Boscobel House and Gardens is a historic house museum located in Garrison, New York. The house, which overlooks the Hudson River, was built in the early 19th century for States Dyckman. It is a significant example of the Federal style of American architecture, and its interiors are adorned with decorative elements and a collection of furniture representative of the Federal period.
Adjacent to Boscobel House is a permanent sculpture garden that features ten bronze busts of significant Hudson River School artists. The sculptures were created by Greg Wyatt, director of the Newington-Cropsey Foundation Academy of Art, and were donated by the foundation. Boscobel was chosen as the location for these sculptures due to its location in the Hudson Highlands, a popular subject of the school's painters, and its proximity to the homes and landscapes painted by Hudson River School artists.
Boscobel House and Gardens is open to the public every day of the week, except for Tuesdays and holidays, from April through December. The second Tuesday of each month is designated as a day for artists to enter the grounds for free to paint or sketch. Visitors are also allowed to picnic on the grounds, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.
History & Anthropology Art & Design Historic house Garden & Park Person & Artist
No exhibitions in Boscobel House and Gardens have been found.
Boscobel House and Gardens has 2 ratings.
Boscobel House and Gardens, located in Garrison, New York, is a well-regarded historic site and museum that offers visitors a blend of architectural beauty, art, and natural scenery. The Federal-style house, built in the early 19th century, has been meticulously restored and furnished with period-appropriate decor, providing an authentic glimpse into early American life.
The museum's collection of Federal-period furniture and decorative arts is particularly noteworthy, featuring high-quality pieces that showcase the craftsmanship of the era. Many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides who offer informative tours of the house, explaining its history and the significance of various artifacts.
The gardens and grounds are a major highlight for many visitors. The meticulously maintained formal gardens offer beautiful views of the Hudson River and surrounding highlands. The Apple Orchard, Herb Garden, and Rose Garden are popular spots for leisurely strolls. The property's location on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River provides stunning vistas that many find breathtaking.
Special events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as the Cold Spring Farmers' Market and various art installations, add to the site's appeal. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops that are generally well-received by participants.
While most visitors have a positive experience, some note that the admission price can be considered a bit high, especially for those primarily interested in the gardens. A few visitors have mentioned that more seating areas in the gardens would be appreciated, particularly for those who wish to spend extended time enjoying the views.
Access to the site requires transportation, as it's not easily reachable by public transit. Some visitors suggest allocating enough time to fully explore both the house and gardens, as rushing through may not do justice to the experience.
Overall, Boscobel House and Gardens is highly regarded for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, well-curated collection, and stunning natural setting. It offers a rewarding experience for those interested in American history, decorative arts, and landscape design.
My daughter called this faux museum with its ghoulish staff "rippy-off."
The place is fake. A wrecking ball was taken to the original building; bits were salvaged and hauled down the Hudson Valley to an entirely new site.
This site is guarded by uptight old women who try to extort exorbitant fees if you stray on a bit of lawn that has NOTHING to do with the original property. They have the gall to merch scraps of wallpaper that they repurpose as bookmarks.
A memberships gets you only four visits a year. A season pass at an amusement park is a better deal than this con.
Visited on Aug 16, 2025
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