Upstate New York Historical Attractions

West Point is the oldest continually occupied military post in the country (since 1778). Graduates from the academy fought in everything from the Mexican-American war (1846-1848) to the Civil War (1861--1865). In fact, 345 officers from both the Union and the Confederate Armies came from West Point. Situated right on the Hudson River, the West Point Academy offers guided tours to visitors. Inside the Academy, visitors can see the West Point Museum, which boasts the largest collection of military objects in the U.S. Visitors also can watch a performance by the United States Military Academy Band, and stop by the the Old Cadet Chapel and the West Point Cemetery.

Sleepy Hollow is best known for being the town featured in Washington Irving's story, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," where Ichabod Crane faces the Headless Horseman. Incorporated in 1874 under the name North Tarrytown, the village features two great historical properties: the The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow, dating back to the 17th century, and the Philipsburg Manor, a farm museum in which visitors can see 17th century clothing, furniture and costumed reenactors. There is also a working mill on the grounds. The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is the final resting place for Irving, Elizabeth Arden, Walter Chrysler and William Rockefeller.

A National Historical Site, the former home of president Franklin D. Roosevelt was built on a 300-acre estate full of carefully designed gardens, hiking trails and additional buildings, such as the Top Cottage, where Roosevelt used to entertain visitors and spend time with friends. The site is open year-round and a tour of the grounds costs $15. Besides touring the house itself and seeing some of the documents and items held inside, visitors can also see the rose garden, visit the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, and join in commemorative events throughout the year.