In the world of Tuxedo Park real estate, there are “houses,” and then there are estates that define the very fabric of our community. The former residence of Herbert C. Pell, located at 74 Tower Hill Loop, is undeniably the latter.
Freshly listed and steeped in Gilded Age provenance, this home offers a rare glimpse into the architectural ambition that put Tuxedo Park on the map in the late 19th century.
A Masterpiece of Siting and Stone
Designed in 1895 by the legendary William A. Bates, the Pell residence is an architectural tour-de-force. What strikes you first is its “commanding siting.” Rising from a monolithic native stone foundation, the structure appears to have emerged naturally from the rugged hillside—a hallmark of Bates’ ability to blend engineering with artistry.
The facade is a beautiful marriage of the classic Tuxedo Park vernacular:
Architectural Details: A sophisticated mix of Neoclassical, Georgian, and Queen Anne elements.
The Roofline: Distinctive Dutch-gambrel lines that lend the home a timeless, storied silhouette.
Craftsmanship: Finely laid brick and hand-crafted millwork that have been meticulously preserved to honor their 19th-century origins.
Interiors Designed for Grandeur and Comfort
Spanning over 5,300 square feet, the interior layout manages a difficult feat: it feels grand enough for formal entertaining while remaining warm and livable for a modern family.
As you move through the formal entry, the “high-ceilinged rooms” are flooded with natural light, offering long, sweeping views over Tuxedo Lake. The heart of the home lies in its specialized spaces—the columned octagonal living room with its intricate millwork and the restored, oak-paneled dining room, which features one of the home’s six distinctive fireplaces.
Versatility Across Three Levels
While the history is palpable, the home’s floor plan is remarkably versatile for today’s lifestyle:
The Second Floor: Features five spacious bedrooms. The primary suite is a true retreat, boasting a dressing room, en-suite bath, and a private fireplace.
The Top Floor: Currently partially renovated, this level is a “blank canvas” waiting to be transformed into a creative studio, a playroom, or an expansive guest wing.
The Walk-Out Lower Level: Designed for utility and leisure, this level includes a private office, a summer kitchen, and a climate-controlled wine room.
The Lakeside Lifestyle
Set on 1.5 private acres, the exterior is just as compelling as the interior. Terraced lawns and stone pathways wind through mature plantings, leading to vantage points that offer panoramic views to the South, East, and West. It is one of the few properties in the Park positioned at such a high elevation that the sunrise and sunset over the water feel like your own private show.
Located just an hour from Manhattan in our 24-hour-guarded enclave, 74 Tower Hill Loop represents the pinnacle of the Tuxedo Park legacy.
Are you ready to step into Tuxedo Park history?
As your local expert, I specialize in connecting discerning buyers with the Park’s most storied estates. To schedule a private showing of the Herbert C. Pell home, or to discuss other opportunities in the area, please reach out.
One of the great joys of living in the Tuxedo Park area is the unparalleled access to unspoiled nature right outside your door. Whether you’re seeking a quick, rewarding workout, an all-day wilderness escape, a jaunt into the forest for meditation or forest bathing can be restorative. Harriman and Sterling Forest State Parks offer hundreds of miles of well documented and maintained hiking trails fit for a lifetime of outdoor activity and recreation.
To help you get started, I’ve compiled four favorite local day hikes—from rewarding scrambles to gentle mountain climbs—all conveniently located near the Hamlet of Tuxedo. Please note, these trails are challenging and not “ADA accessible style” but we will in the future post about area trails that are “accessible”.
1. Claudius Smith’s Den (Harriman State Park)
Starting Point: Hamlet of Tuxedo, NY, Grove Dr. – take Red Blazed “RD” to Red Blazed “Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy” trails. There is no parking in the East Village neighborhood of Tuxedo, so please park at the Metro North Commuter lot in Tuxedo. This is an out and back hike, not a loop.
Prepare for an invigorating ascent that rewards you with one of the most remarkable vantage points in the area. Beginning in Tuxedo’s “East Village” on Grove Drive, the trailhead immediately greets you with a steep, challenging climb heading east into Harriman State Park.
Once you reach the initial plateau, pause to take in the unrivaled, panoramic views over the entire Hamlet of Tuxedo. A second, intense incline leads you up to the historic Claudius Smith’s Den, a legendary cave once used by a Revolutionary War-era outlaw. The final segment involves a fun, rock-scramble style climb that takes you directly on top of the den’s outcrop, providing breathtaking vistas across Southern Orange County, with views that extend all the way into Northern New Jersey.
