Sunnyside
150 White Plains Road (mailing)
Tarrytown, NY 10591
(914) 631-8200 • Groups ext. 618, School Groups ext. 611
www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/13/43/

This beautiful pre-Civil War estate was the home of beloved author, Washington Irving, famous for his stories, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle." In 1835 the author purchased a small Dutch farmhouse and transformed it into the one-of-a-kind house he called his "snuggery."

Nestled in the green Hudson Valley, Sunnyside, a National Historic Landmark, contains Irving's furnishings, books and memorabilia. A Visitors Center includes a gallery, small theater, and a gift and book shop. Greeted by gentlemen in top hats and ladies in hoop skirts, visitors take a fascinating tour back in time through this beautiful estate, exploring the lifestyle of the creative man who lived here.

Individuals and families can arrive unannounced for a tour of Sunnyside, or to enjoy one of the many special events that take place throughout the year.

Adult Groups are always welcome by reservation, and they are sure to find the tour quite enjoyable.

School Programs include Washington Irving's Picturesque Home, a general tour exploring the lifestyle of Washington Irving, his relatives and the Irish servants who maintained the household; and Washington Irving's World, a tour with hands-on activities in which students compare and contrast 19th and 20th century household objects. Programs take 90 minutes and 2 hours, respectively. Adaptable for grades K through 12. Maximum of 50 participants.

A Two-Site Tour begins at Philipsburg Manor, where students experience the rural society of pre-Revolutionary times. Hands-on activities include textile production, grinding corn, and working in the barn. At Sunnyside, students explore the technological advances reflected in Washington Irving's home, one hundred years later than Philipsburg. They study the changes in lighting, heating, furniture making, architecture, and landscape design. Programs takes 2 hours at each site.

Maximum of 50 participants. Adaptable for grades 3 through 12.