The Stockade District in Uptown Kingston is a thriving neighborhood that carries with it a wonderful arts and culture scene. The Senate House is Kingston's connection to its colonial past. Visitors wishing to spend the day meandering through one of Kingston's most historic areas should be sure to make the Senate House one of their stops. This site is perfect for those wishing to immerse themselves in the past for a few hours.
Best and Worst Time to go to the Senate House Historic Site
The Senate House is open to the public Wednesday to Sunday from mid-April to the end of October. From November to April, the site is open by appointment only. The site is rarely packed and this adds to the charm of the grounds and the museum. During the school year, the site plays host to a variety of school groups so it would be wise to avoid visiting during the week in the morning and early afternoon in order to skip the crowd.
Must See/Do at the Senate House Historic Site
The site is divided into two sections: the Senate House and the museum. Visitors should be sure to take a guided tour of the the Senate House in order to understand the historical significance of the house and the city of Kingston itself for the American Revolution. The museum itself consists of three galleries that detail the daily life of colonial america, as well as colonial-era artwork and furniture.
Admission to the Senate House Historic Site
A combination museum and guided tour ticket is $4 for adults. There is a senior discount and children under age 12 are free.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Senate House Historic Site
The Senate House is situation right in the middle of Kingston's 'Uptown District.' There is plenty of metered on-street parking, but the site down offer a parking lot across the street from the main site. There are several free municipal lots scattered within a few blocks of the site and are all within comfortable walking distance. In terms of public transportation, the choices are scarce. There is a Trailways Bus Station about two blocks away from the Senate House.
Food at the Senate House Historic Site
The Senate House does not offer food on-site, and food is not allowed in either the museum or the house. Visitors can bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautifully maintained grounds. Off-site, Kingston offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars, including Boiston's for delicious fried chicken and Stockade Tavern for hand-crafted Prohibition-era cocktails.
Insider Tip for Visitors to the Senate House Historic Site
The Senate House participates in several historical re-enactments throughout the year. Visitors may be lucky to experience a true-to-form re-enactment of the 'burning of Kingston' if they visit during October. Visitors can always check with the museum to access the most current schedule.
Author's bio: Krista Miller, a Hudson Valley local for over 26 years, enjoys the finer things in life: food, friends, and historical museums. She currently volunteers at a local history museum, as well as a local library. She is constantly on the lookout for the next great adventure.