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The Grandest Historic Mansions to Visit Across the United States

Roxanna is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

historic mansion tours

All open to the public, you can tour the interior of these luxury establishments to admire their size and number of rooms. From state to state, these are as beautiful as they are significant in U.S. history.

Time travel may not be possible, but we can experience the next best thing by visiting historic mansions. These living museums preserve history by keeping the way of life from the era in which the former residents lived on display.

Simple curiosity is the main reason for the popularity of historic house tours. It's human nature to be curious, even nosy, about the people who live beyond those wrought iron gates, those tall white pillars, that mass of fragrant wisteria. House tours provide a healthy—and legal—outlet for our inquisitiveness while benefiting the organizations that work to keep history alive. Kitty Robinson of the Historic Charleston Foundation explains, "I think people love to see what other families have done with these historic homes to make them livable. Toddlers really do live in eighteenth century living rooms." Tours also offer rare opportunities for amateur and professional collectors , gardeners, designers, and history buffs to see what might not be found in books, magazines, or museums. "People go for inspiration," says Sandra Soule, the editor of America's Wonderful Little Hotels and Inns guidebook series.

Many of these properties had to temporarily close their doors to the public at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that some of the restrictions have eased and states are reopening to tourists, historic mansions have also begun allowing the public to visit their sites again. And these house tours can be found all over the country this summer, from Providence, Rhode Island, to Pasadena, California. Cicero once asked, "What is more agreeable than one's home?" For a vacation, maybe someone else's.

Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York

This historic mansion is also a luxury hotel, which means you enjoy a royal European experience right in New York. Oheka Castle was built in 1919 as a summer home for Otto Hermann Kahn.

Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut

See where Mark Twain lived. The house is open for tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays but tickets should be purchased in advance. If you're not ready to travel just yet, know that it's also possible to go on a virtual tour.

George Washington's Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia

George Washington lived in this home that was 10 times the size of most other homes in West Virginia. Currently, only the first floor is open again for tours and tickets need to be purchased ahead of time.

Fairlawn Mansion in Superior, Wisconsin

Tours are limited to 12 people per tour, but if you're able to get inside, the Fairlawn Mansion is worth a visit. A gorgeous Victorian house that was first occupied by private residents from 1890 to 1920, the property went on to become a Children's Home for 42 years. Today, it's the perfect place to learn about this region's history.

The Ringling Mansion in Sarasota, Florida

Behold the home of the famous circus leader: the mansion called Ca' d'Zan . Once the winter home of circus impresario John Ringling (the name means "John's House" in Venetian dialect), this 1920s Venetian-Gothic-style villa was the romantically crumbling backdrop for the 1998 film Great Expectations . Today, fully restored, it's a museum and a scene-stealing home, where you can stand on the bay-front terrace.

Highlands Ranch Mansion in Highlands Ranch, Colorado

See a working ranch with history in action at the Highlands Ranch Mansion . Featuring historic barns, ranch houses and more on the property, it's like walking into a Weatern fairy tale.

Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright in Mill Run, Pennsylvania

Built in 1935 by Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater served as a weekend home for the couple that owned Kaufmann's Department Store. The architecture is beautiful and a sight to behold.

Bingham-Hanna Mansion and the Hay-McKinney Mansion in Cleveland, Ohio

These two mansions are part of the Cleveland History Center and are works of art. Artifacts from the early 1900s, when the homes were built, give visitors a glimpse into the past.

Prospect Place in Trinway, Ohio

This historic mansion was a stop along the Underground Railroad. George Adams lived there with his wife, and abolitionists would meet in his parlor.

Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina

In addition to a gorgeous mansion, the Biltmore Estate features 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. George Vanderbilt's former home, the property has a whopping 250 rooms and was completed in 1895.

The Breakers in Newport, Rhode Island

The Italian Renaissance–style villa was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his family and the grandest of the Gilded Age summer homes in Newport. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt to replace an existing wood structure, the 70-room, four-story home was decorated by Ogden Codman, Jr. and completed in 1895. Today, the Breakers is owned by the Preservation Society of Newport County, which offers access to a number of historic homes in the area, including another Hunt design, Marble House, which was built for Vanderbilt's brother.

