House Manual

Hilltop Oasis

34 Sesame St., Chatham, NY
Explore the guide

It's a pleasure to host you.

We're so glad you chose to stay with us.

Welcome to your home away from home, our perfect escape from city life. Relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings, enjoying the fresh air and local charm.

Whether you’re here to explore the great outdoors, enjoy family time, or simply relax and rejuvenate, we hope you have a wonderful time. Enjoy your stay and make yourself at home. Feel free to message us if you have any questions or need assistance.

Best wishes,

Justin

Provided with the home

  • Towels, washcloths, and hand towels
  • Bedsheets, comforters
  • Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash
  • Toilet paper in all bathrooms
  • Paper towels in the kitchen area
  • Pots/pan
  • Glasses (Wine + Water) 
  • Plates
  • Kitchenware
  • Blender/Stick Blender
  • Microwave
  • Kitchen set: hand towel, dish detergent, sponges
  • Coffee and Tea (Nespresso, Automatic Drip, French Press)
  • Salt, pepper, and spices
  • Laundry Detergent
  • Trash bags
  • Projector & Screen

Chatham Real Food Market Co-op

Chatham Real Food Market Co-op

A small organic, local, & natural foods grocery store, food co-operative in Chatham, NY in the Hudson Valley. Everyone welcome! Community owned.

https://www.chatham.coop/

Golden Harvest Farms

Price Chopper

Price Chopper

Samascott's Garden Market

The Chatham Berry Farm LLC

The Chatham Berry Farm LLC

The Chatham Berry Farm is a local, family-owned and operated farm and farm store. Specializing in natural, organic and local produce and products.

https://www.thechathamberryfarm.com/index.html

Driving Directions

Driving Directions

 Google Maps Location: 34 Sesame St., Chatham, NY 12136 

Driveway Entrance

Please use these photos as a reference while approaching the property. Look for the "34 Sesame" sign at the entrance to the driveway, as this is the landmark that will help you find the correct turn.

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Just a quick heads-up before you arrive, please drive slowly along Sesame Street. This habitat is home to deer, bunnies, turkeys, and cats that may cross the road unexpectedly. Thank you for helping keep our wildlife safe!

Access Codes / Instructions

To access the property, follow the instructions sent in our pre-arrival message a few days before check-in. Should you have any issues, please send us a message.

Check-in Time

Check-in time is 4:00 PM. We can sometimes arrange an early check-in, so please contact us if you plan to arrive early and we'll do our best to accommodate you (unfortunately, we cannot promise this). If you are arriving early, refer to the “local area guide” section and be sure to pick up any groceries or supplies on the way.

Contacting Us

If you need to get in touch with us during your stay, the quickest way is via the booking platform message system.

Overview of the Area

Overview of the Area

Chatham, NY offers a delightful blend of historic charm, artistic culture, and small-town tranquility. Whether you're strolling local boutiques, catching a film at the Crandell Theatre, enjoying a musical production, exploring its hamlets, or indulging in a glass of wine nearby, Chatham embodies a rich and welcoming slice of Hudson Valley life.

WiFi & Internet

Network Name:  34 sesame

Password: bigbirdz 

How to resolve Wi-Fi issues:

The cable modem is likely the cause of any internet connection issues. The cable modem is located in the utility closet next to the bathroom on the lowest shelf.

  1. Unplug it from the power source. Leave it unplugged for a full 60 seconds.
  2. Plug it back in and wait for it to finish resetting, usually about 10 minutes.

99% of the time, this should work to reset the connection.

Heating & Cooling

HVAC Note

Please do not use the HEAT EMER setting on the HVAC system. Use the standard heating and cooling modes only.

Septic & Plumbing

Our home utilizes a septic system, so we kindly ask that you be mindful of what goes down the drains and toilets. Please dispose of feminine products, wipes, and other paper goods in the waste bins provided, and be mindful of toilet paper usage. This helps prevent clogs and blockages, avoiding unpleasant situations and additional fees. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

Wood stove operation

  1. Do not operate the kitchen exhaust fan while starting
  2. Slide the lever ( air intake) on the bottom right all the way to the right
  3. Open the glass door by turning the spiral handle clockwise vertical up. Add paper/kindling and 1-2 small logs to the chamber
  4. Use the stick lighter to light paper/kindling
  5. Keep the glass door open a crack to allow air flow while the fire is catching - do not leave fire unattended while door is open.
  6. Once the kindling is burning and the logs start to catch close the glass door - spiral handle vertical up- and then lock it by rotating the handle clockwise until it is horizontal right.
  7. Add logs as desired
  8. When the fire is burning and embers start to form you can slide the lower right lever (air intake) a bit to the left
  9. Slide the  air intake all the way to the left to keep the fire burning slowly

Trash

A trash bin is located outside next to the shed.

Please ensure all trash, including cardboard, is properly bagged before placing it in these bins on your departure day.

Securing trash in bags and bins is crucial to prevent attracting bears.

Fireplace

The large open fireplace at the entrance to the main space and the wood stove in the basement are not functional and must not be used. 

The metal wood stove near the kitchen on the main floor is functional— please follow the instructions posted on the wall to operate it. It is very important that you do not run the exhaust hood over the kitchen stove while starting a fire, as this will draw smoke into the house. First, get the fire established and close the glass front door, then you may safely use the exhaust hood.

Never leave a fire unattended. Wood stoves require very little wood to operate, do not overload.

A Fire Extinguisher is located next to the fridge as well as on every floor of the home.

Countertops - Always use a cutting board

Please do not cut directly on the wood countertops. Always use a cutting board, located on the left-most cupboard in the kitchen island.

Ginger Sleeper Sofa

The ginger sleeper sofa unfolds to a bed. Extra linens can be found in the upstairs bedroom in the square linen closet.

Lighting & Fan Controls

Lights around the ginger couch can be turned on at fixtures.

Lights to the cream color couch area can be turned on to the right of the french doors.

Switches for overhead lights for the main space are located on the tall column.

The kitchen has under cabinet lighting. Switch is on back splash switch to the left. It is on a short delay.

The fan can be controlled by a round switch to the left of the french doors. The switch next to it controls the round lights above the kitchen.

Projector

  • The smart projector is mounted above the ginger couch.

  • Use the projector’s remote just as you would with a TV.

  • Sign into your own streaming apps to watch (please remember to log out after).

  • For best picture quality, use it at night.

  • The pull-down screen is mounted on the ceiling beam in front of the couch.

Utility Closet

Closet next to powder room houses microwave and small stepping stool

Grill / BBQ

How to Use the BBQ Grill Before Grilling
  1. Fuel Check

    • Ensure the propane tank is adequately filled. A full 20 lb tank will feel heavy when lifted.

  2. Connection Check

    • Make sure the grill hose is securely connected to the propane tank by screwing it on tightly.

  3. Safety First

    • Only use the grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area.

    • Keep it away from porches, gazebos, or any covered structure.

    • Do not leave the grill unattended while in use.

Preheating the Grill
  1. Open the lid of the grill.

  2. Fully open the propane tank valve located on top of the tank (turn it counterclockwise).

  3. Light the burners:

    • Turn the first burner knob to the “Light” position.

    • Press the ignitor button until it lights.

    • If the ignitor doesn’t work, use a long BBQ lighter. Insert it through the side access points or directly through the grates to the burners.

    • Important: If the gas doesn’t ignite immediately, turn off the gas and wait for a few minutes to let it dissipate before trying again.

  4. Once lit, close the lid and let the grill preheat for 10–15 minutes before cooking.

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Snow and Inclement Weather

You may experience snow flurries and the occasional heavy snow accumulation during winter stays. The driveway is plowed automatically once 2 inches of snow has accumulated. A snow shovel can be found in the Mud Room and rock salt for icy conditions.

Local roads are plowed regularly, roads may be impassable for a few hours during storms. If you don’t have winter driving experience, please take extra care at night and in below-freezing conditions. 

