NEW YORK

 

The Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site contains "Springwood", the lifelong home of America's only 4-term President. Also on the site is the Presidential Library and Museum, operated by the National Archives. Visitors may enjoy a guided tour of FDR's home, take a self-guided tour of the Museum and stroll the grounds, gardens, and trails of this 300-acre site. Start your visit at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center and see the introductory film and arrange for self guided tours of the Presidential Library and Museum and Ranger-led tours of the historic home. We recommend you plan a minimum of two and one half days.

 

FDR’s Top Cottage retreat the place he built in 1938 to, "escape the mob" at Springwood. He also brought close friends and political allies here to discuss the state of the world or to simply relax. Designed by FDR to emulate the Dutch colonial architecture found throughout the Hudson River Valley, the structure was planned with accessibility in mind to accommodate his wheelchair and give him greater independence. Tours depart by shuttle from the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center. This is a two hour experience. This tour is not so much a tour to see the house as it is to learn and discuss the life of FDR. We were lucky as we had only four in our group. We sat on the patio while the tour guide shared FDR’s history.  This was one of my all time favorite tours.

The only National Historic Site dedicated to a First Lady, Val-Kill welcomes you as Mrs. Roosevelt welcomed her many guests. Visitors may tour Mrs. Roosevelt's Val-Kill Cottage and enjoy the lovely gardens and grounds on the site. Mrs. Roosevelt’s  home was the old furniture factory she started to help teach local farmers new skills. After FDR’s death she lived in this home until her death.

The Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site was established as a monument to an era rather than a tribute to any one person or family. The estate illustrates a way of life modeled on the English country house and is only unusual today because so few examples survive in the 21st century. More than a place to discuss the lifestyles of the rich and famous, the park offers a window into the philosophy of the American country house, the lives of its domestic staff, and its relationship to the surrounding community. In addition to a tour of the house, you can stroll on the 211 acres of park land.  This is a two hour experience.

The Culinary Institute of America is only a few short miles away. We had to, yes had to have lunch there.  I was so excited as you can see I took a bite before I remembered to take a picture. We also had sandwiches. The Institute has five restaurants. If I lived near here I would have to eat here on a regular basis.

 

Fall in New York. We drove Hwy 119 back towards Connecticut. The leaves have turned, the drive was breathtaking.