🇺🇸 Upstate NY | Bannerman Castle Day Trip (No Car Needed)

🏰 Bannerman Castle is located on a small island near Beacon, overlooking the Hudson River. It was originally built by the Bannerman family in the early 1900s to store weapons and serve as a residence. Though now partially ruined by fire, the castle’s remains still stand proudly on the island. Visitors can join a guided boat tour to explore the site — super photogenic! 😋 🚉 Transportation: Book the boat tour in advance on the Bannerman Castle website — $40 per adult, including a guided tour. Take the Metro-North train from NYC to Beacon (about 1+ hour). From the station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the dock. The round-trip boat ride lasts around 40 minutes. 🌄 Tour Experience: A guide shares fascinating stories about the castle’s history (approx. 30 mins), followed by free time to explore the island. Main highlights: the castle ruins and a small exhibition inside the Summer House about the Bannerman family. The island offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and the city of Newburgh across the water. 🍴 Food & Exploring: After returning to Beacon, take a 15-minute walk to Main Street. Don’t miss Beacon Bread Company — their BLAT sandwich is a must-try! 🥪 (Takeaway only, but you can eat outside.) The downtown area has lots of cute shops and cafés — perfect for a relaxed weekend vibe. 🫧 For those who’ve visited Beacon before, this castle tour offers a fresh experience! It’s ideal for a half-day trip paired with good food and small-town charm. 📌 Note: Winter access may be restricted, so plan your visit soon! 🥳 #UpstateNY #HudsonValley #DayTrip #NYCTravel #HiddenGems #TravelGuide #StudentLife