Frequently Asked Questions

I need to make a change to my reservation. How do I do this?

If changes need to be made to your reservation, the best way to reach us is by email at tickets@thomascole.org. You can also leave us a voicemail at 518-943-7465 ext. 102, but emailing is strongly preferred (even in time-sensitive cases) as we are often away from our phones during tour season.

I just want to see the special exhibition. Is there a separate ticket for that?

There is no separate ticket to see our special exhibition! General Admission tickets give you self-guided access to the New Studio, Main House, and Old Studio; the exhibition is on view in all three buildings and outside through October 29, 2023.

Tickets for July–October General Admission are on sale here.

Can I visit the site on a guided tour?

Yes! We offer the Deep Dive to the Thomas Cole Site guided tour Wednesday–Friday at 2pm and the Feminist’s Guide to the Thomas Cole Site guided tour on Saturday at 2pm. Tours are 60-75 minutes and include self-guided access to all three buildings and special exhibition before and/or after the tour.

Tickets are on sale here. Advance tickets are recommended as there is limited availability and tours can sell out.

Please note that guided tour tickets are released on a monthly basis: August tickets will go on sale July 15, September tickets on August 15, and October tickets on September 15.

What is your mask policy?

Face masks are optional in our interior spaces.

Is the house open to visit?

Yes! Tickets are available for purchase here.

The grounds are open for free every day from dawn to dusk.

Does a National Park Pass give me free entry to the site?

No, the Thomas Cole National Historic Site is an affiliate of the National Park Service, but operates as an independent non-profit. Therefore, the Thomas Cole National Historic Site is not included in the US National Park Pass program. Please visit this link to see parks where you can use your pass.

As an affiliate of the National Park Service, we do have a passport stamp available in the Visitor Center & Gift Shop during our open hours.

Do you offer free or discounted admission for museum staff?

Yes! Museum staff receive free admission to the site with their museum ID during regular touring hours.

When are the Grounds open?

The grounds are open every day from dawn until dusk, free of charge. As a carry-in/carry-out site, we ask that you take your trash with you.

Are you a part of the Junior Ranger Program?

No, we are not part of the Junior Ranger Program.

Can I paint or draw on site?

Yes, artists are free to use the site from dawn to dusk but should not use the porch during our open hours. We also ask that artists use paints on the lawn, and not on the historic structures such as the porch of the Main House.

Can I take photos on site?

Can I picnic on the grounds?

Yes, we encourage visitors to picnic and stretch out on the lawn. However, we have limited tables/seating for picnicking, so feel bring to bring a blanket! As a carry-in/carry-out site, we ask that you take your trash with you.

Are pets allowed on site?

Yes, providing they are leashed during open hours. However, they may not enter the buildings or go onto the porch of the Main House. Service animals are an exception. Read more HERE.

Can I smoke on the premises?

No, smoking is not allowed on anywhere on site. (This also includes e-cigarettes.)

Are there cafes and restaurants nearby?

Yes, Main St. in Catskill is filled with nice places to eat and drink. View our recommendations HERE.

Are strollers allowed in the Main House?

No; they can be stored temporarily beneath the porch of the Main House if needed. Strollers are allowed in the New Studio and Visitor’s Center.

Is the site handicapped accessible?

Are large bags, or backpacks allowed in the Main House?

No, we would prefer that large bags and strollers are not brought into the Main House, due to the small spaces.