Known as Bannerman Island, this tiny Hudson River outcrop comes with a wonderfully curious past. In the early 1900s, arms dealer Francis Bannerman built a castle-like arsenal here to store his vast collection of military surplus, creating a Scottish-inspired folly against the rugged Hudson Highlands. Today, its weathered towers and crumbling walls rise above the water like the set of a gothic film. Boat tours from Beacon offer a closer look at the ruins and the island’s overgrown gardens.

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.