Be careful walking on the decks and walkways in icy conditions.

Wildlife Encounters

When booking a house in the countryside, surrounded by lush nature and a nearby national wildlife reserve, it’s important to be prepared for encounters with various wildlife. In the evenings, you may notice an abundance of insects, some of which occasionally find their way indoors. Be cautious with open windows and doors. Additionally, food smells often attract black bears and are known for their curiosity. It’s best to avoid leaving food unattended on decks, porches, or grills, as bears have been known to investigate and even open unlocked cars in search of snacks.

A few asks...

  1. We provide shared kitchen supplies for everyone to use and enjoy.
  2. Please remove shoes upon entry, as this is a shoe-free home.
  3. Always use cutting boards when preparing food—never cut directly on the butcher block countertop (boards are stored in the leftmost cupboard of the kitchen island).
  4. Be sure to close all windows when it rains or when leaving the house.
  5. No pets are allowed.
  6. Smoking, vaping, parties, events, and EV charging are strictly prohibited.
  7. Please respect our neighbors by keeping noise levels down and observing quiet hours, especially outdoors.

Breakages

We understand that sometimes accidents happen! Should you break anything please let us know immediately so we can replace it for the next guest. Thank you!

Emergency Services

Emergency Services

In case of a fire

  • Exit the property as quickly as possible
  • Ensure that all persons are accounted for
  • Dial 911

For emergency services, call 911. Do not delay if you feel an emergency situation has arisen. State your location as 34 Sesame St..

Emergency Exits

 • Front door and side door to deck are available as exits in case of emergency.
 • Important: The door in the kitchen behind the furnace is sealed and not usable. Please do not consider this as an  exit.

Columbia Memorial Health

Columbia Memorial Health

Price Chopper

Walgreens

Tick Check!

Tick Warning: Explore Wisely!

The Hudson Valley & Catskill region offers fantastic hiking & outdoor adventures, but it's important to be aware of ticks. Here's how to enjoy the outdoors safely:

Before You Hit the Trails:

  • Dress Smart: Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toe shoes. Tuck your pants into socks for an extra barrier.
  • Repel Ticks: Choose an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET (20% or higher for adults, 10% or lower for children) and follow directions carefully.
  • Be Tick-Savvy: Learn about tick habitats and avoid brushing against tall grass and brush where ticks are more common.

While You Hike:

  • Stay on the Path: Sticking to the trail reduces your contact with tick-infested areas.
  • Do Quick Checks: Throughout your hike, take a moment to scan your clothes and exposed skin for ticks.

After Your Adventure:

  • Shower ASAP: A hot shower within 2 hours of being outdoors can help wash away unattached ticks.
  • Full Body Check: Carefully examine yourself, children, and pets for ticks, paying close attention to warm, moist areas.

Ooms

Ooms

Art Omi

Art Omi

Art Omi (formerly Omi International Arts Center) is a nonprofit international arts organization located in Ghent, New York. It offers residency programs for artists, writers, architects, dancers, musicians, and translators, hosting creative talents from around the globe

The campus also includes:

  • The Newmark Gallery and the Charles B. Benenson Visitors Center & Gallery, which hosts exhibitions, concerts, readings, and public programs

  • Historic and functional buildings, including Ledig House (a converted 1830 farmhouse with meeting and living spaces), studio barns, and artist accommodations

  • 120 acres of outdoor sculpture and architecture installations.
  • A vibrant arts education program for individuals of all ages, including camps and workshop

Mac-Haydn Theatre

Mac-Haydn Theatre
Short Description

The Mac-Haydn Theatre is an award-winning professional summer musical theatre located in charming Chatham, New York. It was founded in 1969 by Lynne Haydn and Linda MacNish and has been producing innovative and diverse musical theatre productions ever since Mac-Haydn TheatreI Love NY. This intimate, 350-seat theatre-in-the-round presents both classic and contemporary musicals from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day


 https://www.machaydntheatre.org/


Location

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site

Martin Van Buren National Historic Site

Olana State Historic Site

Olana State Historic Site

PS21 Performance Space

PS21 Performance Space

PS21 is a vibrant center for contemporary performance located in Chatham, New York. It was designed to “present work that challenges and invites,” offering adventurous and thought-provoking productions in music, contemporary circus, dance, theater, and more PS21. Its centerpiece is the Pavilion Theater, an open-air proscenium stage featuring retractable risers for flexible configurations—from arena-style to raked seating—all under a dramatic pavilion roof.

