Beekman Arms Inn: Explore Timeless Charm In Rhinebeck NY

When I read the tagline for the Beekman Arms Inn that said, “walk up the same stairs as George Washington,” I immediately booked my room. Little did I know just how much history I would uncover beyond those storied steps!

Nestled in the picturesque village of Rhinebeck, New York, the Beekman Arms Inn is more than just a place to rest your head. It’s a journey back in time.

As the oldest continuously operating inn in America, this charming establishment has hosted everyone from revolutionary heroes to modern-day travelers.

But the allure of this historic Inn isn’t just in its famous guests—it’s in the creaking floorboards, the antique-filled rooms, and the stories that seem to whisper from every corner.

If you’re a history enthusiast, it’s a bucket list destination, but if you’re simply looking for a unique getaway, the Beekman Arms Inn delivers an experience brimming with timeless charm.

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The Beekman Arms Inn fills up fast! Don’t miss your chance to book a weekend getaway in this historic hotel! Check prices now.

A white building with black shutters and two american flags hanging on large white posts. — The entrance to the historic Beekman Arms Inn.

An Inn Older Than The Country

The Beekman Arms Inn isn’t just another historic hotel—it’s a place where the past truly comes alive.

Established in 1766 by Arent Traphagen, this charming inn has been a cornerstone of Rhinebeck for more than 250 years.

Known at that time as Traphagen Tavern, the Inn served as a gathering spot for local politicians, travelers, and even a few revolutionaries.

Pro Tip: Want to stretch your legs? Take a day trip to Mohonk Mountain House and get a Day Pass so you can see their beautiful and stunning summerhouses.

A closeup of a wooden door embedded in a white building which is the Beekman Arms Inn. — This doorway has welcomed visitors for more than two centuries.

During the Revolutionary War, the Beekman Arms Inn became a hub of activity, where some of America’s most notable figures, like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and even Aaron Burr, rested.

Walking through the door of the inn feels like stepping into a living museum — but with a much cozier ambiance and a glass of sherry waiting for you at the end of the day.

Best of all, there is a major Revolutionary War Battlefield right down the road in Stony Point, N.Y.

If you enjoy visiting Colonial taverns, check out Jessop’s Tavern in New Castle, DE.

Two couches face each other with a fireplace in the background in the lobby of the Beekman Arms Inn. A chandelier hangs overhead and a flag hangs over the fireplace. — The cozy lobby of the Beekman Arms Inn.

How Did The Hotel Get Its Name?

If you guessed that the hotel got its name from the Beekman family, you’d be correct. Judge Henry Beekman was a prominent figure among the original British Crown land owners in the Hudson Valley.

Colonel Henry Beekman Jr. expanded his father’s land holdings and populated them with refugees from Europe’s Palatine-Rhine region.

Don’t miss a chance to stay in this historic Inn that played a pivotal role in the American Revolution! You can book your stay now!

Role In The Revolutionary War

With the 250th birthday of the nation taking place in 2026, it’s interesting to note that the Bogardus Tavern (as the building was known during the end of the 18th century), helped host the American Revolution!

The Fourth Regiment of the Continental Army performed drills on the front lawn in preparation for the war.

A timber and stone building originally built to withstand possible Native American attacks, the Bogardus Tavern served similar purposes during the war with the British Crown.

The townsfolk took refuge here while the British burned the state capital, Kingston, across the river. George Washington, Philip Schuyler, Benedict Arnold, and Alexander Hamilton all slept, ate, drank, argued, and laughed at the Beekman throughout the Revolutionary War.

Related Post: With a stay at this Inn, you’re less than four hours away from Lexington and Concord, where the British suffered a defeat before the Revolutionary War even began.

It’s not hard to imagine the history that took place in this building! The inn’s architecture is like a time capsule. Original beams, wide plank floors, and a fireplace that has seen its fair share of history all adds up to an authentic colonial vibe that transports you straight back to the 18th century.

