Picnic table along the bank of Val-Kill Pond at Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
While there are no official picnicking facilities at Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, there are plenty of spots where guests can have a bite to eat. The Val-Kill property was a favorite spot for Eleanor Roosevelt and her friends and family to gather for a picnic, and nothing prevents today’s guests from pitching a blanket on the grounds and having a picnic as long as they don’t do so near the historical buildings. There is a field with well-manicured grass to the east of the buildings along the banks of Val-Kill Pond and Fall Kill (the creek that runs through the property) that makes for a wonderful picnicking spot. There are even a couple of picnic tables near the water.
Evidence that this field is where the Roosevelts themselves picnicked is the large fireplace used for cook-outs (not for use today). The small building next to it is the children’s Doll House.
Outdoor grill and children’s Doll House on the grounds of Val-Kill, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
On the south side of Fall Kill along the path to Val-Kill from the parking lot is a bench on which guests can rest, take in the beautiful scenery, and perhaps have a snack.
Bench along Fall Kill at Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
And while not exactly picnicking, there are three tables with umbrellas available on the patio of the Stone Cottage Visitor Center. There is another table with chairs in the courtyard at the back of the building.
Patio furniture at the Stone Cottage, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Patio furniture in the courtyard of the Stone Cottage, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
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Last updated on May 2, 2025