The Mount in Lenox, Massachusetts

Author Edith Wharton took inspiration from Belton House in England, as well as French and Italian influences, when designing the house and grounds at the Mount , which was built with architects Ogden Codman, Jr., her coauthor of the book The Decoration of Houses, and Francis L.V. Hoppin. Wharton lived and worked there for 10 years before she and her husband, Teddy, sold the property in 1911. The Mount was declared a National Historic landmark in 1971 and is now a cultural center dedicated to Wharton's life and work.

Bayou Bend Collection and Garden in Houston, Texas

Philanthropist Ima Hogg and her brothers built the mansion in the River Oaks area of Houston between 1927 and 1928. Texas architect John F. Staub designed the house, taking inspiration from 18th-century Georgian and Spanish Creole architecture. The home's 14 acres of gardens mix formal landscape design with natural woodlands. Hogg donated the property to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and it is now a house museum showcasing American paintings and decorative arts.

Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee

They didn't call him "The King" for nothing. More than 40 years after his death, both fans and those curious about this pop culture phenom are still flocking to Elvis Presley's Graceland home. Yes, the Jungle Room always draws a crowd, but there's more to what is now deemed Elvis Presley's Memphis at Graceland than his former living quarters. After touring the Graceland mansion, guests can also visit several adjacent museums, including those housing celebrity memorabilia from his career, favorite automobiles he owned and even his private jets named the "Lisa Marie" and "Hound Dog II." Guest quarters are also a part of the complex for those wanting an overnight experience.

Vizcaya in Miami, Florida

Built between 1914 and 1922, Vizcaya was the winter residence of industrial executive James Deering. The Miami home boasts a design meant to look like a time-worn Italianate villa complete with grottos and bridges. The surrounding gardens are based on Italian and French examples incorporating flora suited for a subtropical setting. Unlike many other historic mansions converted to museums, Vizcaya still has most of its original decor. Visitors enjoy perusing 34 decorated rooms showcasing more than 2,500 art objects collected by Deering, and furnishings that have been in the home for more than 100 years.

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84 Fabulous Historic Homes & Mansions in the USA

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A photo collage of historic homes & mansions in the USA.

I love beautiful mansions – whether newer mega mansions or historical mansions. This gallery showcases over 60 fabulous famous and infamous historical mansions from all areas of the United States.

Regions include the Eastcoast, the South, Midwest and the Westcoast. Notable regions include Newport, Rhode Island mansions , stunning Gold Coast mansions , Palm Beach mansions and more.

This collection includes some of the most famous houses in the world owned by robber barons, industrialists, authors, politicians, media tycoons, automobile moguls and more.

While some of the homes here are called a castle , America was founded after the need for a medieval castle . What resulted are simply spectacular houses akin to a chateau, villa or manor house .

Enjoy your scroll through a slice of America’s history via America’s greatest historic houses .

Related: Cool Shipping Container Homes | High-End Luxury Townhomes | Sleek Glass Houses | Rustic Houses

Houses 31 to 73 on the next page

1. Mark Twain House – Hartford, Connecticut

historic mansion tours

The Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford, Connecticut was built by Edward Tuckerman Potter and was the house of Samuel Langhorne Clemens.

It was designed following the American High Gothic style and is now currently in the hands of Hal Holbrook. The cost of the house is currently $16.3 million and features  35,000-square-foot (3,300 m2)

About the Mark Twain House

  • Where:  Hartford, Connecticut, United States of America
  • When:  August 1873
  • Who built it: Edward Tuckerman Potter
  • Current owners:  Hal Holbrook
  • Cost:  $16.3 million
  • Size:  35,000-square-foot (3,300 m2)

Source: Factinate

2. Ringling Mansion – Sarasota, Florida

historic mansion tours

Ca’ d’Zan, or the Ringling Mansion in Sarasota, Florida is a Mediterranean Revival residence home of the American circus owner, developer and art collector John Ringling and his wife Mable.

The property was designed by architect Dwight James Baum in 1924 and it was built by the Sarasota developer Owen Burns. In 2013, the property costs $21 million currently owned by the Florida State University.

