Expect to see an influx of tourists in the area this Sunday as visitors flock to Sagamore Hill National Historic Site in Oyster Bay Cove for the grand reopening celebration of Theodore Roosevelt’s home, which has undergone an extensive rehabilitation and will finally be open after three years.
On Sunday, July 12, the official re-opening will take place, with walk-through tours of the first floor offered and family-friendly festivities—including an appearance by James Foote, Theodore Roosevelt impersonator, who lives in Sea Cliff. For those who wish to avoid the crowds, daily tours will be offered beginning Monday, July 13. Superintendent Kelly Fuhrmann said there will be a new online reservation system in place for the tours, which run every 45 minutes, and walk-ins will also be accepted. The fee is $10/per person, with a discounted price for seniors and children.
Visitors to the park can also check out the visitor center, Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard and the park grounds.
At 12 Sagamore Hill Rd. in Oyster Bay, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. The visitor center is available so newcomers can get a brief orientation to the park. The Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard, home of Theodore Roosevelt Jr., features films and exhibits about Theodore Roosevelt.
The grounds are open daily from dusk to dawn. The visitor center and bookstore is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the building is free and visitors can view movies and exhibits at their own pace.
Those who wish to simply explore the expansive, 83-acre park grounds are welcome to bring their pets; the six Roosevelt children who lived on the grounds a century ago often kept “normal” pets such as dogs and they also had a variety of more exotic animals like parrots, guinea pigs, mice and a badger named Josiah. Dogs must be kept on a leash.
A picnic area is available for visitors to enjoy an outdoor meal. Food, other than small snacks and beverages, is not available on site, so plan on bringing your own lunch.
