Dia:Beacon is a museum of contemporary art in Beacon, New York, about 60 miles north of Manhattan. It opened in 2003 in a former Nabisco box-printing factory on the banks of the Hudson, and its vast, daylit galleries hold monumental works by artists including Richard Serra, Andy Warhol, Louise Bourgeois, Dan Flavin and Donald Judd. Combined with lunch in Beacon’s lively Main Street and a hike or river view, it makes an ideal day trip.

At a glance
Location Beacon, Dutchess County, NY
Opened 2003
Building Former Nabisco box-printing factory
Drive from Midtown About 75–90 minutes
Also nearby Mount Beacon, Main Street, Storm King, Cold Spring

What makes it special

Dia:Beacon’s galleries were designed for large-scale works that won’t fit in typical museums. Natural light from skylights changes throughout the day. Richard Serra’s towering steel sculptures, which visitors can walk through, are a highlight.

Planning your visit

  • Check opening days and hours, which vary by season.
  • Allow two to three hours for the museum.
  • Wear comfortable shoes — the galleries are enormous.
  • Arrive early on weekends.

Beacon beyond Dia

Beacon’s Main Street is lined with galleries, cafés and shops. Mount Beacon offers a steep hike with river views, and the Hudson riverfront is steps from the museum.

Combine it

Pair Dia:Beacon with Storm King Art Center across the river, or with Cold Spring for antiques and dinner. Read Hudson Valley day trip.

Getting there

Metro-North’s Hudson Line reaches Beacon, but a car lets you combine several stops. Our hourly service is ideal for art-focused day trips.

A sample day

Leave Manhattan mid-morning, spend late morning and early afternoon at Dia:Beacon, have a late lunch on Main Street, walk to the river or hike partway up Mount Beacon, and return in the early evening — or cross the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge to Storm King if time allows.

Accessibility

Dia:Beacon’s galleries are on level floors with generous space, making it comfortable for visitors who prefer not to climb stairs. Check the museum’s accessibility information before visiting.