Way Brewery – Industrial and low-key, this makes a great pit stop if you’re walking up from Dia or the train. They’ve got a good selection of craft beer and a big outdoor space to hang out on a nice day.
Denning’s Point Distillery – Small-batch spirits made in-house with local ingredients. Check the calendar – there are often weekend tastings, workshops, or live jazz.
ART
The Kube – Former high school turned into an experimental art space run by Chelsea’s Ethan Cohen Gallery. Open on Saturday for private tours at 2:00pm. Totally worth it if you are into contemporary art like large scale installations, video art, and emerging & established artists you’ve probably never heard of.
Dia Beacon – Modern art museum in the renovated Nabisco cookie box printing factory that’s one of the largest exhibition spaces in the country for modern and contemporary art. With over 160,000 square feet, it’s ideal for large scale installations of artists like Richard Serra, Dan Flavin, John Chamberlin, Sol Lewitt and so many others.
BAU (Beacon Artist Union) – Small but sweet co-op of about 14 local artists. They run it, curate it, and keep the vibe authentic.
Hudson Beach Glass – A glass-blowing studio and gallery in a former firehouse. Local artists, gorgeous pieces, and you can book ahead for a private workshop, totally worth it!. (You can read about my experience here.)
SHOP
Kaight – I always make a point to stop here when I am in Beacon. Eco-friendly, hipster-y women’s clothing. Jeans, maxi dresses, and a small but useful line of skincare products like Salt & Stone.
Little King – Home goods and design store with a Marimekko vibe. I bought a great Hasami serving bowl that guests always ask me about.
Stella’s Fine Market – The shelves are filled with inspiring packaging and pretty cookbooks.
Håkan Chocolates – Swedish chocolates made in-house. Also, THE best hot chocolate.
Vintage Beacon – Well-curated mix of designer vintage – think 90s Prada and Robert Clergerie.
Sunday Farmers Market – Voted best in Hudson Valley.
OUTDOORS
Mount Beacon – A 3.8-mile out-and-back trail. Super steep in parts, but at the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Hudson Valley – and on a clear day, maybe even NYC. The Beacon Loop stops at the trailhead.
Bannerman Island – Most people can not believe that there’s actually an abandoned castle in the middle of the Hudson River. First, you take a 30-minute boat ride from Beacon, and then there’s a 45-minute guided tour of the island, castle ruins, and gardens, all led by the Bannerman Castle Trust. They do a great job sharing the backstory of how Francis Bannerman, a military surplus dealer, built a fortress to store his wares. I’ve taken groups there many times (some by kayak!) and it never gets old.
Long Dock Park – Grab a picnic from The Cheese Shops in town and head here for sunset.
RHINEBECK
STAY
Beekman Arms – The oldest continuously running hotel in America. Perfect central location, lots of history, and vintage memorabilia noting famous guests and historic moments. Grab an Old Fashioned at the cozy tavern for a step back in time.
Spa Mirbeau – A total contrast to the Beekman – modern, soft, peaceful. Rooms are big and cushy, and if you book a massage (which you should), ask for Maribel or Audrey. The robes alone are worth it.
EAT + DRINK
Aba’s Falafel – A local obsession. Crispy, perfectly spiced falafel wrapped in warm pita.
Bread Alone – Come early if you want a loaf – breads go fast. But even if you miss them, stay for the broccoli cheddar sandwich (especially good on focaccia) or the seasonal ricotta toast. Sit outside for people watching if you can.
Samuel’s Sweet Shop – Yes, that’s Paul Rudd in the staff photos (he’s a part owner), but the real draw is the old-school candy jars. And the coffee’s pretty good too.
Cinnamon – For some reason, I rarely cook or go out for Indian food at home, but in Rhinebeck it’s my favorite, hands down. Head upstairs if you want a cocktail and small plates; downstairs has a lighter, dinner vibe with big windows. My usuals (chicken tikka, saag paneer, veg biryani) just taste better here. More flavorful, more fragrant. I never skip it.
Aroi Thai – Even though the portions are a little small, everything at this casual, friendly, low-key place is fresh and consistently good. I like green curry and drunken noodles best.
Smoky Rock BBQ – Portions here, on the other hand, are enormous and perfect for a hungry group. I love the smoked turkey because it feels like a healthy choice, and the brisket end bits are pure bonus. Every side is awesome – get all of them and share. The menu has a staggering number of cakes and pies from the in-house bakery (Carrot cake, peanut butter cheesecake, banana choc chip bread pudding, to name a few)
{Pretty to Think So} – A tiny cocktail bar that looks exactly like it sounds. A little precious, but in a good way. You can tell the staff really cares – not just about the martini they’re serving, but the whole experience. Great for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap.
Posto Pizza – Really good pizza can be hard to find outside of the city, but Posto does it. The crust strikes just the right balance of crisp and chewy. Always busy, always good.
Market St – The place to go when you want a little more polished, (and a little more expensive) There’s a wood-fired oven and a menu that shifts with the seasons – cozy in fall, lighter in spring.