About the Ringling Mansion / Ca’ d’Zan

  • Where:  Sarasota, Florida, United States of America
  • Who built it: Designed by: architect Dwight James Baum / Built by: Sarasota developer Owen Burns
  • Current owners: Florida State University
  • Cost:  $21 million
  • Size:  36,000 square-foot

3. Vanderbilt Mansion – Hyde Park, New York

historic mansion tours

Vanderbilt Mansion is a historic house museum in Hyde Park, New York. Designed by the preeminent architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, the house is a fine an example of the Beaux-Arts architecture style while featuring archetypes of the American Renaissance in its interiors.

The property costs $36 million with a 211 acres (85 ha) currently owned by the National Park Service.

About the Vanderbilt Mansion

  • Where:  Hyde Park, New York, United States of America
  • When: 1896 – 1899
  • Who built it: McKim, Mead & White
  • Current owners: National Park Service
  • Cost:  $36 million
  • Size:  211 acres (85 ha)

4. Highlands Ranch Mansion – Colorado

historic mansion tours

See our gallery of tudor revival homes here .

The Highlands Ranch Mansion built in 1962 is one of the most architecturally unique structures in Colorado. The Mansion features 27,000 square feet (2,500 m2) containing more than 14 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms.

Owned and operated by the Highlands Ranch Metro District, the mansion costs more than $13 million and being maintained by the Highlands Ranch Metro District.

About the Highlands Ranch Mansion

  • Where:  Colorado, United States of America
  • Who built it:  Samuel Allen Long
  • Current owners: Highlands Ranch Metro District
  • Cost: more than $13 million
  • Size: 27,000 square feet (2,500 m2)

5. Kykuit Estate (Rockefeller Mansion) – New York

historic mansion tours

The Kykuit, also known as the John D. Rockefeller Estate built by Rockefeller family in 1913 is a 40-room historic house museum in Pocantico Hills, a hamlet in the town of Mount Pleasant, New York.

The cost of the property has not been yet revealed to the public but it is most likely at a very high price considering its size of 3,400 acres (1,380 ha).

About the Kykuit

  • Where: Mount Pleasant, New York, United States of America
  • Who built it: Rockefeller family
  • Current owners:   Rockefeller families
  • Cost: Currently unknown
  • Size: 3,400 acres (1,380 ha)

Kykuit - Rockefeller Estate - New York

6. Oheka Castle – Huntington, New York

historic mansion tours

The Oheka Castle, also known as the Otto Kahn Estate built in 1914–1919 by Delano & Aldrich and Olmsted Brothers is located on the North Shore of Long Island, in the West Hills section of Huntington, NY.

The property is the second largest private home in the United States measuring over 109,000 square feet (10,100 m2) and features 127 rooms. Its cost is currently at $22.5 million owned by Gary Melius.

About the Oheka Castle

  • Where: Huntington, New York, United States of America
  • When: 1914–1919
  • Who built it: Delano & Aldrich and Olmsted Brothers
  • Current owners: Gary Melius
  • Cost: $22.5 million
  • Size: 23.2 acres (9.4 ha)

7. Oak Alley – Louisiana

The Oak Alley Plantation located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, in the community of Vacherie, St. James Parish, Louisiana, is a historic plantation constructed by Joseph Pilié in 1837. The property boasts 25 acres (10 ha) and costs $50,000 while spent $60,000 in renovations in 1925.

About the Oak Alley Plantation

  • Where: Louisiana, United States of America
  • Who built it: Joseph Pilié
  • Current owners: Oak Alley Foundation
  • Cost: $50,000
  • Size: 25 acres (10 ha)

8. Boone Hall Mansion

historic mansion tours

The Boone Hall Plantation is one of America’s oldest working plantations that was built in 1681 and was reconstructed in 1936. It was built by William Harmon Beers and features 10,000 square feet (930 m2). The property is currently owned by the McRae family.

About the Boone Hall Plantation

  • Where: South Carolina, United States of America
  • Who built it: William Harmon Beers
  • Current owners: McRae family
  • Size: 10,000 square feet (930 m2)

See our list of Southern historic homes here .

9. Monticello (Thomas Jefferson’s House) – Virginia

historic mansion tours

Monticello was the primary plantation of the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. He was the one who designed the property at age 26 after inheriting the land from his father following the neoclassical design principles described by Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.

