Washington Irving's Sunnyside

Washington Irving's Sunnyside, .5 mi. s. of Tappan Zee Bridge on US 9 to W. Sunnyside Ln., was the home of Washington Irving 1835-59. Set at the bottom of a hill next to the Hudson River, this is the Romantic-era home Irving called his “little snuggery.” The house was built in the late 17th century as a tenant farmer's cottage and was occupied in the 18th century by a branch of the Van Tassel family that figures in “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”

Irving modified the house, planned the grounds and planted wisteria and ivy vines. The interior has features that were far advanced for their day, such as a bathtub with running water and a hot water tank in the kitchen fed by pipes from the pond that Irving called the “Little Mediterranean.” Costumed guides explain the house and its furnishings, which include the author's library.

Guided tours are available. Picnicking is permitted. Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.