Land Adventures at Thomas Cole National Historic Site
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with gentle walks and seated viewing opportunities
Overview
Discover the artistic landscape of the Hudson Valley with a scenic outdoor twist at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site. Walk among the grounds that inspired legendary paintings, while delving into Emily Cole's unique ceramics and art.
Curators' Tour
All ages • 1 hour
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About This Adventure
Explore the remarkable legacy of Emily Cole, daughter of Thomas Cole, on a guided tour of the exhibition Emily Cole: Ceramics, Flora, and Contemporary Responses. Discover the largest collection of her painted porcelain and works on paper, displayed alongside contemporary art, creating a vibrant dialogue between past and present.
####Led by Amanda Malmstrom, Thomas Cole National Historic Site Associate Curator
###Duration 45 minutes
###About Did you know that Thomas Cole was not the only artist to make and exhibit art at our historic property? The Cole Site was also the lifelong home and studios of the artist Emily Cole (1843-1913), the prolific painter of botanicals who glazed, fired, and exhibited her ceramic wares in the New Studio.
Join TCNHS Associate Curator Amanda Malmstrom on a behind-the-scenes collections tour that will illuminate the life and work of Emily Cole, whose father was Thomas Cole. Emily made a name for herself as “Catskill’s China Painter.” Join us for this rare opportunity to view works on paper and porcelain in our collection and tour the Main House as Amanda discusses Emily Cole and women’s history at the Cole Site.
###Contact For questions, please email us at tickets@thomascole.org (preferred) or leave us a voicemail at 518-943-7465 ext. 122.
Frequently Asked Questions
###Mask Policy Face masks are optional in our interior spaces. If you or a member of your household does not feel well, please stay home.
By purchasing a ticket, you are acknowledging the policies stated above.
###Accessibility The first floor of the Main House is wheelchair accessible by an elevator lift to bypass the 11 steps leading up to the first-floor porch. The second floor of the Main House is only accessible by two flights of stairs. The parking lot is asphalt and includes a number of handicap spaces. The walking paths are loose gravel.
If you need to discuss specific accessibility concerns, please email us at info@thomascole.org.
Image: Emily Cole, Untitled (Peonies) (detail), n.d., watercolor and pencil on paper, 11 3/4 x 10 1/4 in. Thomas Cole National Historic Site, Gift of Edith Cole Silberstein
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Bring sturdy shoes suitable for walking through gardens and gentle trails.
Bring your camera
Capture the scenic views and art-filled exhibits to remember your visit.
Check opening hours ahead
Tour schedules can vary seasonally; confirm times before your visit.
Pack a picnic
Enjoy a peaceful meal amidst the scenic beauty of the grounds.
Visit during off-peak hours
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience, visit early or late in the day.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red fox
- River otters
History
Thomas Cole, founder of the Hudson River School, painted the landscape that inspired generations of artists, establishing the region as a hub of American landscape art.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving native flora and fauna, maintaining trails, and protecting the historic buildings to ensure sustainable tourism in the Catskills.
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Adventure Hotspots in Albany
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for walking around the historic grounds and scenic trails.
Camera
Capture the scenic views and artworks during your visit.
Hat and sunglasses
Protect yourself from sun during outdoor exploration in summer.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Weather can be unpredictable; bring a jacket for rain showers.
spring; fall specific