Hundreds of items showcasing lodging, eateries, historic and artistic sites, as well as sports venues are offered free-of-charge by friendly volunteers. The staff is available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (as volunteer staffing allows) from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. from May through October. The site has welcomed visitors from its own backyard as well as guests from around the world.

This Toll House and the Bear Mountain Bridge Road were built between 1923 and 1924 to connect the new bridge to Route 9. The New York State Legislative Act of 1922 created the Bear Mountain Hudson River Bridge Company, allowing the Harriman family to build this connection through a private company with private ownership. Tolls were collected for the bridge as well as the scenic road.

The toll taker and his family lived in the house from 1924 through 1942. In 1940 the bridge was sold to New York State, and as the toll taker was no longer needed, the family moved to Peekskill. However, in 1961, the toll taker and his wife moved to the west toll house (where the current toll booth operates). He acted as the bridge manager, rendering 24 hour service, until his retirement in 1972.

Through a nine-year effort by the State of New York and the Town of Cortlandt, this historic site has been restored and given new life. It is a unique place for group visits (of twenty visitors or less), to learn about the building's past and perhaps taking a hike along the nearby Camp Smith Trail.

The Cortlandt Historical Society, The Croton Historical Society and the VanCortlandtville Historical Society sell items in the Toll House Gift Shop. Profits from these sales support historic preservation work in the community. Profits from patriotic and New York items sold support the non-profit organization being formed to maintain the visitor center. Local artists donate a portion of their sales after an exhibition to this effort.

Anyone wishing to become a tourism ambassador by joining the volunteer staff is encouraged to call Site Director Laura Lee Keating at (914) 734-1086. Training and an informational package will be provided. Group tours may be arranged by contacting Mrs. Keating.