Wilderstein Historic Site
An ornate Queen Anne mansion on 40 acres with stunning Hudson River views, offering a glimpse into Gilded Age life and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Wilderstein Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ornate Queen Anne mansion on 40 acres with stunning Hudson River views, offering a glimpse into Gilded Age life and history.
"A magnificent Queen Ann style mansion with spectacular views of the Hudson River."
Arrive Early for Tours
Tours depart on the hour. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on weekends! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the mansion and the extensive grounds with ease. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Queen Anne Mansion
Main House
Step back in time in this ornate 19th-century mansion, filled with original furnishings and Tiffany stained glass.
Hudson River Views
Grounds
Breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains await from the well-kept lawns and trails.
Suckley Family History
Mansion Tours
Learn about the fascinating Suckley family, their connection to President Roosevelt, and the estate's restoration.
Carriage House
Grounds
Discover the architectural details of the Carriage House, a testament to the estate's ongoing preservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Explore Beyond the Mansion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Tours
Tours depart on the hour. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on weekends! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the mansion and the extensive grounds with ease. :athletic_shoe:
No Photos Inside
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the historic mansion. :camerawithflash:
Free Ground Access
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and river views for free, even without a mansion tour. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Tours
Tours depart on the hour. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on weekends! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the mansion and the extensive grounds with ease. :athletic_shoe:
No Photos Inside
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the historic mansion. :camerawithflash:
Free Ground Access
Enjoy the beautiful grounds and river views for free, even without a mansion tour. :moneywithwings:
Gilded Age Fans Rejoice
Fans of historical dramas will love the opulent interiors and stories. :tv:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wilderstein for its visually stunning mansion, both inside and out, and the breathtaking Hudson River views from its grounds. The knowledgeable guides and the well-preserved original interiors are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the no-photography rule inside the mansion is a common point of mention, the overall experience is highly recommended as a treasure of the Hudson Valley.
"The Wilderstein home is visually stunning inside and out. There is a large well kept lawn that has a view of the Hudson. Our guide, Juliana, gave a group tour which started outside with a very informative history of the Suckley family and their ties to President Roosevelt. She was a neighbor and knew the family. Then we saw the inside which is completely original including the furniture, fixtures, etc. It’s been restored generously by craftsmen and donors. No photos are allowed inside. I highly recommend this treasure."
Donna K
"Wilderstein is a magnificent Queen Ann style mansion located in Rhinebeck, NY. The house and grounds both have spectacular views of the Hudson River. The home and grounds were home to the Suckley family since 1852. In 1888 the house was remodeled to the current look and state. Daisy Suckley, cousin and confidante of President Franklin Roosevelt lived in the house and then turned over to the public for preservation in the 1980’s.
Tours of the house consist of walking the grounds directly outside the house and going through the first two floors of the house. The interior rooms of the house are astounding. They feature stained glass windows designed by Tiffany, and intricate wood carvings. One room has a European style look with a large painting on the ceiling. While touring the house the story of the Suckley family is told both by the guides and paintings in the house.
The restoration of the house is still in progress. On the second floor you will see many nice rooms that are not fully restored. There is also a five story tower that is a part of the house, which tours do not go up.
The estate does also offer nice hiking trails. There is a guide available for those who would like to hike the grounds. It is free to hike the trails.
Tickets are sold at the gift shop. Tours go off at the top of the hour. It is best to arrive early to secure a tour time. Check the website for days the estate is open for tours. The estate does yet have tickets available for purchase on the internet. This is a wonderful estate to see in the Hudson Valley."
Ryan Mazierski
"A beautiful lace Victorian home that's perfect for exploring, inside and out. They occasionally host weddings here, and have great views on the grounds overlooking the Hudson River. Highly recommend! IG @KathrynCooperWeddings"
Kathryn Cooper Weddings | Photographer | Wedding + Elopement Photographer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wilderstein is located in Rhinebeck, NY. If driving, it's easily accessible via major highways. For public transport, take the Amtrak train to Poughkeepsie and then a taxi or rideshare to the site. Some visitors have also used this as a stop on a broader Hudson Valley road trip. +1
Yes, there is ample parking available on the grounds, and it's free for visitors.
