Optimized exterior angle of Kykuit with foliage

photo by: Ron Blunt

Historic Sites

Kykuit

A Distinctive Destination
  • Constructed: 1913
  • Architect: Delano and Aldrich
  • Address: Tarrytown, New York 10591
  • Hours
    May 21-Oct. 2
    Saturday–Sunday
    Oct. 5-Nov. 13
    Wednesday-Monday

Completed in 1913 for American businessman and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Kykuit has been home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. Architect Williams Welles Bosworth is responsible for the creation of the Beaux Arts house and elaborate gardens in the Italian style. Designed between 1906 and 1913, this Beaux-Arts house with Italianate gardens is considered Bosworth’s best work in the United States. Visitors will see interiors designed by Ogden Codman, collections of Chinese and European ceramics, fine furnishings, and galleries of 20th century art.

Kykuit highlights the lives of Rockefeller family and their contributions to philanthropy, conservation, business, government, and the arts. After John D. Rockefeller, Kykuit was home to his son, philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., and grandson, Nelson A. Rockefeller, four-time governor of New York and vice president under President Gerald Ford.

The Rockefeller family, who had a hand in creating the Museum of Modern Art, filled Kykuit's rooms and grounds with paintings and sculptures. In addition to the artwork in the main house, the galleries on the ground floor display more than 100 works, and Nelson Rockefeller added 70 sculptures to the gardens. Take a tour to discover pieces by Alexander Calder, Andy Warhol, Henry Moore, a collection of Picasso tapestries, and more.

Owned by the National Trust and operated by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, this National Trust Historic Site has been continuously and meticulously maintained for more than 100 years. Today, Kykuit serves as a community resource and offers a wide variety of public access through the museum visitation program, lectures, cultural events and artist residencies.

“Although JDR stated repeatedly that all he wanted was a simple house in the country to share with his family, Jr. persisted, gently but doggedly, with his much grander plans.”

Ann Rockefeller Roberts

Seasonal Schedule:

  • Guided tours are available Saturday-Sunday from May 21-October 2; and Wednesday-Monday between October 5-November 13
  • Also open Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, and Columbus Day
Garden pergola with sculpture

photo by: Carol Highsmith

Benefits for National Trust Members

50% Discount on Regular Public Tours

Join the National Trust to enjoy a host of membership benefits.

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