Bia – Modern Irish, with an excellent cocktail list. My husband loves the stout-braised beef pie, I usually get the local trout and a G+T with a splash of elderflower. Don’t skip the brown bread on the table – it’s so rich, I treat it like dessert.
SHOP
Hammertown Barn – An awesome housewares shop, featuring Chiliwich table linens, Laguiole Steak Knives, French dish soap and lots of sheepskin throws and perfectly-curated vintage furniture. You’ll want everything.
Beekman Arms Antique Market – Over 30 vendors in a two-story barn, jam packed with vintage jewelry, old maps, mid-century lamps, cocktail glasses and more. A fun place to look around, even if you’re not buying.
Zephyr – A tiny shop with big taste you can always find something unexpected. I just found a linen tunic and that perfect spring skirt I’ve been wearing almost every day. .
Oblong Books – Classic indie shop with something for everyone. Love the staff picks that you can find in every section.
Paper Trail – More than just pretty wrapping paper and a rainbow of Leuchtturm journals, you can find tons of Chilewich placemats, block printed cloth napkins, cool scarves, unique puzzles and more. Definitely worth a browse.
BKMC (Brooklyn Millinery Company) – A whole store of custom-made hats if you are into that sort of thing.
Pegasus Shoes – Excellent customer service for sneakers and “country shoes” like Hokas, Blundstones and Merrills. The sales people really know their footwear and can point you in the right direction in a way that you never get online. Ask for Alanna!
Upstate Down – A beautifully curated shop full of earthy-toned candles, table linens, and home goods. Everything feels thoughtful and beautiful – perfect for the upstate house I don’t own (yet).
JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN – You will need a taxi
You’ll need a taxi or Uber for the following, and hotels can help arrange a car service – if you do want to head out for the day.
Poets Walk – 120 acres of rolling hills with stunning Hudson River views. Designed as a series of “outdoor rooms” separated by rows of trees and stone walls it does really feel like walking through a poem.
FernCliff Forest – A not-too-hard 2-mile trail with some of the best 360º views in the Hudson Valley if you climb the fire tower. You’ll be able to see everything from the Catskills to the Berkshires.
If you have time, don’t miss the trifecta of historic sites in Hyde Park: the Vanderbilt Mansion (so much marble!), the lesser-known but equally stunning Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the FDR Home and Library, which somehow makes 20th-century politics feel very straightforward.
HUDSON
STAY
The Maker – The best of the best in Hudson, and if you can swing it, you’ll thank me later. Just 11 rooms – each one features original artwork from the owner’s personal collection. There’s a heated outdoor pool, a perfume library, and electric bikes you can borrow.
Rivertown Lodge – A retro mid-century spot at the top of Warren Street, (the main Street) set in a converted movie theater. Regroup from a long day with tea in the bright yellow lobby. They also have bikes to borrow.
Wm. Farmer & Sons – This cozy inn above one of Hudson’s best restaurants feels like staying in a stylish old home – because you kind of are.
The Wick – This 55-room hotel in a former 1860s candle factory is bigger and a bit more contemporary. It’s dog-friendly, and right across from the train station.
Pocketbook Hudson – Opening Summer, 2025. A hotel and spa in a former pocketbook factory. It’ll be the largest hotel in town.
EAT + DRINK
The Maker Restaurant – This glass-ceilinged, plant-filled atrium is gorgeous even in the rain. The menu is Italian-ish with standouts like the eggplant terrine with Calabrian chili crisp, crispy octopus, and fresh pastas like fusilli with wild mushrooms. Special, but not formal.
Talbott & Arding – This cheese and provisions shop is the place to go for picnic supplies, lunch to-go, or stocking your Airbnb fridge. The cheese counter in the center of the shop is a must, and the prepared foods change daily – think dandelion greens with anchovy dressing, Thai tahini-lime broccoli salad, lentil dishes, frittatas, and perfectly made sandwiches.
Mel the Bakery – Naturally-leavened sourdough everything. Originally from NYC, this spot is a little hard to find, but absolutely worth the trip. Locals swear by the morning buns.
Kitty’s – Right by the train station and good any time of day. There’s a market for coffee, egg sandwiches, rotisserie chicken, and a sit-down restaurant for lunch, cocktails and dinner ( fresh salads, pulled pork baguettes, and the famous clams + beans).
Cafe Mutton – An adorable, elegant, but unfussy spot from Chef Shaina Loew-Banayan (Prune, Bartlett House) Interesting meat heavy options like bologna sandwiches and lamb liver mouse and a crispy pig heart salad. It feels more like a neighborhood hang than a scene.
Wm. Farmer & Sons – Niman Ranch steaks, little pizzas, fun things to share like oysters and ham boards. Solid cocktails and local beers.
Feast & Floret – A Hudson classic. Unfussy and reliably good Italian. The wood-fired vegetables – carrots, radishes, artichokes – are just as popular as the pastas.
The Hear After – Hidden speakeasy behind Feast & Floret. Dark, moody, with strong cocktails and a cool crowd.
Little Deb’s Oasis – Caribbean comfort food with a party vibe.
Banque – A former bank turned café and bakery, with a bright, beautiful interior. The colorful chocolate bonbons in flavors like pistachio praline and lemon ganache look almost too pretty to eat.
