America’s first publicly owned historic site. Visit the historic site where President George Washington made history in the Hudson Valley, which in turn, changed the course of the history of the United States of America.
Welcome to George Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site. According to parks.ny.gov, this is the “nation’s first publicly owned historic site,” and here, Washington achieved the following, “Washington rejected the idea of an American monarchy; ended the Newburgh Conspiracy, preventing potential military control of the government; created the Badge of Military Merit, forerunner of the Purple Heart; and circulated an influential letter to State Governors outlining the key principals he felt necessary for the new republic.” Due to its great historical significance, the site remains highly visited as a critical piece of American history. The headquarters also features a museum, which holds more than 1,300 historical objects reflecting collections of the headquarters.
This exhibit is award-winning and is titled, Unpacked & Rediscovered: Selections from Washington’s Headquarters’ Collection. The headquarters reflect Washington’s stay between April 1782 and Aug. 1783. Tours are available of the headquarters, museum and the Tower of Victory, a restored Belvedere. Tours are available by reservation and provide a guided tour of the Hasbrouck House and a self-guided tour of the museum. Tour admission prices vary, so click here for further information regarding cost. Group tours, school programs and adult programs may also be accommodated. From Nov. to mid-April, tours are accessible on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the spring, which is mid-April to Oct., tours can be joined on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.
Photos Courtesy of NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Experience this unforgettable attraction via Amtrak to the Poughkeepsie Station in the Hudson Valley—Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount