Discovering the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site in NYC
Tucked away in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park neighborhood, the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site offers a compelling look into the early life of one of America’s most influential presidents. Located at 28 East 20th Street, this reconstructed brownstone marks the spot where Theodore Roosevelt was born in 1858 and spent the first years of his life.
Although the original house was demolished in 1916, it was rebuilt in 1923 by the Women’s Roosevelt Memorial Association using original architectural plans and family recollections. Today, the site is managed by the National Park Service and serves as a museum dedicated to Roosevelt’s formative years and enduring legacy.
Guided tours
Visitors can join guided tours to explore five restored period rooms, including the parlor, dining room, and bedrooms, all furnished with authentic 19th-century pieces. Many of the items on display belonged to the Roosevelt family, offering a personal glimpse into the environment that shaped a future president. The museum galleries feature photographs, documents, and memorabilia that trace Roosevelt’s journey from a sickly child to a vigorous leader and reformer.
The site also offers educational programs, a Junior Ranger activity for children, and a bookstore with Roosevelt-themed literature and souvenirs. While the upstairs rooms are accessible only via guided tours, the ground floor exhibits are open for self-guided exploration.
Admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching stop for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Please note: a free guided tour is the only way to see the upstairs rooms of the house
Hours of Operation:
Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Website:
https://www.nps.gov/thrb/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this historic site offers a quiet, thoughtful retreat into the life of a man who helped shape modern America.
