If you are a fan of New York history, and have an interest in what life was like in the 1600s, the Conference House is a perfect place to escape modern life and learn about our nation’s history. Secluded on Staten Island’s southern tip in Tottenville, the Conference House is a stone house that once belonged to Captain Christopher Billop. The name comes from the Staten Island Peace Conference of 1776, which was hosted by Captain Billop. The conference was an unsuccessful attempt at ending the Revolutionary War.
The land is now a NYC public park, and the house itself is a national landmark. Visitors are welcome to wander the house, and tours are also offered by appointment. The house contains plenty of information about the conference, Captain Billop’s colorful life, and temporary exhibits about American history. Re-enacters come dressed in historical garb on special days, giving visitors an immersive view of pre-Revolutionary life.
I also like walking the grounds of Conference House Park, which includes bike paths, walking trails, and a beach area that looks across at New Jersey.