Orange County, N.Y., is a place where history feels alive at every turn. From the moment Henry Hudson first sailed into Cornwall Bay in 1609, the region has played a key role in America’s story. Home to pivotal Revolutionary War sites like George Washington’s Headquarters in Newburgh, and even the nation’s first Registered National Historic Landmark. Orange County invites visitors to explore its rich heritage. With a wealth of historic treasures, lively fairs and unique festivals, it offers countless ways to connect with the past and experience the moments that helped shape our nation.
Stand Where Washington Stood: A Revolutionary Experience
Our journey begins at Washington’s Headquarters in Newburgh; the first publicly owned historic site in the United States! This humble stone house served as General George Washington’s command post during the final years of the Revolutionary War, where he made decisions that helped shape the nation we know today.
📍 This location gave Washington a strategic vantage point over the Hudson River to track British movements and protect supply lines.
Picture standing in the very room where Washington ended the Newburgh Conspiracy, created the Badge of Military Merit (the precursor to the Purple Heart), and wrote his powerful “Circular Letter” to the state governors. A must-see for anyone fascinated by our fight for independence!
Featuring guided tours, the award-winning Unpacked & Rediscovered exhibit showcases over 1,300 historical artifacts and the incredible Tower of Victory, now fully restored and offering sweeping views of the Hudson River.
Fun Fact:
It was right here in Newburgh that Washington rejected calls for him to become a monarch—cementing America’s dedication to democracy!
Where Strategy Met Firepower: Tour Knox’s Revolutionary Outpost
Next up: Knox’s Headquarters! A beautifully preserved 1754 Georgian-style home where Major General Henry Knox led artillery operations during the last months of the war. Here, Knox commanded 7,000 troops from the nearby New Windsor Cantonment, making this spot a key military hub in the fight for freedom.
Visitors can explore the historic Ellison House, discover stories from the front lines, and learn about the Ellison family’s mill, once an essential part of regional trade. You can even see remnants of the mill’s underground raceway!
Fun Fact:
This site is only a mile from the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, which ties in perfectly with Knox’s role in the war and the military legacy preserved here.
🕰️ Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Wednesday–Sunday. Don’t miss your chance to walk the same grounds where Revolutionary War strategies were put into motion!
Chains, Forts & Betrayals: West Point’s History Has It All
Perched high above the Hudson River, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is more than just a prestigious school, it’s one of America’s most legendary military sites. In fact, George Washington himself called it the “key to the continent.”
Back in 1778, Washington appointed Polish engineer Thaddeus Kosciuszko to fortify the area. By 1779, West Point had become his headquarters, transformed into a fortress of forts, gun batteries, redoubts, and the famous 65-ton iron chain stretched across the river to block British ships.
Despite the betrayal of Benedict Arnold in 1780, West Point never fell to the British and remains the oldest continuously occupied military post in the U.S.
Fun Fact:
The iconic iron chain laid across the Hudson was so heavy it took 40 men to haul each link into place!
📸 Today, visitors can tour the grounds, learn about West Point’s critical role in the Revolution, and admire its enduring legacy in military leadership.
Orange County, N.Y., is where America’s past meets the present in the most inspiring way. From commanding generals to quiet acts of resistance, every stop tells a story worth remembering. So, grab your walking shoes, charge your photos and get ready to make history come alive on your next visit!
Sleep in an architecturally significant B&B, or book a room at a nationally known hotel. Casual travelers as well as visitors looking for luxury will find a wide range of properties to consider. There are lodging options for everyone – Try our user-friendly lodging search below and come stay with us in Orange County, NY.
