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Wednesday, 19 November 2025

Sleepy Hollow: The Ultimate Halloween Getaway in New York State

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Credit: @arturoexplores

Just north of New York City lies a village steeped in mystery, folklore, and autumn magic—Sleepy Hollow. Immortalized in Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, this charming Hudson Valley destination celebrates its haunted heritage with fall festivals, lantern-lit tours, and seasonal attractions that delight visitors year-round. Whether you’re chasing the legend of the Headless Horseman or simply seeking a weekend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, Sleepy Hollow is the perfect autumn escape.

Step Into the Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is more than a name—it’s an experience. Every October, the village transforms into a Halloween wonderland filled with parades, hayrides, and pumpkin-lined streets. Neighboring Tarrytown, once home to Washington Irving himself, adds to the magic with historic charm and literary legacy. Fans of spooky stories will love exploring the sites that inspired Irving’s timeless tale, but beyond the Halloween season, Sleepy Hollow offers a wealth of attractions that captivate visitors throughout the year.

Tour the Iconic Lyndhurst Castle

Credit: @jahv on Instagram

Begin your weekend adventure with a guided tour of the breathtaking Lyndhurst Castle, one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions. Its dramatic architecture and riverfront setting have made it a favorite for filmmakers—its exterior even featured in movies inspired by the classic vampire series Dark Shadows. For an unforgettable seasonal experience, visit during Lyndhurst After Dark (October 12–25) when the mansion glows in candlelight and mystery fills the air.

Visit Washington Irving’s Sunnyside Estate

Washington Irving Sunnyside estate

No trip to Sleepy Hollow is complete without a visit to Sunnyside, the picturesque riverside home of Washington Irving. From September 12 to November 2, the Legendary Tours offer a glimpse into the author’s life and imagination. Explore Irving’s enchanting home decorated for the season, watch an original shadow puppet short film inspired by his stories, and enjoy traditional lawn games with Hudson River views. Advance tickets are recommended for this popular attraction.

Explore Rockefeller State Park Preserve

Nature lovers can experience fall in full color at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, a haven of forested trails, meadows, and lakes. This scenic escape offers hiking, bird-watching, fishing, and photography opportunities amid the golden hues of autumn. Special events such as stargazing nights and fishing workshops enhance the park’s seasonal appeal. Download the New York State Parks Explorer app to plan your perfect outdoor adventure.

Discover Sleepy Hollow Cemetery by Day or Lantern Light

Old Dutch Church

The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is where history and legend intertwine. By day, take a guided tour highlighting the life and legacy of Washington Irving and his famous story. At night, join the Lantern Tour, which leads visitors past the ornate tombs of prominent figures including William Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, and Irving himself. The cemetery’s rolling hills, fiery foliage, and flickering lanterns create a hauntingly beautiful scene that captures the essence of fall in the Hudson Valley.
Step Back in Time at the Old Dutch Church

The Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow and its adjoining burial ground are central to Irving’s ghostly tale. Dating back to the late 1600s, this stone church remains a cornerstone of Sleepy Hollow’s heritage. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the historic grounds until 4:30 pm, where the atmosphere feels almost frozen in time—especially as twilight approaches and the legend of the Headless Horseman lingers in the air.

Plan Your Sleepy Hollow Getaway

Sleepy Hollow is more than a Halloween hotspot—it’s a destination rich in history, architecture, and natural beauty. From lantern-lit graveyard walks to stately mansions and peaceful river trails, it’s an enchanting autumn retreat that truly captures the spirit of New York State in fall.

For travel details, event dates, and attraction tickets, visit:
Website: https://www.iloveny.com

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