Beacon’s biggest workout comes with a rather good reward: climb Mount Beacon for breathtaking views across the Hudson Highlands, towards the Catskills and, on a clear day, all the way to Manhattan. The steep trail follows the route of the old Beacon Incline Railway, once the world’s steepest funicular, passing remnants of the mountain’s former resort days before reaching the summit’s historic fire tower.

With the Beacon Falls tumbling just beyond its windows, The Roundhouse makes a rather romantic setting for a Hudson Valley getaway. The former industrial building pairs exposed brick and contemporary design with rooms overlooking the rushing water. At the restaurant, nab a window-side table and save room for the homemade bread.

School’s out, and the old Beacon High School has found a rather more creative second life. KuBe (short for Kunsthalle Beacon) houses contemporary local art exhibitions, experimental project spaces, artist studios and performance venues across its sprawling former classrooms and corridors.  Check ahead for opening hours and current exhibitions.