This building, featuring 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) that costs $15 million is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About the Monticello

  • Where: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
  • Who built it: Thomas Jefferson
  • Current owners: Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc.
  • Cost: $15 million
  • Size: 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares)

10. Rosalie Mansion – Natchez, Mississippi

historic mansion tours

Built in 1823, the Rosalie Mansion is a historic pre-Civil War mansion and historic house museum in Natchez, Mississippi. The property served as the architectural inspiration for a large number of Natchez’s grand Greek Revival mansions, and was a major influence on Antebellum architecture in the greater region.

It was constructed by J.S. Griffin in 1822 and features 22 acres. Today, it is owned and maintained by Mississippi State Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

About the Rosalie Mansion

  • Where: Natchez, Mississippi, United States of America
  • Who built it: J.S. Griffin
  • Current owners: Mississippi State Society Daughters of the American Revolution
  • Size: 22 acres

11. Nottoway Mansion

historic mansion tours

The Nottoway Mansion, also known as the Nottoway Plantation House was built in 1858 by Henry Howard following the Greek Revival and Italianate-styled mansion . It is located near White Castle, Louisiana, United States and features 53,000 square foot that costs $14 million.

About the Nottoway Mansion

  • Who built it: Henry Howard
  • Current owners: Paul Ramsay
  • Cost: $14 million
  • Size: 53,000 square foot

12. Magnolia Plantation

historic mansion tours

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens located on the Ashley River at 3550 Ashley River Road west of the Ashley, Charleston County, South Carolina is a historic house built in 1850 by Thomas and Ann Drayton. The property remains under the control of the Drayton family after 15 generations and is open to the public. It features 464 acres, 187.77 hectares.

About the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

  • Where: Charleston County, South Carolina, United States of America
  • Who built it: Thomas and Ann Drayton
  • Current owners: Drayton family
  • Size: 464 acres, 187.77 hectares

13. Houmas House – Darrow

historic mansion tours

The Houmas, also known as Burnside Plantation and currently known as Houmas House Plantation and Gardens was built in 1840 by John Smith Preston, and is a historic plantation complex and house museum in Burnside, Louisiana. It features 10 acres (4.0 ha), which is currently owned by Kevin Kelly.

About the Houmas House

  • Where: Burnside, Louisiana, United States of America
  • Who built it: John Smith Preston
  • Current owners: Kevin Kelly
  • Size: 10 acres (4.0 ha)

14. Montepelier (James Madison’s House) – Virginia

historic mansion tours

James Madison’s Montpelier was the plantation house of the Madison family, including fourth President of the United States, James Madison, and his wife Dolley.

It is located in Orange County, Virginia and was declared a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. It was built in 1764 by Madisons and duPont, which features 4.452 km² and costs $25 million.

About the Montepelier

  • Where: Orange County, Virginia, United States of America
  • Who built it: Madisons and duPont
  • Current owners: National Trust for Historic Preservation
  • Cost: $25 million
  • Size: 4.452 km²

15. Hazel Path Mansion

historic mansion tours

The Hazel Path Mansion located in Hendersonville, Tennessee is currently is available for weddings and other events. It was built by Daniel Smith Donelson in 1857 featuring 254 acres and costs $800,000. The property’s current owners are Louis Oliver and James Fuqua.

About the Hazel Path Mansion

  • Where: Hendersonville, Tennessee, United States of America
  • Who built it: Daniel Smith Donelson
  • Current owners: Louis Oliver and James Fuqua
  • Cost: $800,000
  • Size: 254 acres

16. Drayton Hall

historic mansion tours

The Drayton Hall located on the Ashley River about 15 miles northwest of Charleston, South Carolina is an 18th-century plantation whose architectect is unknown.

The mansion was built for John Drayton and his family after he bought the property in the late 1730s. The property features 3.177 km² and is currently owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

About the Drayton Hall

  • Where: Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
  • When:   1747–1752
  • Who built it: Unknown
  • Cost: Unknown
  • Size: 3.177 km²

17. Calhoun Mansion – South Carolina

historic mansion tours

The Calhoun Mansion located at Charleston, South Carolina is a Victorian house built by W.P. Russell for George W. Williams in 1876. It costs $5,000,000 featuring 24,000-square-foot. Today, it is currently open for public tours under Howard Stahl.