2. Doris Duke Loop Trail (Sterling Forest State Park)
Starting Point: North of the Hamlet, Benjamin Meadow Rd, near the Renaissance Faire Grounds. Dedicated parking on site, then, take the white-blazed “DD” loop trail. This is a loop hike.
Often referred to as Sterling Forest’s hidden jewel, the Doris Duke Loop Trail is a beautifully maintained, yet lesser-known, route that offers both serenity and stunning payoff. The 2-3 hour moderate loop traverses the Doris Duke Preserve area.
If you choose the northerly (counter-clockwise) direction, you’ll start with a few moderate inclines before traversing along the edge of a medium-sized pond area. The trail then leads up to high mountain crests where, on a clear day, you can catch spectacular long-distance glimpses of the New York City skyline! Be sure to stop for a rejuvenating picnic on the large, bald glacial rock outcrops at the loop’s highest elevation. While some sections are flat and gentle, come prepared for portions that require deft footwork and sturdy hiking boots.
Starting Point: North of Southfields, Town of Tuxedo. Best parking is across from the trail on the side street just off Orange Turnpike. Take the red blazed “FL” Trail off of Old Orange Turnpike. This is a loop hike.
For the hiker who loves history mixed with a good, challenging workout, the Furnace Loop is a fantastic option. This is a relatively short hike that packs a punch with several very steep uphill and downhill sections, including rock scrambles set in steep inclines.
Hiking counter-clockwise, you’ll cross a scenic wooden footbridge over a large creek before encountering the impressive stone furnace structure that historically produced iron—a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial past. A peaceful pond about halfway through the journey provides a perfect spot to rest and refuel before the exhilarating tail end of the hike, which includes a controlled rock scramble down a steep slope. No climbing gear needed, but you’ll want proper footwear for this section!
Starting Point: Park & Ride Lot just north of the Hamlet of Tuxedo at Rts 17 & 17a Take the white blazed “WM” trail. This is an out and back hike, not a loop.
If you’re looking for a short hike combined with unique topography , Wildcat Mountain is your perfect choice. This is not a loop hike, so prepare for “out and back” method, hike in as far as you want or just enough – about 30 minutes – to get to the Wildcate lookout. From the north end of the lot, a gentle slope welcomes you onto the Wildcat Trail, leading you to the summit in approximately 30 minutes.
At the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the central and eastern portion of Tuxedo, looking south and east toward Harriman State Park. This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the narrow valley corridor that forms much of the Town of Tuxedo. From here, you can observe the “veins of the town” snaking through the valley: the Ramapo River, the New York State Thruway, the Port Jervis line of the Metro North Train, and Route 17 highway. The bald-faced glacial rock outcrops at the edge of Wildcat Mountain are the ideal spot for that must-have scenic selfie and a quick snack!
The Harriman State Park and Sterling Forest State Park areas are well-maintained, but preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable outing.
Check Park Websites and Socials Before You Go: Always consult park websites and socials prior to hiking for any closures, warnings, or seasonal changes (e.g., hunting seasons).
The Buddy System: Inform a family member or friend of your chosen trail, your estimated start time, and your expected return time. Better yet, is always to hike with a partner or small group.
The Essentials: Pack plenty of water, bug spray, sun-block, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring quick snacks (granola, nuts) and a small first aid kit. A lightweight, extra dry-wicking clothing layer is always a wise addition.
Navigate Smart: While a charged cell phone is essential with state park maps or apps downloaded, signal strength can be spotty. Bring a printed trail map available from the NY/NJ Trail Conference or local retailers like Dottie Audrey’s.
Gear Check: Sturdy hiking / trail runners or boots are mandatory, and hiking poles are always helpful on steep inclines and descents.
Tick Check: Perform a thorough tick check immediately upon returning home.
New York bagels are world-famous; and it’s not just a New York City thing. Fresh from the bakery, warm, moist, and perfectly chewy, nothing quite compares to an authentic New York bagel.
Across the greater NYC metro area, there’s a long tradition of producing some of the best bagels in the world, and the Tuxedo Park area is no exception. Whether you’re a weekend visitor, a new resident, or a long-time local, these nearby bagel shops serve up classic New York flavor close to home.
Below, we’ve rounded up a few top-rated bagel shops near Tuxedo Park, NY, with full address and contact info; listed by proximity, not in order of “best.”
Jessie’s Bagels – Sloatsburg, NY
A true local institution, Jessie’s Bagels has been serving the Tuxedo Park & Sloatsburg region for years. They bake fresh every morning, offering a wide variety of bagel flavors made the traditional New York way — crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside. Meet their newest location, set in a converted auto-repair garage, offering a welcoming dine-in space with a cozy, casual vibe. True to their tagline, “From Bagels to Burgers,” Jessie’s serves not just bagels but also soups, sandwiches and burgers for breakfast or lunch.