The Campus

The Campus

The Campus, located at 341 NY-217, Hudson, NY 12534 (in Claverack, just outside Hudson), is a compelling collaboration between six New York-based galleries—Bortolami, James Cohan, Kaufmann Repetto, Anton Kern, Andrew Kreps, and Kurimanzutto. Together, they transformed the long-abandoned Ockawamick School into a vibrant, 78,000-sq ft cultural hub straddling both inside exhibition rooms and the surrounding grounds

Visiting Information & Practical Details
  • Address: 341 NY-217, Hudson, NY 12534 

  • Exhibition Dates (2025): June 28 – October 26

  • Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 12 PM – 5 PM

  • Admission: Free, and no appointment is needed

  • Parking: Available on-site; note that bike parking is not currently provided

The School

The School

The School is a 30,000 ft² contemporary art exhibition space located in a renovated former high school building in Kinderhook, New York. Established in 2013, it serves as an extension of the Jack Shainman Gallery, dedicated to ambitious, large-scale exhibitions that highlight both artists within the gallery's roster and others outside it.

Address & Visiting Info

  • Location: 25 Broad Street, Kinderhook, NY 12106 (Kinderhook, New York, United States)Jack Shainman GalleryVillage of Kinderhook

  • Hours: Open to the public Saturdays from 11 AM to 6 PM, and Monday–Friday by appointment only

Wilson M. Powell Wildlife Sanctuary

Wilson M. Powell Wildlife Sanctuary

Catamount Mountain Resort

Catamount Mountain Resort

Bartlett House

A must-visit bakery and café in Ghent serving breakfast, lunch, pastries, and fresh bread.

Bimi's Canteen & Bar

Bimi's Canteen & Bar

Upscale seasonal dining with a speakeasy-style bar in Chatham.

Bimi's Cheese Shop

Artisan cheeses, coffee, and gourmet grilled cheese.

Fiesta Cafe

Fiesta Cafe

Jackson's Old Chatham House

A beloved local tavern and steakhouse with hearty fare in a cozy setting.

Old Chatham Country Store & Cafe

Old Chatham Country Store & Cafe

Fresh coffee, sandwiches, and locally sourced provisions, plus curated dinners Fri–Mon.

Stonykill Coffee & Records

Stonykill Coffee & Records

Chatham Brewing

Chatham Brewing

Harvest Spirits Farm Distillery

Harvest Spirits Farm Distillery

Hudson Chatham Winery

Hudson Chatham Winery

Josey's WineFarm

Josey's WineFarm

Check-out Time

Check-out time is 11 am sharp. If you require a later check-out, we’ll do our best to accommodate it if arranged in advance.

Check-Out Process

Before your departure, we’d appreciate if you would assist with a few items:

- Beds: It’s ok to leave beds unmade.
- Towels: Leave all used towels in a bathroom.
- Dishes: Please clean up any dirty dishes and start the dishwasher.
- Trash: Please throw garbage in the bins in the shed
- Turn Things off: Ensure you turn off the stove and lights. Log out of any streaming services.
- Furniture: Return furniture to the location found.

Thank You For Staying With Us

Thank you for trusting us to host your getaway. We hope your stay was truly memorable. Your feedback is extremely important to us as we continually strive to enhance our hospitality. If there were any concerns or opportunities for improvement during your visit, please let us know. We review all feedback and take action based on your comments.

Hilltop Oasis · Haus Vacation Rentals
Questions? (845) 382-8513

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