Is Beacon a tourist destination?

You're better off as a visitor than a resident. As a visitor (or resident for that matter) be prepared to open your wallet. The mountain view and hiking is very nice...I'm surprised that they don't charge for that.....yet!

Beacon really seems to be on the upswing, and it's got some great little shops. I've taken a couple day trips there and have enjoyed it, but it's hard to tell who's a visitor and who's a resident.

I think Beacon is a bit of a tourist destination, mainly because of the museums that have sprung up in the last decade or so. It's really turned into a haven for an artistic community that doesn't want to be in NYC while also being somewhat close. It's a beautiful town too, and I think a fair number of people show up just to see what all the hubbub is about.

Yes it is although I can't say for sure what the actual influx is. But between its historic Main Street District with cute shops and boutiques, its pretty VIctorian homes, the historical Madam Brett Homestead, the acclaimed Dia Beacon art museum, plethora of galleries, access to the Hudson Highlands State Park and a local train station, it does draw visitors, for sure.