Museums & Archive
Columbia County Historical Society
Preserving 300+ years of Columbia County heritage
Museum and research library housing extensive collections on Columbia County history, genealogy, maps, decorative arts, and manuscripts.
Discover Kinderhook
One of the Hudson Valley's most historic villages, Kinderhook is the birthplace of President Martin Van Buren, home to world-class art, centuries-old Dutch Colonial landmarks, and a vibrant community on the Village Green. A perfect Columbia County day trip.
Trails & Outdoor
Dutch Farming Heritage Trail
1.7 miles connecting two centuries of history
A scenic 1.7-mile walking trail linking the 1737 Luykas Van Alen House to Martin Van Buren's Lindenwald estate, passing through historic Columbia County farmland.
Gallerie
Jack Shainman Gallery: The School
World-class contemporary art in a converted schoolhouse
A 30,000-square-foot contemporary art gallery in a beautifully converted former school building, featuring ambitious large-scale exhibitions from internationally renowned artists.
Free Admission
Neighborhood
Kinderhook Village Historic District
Walkable streets, Dutch heritage, and village charm
The Village of Kinderhook's historic district features a walkable collection of 17th–19th century architecture, antique shops, galleries, and local dining — all centered around the Village Green where the farmers' market takes place.
Historic Site
Luykas Van Alen House
Dutch Colonial landmark, c. 1737
One of the finest surviving Dutch Colonial houses in the Hudson Valley, believed to have inspired Washington Irving's 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.'
Historic Site
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
Home of the 8th President of the United States
Lindenwald, the retirement estate of President Martin Van Buren, is a National Historic Site operated by the National Park Service just south of Kinderhook village.
Free AdmissionHistoric Sites
James Vanderpoel House
Federal-era architecture and decorative arts
An elegant Federal-style house built c. 1819, showcasing period furniture, decorative arts, and the refined tastes of early 19th-century Columbia County.
Luykas Van Alen House
Dutch Colonial landmark, c. 1737
One of the finest surviving Dutch Colonial houses in the Hudson Valley, believed to have inspired Washington Irving's 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.'
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site
Home of the 8th President of the United States
Lindenwald, the retirement estate of President Martin Van Buren, is a National Historic Site operated by the National Park Service just south of Kinderhook village.
Grounds open dawn to dusk year-round. House tours available spring through fall. Free
Trails & Outdoor
Dutch Farming Heritage Trail
1.7 miles connecting two centuries of history
A scenic 1.7-mile walking trail linking the 1737 Luykas Van Alen House to Martin Van Buren's Lindenwald estate, passing through historic Columbia County farmland.
Empire State Trail
New York's 750-mile trail passes through Kinderhook
The Empire State Trail — New York's 750-mile pedestrian and bicycle route spanning from New York City to Canada and Buffalo — passes directly through Kinderhook Village.
Plan Your Kinderhook Day Trip
Start with the Saturday farmers' market on the Village Green, explore historic sites and galleries, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. It's all walkable.