About the Calhoun Mansion

  • Who built it:  Designed by W.P. Russell for George W. Williams
  • Current owners: Howard Stahl
  • Cost: $5,000,000
  • Size: 24,000-square-foot

18. Fairlawn Mansion – Wisconsin

historic mansion tours

About the Fairlawn Mansion

  • Where: Wisconsin, United States of America
  • When:   1889-1891
  • Who built it:  Martin Pattison
  • Current owners:   Superior Public Museums
  • Cost:   $6.5 million
  • Size: Unknown

19. Fonthill Castle

historic mansion tours

Fonthill, also known as Fonthill Castle was built in early 20th century by Dr. Henry C. Mercer and served as his home in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. The property’s cost is still unknown and currently owned by Trustees of the Mercer Fonthill Museum.

About the Fonthill Castle

  • Where: Doylestown, Pennsylvania, United States of America
  • When: 1908 – 1912
  • Who built it: Dr. Henry C. Mercer
  • Current owners: Trustees of the Mercer Fonthill Museum
  • Cost:   Unknown
  • Size:   27 ha

20. Robert Todd Lincoln’s Mansion

historic mansion tours

Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home located in Manchester, Vermont is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln and his wife Mary Harlan Lincoln. It was built in the 20th century by Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge following the Georgian Revival style architecture. The property boasts 412-acre,167 ha and its current value is unknown.

About the Hildene

  • Where: Manchester, Vermont, United States of America
  • When: 20th century
  • Who built it: Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge
  • Current owners:   Friends of Hildene
  • Size:   412-acre,167 ha

21. Biltmore Estate

historic mansion tours

Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore Estate is a large (6950.4 acre or 10.86 square miles) private estate and a popular tourist attraction. It was built in 1889 – 1895 by Richard Morris Hunt and Frederick Law Olmsted. It features 6950.4 acre or 10.86 square miles that costs $300 million currently owned by Bill Cecil.

Biltmore is the largest private residence in the USA coming it at 175,000 sq. ft.

About the Biltmore Estate

  • Where: Asheville, North Carolina, United States of America
  • When: 1889 – 1895
  • Who built it: Richard Morris Hunt and Frederick Law Olmsted
  • Current owners: Bill Cecil
  • Cost: $300 million
  • Size: 6950.4 acre or 10.86 square miles

22. Mount Vernon – George Washington’s Estate

historic mansion tours

Mount Vernon, situated on the banks of the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, was the plantation house of George Washington, the first President of the United States, and his wife, Martha Dandridge Custis Washington.

It was built in 1758 by George Washington and remained his country home for the rest of his life. It features 500 acres (200 ha) and currently, it is being retained by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association.

About the Mount Vernon

  • Where: Fairfax County, Virginia, United States of America
  • Current owners: Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
  • Size: 500 acres (200 ha)

23. Falling Water by Frank Lloyd Wright

historic mansion tours

Fallingwater is a house located in southwestern Pennsylvania designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935. The property was designed as a weekend home for the family of Liliane Kaufmann and her husband, Edgar J. Kaufmann, Sr., owner of Kaufmann’s Department Store. It features 1750 acres and has a value of $15.9 million.

About the Fallingwater

  • Where:  Southwestern Pennsylvania, United States of America
  • Who built it: Frank Lloyd Wright
  • Current owners: Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
  • Cost: $15.9 million
  • Size: 1750 acres

Related: Concrete Houses

24. David Davis Mansion – Bloomington, Illinois

historic mansion tours

The David Davis Mansion also known as Clover Lawn, is a Victorian home in Bloomington, Illinois that was built in 1870-1872 by Alfred H. Piquenard.

It was the residence of David Davis, Supreme Court justice (1862–1877) and Senator from Illinois, which features 4.5 acres (1.8 ha) that is currently owned by the Illinois Department of natural Resources.

About the David Davis Mansion

  • Where: Bloomington, Illinois, United States of America
  • When: 1870-1872
  • Who built it: Alfred H. Piquenard
  • Current owners: Illinois Department of natural Resources
  • Size: 4.5 acres (1.8 ha)

25. Cairnwood Estate – Pennsylvania

historic mansion tours

Cairnwood is a 26,000 square feet (2,400 m2) historic home designed by the architectural firm of Carrère and Hastings and built in 1895. This historic home is located in Bryn Athyn, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania currently owned by the Academy of the New Church.

