The best camping near Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site

The first New Yorker to become President was born here in 1858. Teddy Roosevelt’s boyhood home was this brownstone, two blocks from Gramercy Park. Visitors can tour the Flatiron townhouse for free and see photos and memorabilia belonging to the 26th U.S. President.

The Roosevelt family lived at 28 East 20th Street until Theodore was 15 years old. Fondly called “Teedie” by his family, young Teddy was a sickly child suffering from asthma. In his own writings, he describes himself as a “wretched mite”. Due to his health, he was often confined indoors.

But the future President was also bright. Tutors gave him lessons at home. He showed an early interest in the natural world, including zoology and biology. As a teenager, Theodore undertook a rigorous regime to strengthen his body. He boxed, lifted weights, and rode horses. The transformation made him a life-long advocate of the "strenuous life.”

The original brownstone was torn down in 1916. Three years later, the Women's Roosevelt Memorial Association purchased the site and began building a replica. As luck had it, the brownstone next door was nearly identical. It served as a model.

The finished townhouse was rededicated in 1923. Theodore’s widow, Edith, and his sisters took an interest in the project. The women described details about the home’s decor. They also donated furniture original to the house, including the dining room set, which was a wedding present to Theodore’s parents.

The Roosevelts were a wealthy family, a fact reflected in the home. Items from the family glass business are on display, including sconces and a lithophane lamp.

The townhouse offers free tours year-round from Wednesday through Sunday. Arrive early to snag your spot. There’s a 25-minute film you can watch while waiting.