Top Cottage (FDR's Retreat) Guide
Step Back in Time: Discover FDR's Private Sanctuary at Top Cottage Guide
Top Cottage, also known as Hill-Top Cottage, offers a unique glimpse into the personal life of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This charming, unassuming cottage served as FDR's private retreat, a place where he could escape the pressures of the presidency and enjoy moments of peace and relaxation. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Hudson River, Top Cottage provides stunning views and a sense of tranquility that is sure to captivate visitors. Built in 1939, Top Cottage was designed by FDR himself, reflecting his personal tastes and preferences. The cottage served as a place for him to entertain close friends and family, host informal meetings, and simply unwind. It was here that he could truly be himself, away from the public eye. The cottage's simple design and comfortable furnishings reflect FDR's down-to-earth personality and his love for the Hudson Valley. It was also the location where he hosted King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939, the first time a reigning British monarch visited the United States. A visit to Top Cottage offers a fascinating insight into FDR's life and legacy. Guided tours of the cottage are available, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rooms where FDR relaxed, entertained, and even conducted some official business. The surrounding grounds offer opportunities for leisurely walks and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. The site is part of the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, allowing visitors to combine their visit to Top Cottage with a tour of the main house and other historic buildings.
Transportation
Top Cottage is accessible via the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. You can take the Dutchess County Public Transit (DCPT) Route P to the FDR Presidential Library and Museum. From there, you can access the shuttle or walk to Top Cottage, which is located within the National Historic Site. Check the National Park Service website for shuttle schedules and accessibility information.