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.
Pinkster: Joy is an Act of Resistance
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Senate House State Historic Site
The Pinkster Sunday Festival returns to Senate House! Pinkster is the oldest African-American holiday in the U.S., a Dutch Pentecost tradition transformed into a joyous African celebration. Produced by Transart Inc. in cooperation with Senate House State Historic Site, the Pinkster Festival includes music, dance, history, food, crafts, vendors and more. For more information on Pinkster, please visit
www.transartinc.org/pinkster
18th Century Growing Season
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Join us in learning about what it as like to grow things and produce food in the 18th century. Watch us plant our 18th century inspired garden, see bee-keeping, sheep shearing, and food preservation. Includes crafts for visitors of all ages.
Let Freedom Ring
Saturday, June 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Participate in commemorating American Independence at Senate House! There will be famous American music, and an Independence Ceremony featuring readings of important speeches on American Independence.
18th Century Autumnfest
Sunday, September 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Experience some key autumn activities from the 18th century and enjoy the season! There will be demonstrations of blacksmithing, meat smoking, candle dipping, pressing apples, and more. There will also be live performances of juggling, fire spitting, and unicycling!