Beacon Book House

Beacon Book House opened its doors in 2012, just as the small Hudson Valley city was experiencing a renaissance driven by artists, weekenders, and the world-class Dia:Beacon museum down the street. Owner Sarah Lindgren, a former gallery director, designed the store to feel like a cross between a bookshop and an exhibition space, with rotating art installations among the shelves. The art and photography sections are among the best in the Hudson Valley, complemented by a strong nature writing collection that reflects the region's hiking culture. A bright cafe in the back serves pour-over coffee and light lunches, making it a favorite stop for hikers coming off the nearby Mount Beacon trail. The store has become an essential part of Beacon's cultural fabric, hosting everything from printmaking demonstrations to readings by Hudson Valley authors.