Kykuit, the estate is a prominent landmark of the Hudson valley. Tourists come there to take a look at the amazing architectural structure, remarkable gardens, art and spectacular scenery.
This Paradise on the top of the hill for many years was home to four generations of the Rockefeller family beginning with the philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, founder of Standard Oil. His business acumen made him the richest man in America at that time. Now the building is under the protection of the Agency for protection of monuments of nature or culture.
Kykuit. Mansion, the former home of Rockefeller, is now included in the list of National Trust for Historic Preservation. | depositphotos
Visit the main room, six-story stone house (in total 40 rooms), extensive gardens with terracesthat are home to a collection of sculptures of Governor Nelson Rockefeller. Among the works of artthat are in this mansion, there are works by Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, Louise Nevelson and David Smith. Garage lovers of Antiques and other curious people can see a collection of classic cars and horse-drawn carriages.
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One of the most famous private residences in America, Kykuit was originally designed as a three-story stone mansion by the architects Chester Holmes Aldrich and William Adams Delano. Aldrich was a distant relative of the wife of the younger Rockefeller, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, who participated in the project as artistic consultant. The elder Rockefeller had purchased land in this area back in 1893 after his brother William built the nearby mansion of 204 rooms, of Rockwood Hall.
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The creation of gardens around the estate involved in the company Frederick Olmsted, who participated in the creation of Central Park in Manhattan. However, Rockefeller Senior was unhappy with his work and therefore undertook the design of the garden itself. He transplanted several Mature trees, designed a viewing platform and a number of picturesque winding lanes. In 1906 the design of the garden was carried out by the architect William Welles Bosworth. He created terraces and gardens with fountains, pavilions and classical sculpture. These gardens are in the style of Beaux-Arts is considered the best work of Bosworth in the United States.
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During various tours friendly guides tell about the life of members of the Rockefeller family and their contributions to philanthropy, business, government and the arts. A huge choice of options enables you to create a program that meets your interests and available time. Each tour begins at the visitor Center at Philipsburg manor house, where you can take a bus to get to Kykuit. Tickets will cost you from $15 to $40.
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To reach the estate by car or by train Metro-North’s Hudson Line (leaving from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan).
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