Customer Tip: Grab a half-dozen bagels to take home — freeze some for later. Try the toasted whole wheat everything bagel with scallion cream cheese — it’s a local favorite!
One of the most popular bagel shops in Rockland County, Bagel Train often has a line out the door — a true sign of quality. Their bagels are everything you’d expect from a true New York bagel: fresh, fluffy, and full of flavor. This is a no-frills, take-out only shop, but the bagel sandwiches are legendary. From classic bacon, egg & cheese to creative deli combos, the possibilities are endless.
Customer Tip: Visit during off-hours if you want to avoid the morning rush. When it’s your turn, be ready to order — the team is friendly but fast-paced!
Address: 150 Orange Ave, Suffern, NY 10901 Phone: (845) 368-4234
If you’re looking for variety, Bagel Boys is a must-visit. Known for their creative twists on traditional bagels, they even offer colored bagels for holidays (think bright green for St. Patrick’s Day). You’ll also find flagels — the famous flattened bagels that toast up perfectly. Their large dine-in area makes it an ideal breakfast or lunch spot. Beyond bagels, they serve salads, soups, smoked fish and house-made spreads. Visit their website here.
Customer Tip: Try their vegetable or scallion cream cheese, or grab a container to take home.
Address: 7 N Airmont Rd, Suffern, NY 10901 Phone: (845) 368-3456
Local’s Bagel Tips
After years of enjoying local New York bagels, here are a few pro tips:
Buy by the dozen: Most shops give a baker’s dozen (13 bagels) when you order 12.
Freeze for freshness: Slice your bagels before freezing. When ready to eat, toast them straight from the freezer — they’ll taste almost as good as fresh.
Try these favorite combos:
Egg & cheese on a toasted whole-wheat everything bagel
Tuna melt on a sesame bagel
BLT on pumpernickel or rye bagel
We highly recommend visiting these great bagel shops near Tuxedo Park — and if you do, tell them Jake sent you!
Tuxedo Park, NY is not only known for its historic homes and luxury real estate, but also for its breathtaking natural surroundings and beautifully maintained gardens. Since its founding, Tuxedo Park has carried a reputation for elegant European-inspired landscaping, with expert gardeners, horticultural experts and renowned landscape architects creating some of the most stunning outdoor spaces in the region.
Tuxedo Park has a well-known history of formal and informal landscape architecture designed and created by the likes of Ernest Bowditch – contemporary and protege of Frederick Law Olmstead – and of English, Italianate and Japanese style gardens created during and just after the Gilded Age. Some of the most accomplished professional gardeners lived and worked in Tuxedo Park at the turn of the last century.
Today, that tradition continues. Local garden clubs, private homeowners, and passionate gardening enthusiasts maintain gardens with the same care and pride. For those considering buying a home in Tuxedo Park, it’s important to know that living here means being surrounded by lush landscapes and easy access to outstanding garden centers that support this lifestyle.
Here are three of our favorite local garden centers near Tuxedo Park that highlight the area’s commitment to beauty and nature.
Auntie Els | Sloatsburg, NY
A true community staple, Auntie Els has been serving the area for decades. Located just minutes from Tuxedo Park, this family-owned shop goes beyond typical garden supplies. Here you’ll find seasonal plants, spring and fall flowers, and holiday greenery, alongside fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and market treats.
For new homeowners or long-time residents, Auntie Els is perfect for seasonal décor, gardening inspiration, and family-friendly shopping. Their welcoming atmosphere reflects the close-knit community that makes Tuxedo Park such a desirable place to live. You can check on their Instagram here or their Facebook here.
Address: 171 NY-17, Sloatsburg, NY 10974 Phone: (845) 753-2122
If you’re looking to transform a property into a true estate-style home, Hickory Hollow in Tuxedo is the go-to nursery. With acres of mature trees, shrubs, and landscape materials, this garden center serves both homeowners and professional landscapers.
They even offer landscape installation services, making it easy for new Tuxedo Park homeowners to design their dream outdoor spaces. From spring plantings to Christmas trees, Hickory Hollow has been a trusted, locally owned resource for decades.
For buyers exploring real estate in Tuxedo Park, knowing you have access to a nursery of this scale means you can customize and enhance your property with ease. You can visit their Website here or their Instagram here.
Address: 713 NY-17, Tuxedo Park, NY 10987 Phone: (845) 351-7226
A fresh addition to the local gardening scene, Sloatsburg Nursery has quickly gained attention for its wide range of specimen trees, shrubs, and garden plants. Located in a repurposed space on Route 17, this nursery is smaller than Hickory Hollow but filled with character and unique finds.
