Historic Richmond Town

I’ve visited attractions in over a dozen states, and this might be the first time I’ve ever felt compelled to write a review. The $10 admission grants access to several buildings with interactive guided tours. Each building has been perfectly preserved to reflect its appearance from one or two centuries ago. The guides have also created carefully designed interactive activities for each location. The entire tour takes about 90 minutes, and I think it’s absolutely worth it! It feels like I'm a resident back in those days!

The town and museum are beautifully preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the area's historical settlers. We truly enjoyed exploring the museum and admiring the houses, each thoughtfully designed with a charming historical touch. However, one aspect that could be improved was the lack of a receipt or ticket after purchasing admission. The shop attendant merely instructed us to explore the museum freely, which felt somewhat disorganized. Despite this minor drawback, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this place if you’re passing through or staying near Avenel, NJ.

We had a wonderful tour of the property and learned a lot about the settlers of the area. You get to see inside the homes, learn about not only how the people lived but how they built their homes. The houses were moved to the area to create the village, back when they were built people would have lived on farms miles away from each other. The historical society did a great job of moving and restoring the homes, preserving them in time for us to learn about history. There is an onsite cafe with pretty great food. There are public restrooms in a few of the buildings, a gift shop and museum.

Been here many times, great historical town with large parking lot & free to enter (unless something big is going on). Main Street Coffee shop is great to visit, bathrooms next to it, as well as several good forest trails nearby. Also see Church of St. Andrew. Btw check their website for events calendar, cool tours & fairs happen throughout the year.

This is a great place to visit , but you need to walk , research and be open minded. Every building has its history and tradition. Old buildings, many cool old things to see and discover. People had much less than we have right now and they manage everything well. I highly recommend this place!

So Picturesque this Time of Year 🍁🍂🍁! Adorable little Place to Eat as Well!! Great Morning Spot to Take in all the Beauty of Autumn, Relax, & Enjoy the History Richmond Town has to Offer!!!

One of those treasures that makes history come alive... complete with very kind and knowledgeable staff that dress the part. There were about 5 or 6 of the houses open but we may go back again in the fall to see other houses that were closed today. They have a real blacksmith on-site and a real carpenter that made the broom making machine by looking at a picture of one from the 1820s! I loved the presentation on voting in 1800s, it seemed to hold a very balanced view. I also loved the museum exhibits. One was on Black American baseball history and I saw where my people would've been allowed to play! Go NY Cubans! The other exhibit on toys through the ages was really cool too, especially the tamagotchi/pogs/ beanie babies section - shout out to those born in the 80s🤣 Edited the review to include ample free on-site parking which is rare in NYC and the ice cream shop is adorable and my children said the ice cream was delicious.

Love this bucolic place. We watch free concerts here. Really like their events - best one is Richmond County Country Fair on Labor Day weekend.

What a hidden gem! I've lived in NYC for 35 years and I've never heard of this place. It makes you feel like you've left the city and have time warped into another era. It's filled with beauty and so many things to learn. Most of the staff are very resourceful. It's also cool because they also sell the items that they make.

Went here with a walking meetup group for the Juneteenth event. Had no clue the place existed, let alone would be so cool. We were a large group, which seemingly for them was a surprise, and I get it, it's a 40 minute bus ride from the Staten Island Ferry, and seemingly in the middle of nowhere, but its a truly a gem. $15 got us wandering around the historic houses either built there or relocated there, with employees who in historic costumes give an informative demonstration of tin making, or basket weaving, woodworking, cooking (waffles & fresh strawberries direct from a wood-burning fire were fire). Plus we saw a reenactment of Juneteenth, and a broom-jumping ceremony, with music, and vendors, and a great ice cream parlor. A cafe at the edge of the block has a full American food menu, and lively outdoor seating. There's plenty of parking, and the vibe is simple, relaxing, friendly and revealing. I learned a lot, and enjoyed the friendly staff who were our teachers. I took photos, but eventually decided to just experience it. I only wish I would have spent time in the gift shop, I'm sure I would have certainly bought stuff I liked a lot, but truly didn't need. I would go again for another event, that seemed the perfect place for history lessons in a fun way.

Last night my family and I went on a Ghost Village Tour at Richmond town. Out guide was Christopher, and he was terrific. He completely bought into providing a character in costume that was in vibe with telling spooky stories about Staten Island as we were visiting the various houses on site. Each story was fascinating, including sharing some of his own personal anecdotes. I would definitely recommend this tour for people who are looking for a fun and fascinating activity to do in the Halloween season.

Good live music good food gifts toys for the kids homes services family fun grateful to have them here showing us the way people lived in those times how they cooked made tools and bowls cups always something interesting to see and do

Regarding the Richmond County Fair on Labor Day-there were no vendors and nothing to do unless you have small children to take them on the rides. Not worth a free admission, and much less a paid one.

