Lyndhurst and Kykuit Rose Garden Experience

This walking tour begins at Lyndhurst, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and 67-acre heritage landscape stewarded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and set along the Hudson River.  Enjoy a unique, curator-led exploration of Helen Gould’s historic rose garden, established in the early 20^th century. Along the way, stroll through over 180 years of evolving design, from picturesque 19^th century ideals to carefully preserved garden traditions. Experience the extensive rose collection at peak bloom—the colors and fragrances—while learning about the garden’s history and restoration, including the return of historic perennial beds with help from local garden clubs. Participants will also enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of historic sculpture and garden accents not normally visible to the public.

Following the tour, enjoy a catered group lunch at the Lyndhurst Welcome Center, formerly a carriage house—a relaxing interlude to compliment the morning’s discoveries.

In the afternoon, continue to Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate at Pocantico.  Operated by The Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Kykuit offers a remarkable contrast in garden design and scale.  Explore the estate’s renowned rose garden and meticulously designed immediate surrounding landscape.  Discover how formal garden structures, classical influences, and sweeping vistas come together to create one of the region’s most iconic garden environments.  The interplay between architecture, sculpture, and horticulture reflects the Rockefeller vision of refinement, innovation, and cultural legacy.

This curated experience offers a rare opportunity to explore two of the Hudson Valley’s most distinguished estates in a single day, each with its own unique approach to garden design, preservation, and beauty.  From the romantic historicism of Lyndhurst to the grand formal elegance of Kykuit, the tour celebrates the enduring allure of roses and the landscapes that showcase them.

Important Information, Please Read:

• If you require accessibility accommodations at Kykuit or have any questions, please email pocanticoprograms@rbf.org or call 914-524-6560. If you require accessibility accommodations at Lyndhurst or have any questions, please email eswart@savingplaces.org 
• Some parts of this tour will require walking uphill, on slippery or uneven terrain including stones that can be wobbly, gravel paths, and stairs. Restrooms are available at the Parking Lot at Kykuit and in the Welcome Center at Lyndhurst.  
• Sturdy, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Please bring a reusable water bottle.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before the entry time on your ticket. If you are late, we will do our best to accommodate you, but we cannot guarantee it.
• Check-in at the Welcome Center at Lyndhurst.
• All ticket purchases are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
• Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Email Aboesch@savingplaces.org if you have any dietary restrictions that need to be accommodated.
Follow the Pocantico center on Instagram, use #Kykuit to follow the event.