Sunnyside

Washington Irving's Sunnyside

Washington Irving's Sunnyside, photo by Clara Tóth.

Sunnyside, 89 West Sunnyside Lane, Tarrytown, NY 10591, 914-631-8200, weekdays, 914-591-8763 weekends. Washington Irving’s meticulously restored home is filled with the author’s possessions including his writing desk and books. Guides, costumed in formal dress of the period, explain how Irving designed house and grounds himself to reflect his romantic views of art, nature, and history. Originally a Dutch farmer’s house, it is now a property of the non-profit Historic Hudson Valley and open for tours. Seasonal events are offered, such as a 4th of July celebration and candlelight tours at Christmas. Located on West Sunnyside Lane, off Route 9 (South Broadway).

Hours: April 1 to October 31, daily except Tuesdays, 10am-5pm, last tour at 4pm. November and December, Saturdays & Sundays, 10am-4pm, last tour at 3pm.

Parking: visitors lot.


Annual events

Sunnyside's veranda overlooks the Hudson River

Sunnyside's veranda overlooks the Hudson River, photo by Clara Tóth.

Check our Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown calendar for more special events.

Fourth of July

On July 04, 2011 step back in time to Independence Day 1851. Experience a traditional Independence Day celebration at a historic site. Activities include period music and traditional country dancing. Play “Town Ball” (19th-century baseball) with costumed guides. Enjoy house tours and ice cream demonstrations throughout the day. Bring a picnic or buy food in the Courtyard Café. 11 am to 3 pm. www.hudsonvalley.org

Legend Celebration

2011: October 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30. A month of weekends celebrating Irving’s short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and other tales! These daytime events are an excellent choice for families with young children. There are games for children, 19th-century magic shows, live music, puppet shows, ghost stories, and delicious picnic fare.

Children’s Book Day

Washington Irving’s Sunnyside is the storybook setting for one of Historic Hudson Valley’s most popular events, a day-long festival for young readers, families, and friends, who can meet more than sixty of their favorite authors and illustrators. Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 12pm to 6pm.