I really enjoyed attending the Carnegie Hall brass musicians at Richmondtown Village. The event was very organized and the music delightful. Can't wait for the next event!!

This place is a gem. I have been to many events here but my favorite is the Candlelight Christmas Tour. It's so well done, informative & fun. All the actors stay in character in the houses & teach us so much about the times they represent. This was the second year I took the tour & a new house was added. It was excellent! I high recommend visiting this special place.

Attended the Polly Bodine show. Enjoyed it very much. Acting was very good, audience participation was a plus. Food, show and over all experience was excellent. Looking forward to more shows and tours.

i had a great time with friends at the Richmondtown courthouse. we watched a live version of the trial for Polly Bodine. The actors were amazing! we also were able to purchase the book and had it signed by the author. Great night!!

Ok, it really doesn't look like much when you walk past. In fact for years I passed right by. Then I moved to the island and said c'mon let's check this place out. I went on one of the occasions where most of the buildings were actually open and had costumed interpreters. It was a nice informative tour. I've gone back to take my family there. And I'll be back once my kid is old enough to appreciate it. In the summer I've enjoyed several of the Tavern nights for some beer, Ice cream (egger's) and live music. Recently a branch of Main Street Coffee opened up where Bennet Cafe is/was. I stop in for coffee pretty regularly. They have breakfast and lunch munch too. My next Historic Richmond Town goal is to go to a Tavern Concert this winter. Come visit.

I was trying to get everything done before I move out of state. I've been wanting to come here for almost a year. Once again I used the culture pass through the New York public library. This was easy to get too, if you don't mind a 90 minute trip. The bus lets you out right in front. All you have to do is walk in. Check in at main visitor center, get your bracelet and you can go inside some buildings. It's very rich in history. Eggers ice cream had a long line. But it's very popular. They are open from 1:00pm to 10:00 pm. On Saturday. Prices were reasonable. You can walk around the grounds as long as you like and you don't need a bracelet for this. Visit museums after 1:00 pm, when they open.

My family loved the tour. Our guide was so informative. He made it so that we would like to return. I am sorry that we did not have ice cream at Eggers.

A great small town feel with a great yearly country type fair. Enjoyable for all ages.

I've been living in NYC for 15 years, so I'm at the point where, on occasion, I seek out some of the more off the beaten path "attractions". I decided to trek to Staten Island to explore Historic Richmond Town. I expected a smaller version of Historic Williamsburg or Mystic Seaport. Historic Richmond Town is a wonderful idea poorly executed. I arrived to discover that of the 23 historic structures on site, ONE was open to the public. ONE. This was the carpenter's shop. A man was working there and did a fabulous job explaining woodworking of the day. There was not a single costumed interpreter in the entire rest of the "town". In fact, between the lack of people and the fact that the buildings were all closed, it was quite a ghost town. I then had a little bit of time to kill before my 1:30 tour (considering I had prepare to visit several homes which as it turns out were all locked up). 1:30 came and went, though I was at the designated meeting spot. Finally I returned to the gift shop (where you pay admission) and asked what was going on. I was then told that, "maybe there wouldn't be a tour - maybe the guide already left." Left? I was told he'd issue me a refund. Fine, but not fine because I just paid like $15 bridge toll to come to this place. Fortunately, he then discovered that the guide was in fact there and would commence the tour shortly. The tour was advertised as: "America was built on its stomach and made in the kitchen. Explore how food was picked, prepared, preserved, and presented in this tour focused on kitchens and food." This did not happen. Not even remotely. My guide. Sarah, was personable, friendly, and polite. As there were only 5 of us on the tour, we were not rushed or anything. We visited 4-5 buildings, which she did have a key to grant us entry to see inside (sans costumed interpreters). Food was not discussed. Guide informed us that living history / costumed interpreters happen but once a month on "special occasions". I, along with the others on the tour, were blindsided by this. The site also needs some TLC. To get to certain buildings. you have to cross a busy street, walk through weeds along the shoulder of the road, etc. I mean, I'm sure they're running on a shoestring, but is it really not possible to either create a sidewalk or at least mow the weeds? Ok so the positives are: 1. Great buildings 2. Good tour guide 3. Great interpreter (the ONE that was actually there) Negatives 1. Zero organization/coordination 2. Tour topic not as advertised 3. Site all but a ghost town, this needs to be a functioning living history museum or the website needs to clearly say that this is NOT, but once a month. Ultimately, not recommended.

