If you're heading to the Hudson Valley and love history, architecture, or scenic gardens, make sure to add the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site to your itinerary. Tucked away in Hyde Park, New York, this historic estate offers a fascinating glimpse into Gilded Age luxury with beautifully preserved interiors and formal gardens that feel like a step back in time.
Recommended For
This site is a must-visit for:
- History buffs—with rich stories dating back to 1764
- Architecture and design lovers—interested in opulent interiors and classical style
- Garden enthusiasts—who'll love the Italian-inspired landscape
- Teachers and students—with excellent field trip and classroom programs
Park Details & Hours
- Open year-round (hours vary seasonally—check ahead before visiting)
- Guided tours available for the mansion; grounds open for self-guided exploration
- Admission fees may apply for house tours; grounds access is often free
Main Attractions
- The Mansion: Explore stunning rooms like the Dining Room, Gold Room, and private suites of Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt
- Gardens: Stroll through beautifully restored Italian-style gardens, ideal for quiet reflection and seasonal blooms
- Visitor Areas: Walk through foyers, servant quarters, and the Elliptical Hall to see how both the family and staff lived
Educational Opportunities
- Field Trips: Guided student tours give an immersive look at Gilded Age life—perfect for history classes
- Parks as Classrooms: Designed for educators, this program offers themed lesson plans aligned with school standards
- Behind-the-Scenes Learning: Students get hands-on insights into the Vanderbilt lifestyle and estate operations
Field Trip Program
- Tailored for student groups and designed to complement classroom learning
- Includes an interactive tour of the mansion and educational storytelling about the Gilded Age
- Contact Kevin Thomas at 845-486-7751 for reservations
Parks as Classrooms
- Offers curriculum-based lesson plans for educators
- Highlights historic context, themes, and architecture from the Gilded Age
- Programs created with the National Register of Historic Places
Park History
- Land originally purchased by Dr. John Bard in 1764
- Passed through various owners including Dr. David Hosack and John Jacob Astor
- Purchased by Frederick W. Vanderbilt in 1895 as a vacation retreat
- Donated to the National Park Service in 1940 by niece Margaret “Daisy” Van Alen
- Open to the public since 1943
Special Notes
- Interior Details: Limited information is shared online to preserve the surprise and charm of the in-person tour
- World War II Connection: Parts of the mansion were used by the Secret Service and President Roosevelt’s staff from 1941–1943
Location & Contact
- Address: 119 Vanderbilt Park Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538
- Phone: 845-229-9115
- Website: nps.gov/vama
Plan Your Trip