The visitor center at Women’s Rights National Historical Park is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
There is no entrance fee to visit Women’s Rights National Historical Park. Admission is free for all visitors.
From Rochester, take I-90 E to NY-414 S, then follow signs to Seneca Falls, a historic hub of feminist activism and revolutionary spirit.
Parking is available behind the Visitor Center and at the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House. Additional 2-hour parking is on Fall, Clinton, and Mynderse Streets. No specific RV or motorcycle parking, and no overnight parking. No parking fees mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Women’s Rights National Historical Park, situated in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, is a poignant blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Located in Seneca Falls and Waterloo, this park is set against the backdrop of serene lakes like Seneca and Cayuga, their calm waters reflecting the rolling hills and lush vegetation of the surrounding landscape.
The park itself is a tribute to the pivotal 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, the first women’s rights convention in the United States. The Wesleyan Methodist Church, where this historic event took place, stands as a central landmark, its simple yet evocative architecture a testament to the groundbreaking discussions that occurred within its walls. Nearby, the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House and the M’Clintock House offer glimpses into the lives of the women who paved the way for future generations.
As you stroll through the park, the 100-foot bluestone water feature in Declaration Park catches the eye, its surface inscribed with the powerful words of the Declaration of Sentiments. The visitor center, located at 136 Fall Street, serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the park’s historical properties and gaining a deeper understanding of the site’s importance.
While the park is not centered around a lake itself, its proximity to the Finger Lakes makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. Summer days can be spent kayaking on Seneca Lake or hiking through the picturesque trails that crisscross the area. Local artisan towns, such as Geneva and Ithaca, offer a rich tapestry of culture and cuisine, with boutique shops, wineries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Special events throughout the year add to the park’s allure, including ranger-led tours and historical reenactments that bring the site to life. In the summer, concerts and festivals celebrating women’s rights and local heritage fill the air with music and community spirit. For those seeking a more immersive experience, local outfitters offer guided canoe tours and biking excursions that allow visitors to explore the park and its surroundings in depth.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 34 294
- Established year
- 1980
Top 3 Facts about Women’s Rights National Historical Park
The Wesleyan Methodist Church, where the 1848 convention was held, had fallen into disrepair by 1980, with portions converted into a laundromat, a car garage, and apartments before its restoration.
Among the historic landscapes, visitors can discover a serene natural backdrop. The park’s vicinity is home to the Seneca River and Cayuga-Seneca Canal, where fish like smallmouth bass and northern pike thrive. The air is filled with the songs of birds such as the American goldfinch and the red-winged blackbird. The grounds feature a mix of native flora, including oak, maple, and pine trees, along with wildflowers like black-eyed susans and buttercups. This blend of history and nature creates a unique and enriching experience for those who explore this significant site.
Surrounded by the serene landscape of the Finger Lakes region, this historical site is set against the backdrop of Cayuga Lake, whose crystal-clear waters reflect the vibrant blues of the sky. The nearby hills, part of the larger Appalachian Plateau, rise gently to elevations of around 500 to 1,000 feet, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting that complements the rich historical significance of the area.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during the summer for Convention Days, a mid-week trip avoids crowds. Plan for a few hours to a full day, wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, and pack meals as options are limited. Stop by the visitor center first to map out your visit.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking shoes, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and portable stove. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals and properly dispose of trash to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Respect trails and avoid disturbing flora, especially during sensitive seasonal changes. Leave the area as you found it.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Stay informed to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
Visit in spring, when temperatures rise to the 50s and 60s, and blooming flowers enrich the historic landscape. Attend the annual Convention Days in May, featuring historical performances and scholarly speakers, making it an ideal time to immerse in the site’s profound history. Mild weather and vibrant events make spring a perfect season to explore.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and humid days. July highlights include the Convention Days Weekend, commemorating the 1848 women’s rights convention with family programming and historical presentations. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking immersive experiences.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and golden foliage enhance the historic charm. Attend the annual Convention Days in July, but enjoy ranger talks and house tours in the serene autumn atmosphere. Ideal for a reflective, immersive experience.
Visit from December to March, when crisp temperatures (avg. below 42°F) and snowy landscapes transform the site. While buildings are closed Sundays and Mondays, the grounds remain open, offering a serene winter backdrop to immerse in historic significance. Ideal for those who appreciate winter’s tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Women’s Rights National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Seneca Falls, New York. It is located in Seneca County and was the site of the first Women’s Rights Convention on July 19-20, 1848. Nearby cities include Ithaca, 41 miles away, and Rochester, 52 miles away.
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There is no specific child-friendly hiking trail mentioned within the park. The park focuses on historic sites such as the Wesleyan Chapel, Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s home, and Declaration Park, rather than hiking trails. Visitors can explore these historic properties and the visitor center.
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Dogs are not allowed inside the buildings, but they can be in all outdoor areas as long as they are on a leash. Only service animals are permitted inside the buildings.
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Parking is available but there is no specific mention that it is free. There are parking lots behind the Visitor Center and at the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House, as well as 2-hour parking along certain streets.
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The park celebrates the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, the first women’s rights convention, held on July 19-20 in the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Seneca Falls, New York. This event, attended by over 300 people, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucretia Mott, and Frederick Douglass, led to the Declaration of Sentiments declaring all men and women are created equal. The park also honors the homes of key figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and other women’s rights activists.