
Martin Van Buren National Historic Site is a national historic site run by the National Park Service in New York.
In the park service’s words
Born in Kinderhook, New York, in 1782, Martin Van Buren was the first president born a US citizen. His life spanned the American Revolution to the Civil War and was shaped by the most important issues of the era: US expansionism and the removal of Indigenous people, states’ rights, and slavery. This historic landscape invites reflection on the many lives and legacies woven into its past.
From the National Park Service (public domain).
Things to do
- Wayside Loop Trail (20 to 60 Minutes): The Wayside Loop Trail is a short tour of the site that visitors can do at any time.
- Martin Van Buren Junior Ranger Program (45 to 60 Minutes): Participate in Martin Van Buren National Historic Site's Junior Ranger Program! Our unique Junior Ranger Book offers students of history an engaging way to explore Martin Van Buren's house and grounds.
Fees and hours
Entrance fee: No entrance fee.
Hours: Daily, 7:00AM - Sunset. Park grounds are open year round from 7:00 am to sunset. Visitor facilities and guided tours of the president's home are available on a seasonal basis. Please check our Operating Hours & Seasons page for our current facility hours.
Getting there
The park entrance road is located off of route 9H about two miles south of Kinderhook Village. GPS Coordinates: 42° 22' 52'' N -73° 42' 13'' W
| Airport | City | Drive to the park | Straight-line miles | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albany International Airport (ALB) | Albany, NY | No road route | 27 | Large hub |
| Bradley International Airport (BDL) | Hartford, CT | No road route | 60 | Large hub |
| New York Stewart International Airport (SWF) | Newburgh, NY | No road route | 63 | Regional |
Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.
Miles are straight-line distances.
Visitor centers
- Visitor Center: Daily, 9:00AM - 4:30PM. The visitor center and access inside Lindenwald are available when the site is open for tours (Friday, Sunday). Tours begin Saturday May 23, 2026. Monday, Thursday, visitors may access the grounds, obtain a park stamp, and use restrooms in the Visitor Center but no tours are available.
Weather
The weather at Martin Van Buren National Historic Site is typical of the northeast United States; it varies considerably throughout the year. Always check the forecast prior to your visit and dress accordingly. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
From the National Park Service (public domain).
Know before you go
Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.
Nearby
The nearest national park is Acadia, about 308 miles away in a straight line.
Sources
- National Park Service Data API: Martin Van Buren National Historic Site (public domain)
- Official website
Last checked 1 November 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee at Martin Van Buren National Historic Site?
No entrance fee.
Where is Martin Van Buren National Historic Site?
In New York. The closest airport with scheduled flights is Albany International Airport, about 27 miles away.
More sites nearby
National monumentsAfrican Burial Ground National Monument
National Monument in New York. No entrance fee.
Historic sitesAllegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
National Historic Site in Pennsylvania. No entrance fee. 5 hikes listed.
Historic sitesAmache National Historic Site
National Historic Site in Colorado. No entrance fee.
Historic sitesAndersonville National Historic Site
National Historic Site in Georgia. No entrance fee.
Historic sitesAndrew Johnson National Historic Site
National Historic Site in Tennessee. No entrance fee.