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Historic house · Tarrytown, New York
Sunnyside (Washington Irving's Sunnyside)
The house of writer Washington Irving, author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, on the Hudson— a stone cottage with stepped roofs and wisteria that he redesigned himself.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Sunnyside (Washington Irving's Sunnyside)
In 1835 Washington Irving bought a small farmhouse on the Hudson, south of Tarrytown, and transformed it into a residence mixing Dutch, Scottish and Spanish influences, with stepped roofs, a Spanish-style tower and walls covered in wisteria and climbing plants. He called it Sunnyside and lived there until his death in 1859.
Irving was one of the first American writers known in Europe. His stories, like The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle, are set in the Hudson Valley and blend Dutch colonial folklore with the river landscape.
The guided tour, led by guides in period dress, shows the study where he worked, the library, the bedrooms and the kitchen, with original objects and furniture. The surrounding garden and paths descend to the riverbank with views of the Hudson.
The house is managed by the same preservation organization that cares for Philipsburg Manor. In autumn it hosts events related to Irving’s stories.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one hour for the house tour and garden.
Best time
In spring, when the wisteria blooms, and in October, with autumn colors and events tied to Irving’s stories. The house is open from May to November, usually on weekends with more days in October; confirm the calendar.
How to get there
It’s on West Sunnyside Lane in Irvington, about 3 km south of Tarrytown station by taxi or car. Admission is timed; check the current rates.
Tip
Buy timed tickets online beforehand because groups are small. Combine it with Lyndhurst, which lies on the way between Sunnyside and Tarrytown.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sunnyside (Washington Irving's Sunnyside)
Who lived at Sunnyside?
The writer Washington Irving, author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, who lived there from 1835 until his death in 1859.
When is Sunnyside open for visits?
From May to November, generally on weekends, with more days in October. Check the schedule before you go.
Is Sunnyside far from Tarrytown?
About 3 km south of Tarrytown station, in Irvington, reachable by taxi or car.