Located near the banks of the Hudson River, Wilderstein is a secluded architectural wonder that played host to a variety of Hudson Valley dignitaries, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt himself. Wilderstein's storied history and plethora of hiking and walking trails make it a location that caters to both the history buff or the outdoorsy individual.
Best and Worst Time to Go to Wilderstein Historic Site
The grounds at Wilderstein are open every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The mansion itself is open for tours between May and October and only from Thursdays through Sundays. Because of this, Saturdays and Sundays are especially busy as many people come up to the Rhinebeck area to spend the weekend. Visitors wishing for a more peaceful tour experience should plan to visit on Thursday or Friday.
Must See/Do at Wilderstein Historic Site
A guided tour of Wilderstein Mansion is the perfect way to fully understand the history of both the building and the family that lived there. Tours begin at noon and go approximately every half hour until the last tour at 3:30 p.m. Visitors should take the opportunity to explore the grounds. The trails at Wilderstein take visitors on a meandering path that leads to beautiful views of the Hudson River.
Admission to Wilderstein Historic Site
The grounds are free to wander. The mansion tours are $11 per person with special discounted prices for seniors and students. Children under age 12 are free. Reservations for the guided tours are not necessary.
Parking and Public Transportation to Wilderstein Historic Site
Wilderstein Historic site has a free parking lot. From this lot, visitors gain access to both the house and the trailhead. Because of the semi-remote location of Wilderstein, public transportation is not a great option. The Rhinecliff Train Station, which caters to Amtrak, is approximately a 10 minute drive from the site.
Food at Wilderstein Historic Site
Wilderstein does not sell food. Visitors are able to bring a bag lunch to enjoy on the grounds, but food is not permitted in the house itself. Rhinebeck is home to a number of great restaurants that cater to a wide variety of food preferences. Restaurants of note include Terrapin, Calico, and the Beekman Arms. Visitors wishing to enjoy a few drinks after their tour should also check out Grand Cru Taproom.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Wilderstein Historic Site
Wilderstein hosts a large collection that is available to the public for research purposes. This collection provides researchers a comprehensive look into the history of living in the Hudson Valley. Visitors who also wish to use Wilderstein's catalog, need only to contact the site curator and make an appointment.
Author's Bio: Krista Miller is an amateur writer and historian. She is a lifelong resident of Dutchess County and volunteers her time at both a local library and a history museum. In her free time, she enjoys exploring the Hudson Valley and is always looking for a new place to visit.