It's well-known. It's a museum site. It's a tourist attraction. More to it, it is a part of culture and history that makes us who we are. Part of Revolutionary War Heritage Trail, this living museum grounds under open sky are unique in a sense that they are not a theatre or decorations - they are real, original buildings, carefully restored and preserved (some original, some relocated from other areas). Have you been? It's charming and quiet on regular days - just to walk outside and look at architecture. It bursts with activities and fun during festivals - from demonstrations of old crafts and traditions, to pig races and just simple festival fun. St. Patrick's Church is beautiful, and Historical Museum is worth visiting. In season, Decker Farm is great to stop by for fresh produce! For events and festivals schedule, visit http://www.historicrichmondtown.org

Excellent spot. 1) The tour is great. 2) Very affordable tickets for what you get. 3) Bring your kids.

Yesterday we decided it was "Staten Island Adventure Day". A large part of the adventure was getting there--two subway trains to the ferry, then a very long ride on the 74 bus out to Rossville (near Fresh Kills Landfill) to see the ghost ships of the Witte Marine Salvage yard. On the way we saw this charming little colonial town and decided to stop on the way back from our more derelict tour. The buildings were closed when we got back to Richmond Town, but the grounds are lovely, and as Diana mentioned, there are plenty of places for a nice picnic, a rousing game of cards, or a lazy summer nap. Even if these colonial-era buildings aren't open when you go, make sure to peer inside the windows of the tinsmith's cottage, the printer's shack and the leatherworker's house. They are all decorated with period arts and crafts and it's neat to see. If you cross the river on the small stone bridge, you'll arrive at a beautiful gothic stone church and an elegant old graveyard. Most of the tombstones are very worn for wear and it's difficult to see many dates, but I definitely saw a large amount from the early 1800s. I hadn't been expecting Staten Island to be so green, but it really was wonderfully forested and full of little streams and brooks. Make this a destination and you'll have a nice relaxing day in New England colonial countryside without even leaving the mid-Atlantic!

My family and I came here for the first time. It was Smithonian Museum Day so we saved two adults tickets, that was nice. The tour guide was over sixty years old and very knowledgable, we could see inside of four old houses, and surprisingly it lasted close to two hours. We learned a lot but it was little too much especially when you have kids. We really wanted to like this place but I have to write these. It was sad that only "three" buildings were open to public. Yes, only THREE!!! And other twenty one buildings were all closed. So we walked around the town, looking at the buildings from the outside. We wish we could check inside of other houses, too. And also there were no people in old outfits like they show it in their website. They have historical houses and great stuffs inside, so I hope they find the better way to exhibit and let people enjoy this beautiful place. My husband and I were disappointed by today's experience. We decided to we will stick with Bathpage Restoration in Long Island.

If you're interested in history I definitely recommend this place. It's primarily about Staten Island but you definitely learn more historical facts along the way. We had Hellen as our guide and she was the best, so sweet and knowledgeable!

I adore this place, however I have found that most of the homes are closed for tours, and I'd like to see more. I took my class here I a trip last fall and it was terribly uncoordinated. Most of the homes weren't opened, we couldn't follow our schedule because the museum was not opened, and there were way too many classes there at the same time.

A great trip for teachers to bring their kids to! Especially fourth graders who are learning about colonial life. It's very interactive. You get to walk to the different parts of the town and get a mini tour by an actor. Costs about $7 a kid.

I've done a couple of tours here and checked out a few events as it is very close to where I live. The staff is engaging and well versed on their local history. The tours and events are really great and I wish more people would partake. They really need to up their advertising, it's as if this place is a hidden gem.

Today is the 4th of July! I arrived at 12 and was up to 2:10. Was not a holiday! At 4 pm they promised to give a piece of pie. And closed at 5 pm. That's all. Exhibits little. I didn't liked it.

A beautiful piece of Staten Island with so much significance. It's accessible and there are often fairs or something going on.

We took a very long bus ride on S74 from the Staten Island Ferry to the Historic Richmond Town. The ride took about 30 minutes each way. Since we went on Columbus Day, the historic area was not open. We walked around and saw the historical buildings. There wasn't much context to the buildings. After 20 minutes in the area, we decided to go back to the Staten Island Ferry. During the bus ride, I did enjoy seeing the huge Victorian houses in Staten Island.

After you make your way down a winding street nicknamed on staten island "snake hill" you are greated at the bottom by a vine drenched, unbalanced tombstone filled, old, dark, and shady church cemetery...and right next door is historic richmond town!! Richmond Town has been giving me the creeps ever since 4th grade when I came here on a school field trip. Back then I remeber being fascinated by the butter churner and getting the oppurtunity to comb my own (I got to keep it ) piece of sheeps wool. Its is spread out across a compact area of land, although you woudl need to cross the street to go not some buildigs that are outisde the actual "town". One of these buildings being the oldest preserved schoolhouse in America. Each authentic chimney topped cabin, shed, and house is shown to you by a tour guide dressed in taditional colonial dress. You visit the old town hall, blacksmith, schoolhouse, barn, and farmer's home. All auhtentic, well preserved,and ....creepy. You are introduced to different household items, utensils, tools, and furniture from days past and I found it interesting...as a fourth grader. Don't get me wrong it serves its purpose well and is adelighfully (creepy) enriching experience but its probably best geared for elemntary school kids who lare learning about this stuff.

