Experience the local history of Cooperstown and Otsego County
History thrives here in Cooperstown; the home of author James Fenimore Cooper, the home of baseball, and the home of craft-brews. Look at the handwritten letters between Hamilton and Burr, watch hands-on farming demos circa 1845, or take an old-fashioned train ride through idyllic scenery—get ready to turn back time and learn something new!
When planning your visit, add these places and experiences to your itinerary.
We recommend consulting each business before visiting, as many of them operate seasonally and have varying hours of operation as well as alterations due to COVID-19 guidelines.
Sitting on the shores of Otsego Lake, the property where the Fenimore Art Museum now sits was once owned by James Fenimore Cooper. Museum visitors have the opportunity to see a collection of original handwritten letters that fueled the ongoing war of words between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. There’s also one of the country's most exceptional collections of American folk art, and the renowned Thaw Collection of American Indian Art.
American history really comes alive during the summer at The Farmers’ Museum, where daily chores are carried out on the working farm, while commerce flourishes in the historic country village. Visitors experience the interplay among trades, village life and agriculture in New York State circa 1845. One of the country’s oldest living history museums, it features exhibits, craft
demonstrations and hands-on activities.
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
Ride into history and beautiful scenery. Experience what was once the primary form of transportation throughout the country, on a diesel train built in 1869. Special excursions throughout the year include themed holiday trains, Blues Express, Train Robberies, Fall Foliage Trains and many more!
With 200 years of history, Cooperstown has a story to tell. Leatherstocking Trolley helps tell it, offering 75-minute tours throughout the area, with stops at Cooperstown's most popular destinations including Otsego Lake, Hyde Hall, Glimmerglass Festival, The Otesaga Resort Hotel and many more.
Step back in time and fall under the spell of historic Hyde Hall during your 50-minute guided tour of this National Historic Landmark. Learn about the construction, decline and resurrection of this majestic 50 room country house which has overlooked James Fenimore Cooper's fabled "Glimmerglass" for over 200 years.
Other Places and Experiences to Check Out
National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum
The Village of Gilbertsville, NY
Greater Oneonta Historical Society
Cherry Valley, NY
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