Absolutely! Wilderstein is a perfect addition to a Hudson Valley day trip, especially if you're exploring Hyde Park or Rhinebeck. +1
The grounds offer beautiful walking trails with river views. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to enjoy the scenery. 
Yes, Wilderstein is close to other Hyde Park attractions like the Vanderbilt Mansion and FDR Presidential Library, as well as Rhinebeck's boutiques and restaurants.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While wandering the grounds is free, there is a fee for mansion tours. Check the official website for current admission prices.
Tours depart on the hour, and it's highly recommended to arrive early to secure your spot, as tickets are sold at the gift shop and online booking is not available.
The grounds are typically open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, but mansion tour hours vary by season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official website or inquiring at the gift shop.
Currently, tickets for mansion tours are sold at the gift shop upon arrival, and online purchase is not an option.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the historic mansion. This is to preserve the original interiors and artifacts.
The grounds offer stunning photo opportunities, especially with the Hudson River as a backdrop. The exterior of the mansion and the Carriage House are also picturesque.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with the site management or consult their official policies before flying a drone.
Generally, personal photography on the grounds is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the architectural details of the Victorian mansion, the scenic river views, and the seasonal beauty of the grounds.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Tours typically cover the first two floors of the mansion, showcasing original furnishings, intricate woodwork, and Tiffany stained glass. Guides share the history of the Suckley family and their connection to President Roosevelt.
A guided tour of the mansion usually lasts about an hour, allowing time for questions and exploration of the main rooms.
While the grounds are free to explore independently, information about guided ground tours is not widely advertised. Check with the site for any available options.
The Suckley family has a rich history, with Daisy Suckley being a notable cousin and confidante of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The estate was their ancestral home.
The grounds have gravel paths, which can be uneven. The mansion tour focuses on the first two floors, but accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the outdoor aspects of Wilderstein for a family visit. The free access to the grounds means you can enjoy the scenery and open space without the cost of a full tour. It's a great way to introduce children to historical sites in a relaxed environment.
💍 Couples and History Buffs
+1History buffs will particularly appreciate the meticulously preserved interiors and the detailed narratives provided by the guides. The connection to President Roosevelt adds an extra layer of intrigue. Remember that photography is not allowed inside, so be present and absorb the history firsthand.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Vanderbilt Mansion or the FDR Presidential Library for a comprehensive historical experience. The free access to the grounds also makes it a flexible option if you're on a tighter schedule or budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Queen Anne Style
The restoration efforts at Wilderstein aim to preserve these architectural nuances. While some areas are fully restored, others are in progress, offering visitors a glimpse into the meticulous work involved in historic preservation. The contrast between restored and unrestored sections provides a unique perspective on the mansion's evolution and the ongoing commitment to its upkeep.
Beyond the main house, the Carriage House also showcases architectural elements from the period, designed by the same architect who worked on the mansion. Exploring these structures allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and design principles of the late 19th century.
A Glimpse into Gilded Age Life
The estate's connection to President Franklin D. Roosevelt through Daisy Suckley adds another layer of historical significance. Learning about their relationship and Daisy's role during critical historical moments offers a personal perspective on a pivotal era in American history. The site serves as a reminder of the personal lives intertwined with national events.
Exploring Wilderstein is more than just a tour; it's an opportunity to understand the social, economic, and political landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The site's preservation allows future generations to connect with this fascinating period of American history.
Exploring the Grounds and River Views
+1Visitors can explore various features on the grounds, including the historic Carriage House, which is a significant part of the estate's architectural heritage. The trails are generally easy to navigate, making them suitable for most visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.
Unlike the mansion tour, access to the grounds is free, making it an accessible way to experience the beauty of Wilderstein. It's an ideal spot for a picnic or simply to relax and soak in the historic ambiance and stunning natural scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit