Community Celebrates As Historic Ulster County Site Reopens With New Exhibits

There’s something for everyone in the Hudson Valley! Nature lovers can enjoy the local trails and green scenes while history buffs can explore all of the hidden gems.

There are plenty of landmarks, villages and sites that continue to teach us about the history of our area.

Shoutout to the Hudson Valley organizations that continue to share the legacy of the area along with hosting events and celebrations as well.

Community Celebrates As Historic Ulster County Site Reopens With New Exhibits

The New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation shared exciting news for the Hudson Valley! They mentioned how we can now visit the Senate House State Historic Site in Kingston.

This site has officially reopened and has been restored at 296 Fair Street.

Why Is The Senate House State Historic Site In Kingston, NY A Special Place?

The Senate House was once the home to the Van Gaasbeek family and in the 1770’s, the senate of New York State all met on site.

The New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation included that the community came together to celebrate at their Kickoff Event on May 30, 2026.

Kathy Moser, the OPRHP Acting Commissioner stated that, 

“This site, home to New York’s first state government, is a powerful part of our shared Revolutionary history, and this restoration work will preserve it for generations of visitors to experience.”

There is so much fascinating history right here in the Hudson Valley and it makes me excited to continue to learn about it.

What Can We Experience At The Newly Restored Senate House State Historic Site In Kingston And In The Area?

The New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation included that we can now experience two new exhibits that will have a permanent home on site. 

They highlighted that 2.5 million dollars was spent for the restoration of the Senate State House Historic Site along with the creation of the new exhibits.

The New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation continued to share that there is a museum on site that dates back to the 1920’s! We can now visit the “Revolution Comes to Kingston” and “Vanderlyn: The Artist” exhibits right in Kingston.

While in the area visiting this historic site, we can also enjoy the surrounding amenities. We can check out the local shops and restaurants nearby.

History buffs can continue to learn about the Hudson Valley by taking the Stockade District Walking Tour, visiting the Old Dutch Church and then see the Friends of Historic Kingston Museum.

Have fun exploring the Ulster County area and appreciating the history around us!