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The Birthplace of American Landscape Painting
One of the most renowned and influential American artists of the 19th century, Thomas Cole found inspiration in the dramatic landscapes of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley. His paintings helped establish the nation’s first major art movement—the Hudson River School—and a distinctly American tradition of landscape painting.
The Thomas Cole National Historic Site preserves the six-acre property where Cole lived, painted and found inspiration and tells the story of his life. Explore his historic home and two studios, view exhibitions of historic and contemporary art, visit the new Cole Center designed by AD100 designer Stephen Shadley, and take in panoramic Catskill Mountain views that shaped his work.
ZioandSonsThis modern, light-filled visitor hub, designed by AD100 designer Stephen Shadley. offers ticketing, a gift and book shop, coffee and snacks, and soaring windows overlooking the historic property and Catskill Mountains.
©Peter Aaron OTTOSee Cole’s artwork, original easel, personal letters, furnishings and other artifacts from his life and work. The historic spaces also feature a rotation of contemporary art exhibitions.
Andrew von UrtzWander the grounds and take in panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains, the landscape that inspired Cole nearly two centuries ago.
Adam T DeenGo deeper with guided tours, hands-on artmaking workshops, guest lectures and public programs exploring art, nature and landscape preservation.
The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is open Wednesday–Sunday for general admission, with additional Monday hours in October. Check the site’s current hours, admission information and tour schedule before your visit. Make time to explore nearby downtown Catskill, with independent shops, restaurants, galleries and more.
The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is the starting point for the Hudson River School Art Trail, connecting places in nature that Cole and other 19th-century artists captured on canvas. Follow the Art Trail to explore the landscapes that inspired iconic 19th-century landscape paintings that now hang in major museums around the world. A majority of the trail’s destinations are in Greene County. Starting at the Thomas Cole Site, follow the artists from the River Region into the Catskill Mountains. Explore the waterfalls, lakes, mountain passes and overlooks that helped inspire America’s first major art movement. Find these iconic views on the Art Trail here in the Great Northern Catskills.
Follow @andnorth founder Emma Austen on a three-day Catskills getaway filled with art, history, mountain scenery and local flavor. From the Thomas Cole National Historic Site to the historic streets of Catskill and Coxsackie, discover favorite shops, memorable dining, a charming mountain inn and scenic stops in Tannersville.
Be Inspired: View the Itinerary