One standout feature is their indoor greenhouse, which even houses a banana tree—something you won’t find at most nurseries in the region! Whether you’re a weekend gardener or a homeowner looking for specialty plants, Sloatsburg Nursery offers both variety and personal service.
For those moving into the Tuxedo Park area, this nursery is a reminder of how local businesses add charm and convenience to everyday life. Be sure to check their Website here, their Facebook here, and their Instagram here.
Address: 185 Orange Turnpike, Sloatsburg, NY 10974 Phone: (845) 712-5665
Living the Tuxedo Park Lifestyle; stay local, stay native.
As you shop these amazing nursuries and garden centers or as you plan your gardens, it can be particularly important to pay heed to using native plant species. Native plants contribute to healthy ecosystems and it’s no exception to try to plan and plant accordingly in Tuxedo Park. This is an important and growing trend and the garden centers are also mindful of this native species trend.
Beautiful gardens are more than just a hobby here—they’re part of the Tuxedo Park lifestyle. With historic homes framed by lush landscaping and tree-lined views, it’s no wonder many buyers are drawn to the area. Access to these local garden centers makes it easy for residents to maintain properties that reflect the elegance and charm the community is known for.
If you’re exploring homes for sale in Tuxedo Park or considering relocating to this picturesque community, these garden centers are just one example of the resources available to help you settle in and make the most of your new home.
Thinking about buying real estate in Tuxedo Park, NY? Whether you’re drawn by the historic charm, the vibrant local businesses, or the natural beauty, Tuxedo Park offers a lifestyle unlike any other. Reach out today to learn more about available homes and what it’s like to live in this one-of-a-kind community.
One of the things that makes a community a great place to live is its local flavors, and that includes the fantastic restaurants in Tuxedo NY. When you are looking to explore and are considering a move to a new area, you might want to know what the lifestyle is like so you know what to expect, right?
While you may be searching for your future home in Tuxedo NY, or just browsing and trying to learn what are the current Tuxedo NY housing market trends, always explore the vibrant local scene as well. Today, let’s explore three fantastic restaurants that captures the spirit of town, whether you’re a long-time resident or a future homebuyer, these local spots are a must-visit.
In no particular order, below are three great restaurants you may explore in Tuxedo NY, along with their phone numbers, addresses, and web links.
Dottie Audrey’s Bakery & Kitchen
First is this local restaurant commonly known as “DAs” offers a scratch made comfort food, a cozy atmosphere and service with a smile! They serve some of the best baked goods in the New York Metro Area all made fresh daily, in house! DA’s offers “family style” meals and I contend they make one of the best baguetts this side of the Atlantic. You can place a take-out order via telephone or dine-in. While your there say hi to the friendly staff and the always present owners Pat and Jen!!! Don’t forget to try the salmon lox omelette, the crispy tofu bowl or the black bean veggie bowl. The strawberry lemonade is a great side drink. And take home a fresh baguette! You can also check their Instagram here, their Facebook here, and their website here.
Address: Duck Cedar Plaza at 549 NY-17, Tuxedo Park, NY 10987 Phone: (845) 915-3088
Next, if you’re in the mood for something different, Tuxedo Sushi offers a modern dining experience Tuxedo Hamlet across from the train station. Tuxedo Sushi has been a local favorite for years, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best Japanese restaurants in Southern Orange County. They serve a wide menu that goes beyond incredible sushi rolls and sashimi to include delicious salads, soups, and warm, cooked Asian-style meals that are available for both dine-in and takeout. You can check their Instagram here or their website here. You can check their Instagram here or their website here. Don’t forget to try the sweetheart roll!!!
Address: 233 NY-17 Tuxedo Park, NY 10987 Phone: 845-351-3211
Finally, if you’re looking for some authentic and hearty Mexican food? Look no further than Los Molcajetes where vibrant colors and festive atmosphere is always expected. With their menu being packed with traditional dishes that are made with care, from sizzling fajitas to savory tacos, this is a great option for a lively gathering. What I love is their generous portions that do not disappoint. Be sure to try the quesadillas!! You can also check their Instagram here, their Facebook here, and their website here.
Address: 233 NY-17, Tuxedo Park, NY 10987 Phone: 845-915-3220
In summary, these three great restaurants are just a small slice of what it means to live in beautiful Tuxedo. A great local community that offers variety and access to great dining experience. Still standing through the years, this is a testament on how great these restaurants have been serving the Tuxedo community and how the locals have continued to give their undying support to local businesses.
Thank you for reading, sharing and supporting the local businesses in Tuxedo.