About the Cairnwood

  • Where: Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, United States of America
  • Who built it: Architectural firm of Carrère and Hastings
  • Current owners: Academy of the New Church
  • Size: 26,000 square feet (2,400 m2)

26. Fairlane (Henry and Clara Ford Estate) – Michigan

historic mansion tours

The Fair Lane was the estate of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford and his wife, Clara Ford, which was built in 1913–1915 by architects Joseph N. French, William Van Tine, Marion Mahony Griffin, Frank Lloyd Wright and Jens Jensen.

Located in Dearborn, Michigan, Fair Lane has 31,000-square-foot (2,900 m2) and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.

About the Fair Lane

  • Where: Dearborn, Michigan, United States of America
  • When: 1913–1915
  • Who built it: Architects Joseph N. French, William Van Tine, Marion Mahony Griffin, Frank Lloyd Wright and Jens Jensen
  • Current owners: Henry Ford Estate, Inc
  • Size: 31,000-square-foot (2,900 m2)

27. Hearst Castle – San Simeon, California

historic mansion tours

Hearst Castle is a National Historic Landmark located on the Central Coast of California designed by architect Julia Morgan for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947.

The property has 90,000 sq ft (8,400 m2) and is worth $195 million. When the owner Hearst died in 1951, it became a California State Park in 1954 and was opened to visitors later on.

About the Hearst Castle

  • Where: Central Coast of California, United States of America
  • When: 1919 – 1947
  • Who built it: Architect Julia Morgan
  • Current owners: Leonard Ross
  • Cost: $195 million
  • Size: 90,000 sq ft (8,400 m2)

28. Frederic Edwin Church’s Mansion – New York

historic mansion tours

The Olana State Historic Site is a historic house museum located in Greenport, New York. It was designed by architect Calvert Vaux as the home of Frederic Edwin Church who is one of the major figures in the Hudson River School of landscape painting.

The estate features 250.2 acres (101.3 ha) and is currently in the care of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

About the Olana State / Frederic Edwin Church Mansion

  • Where: Greenport, New York, United States of America
  • Who built it: Architect Calvert Vaux
  • Current owners: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
  • Size: 250.2 acres (101.3 ha)

29. Asa Packer Mansion

historic mansion tours

The Asa Packer Mansion is a historic house museum located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. It was built in 1852 following the designs of Samuel Sloan and was the home of Asa Packer, a coal and railroad magnate and founder of Lehigh University.

It has less than one acre and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1985 and currently owned by Ronald J. Sheehan.

About the Asa Packer Mansion

  • Where: Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, United States of America
  • Who built it: Architect Samuel Sloan
  • Current owners: Ronald J. Sheehan
  • Size:  Less than one acre

30. Glenview Mansion – Rockville, Maryland

historic mansion tours

Glenview Mansion is a historic home located at Rockville, Montgomery County, Maryland. It was designed by architects Porter, Irwin S, Lockie, Joseph A and James H. Small III for Catherine and Richard Johns Bowie, the original owners of the property.

The property has 65 acres (26 ha) and was purchased by the City of Rockville for $125,000.

About the Glenview Mansion

  • Where: Montgomery County, Maryland, United States of America
  • Who built it: Architects Porter, Irwin S, Lockie, Joseph A and James H. Small III
  • Current owners: City of Rockville
  • Cost: $125,000
  • Size: 65 acres (26 ha)

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18 of America’s Best Historic Homes to Visit

By Elizabeth Stamp

America's Best Historic Homes to Visit

America’s historic houses are a key part of the country’s heritage. Stepping inside one of these well-preserved homes gives visitors a glimpse of architectural achievements, as well as the lifestyles and traditions of the past. Whether you’re a fan of the founding fathers, a literature buff, or a connoisseur of the modernist masters, there are plenty of pedigreed properties to visit across the country. From 18th-century plantations on the East Coast to 20th-century mansions owned by California’s elite, America’s historic homes offer a look at the past while showcasing art, artifacts, and gardens that are as spectacular as the homes they accompany. They also provide an intimate look at the lives of their notable owners, including Edith Wharton, Frederic Edwin Church, Harriet Tubman, and Philip Johnson. Discover some of the best historic homes in the United States and start planning a trip back in time.

