Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
81 Vanderbilt Park Rd. Hyde Park, N.Y., U.S. 845-229-7770 (mansion); 845-229-9115 (park headquarters)
John Roca
The Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is a monument to America's Gilded Age, set on more than 200 acres of land along the banks of the scenic Hudson River and near the Catskill Mountains. The estate allows visitors the chance to see a way of life commonplace among America's elites at the end of the 19th century.
The park offers a glimpse into the philosophy of the American country house, including the lives of the domestic staff. The two-hour tour also allows visitors to stroll the beautiful grounds, including the Italian Gardens maintained by the volunteers of the Frederick William Vanderbilt Garden Association.
Hours: Vanderbilt Mansion is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily by guided tour only. It's closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. The tour schedule is limited November-March.The grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Accessibility: The mansion is wheelchair-accessible. Call ahead to confirm elevator is working: 845-229-7770 Capacity: Tours are limited to 50 people Requirements/restrictions: No photography on tours; baby carriages, strollers and backpacks are prohibited on tours
Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park