Senate House State Historic Site
Senate House State Historic Site
Due to ongoing restoration, guided house tours and museum access are suspended until further notice. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we undertake this important work. Site grounds are open year round from dawn until dusk. During construction, we are offering outreach programming to educational institutions in lieu of site visits, and will continue to offer special events. Please see the “Education” and “Upcoming Events” tabs for further details, or contact the site directly.
296 Fair Street
Kingston, NY 12401
- General Information: (845) 338-2786
Amidst the turmoil of a British military invasion in the fall of 1777, the elected representatives of rebellious New Yorkers met in Kingston to form a new state government. While convened in Kingston in September and October, New York's first Senate met in the simple stone house of merchant Abraham Van Gaasbeek.
In 1887, to recognize Senate House's role in the formation of New York State, New York State acquired the property, which quickly became a vital community museum. A two-story Museum Building was constructed in 1927 to house and display the site's burgeoning collection. Among its treasures are: major art works by John Vanderlyn and other members of the Vanderlyn family of Kingston. The museum also includes the site's popular new exhibit; "Kingston Stockade: New Netherlands' Third City," discussing Kingston's early history.
Hours of Operation
- Group tours are offered year-round, but must be scheduled in advance.
Site grounds are open from dawn to dusk. - April 15 through October 31
Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m and Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Site is open year-round by appointment.
Fees & Rates
Most New York State Parks charge a vehicle use fee to enter the facility. Fees vary by location and season. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. For fees not listed or to verify information, please contact the park directly.
The easy-to-use Empire Pass card is $80- and your key to all-season enjoyment with unlimited day-use entry at most facilities operated by State Parks and the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. Purchase online or contact your favorite park for more information. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass.
- Tour of Senate House and Museum Admission
Adult - $7
Sr (62+) - $5
12 & under - free
Group Tours - $5 per person
School Program - $5 per person
Let us bring Senate House to you! Due to construction during the 2025 season, Senate House will be offering outreach programs to schools and other learning institutions. Each program can be tailored to your class size and needs. Participants will receive a grade appropriate program, where they will learn about daily life in the 18th century, as well as the Revolutionary War and how it impacted both the Van Gaasbeek household and the inhabitants of Kingston. They will also have a chance to participate in activities related to the programs offered in this brochure. Outreach programs are $5/Student. To schedule a visit to your school or for additional information, please call 845-338-2786 or email SenateHouseSHS@parks.ny.gov
Friday, August 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Friday, August 8, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Friday, August 15, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Friday, August 22, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Friday, August 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Amenities Information
- Amenities
- Picnic Area (Accessible)
- Re-enactments (Accessible)
- Tours
- Visitor Center