It's summer and a perfect time to hit the road. How about trip through historical Hudson Valley in New York? HHV is a collection of six magnificent historic sites – buildings, landscapes, and collections. This non-profit educational organization, owns, restores, preserves, interprets, and promotes historic landmarks of national significance within the Hudson Valley for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. And what a collection of sites this is.
The HHV includes:
• Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate: A virtual hilltop paradise that was home to four generations of the uber rich Rockefeller family (now a National Historic Trust property). Tour the six story stone main house and splendid gardens which were the pride and joy of John D.; enjoy the sculpture collection and underground art galleries of Governor Nelson A. Make sure to include a visit to the Union Church at Pocantico Hills which adjoins this property. See the magnificent stained glass windows by Matisse and Chagal. A wonderful day trip.
• Washington Irving's Sunnyside (open April to December). Costumed guides lead the way for your visit to Irving's much beloved riverfront romantic "cottage" where he lived and may best be remembered for writing the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I literally lived across the street from here for eight years and never tired of visiting this property.
• Van Cortlandt Manor: try your hand at blacksmithing, brick making or open air cooking at this magnificent manor house located along the Croton River. Costumed docents actually re-create the experience of living in the period known as the New Nation, right after the American Revolution. Named after one of New York's most prestigious families, Van Cortlandt Manor is a rare opportunity to bring the past to life.
• Philipsburg Manor: take a step back in time to 1750 and see how a group of African American slaves operated this farming, milling and trading center owned by the Philipses, a family of Anglo-Dutch merchants. Tour the 300-year-old manor house--its dairy, kitchens, bedchambers, warehouse rooms and parlor complete with period artifacts and touchable reproductions give you an understanding of the people who lived and worked here. Fascinating place to visit.
• Montgomery Place Historic Estate: this 434 acre property is one of the best intact examples of life on a Hudson Valley estate. The grounds on this estate are lush filled with perennial gardens that take your breath away. You can even purchase fresh fruit grown on the property at the orchard farm stand.
Each site operates independently but under the umbrellas of HHV. Check their website for each sites location, hours of operation and admission fees.
www.hudsonvalley.org
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