So I've lived about a mile from this place for over 10 years now but somehow never actually went. I absolutely love historic buildings/artifacts so I can't even really explain why it took me so long to come here but I finally did. Unfortunately, I didn't get to do much exploring in the different buildings. I did go into their museum. It's really small but like I said before, I like old time buildings so I enjoyed it. Historic Richmond Town is awesome because they have a lot of great different events here. Events that are actually worth traveling to Staten Island for. I came here this weekend for Uncorked, the wine tasting event. Despite the insanely hot weather, I had a blast! Tickets were $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Aside from the sampling of as much food and drinks as you can handle, the $25 also included one full glass of wine. But they were VERY lenient with this. Most people got at least 3 or 4 full glasses of wine. By the end of the event, the lady was just standing by the line with a bottle of wine filling up the glass of whoever asked. And yes you guessed it, I was pretty drunk by the end of the day. Aside from the awesome wine and beer and margarita and vodka and sake I tried, I had some amazing food as well. A ton of restaurants from all over the Island were there. Uncorked is a yearly event and I highly recommend it.

I have lived half a mile from Historic Richmondtown for most of my life. With that said, they have plenty to offer year round, with their spring and summer months busy with their chili and BBQ cook offs. This is a part of our history and more should take advantage of it. Did you know Staten Island was a loyalist area during the Revolutionary war? Did you know Redcoats used to patrol here? Did you know about the battle of Staten Island?

Attended the nyc BBQ event Great time sampling BBQ Would have been better if line were not so long and a lot of stands ran out of food

Our girl scout troop did the overnight at historic Richmond town. It was an awesome experience. Mr. Mike and Mr. Jeff did an amazing job. They kept the girls engaged and entertained. They had a terrific experience. I would highly recommend it to others.

Came here for the All American Drive In Movie and although I had a good time, I felt it could have been better organized. There are trees in the parking lot, which can obstruct your view, so make sure you can see the screen if you go. The popcorn and candy for sale was $1 each, which was refreshing for a movie setting, but I would recommend bringing a picnic or ordering pizza. The short films seemed to be endless, but all in all, I would do it again. Hope they can pull it off more seamlessly next year.

Superb restored village on Staten Island recreates early NYC history. A bus ride from the ferry, but worth it. Buildings with period crafts, picnic tables on the grass, and a museum building make it a delightful outing.

It is very interesting to wander through historic Richmond Town. Different buildings are open for you to tour. When I visited, there was an apprenticeship program going on, so kids were dressed in period costume learning a trade from the tinsmith, the carpenter, the dollmaker, the baker, etc. The tinsmith and carpenter make real goods, and I purchased a butter print from the carpenter.

My family goes to a lot on the special days like the County Fair and chili cook off. They also have a farm stand on Saturdays. This is the only place we can find in the city that has so many things to do and is full of American history. We are into Americana so it's great for us. I think even if you're not they do such a good job with everything you will enjoy it. Probably our favorite is the tavern concerts and candlelight tours when you you are there at night and you really get the feeling of being transported. The last few years they have been doing more and more. We are going to try one of the theme tours ths fall. A must do - we always check the website before we go. Otherwise you can miss tours and events and wander around confused. It's like a big open park. Whats there is interesting but what they show and tell is most cool. It's very personal.

Colonial Williamsburg it is not, but if you're looking for a historic site in the vicinity of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Historic Richmond Town is your best bet. Some of the structures on the site date back to the 1600s, though there are also 18th and 19th century buildings. It's actually kind of interesting to see how construction and styles progressed. Most of the demonstrations of daily life there are done on 19th century equipment, so the scope of history is a bit broader than what I was expecting. (Okay, I admit it: I love Colonial Williamsburg and I kind of wanted it to be a mini-Staten Island-version, but I got over it.) There are about 30-some historic structures on the site, but many are closed. The website has some information about events, but it doesn't really explain what's open and when, so if you are interested in a particular subject or tour, it's best to call before setting out. A few buildings were open when I visited, and there were also some outdoor demonstrations. I learned about carpentry with no power tools, tinsmithery, blacksmithery, harvesting ice, and early 19th century cookery. The costumed guides were very all very knowledgeable about their trades, and talking with them really made my visit informative and worthwhile. I was a bit disappointed that more of the buildings were not open, but I understand that preservation is expensive. Still, you can easily pass a few hours here. Definitely easiest to access by car, as the bus is much slower. You can round out a summer day trip by stopping off at the beach afterward. Highly recommended for history buffs!

Went there in November - it was a bit difficult to get there (ferry and bus) but it was definitely worth it! Such a charming place, with an enthusiastic guide!