This 1799 carriage house, one of the oldest structures in Manhattan, was once one of the approximately 50 day hotels operating in and around New York City and is currently the only historical site to focus on these unique places. In the 1820s and ’30s, men and women would travel from crowded downtown Manhattan up to “the country” of East 61st Street to spend the day enjoying fresh air, nature, and leisure activities: socializing, listening to music, reading, writing letters, dancing, taking carriage rides, and enjoying a hearty meal of the finest delicacies of the day. 

Travel back in time with experienced docents, and explore eight historical rooms and the garden while learning fascinating and often little-known gems of New York City history, including what people ate and wore, the music they listened to, their favorite pastimes, and how they flirted, as well as how these behaviors represented a changing society. Weather-permitting, the tour will be both indoors and outdoors.

The site has stairs from the sidewalk level to the front door, as well as to the second floor, where half of the tour takes place. Seating can be arranged for visitors who have difficulty standing for long periods. No food or beverages allowed, except water bottles. Children 8+ are welcome with an accompanying adult.