The Summer White House
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site was once the home of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919. During his time in office, Roosevelt’s “Summer White House” was the focus of international attention. The “North Room” is furnished with trophy heads from Roosevelt’s hunts, gifts from foreign dignitaries, along with pieces of art and literature from the Roosevelts’ collection. Explore the natural surroundings and become inspired by the legacy of one of America’s most popular presidents.
Plan Your Visit
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site offers eighty-three acres of forested areas, meadows, salt marsh and beach are home to birds, small mammals, turtles, frogs and insects. There are paths and a nature trail that provide a wonderful place to walk with your family or pet. A picnic area is available for visitors to enjoy a nice meal outside. Visit the boardwalk that traverses the site’s salt marsh and beach for beautiful views of the sound.
Visitors are encouraged to tour Theodore Roosevelt’s home. You must obtain tickets for a guided tour of the home. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site also has group tours and scout programs that are available for those who are interested.
“From the moment I got there I was mesmerized by the history of who Theodore Roosevelt was and his many accomplishments. You owe it to yourself to go. I can tell you I didn’t want to leave.”
—Shelly S., TripAdvisor
A Top Pick from Don Wildman
“Sagamore Hill National Historic Site sits upon a grassy rise near the beaches of Oyster Bay. Home to one of my real heroes—26th President Theodore Roosevelt—it’s an elegant yet understated Victorian structure that remains in much the state that Roosevelt left it when, in 1919, he died in the upstairs guest room. TR’s legend has grown larger-than-life during the last century so it’s refreshing to walk through this comfortable home, sensing the simpler man behind the myth. Yes, there is much that is iconic: dozens of animal-skin rugs, trophy heads, and elephant tusks, gifts from heads of state and historical memorabilia, but even more impressive is the poignant and bookish truth of the man. TR was an astonishing reader and writer, a devoted husband and father, and an American patriot.”
Click here for more of Don Wildman’s top museum picks across New York State.
Getting to Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
Experience Sagamore Hill National Historic Site via Amtrak to Penn Station in New York City—Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount! Transfer from Amtrak to Long Island Rail Road via the Oyster Bay Branch to Oyster Bay (3 miles away) – OR – more frequent service via the Port Jefferson Branch to Syosset (6 miles away).