a brick house with trees

Harriet Tubman National Historical Park (Auburn, New York)

In the late 1850s, abolitionist Harriet Tubman purchased property in Auburn, New York, from Senator William Seward and moved there with her parents from Canada, where they had been living since 1851. She returned to the home following the Civil War, and in 1896 she purchased 25 acres of adjacent land to create the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged. She deeded the property to the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in 1903. Today, her residence, the home for the aged, and the Thompson AME Zion Church make up the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, which was established in 2017.

ornate mansion next to lawn

Biltmore (Asheville, North Carolina)

Known as America’s largest home, Biltmore House boasts 250 rooms and the square footage of four football fields. The massive manse was built by George Vanderbilt, in collaboration with architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, over a period of six years. The 8,000-acre estate now includes a winery and a village with a hotel, shops, and restaurants.

aerial view of a home near the water

The Breakers (Newport, Rhode Island)

The Italian Renaissance–style villa was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his family and the grandest of the Gilded Age summer homes in Newport. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt to replace an existing wood structure, the 70-room, four-story home was decorated by Ogden Codman, Jr. and completed in 1895. Today the Breakers is owned by the Preservation Society of Newport County, which offers access to a number of historic homes in the area, including another Hunt design, Marble House, which was built for Vanderbilt’s brother.

exterior of a home with trees nearby

The Oaks (Tuskegee, Alabama)

Completed in 1900, the Oaks was the home of educator and author Booker T. Washington at the Tuskegee Institute , where he served as the first president. The Queen Anne Revival–style house was built by students and local craftsmen and was the first residence in Macon County to be equipped with electricity and steam heating. In 1974, Congress established the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, which includes the Oaks, the George Washington Carver Museum, and the university grounds.

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aerial view of a castle next to forrest

Hearst Castle (San Simeon, California)

Created by architect Julia Morgan and newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the 165-room estate overlooking the California town of San Simeon showcases a magnificent collection of art and antiquities, as well as 123 acres of terraces, gardens, and pools, including the iconic Neptune Pool. The property is now a house museum and a California State Park where visitors can explore different aspects of Hearst Castle’s history, from its art and architecture to its heyday as a retreat for Hollywood’s biggest names.

ivy outside of a brownstone home

Langston Hughes House (New York)

The top floor of the Italianate brownstone on East 127th Street in Manhattan’s Harlem neighborhood was home to the acclaimed poet, playwright, and novelist Langston Hughes for the last 20 years of his life. The 1869 building was where the Harlem Renaissance leader wrote I Wonder As I Wander and Montage of a Dream Deferred. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, and from 2016 to 2019 it was home to the I, Too Arts Collective .

people sitting near an ornate home

The Mount (Lenox, Massachusetts)

Author Edith Wharton took inspiration from Belton House in England, as well as French and Italian influences, when designing the house and grounds at the Mount , which was built with architects Ogden Codman, Jr., her coauthor of the book The Decoration of Houses , and Francis L.V. Hoppin. Wharton lived and worked there for 10 years before she and her husband, Teddy, sold the property in 1911. The Mount was declared a National Historic landmark in 1971 and is now a cultural center dedicated to Wharton’s life and work.

brick home next to lawn

Monticello (Charlottesville, Virginia)

Thomas Jefferson began construction on his plantation, Monticello , in 1769 and found inspiration in the work of Andrea Palladio, as well as in ancient and Renaissance architecture. He later enlarged and remodeled the house beginning in 1796. The 43-room estate was Jefferson’s home until his death in 1826. Monticello is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum, where visitors can view exhibitions about Jefferson, the estate, and the enslaved people who lived and worked there.

exterior of a home in a neighborhood

Martin Luther King Jr. Birth Home (Atlanta)

Built in 1895, this Queen Anne–style home on Auburn Avenue in Atlanta was later purchased by Rev. Adam Daniel Williams. Williams’s daughter Christine and her husband, Michael King, would have three children there, including Michael Jr., who would later become known as Martin Luther King Jr. The civil rights leader would spend his first 12 years in the home and after his assassination in 1968, it was restored and turned into a museum. In January of 2018, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which includes the house, was designated a national historic park and later that year, the house was purchased by the National Park Foundation.

