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History collage

THE HISTORY OF MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE

Back in 1869, Albert Smiley purchased 300 acres and a 10-room inn by a majestic glacial lake in the Hudson Valley. His mission was to provide opportunities for recreation and renewal of body, mind, and spirit in a beautiful natural setting. And still today, his legacy continues to thrive. More than a resort, Mohonk embodies a love of nature, a preservation of history, and respect for the world around us. Walk the same halls that five U.S. presidents visited, and look out on breathtaking views shared by our guests since Mohonk’s inception. As our guest, you become a part of our history, and we hope Mohonk Mountain House will always remain a part of yours. 

Mohonk Stories Project video

Mohonk Stories

Watch videos of Smiley family members, Mountain House staff, and longtime guests as they share their thoughts and personal Mohonk stories.

Hidden Histories at Mohonk

Hidden Histories AR App

Hidden Histories is an augmented reality (AR) experience that will immerse guests in the history of our storied resort. Through this mobile app specifically developed for Mohonk, guests will be sent on a journey to locate 12 pieces of artwork that act as trigger points for the app.

A LOOK BACK THROUGH TIME

Family group portrait ca. 1907

Mohonk History

History Timeline

Mohonk Historical Timeline

Post Card of Mohonk Garden

Mohonk: A Living History

Trail Ride 1937

Archival Photo Gallery

Historic Hotels of America Logo

Mohonk Mountain House is a proud member of Historic Hotels of America.

Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation® for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America was founded in 1989 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation with 35 charter members.

Today, Historic Hotels of America has more than 300 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated historic hotels. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.

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