Address: Beacon, NY 12508, USA
Phone: +18452372636
Vanessa Esparza
Here's what I wish I knew: Park in the station parking lot even though it says permit parking only!! The ferry leaves exactly at the time that the tour begins. The people working here are what really make this place worth it. The boat staff were really funny and point out cool stuff along the river, the tour guides are very knowledgeable and welcoming, and the gardeners have done an amazing job 💕 The tour consists of a guided tour and then you get 30-45 minutes to explore the island on your own. There are really just two little trails that loop, but you really should wear appropriate shoes. The stairs have railings to hold on to and a resting area half way, but you will have to step on to the ferry and there are many places throughout the island where you could lose your balance. You can purchase some things with cash only inside the residence building, and yes, there are bathrooms 👌 In the end, 10/10 would recommend!
Joan Picker
Wonderful tour. Lots of interesting history provided by our first mate Moose and tour guide Mary. Boat Captain Justin also made the trip fun. I loved the island, especially exploring the trails. We went with my sister who was in from California. It was a great way to spend the day!
Alamin hossain
Really beautiful place to visit. You have to buy tickets in advance. There are some short hikes inside the island. We had a guided tour, it was great to learn a lot of history about the island.
B. Li
Highly recommended for local history folks or anyone looking for a relatively easy hike around a small mountain with some picturesque scenery. It's probably New York's closest thing to a lasting castle from the early 20th century. The castle is maintained by the state and a local family, so the cost of the boat ride is fairly cheap at $35. It is advised to arrive 30 minutes before departure as they will leave on-time if you're taking your sweet time. The island has a group of volunteers who help maintain the gardens, so if possible, contribute through donations to keep the services intact. Definitely would be a loss to New York's local history if the island loses it's value as a historical site.
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You should reach out to the Bannerman Castle Trust, you have your answer
NO! It is part of Highlands State Park and is managed by the friends group Bannerman Castle Trust. www.bannermancastle.org
I am sorry, only Service dogs are allowed on Bannerman Island.
Go to their website (https://bannermancastle.org/tours-and-events/) and you can purchase tickets there. Adult tickets (12 and older) are $37.50 and children under 12 are $32.50. We took the tour this past Sunday and my family and I really enjoyed it.
All of the areas that are opened to the public are safe. The main castle structure ruis are currently not safe. Bannerman Castle trust has stabilized the iconic Tower wall with steel braces and has been working on the lower levels to point the feildstone walls. At this time the main castle structure is not safe and can be viewed on a tour 100' from the buildings. the Bannerman Residence has been stabilized and renovated into an educational visitor center. It is safe and open to the public during the guided tours. NY State owns the island and would not sell it.
I dont believe so. I know that boat access limits as the months get colder, the water surface changes, and the overall weather is more unstable in the area. Im not exactly sure when they stop boat tours but the website should be more specific.
Theres a fee for the tour but parking at the train station is free.
Entry fee for ferry ride to the island, and for any event you wish to attend.
For many years no one cared. And that's why the property fell in such a state. And the fires that started by partying kids. The last fire was just watched by people since the property is an island it posed little threat to its closest neighbor, the railroad. Part of your fees paid for the tours go to the upkeep & the building of touristie stuff - like the wooden pressure treated dock & steep stairs. They also have a small museum as well as a smaller gift shop up on the top where they do movie night. The stone masons just restored the brick/stone veranda up there as well. So as the previous poster stated - there are no self guided tours anymore. Having gone on the tour & movie night I can say it was a fun non-everyday, thing to do in the Valley. Honestly there's not enough there anymore to see without a knowledgeable guide to answer every question and walk you through the cool & interesting history the island has to offer. Pay the fee & Kayak with a group. Good luck & have fun.
Yes it is a drone free zone. No drones But U Can Fly Onr From The Mainland not on the island
I believe they run in the rain But not during incliment weather
I do not believe so. The state owns the island and there is s trust that controls tours to the island.
When i took the tour they mentioned that it is sometimes rented for private events but i recommend getting in touch with the non for profit group that mantains the island.
As a volunteer in helping to clean up and beautify the island, you can spend the day on the island and bring your own food. The typical visitor enters the island via a boat provided by the organization that owns the island and provides guided tours. There isn't really time during the tour to have a picnic on the island but you can enjoy a snack or two.
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