Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, located in Hyde Park, New York, is a tribute to the life and legacy of one of America's most influential First Ladies. The site preserves the home and grounds of Eleanor Roosevelt, where she lived from 1945 until her death in 1962.

The historic site is situated on the east bank of the Hudson River, within the larger Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. It consists of the Val-Kill Cottage, which was originally built as a furniture factory before Eleanor Roosevelt converted it into her personal residence. The cottage showcases her simple and independent lifestyle, serving as a retreat and a place to host crucial gatherings in shaping American policies.

The site also includes the adjacent Stone Cottage, where Eleanor Roosevelt lived during the construction of Val-Kill. This cottage features exhibits detailing her life and the numerous initiatives she championed throughout her career.

Visitors to the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site have the opportunity to explore the different rooms of Val-Kill Cottage, gaining insights into the personal and professional life of this remarkable woman. The furnished rooms offer an intimate glimpse into her daily activities, including her work as a writer, diplomat, and advocate for human rights.

Apart from touring the cottage, visitors can enjoy a walk through the beautiful gardens surrounding the property. The gardens hold a significant place in the history of the site, as Eleanor Roosevelt considered them essential for her reflection and inspiration. The peaceful surroundings provide a serene atmosphere and a pleasant escape from the bustling city life.

Nearby, within the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, visitors can explore the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Springwood Estate. This estate was the birthplace, lifelong home, and burial site of Eleanor Roosevelt's husband, President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Springwood Estate offers guided tours, providing a deeper understanding of the life and times of this influential figure in American history.

Additionally, visitors can explore the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, located adjacent to Springwood Estate. The museum houses extensive collections and exhibits that commemorate the life and presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, shedding light on the challenges and monumental decisions faced during his tenure.

Overall, the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site is a captivating destination that provides a unique glimpse into the personal and public life of Eleanor Roosevelt. Together with the adjacent Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, it offers a rich historical experience and a chance to learn more about the transformative period of American history in the mid-20th century.

Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site is nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Hudson Valley region in New York state. Located in Dutchess County, this historic site lies approximately two hours north of New York City. Situated along the banks of the Hudson River, the location offers breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes. The site itself encompasses the former estate of Eleanor Roosevelt, known as Val-Kill, which spans over 180 acres of land. Its strategic position within the Hudson Valley adds to the allure of this magnificent historic site, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Address & Contact

54 Valkill Park Road
Hyde Park, NY 12538
Driving Directions
Phone: 845-229-9422
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site would be during the months of May, June, and September. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 70°F to 80°F, with average minimum temperatures between 46°F and 57°F. These temperatures create pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months ranges from 3.5 in to 5.1 in, ensuring that the site is not excessively wet. This allows visitors to explore and enjoy the outdoor facilities without significant rainfall interruptions.

Therefore, to fully enjoy the outdoor experiences at Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, it is recommended to plan a visit during May, June, or September when the temperatures are comfortable and the precipitation is relatively moderate.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Hands-On Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Hiking Citizen Science

Topics

Learn about these topics at Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site: Women's History

Visitor Centers

Stone Cottage Visitor Center

The Stone Cottage Visitor Center offers exhibits on the history of Val-Kill. Start your visit here, where park rangers and volunteers will help you plan your visit. Building hours and tour schedules change seasonally.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Stone Cottage Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site

Courtyard by Marriott Poughkeepsie

Located in Poughkeepsie, Courtyard by Marriott Poughkeepsie is in the suburbs, within a 10-minute drive of Marist College and Vassar Hospital. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Poughkeepsie? This hotel has facilities measuring 900 square feet (84 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2641 South Road/Route 9, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601
Web: Link

Quality Inn Poughkeepsie

When you stay at Quality Inn Poughkeepsie in Poughkeepsie, you'll be in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Vassar College and Clinton House State Historic Site. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 536 Haight Ave, Building A, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Poughkeepsie, an IHG Hotel

When you stay at Holiday Inn Express Poughkeepsie, an IHG Hotel in Poughkeepsie, you'll be near the airport, within a 5-minute drive of Locust Grove and Springside National Historic Site. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2750 South Road, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601
Web: Link

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Highland Poughkeepsie

Located in Highland, SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Highland Poughkeepsie is a 5-minute drive from Franny Reese State Park and 5 minutes from Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3423 US Highway 9W, I-87 Exit 18 to I-9W, Highland, New York 12528
Web: Link

Residence Inn by Marriott Poughkeepsie

Located in Poughkeepsie, Residence Inn by Marriott Poughkeepsie is a 2-minute drive from Locust Grove and 5 minutes from Mid-Hudson Civic Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2525 South Rd, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601
Web: Link

Quality Inn Hyde Park Poughkeepsie North

With a stay at Quality Inn Hyde Park Poughkeepsie North in Hyde Park, you'll be in the historical district, just a 3-minute walk from Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and 14 minutes by foot from Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. Featured amenities include a computer station, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 4142 Albany Post Rd, Hyde Park, New York 12538
Web: Link

Inn the Woods Bed and Breakfast

Located in Hyde Park, Inn the Woods Bed and Breakfast is within a 5-minute drive of Hyde Park Historical Society Museum and Hyde Park Railroad Station. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 32 Howard Blvd, Hyde Park, New York 12538
Web: Link

VacationHouse Bed & Breakfast

Located in Ulster Park, VacationHouse Bed & Breakfast is within a 5-minute drive of El Paso Winery and Walnut Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 771 Broadway, Ulster Park, New York 12487
Web: Link

New Listing! Historic In Downtown Charleston 5 Bedroom Home

When you a stay at this vacation home in Poughkeepsie, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute walk of Mid-Hudson Heritage Center and Chance Theater. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 85 Cannon St, Poughkeepsie, New York 29403
Web: Link

Rodeway Inn Poughkeepsie

Located in Poughkeepsie, Rodeway Inn Poughkeepsie is a 2-minute drive from Vassar College and 8 minutes from Chance Theater. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, a safe deposit box at the front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 536 Haight Ave, Building B, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603
Web: Link