Other Famous Guests

In addition to Revolutionary War era guests, the Beekman hosted novelist Thomas Wolfe, who would go on to write Of Time and the River in 1935.

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was also a frequent guest at the Beekman Arms. He concluded each of his four political campaigns for governor and president talking from the front porch.

As a hub of the community, the hotel and tavern hosted thousands of town and service club meetings, weddings, celebrations and leisurely Sunday brunches and dinners.

In the 1930s, young ladies training to be nurses relaxed at the inn after their hospital shifts. Firefighters and World War II soldiers paraded and posed for photographs on the surrounding lawn and streets.

A small wooden replica of the Beekman Arms Tavern. — A wooden replica of the original Beekman Arms Tavern.

Ghosts, Legends and Lore at The Beekman

No historic inn would be complete without a few ghost stories, and the Beekman has plenty! With over two centuries of history under its roof, it’s no surprise that this charming inn has more than a few spine-tingling tales to tell.

Guests and staff alike have reported mysterious happenings, from flickering lights and inexplicable cold spots to the faint sound of footsteps echoing down empty hallways.

One of the most famous spirits said to roam the inn is that of a Revolutionary War soldier. He’s been spotted near the original fireplace in the Tavern Room, perhaps keeping an eye on the place he once called a temporary home.

Cobwebs sweep across the mouth of a fireplace with old pots and pans in the fire area. — A visit during Halloween shows off the spooky side of the Beeman Arms Inn.

Since I’m from Gettysburg, one of the most haunted towns in the U.S., I’m pretty accustomed to ghost stories. I loved staying in the old Inn where figures from the Revolutionary War had stayed, but unfortunately, I didn’t have any visits from ghosts.

Spending The Night With History

Whether you’re drawn by this hotel’s unique history or are simply visiting the beautiful Hudson River Valley, planning your stay is half the fun. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Room Choices: The inn offers a range of accommodations, from cozy guest rooms in the main building to suites in the adjacent Delamater House, each with its own unique character.

A four-poster bed sits on an oriental rug, with Victorian wallpaper and antique furniture. — A room in the original Beekman Arms Inn.

If you’re a history buff, opt for one of the rooms in the original inn (like I did), where you can sleep under centuries-old beams and feel truly connected to the past. I have stayed in dozens of historic hotels, and was very impressed with the size of the room and the bathroom in the Beekman Arms Inn.

Historic hotels are often limited in what they can provide, but the room was lovely and spacious.

The bed was very comfortable and I loved the extra touch of a decanter of New York Cream Sherry for a quiet nightcap before bed! I have never had sherry before. It was warm, smooth and sweet!

A glass of sherry sits in front of a decanter on a dresser top. — The decanter of sherry for a nightcap was a beautiful historical touch.

Pro Tip: If you do decide to stay in the old Inn, keep in mind there are no elevators, so you will have to carry your luggage up a flight of steps. That was not a deterrent for me, but it may be for some.

For those who prefer a little more space and modern comforts, the Delamater House offers a quieter retreat just a short stroll from the main inn.

I walked through this historic inn and loved the creaking floors and “homey” feel. It truly feels like you’re staying as a guest in a house.

The sister hotel of Beekman Arms is the Delamater Inn. It sits behind an iron fence and is a Victorian-style house. — The Delamater Inn is another choice for a historic stay in Rhinebeck, NY.

Booking Tips: Both the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn are popular destinations, especially on weekends and during peak seasons like fall foliage and summer, so booking early is essential.

Dining Delights: Be sure to reserve a table in The Tavern at the Beekman Arms, the inn’s signature restaurant. With a menu that blends traditional American cuisine with modern flair, it’s a dining experience that matches the inn’s historic setting.

The cozy bar and restaurant at the Beekman Arms Inn with wooden beams and a wooden bar. — The cozy and historic pub and restaurant at the Beekman Arms Inn.

