Bannerman Island Prepares to Open for the 2026 Season

Bannerman Island Receives Large Grant in Early 2026

In January 2026, Bannerman Island Trust announced great news.

Bannerman Castle was awarded a $27,450 matching grant from The Environmental Protection Fund's Park and Trails Partnership Grants program.

According to a press release, Bannerman was 1 of 27 organizations across NYS to receive part of the $2.25 million in funding.

READ MORE: Bannerman Castle Receives Grant to Improve Island Access

At the time Bannerman Castle Trust shared that they would be using the money to restore parts of the castle and island. They explained that The Grotto and Wee Bay would be a point of focus of the renovation.

Bannerman wrote stated "These infrastructure upgrades are designed to enhance the experience for all visitors, specifically improving accessibility for those with impaired mobility."

As the opening of the 2026 season approaches, the media was invited out to get a first look at the island before guest begin arriving in May.

2026 Bannerman Island Tour Season Begins in May

Members of the press were invited out to Bannerman Island on April 28th, 2026 to take a first look at what to expect this touring season.

We arrived at the Beacon Dock at the Metro North Station and boarded the Estuary Steward for a 30 minute boat ride to the island.

As we pulled up to the dock we were greeted by our tour guides, who were extremely knowledgeable about the island and castle, showed guests around the trails, buildings and gave us a peek at The Grotto and Wee Bay.

The island is rich with history, locals and visitors alike will love exploring and learning about the iconic castle and island.

Guests can take this exact tour throughout the touring season which starts in May and runs through October. Tickets can be purchased online at BannermanCastle.org. 

Other Events Around Bannerman Island During the 2026 Season

While Bannerman offers walking, guided and kayaking tours they also offer a handful of different events hosted on the island.

This year you can expect an incredible night of Broadway themed entertainment thanks to Epic Broadway in Beacon. They'll host "an unforgettable Broadway revue set against the stunning backdrop of the historic Bannerman Residence."

Professional Broadway actors will being powerhouse vocals to the iconic castle.

Bannerman will host movie nights on the island throughout the year. This year they'll show movies like The Princess Bride, Ever After, 1776 (on July 3rd) and Gremlins (just in time for Halloween on October 2nd).

The award-winning adaptation of Dracula: The Journal of Jonathan Harker will return to Bannerman and will run from September 15th through the 20th, and on September 25th and 26th.

The opportunities are endless to see the historic Bannerman Castle up close and personal. Book your trip today!