The Maker Café – The place to be for breakfast. Since the hotel is a bit pricey, the cafe is more community friendly. Anyone can go. Baked goods, all freshly baked daily from my long time favorite Bartlett House. Worth the wait if there is a line. Croissant sandwiches, muffins, and avocado toast and eggs.
Le Perche – French café and bakery with a wood-fired oven. Known for its breads and pastries. Great spot for a low-key breakfast or lunch.
Swoon – Sister restaurant to Le Perche. Straightforward farm-to-table American food.
Hudson Brewing Co. – Across from the train station, and exactly what a brewery should be. A good place to hang out before heading back home.
Hudson Roastery – House-roasted coffee for breakfast or lunch, with shakshuka, avocado toast and roasted beet salad. Book ahead for the “Coffee Roasting Experience,” which is part education, part tasting, part snacks and lots of coffee tawk.
Hudson Farmers Market – Columbia County’s largest and longest-running market. Since Hudson is surrounded by real farmland, everything is super local – not trucked in from two hours away. Saturdays on Columbia Street, just off 6th.
SHOP
Nikki Chasin – Simple but special clothes – well made, with a vintage vibe and fun details. Bright chunky cardigans and vertically striped tees.
Loup – Sign outside said “These pants are life changing.” They weren’t wrong. Cool, easy-wear jeans and sweatshirts.
Valley Variety – Scandinavian-style home goods, tabletop pieces, and kitchen tools. Beautiful and useful.
Poured Candle Bar – A make-your-own candle bar in a stunning space. Smells amazing before you even walk in. Book ahead for a workshop!
Quiet Botanist – Dried flowers, small-batch fragrances, and beautifully-packaged everything.
Spotty Dog Books & Ale – Bookstore meets bar.
Lili and Loo – Home goods with an international feel – great for ceramics, bowls, and gifts.
The Hudson Clothier – Basics with a little extra: high-rise jeans, flannel shirts, quilted vests, crossbody bags. All American-made.
Canvas + Clothier (pop-up) – From Hudson Clothier. Utility canvas in every color – jackets, totes, table linens. Their market setups are always on point.
Jamestown – New to town. These NYC fashion guys nailed it for weekend looks – men’s and women’s clothing – plus books.
The Antique Warehouse – A massive, 40,000-square-foot space packed with vintage everything you can think of. It’s a bit of a maze – great for a rainy day or if you love spending hours digging.
ART + CULTURE
Hudson Hall – Housed in New York State’s oldest surviving theater, this restored 1855 space has opera, jazz concerts and even shows classic old movies. (Check the calendar before you get there.) Right in the middle of Warren street, it’s an easy walk. I’ve got my eye on the site-specific performance during Upstate Art Weekend July 19-20.
Basilica Hudson – Another converted factory near the river that now hosts occasional art shows, live music, film screenings, and seasonal markets. Not a set schedule so check the calendar. The Farm & Summer Flea Market will be July 12 &13.
The Park Theater – A 1921 movie house that’s turned into a venue that now hosts live music, open mics, poetry nights and concerts. (Again, check the calendar and plan ahead, since sometimes things sell out in advance.)
JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN – You will need a taxi
The Campus – The newest addition to what makes Hudson cool, this mid-century high school has been turned into a quirky contemporary art museum. Featuring rotating exhibitions across 40 rooms with preserved classrooms, architectural details, and installations throughout the surrounding grounds.
Olana State Historic Site – The home of Hudson River School painter Frederic Church. Guided tours are the only way to see the interiors, and reservations are recommended. But even just walking the 250-acre grounds is amazing because of the panoramic river views. Pro tip: pick up a picnic from Talbott & Arding and bring it with you.
Art Omi Sculpture Park – An outdoor sculpture park with over 50 site-specific sculptures across 120 acres. Olaf Breuning’s Clouds tower at the entrance will wow you right off the bat, while the more tucked away works by Dennis Oppenheim, Mel Kendrick and Beverly Pepper make you feel like you are on a scavenger hunt. Download the easy-to-navigate map so you make sure not to miss anything.
Getting Around
You don’t need a car for any of these towns – but here’s what you do need to know. In Rhinebeck, the train stops in Rhinecliff, so you’ll need a quick 5-minute ride (Most hotels offer a free pickup) to get into town. In Beacon and Hudson, the train stations are walkable depending on where you’re staying and how much you’re carrying – some hotels are closer than others – but even the furthest end of Main Street is about a 30-minute walk on a nice, walkable street. In all three towns, your hotel can help arrange rides if needed. Once you’re in town, everything you want – shops, restaurants, bars – is right on or just off the main street.
Car services and taxis in Beacon
Black Car 800-561-6971
The Chauffeur Ladies: 845-420-4505
Car services and taxis in Rhinebeck
Chariot Car Service & Taxi 845-243-1299
Car services and taxis in Hudson
Michael Pisa: 518-755-2098
Cubs Taxi: 518-929-6005
Tony’s Taxi: 845-702-1615
Northern taxi (518) 828-4222
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