The Colonial Tap Room, with its cozy open-hearth fireplaces and old beams, is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or an evening cocktail.

I love even after two centuries, few changes have been made to the original structure. A fire in the hearth still warms guests from cold winter nights and residents and visitors continue to gather, eat, drink, and talk, as they have since 1704.

I ate dinner in the Tavern and found the seating area charming and cozy. They brought out delicious warm rolls before the meal, and my dish of stuffed shrimp on a bed of rice was wonderful.

Stuff shrimp dish with asparagus on top. — Stuffed shrimp with asparagus.

Special Events

Special Events and Celebrations: Believe it or not, this historic Inn has plenty of event space.

The historic charm of this hotel makes it an ideal setting for weddings, family reunions, or special events. If you’re planning a trip during the holidays, don’t miss the inn’s festive decor and seasonal events.

Covered outdoor seating with round white tables on a stone walk. — There is plenty of covered outdoor seating in the garden greenhouse as well as other event space, like the ballroom.

Exploring Beyond The Inn

Rhinebeck and the surrounding Hudson Valley region offer endless opportunities for exploration. From vineyard tours and antique shops to hiking trails and river cruises, there’s something for everyone.

I visited the West Point Military Academy and the Vanderbilt house, but didn’t have time to visit President Roosevelt’s house, which is also in the area.

During my visit to the Hudson River Valley, I also stayed at the historic Thayer Hotel and the renowned Mohonk Mountain House, two other historic hotels I highly recommend.

Pet-Friendly Perks: Traveling with your furry friend? The Beekman Arms Inn welcomes well-behaved pets in select rooms, so you don’t have to leave anyone behind. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm availability.

a stone walk leads to a stone one-story building that is the Rhinebeck NY post office. — Even the post office in Rhinebeck is historic!

Small Town Charm In Rhinebeck, NY

When I booked my room at the Beekman Arms Inn, I regret that I didn’t leave enough time to explore the beautiful village of Rhinebeck.

While the Beekman Arms is a destination in itself, Rhinebeck is a picturesque community that is a perfect blend of small-town allure and modern-day vibrancy.

I did a quick walk through the town (early in the morning and after-hours in the evening) and saw beautifully preserved historic buildings that house everything from quirky boutiques to cozy cafés.

Even the Rhinebeck Post Office is in a historic building and the Beekman Arms Inn’s sister property, the Beekman Delamater Inn, dates back to 1844.

Antique Hunting: You don’t have to go far to find antiques! I love antiquing and the village of Rhinebeck is well-suited for that hobby. The Beekman Arms Antique Market sits right behind the hotel.

A red barn that says Beekman Arms Antiques. — This amazing antique store sits right behind the Inn.

Local Attractions: For a deeper dive into the past, visit the nearby Wilderstein Historic Site. This stunning Queen Anne mansion was once the home of Margaret “Daisy” Suckley, a cousin and confidante of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Foodie Heaven: Rhinebeck is a small town with a big appetite. From farm-to-table restaurants to charming bakeries, there’s no shortage of delicious options.

Start your day at Bread Alone for fresh pastries fresh and coffee. For lunch, grab a bite at Terrapin, which is set in a former church that is bound to impress.

Hidden Gems: If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, head to the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome. This living museum of aviation history features vintage aircraft and thrilling air shows that will transport you back to the early days of flight.

Or, take a peaceful stroll through Ferncliff Forest, where a short hike leads to a fire tower offering panoramic views of the Hudson Valley.

Wrap-Up: Beekman Arms Inn Review

With its rich history, charming accommodations, and prime location in the heart of Rhinebeck, the Beekman Arms Inn is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that transports you to another time.

Whether you’re sipping a glass of wine by the fireplace, exploring the town’s restaurants or antique stores, or simply relaxing in a room where history has been made, a stay at this historic Inn is one you won’t soon forget.