exterior of a home in the woods

Gamble House (Pasadena, California)

Designed by architects Charles and Henry Greene for David and Mary Gamble, the Gamble house is one of the best examples of American Arts and Crafts architecture. The home was completed in 1908. It became a museum after it was deeded to the city of Pasadena and the University of Southern California in 1966. The home and its original furniture, which was also designed by Greene & Greene, have been beautifully conserved and the exterior was restored in the early 2000s.

exterior of an ornate home near lawn

Olana State Historic Site (Hudson, New York)

Painter Frederic Edwin Church designed his home in the Hudson River Valley on a hilltop site with the help of architect Calvert Vaux. Church was inspired by his travels, and incorporated Middle Eastern motifs (specifically Persian) alongside the Victorian architecture. The 250-acre estate is now a National Historic Landmark; the house showcases work by Church and the artist’s collection of decorative arts.

brick house with cars and trees in front

The African Meeting House (Boston)

The oldest surviving Black church in America, the African Meeting House—also known as First Independent Baptist Church and the African Baptist Church of Boston—was built in 1806 on Boston’s Becon Hill. Many well-known abolitionists spoke at the meeting house, including Frederick Douglass, Sarah Grimké, and William Lloyd Garrison, who founded the New England Anti-Slavery Society there in 1932. The building is now owned and operated by the Museum of African American History and is the final stop on the Black Heritage Trail.

exterior of a large home by the water

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (Miami)

The waterfront villa in Miami was built by James Deering, who hired artist and interior designer Paul Chalfin to create his vacation home with the help of architect Francis Burrall Hoffman Jr. Following Deering’s death in 1925, the estate served as a private, and later public, museum. The main house showcases more than 2,500 furnishings, artwork, and objects, and visitors can also explore the 10 acres of formal gardens, as well as forests and an impressive orchid collection.

exterior of a home

Paul Laurence Dunbar House (Dayton, Ohio)

Acclaimed poet and author Paul Laurence Dunbar purchased this 1894 brick home in Dayton, Ohio, in 1904 and lived there until his death in 1906. Following the death of his mother in 1934, the house was purchased by the state, and in 1936 it was designated as the first state memorial honoring an African American. The home is open to the public and displays Dunbar’s personal belongings, including the desk where he wrote much of his work, a sword given to him by President Theodore Roosevelt, and a bicycle built by his friends Orville and Wilbur Wright.

exterior of an allglass home near trees

The Glass House (New Canaan, Connecticut)

Architect Philip Johnson’s home in Connecticut is an icon of modern architecture. The Glass House , completed in 1949, was revolutionary for its integration into the landscape and its use of materials. The 49-acre property is home to 14 structures, built between 1949 and 1995, including a sculpture gallery, a studio, and Ghost House, an architectural folly. The estate also hosts an impressive selection of 20th-century artwork collected by Johnson and his partner, curator David Whitney, including pieces by Frank Stella, Andy Warhol, and Robert Rauschenberg.

exterior of a big home next to a large lawn

Drayton Hall (Charleston, South Carolina)

Set on the Ashley River, Drayton Hall was founded in 1738 and is now the oldest unrestored plantation house in America. The house is the first example of Palladian architecture in the country and is displayed unfurnished to allow the original materials and architectural details to take center stage. Today the estate is a National Trust for Historic Preservation site, and guests can tour the house and grounds, which includes one of the country’s oldest African-American cemeteries.

garden next to a large home

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens (Houston)

Philanthropist Ima Hogg and her brothers built the mansion in the River Oaks area of Houston between 1927 and 1928. Texas architect John F. Staub designed the house, taking inspiration from 18th-century Georgian and Spanish Creole architecture. The home’s 14 acres of gardens mix formal landscape design with natural woodlands. Hogg donated the property to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and it is now a house museum showcasing American paintings and decorative arts .

white and red home surrounded by trees

George Washington's Mount Vernon (Mount Vernon, Virginia)

George and Martha Washington’s plantation home was originally built by the president’s father in 1734. Washington expanded the house over 45 years, beginning in 1754, and transformed the one-and-a-half story house into a 21-room mansion. Many of the buildings on the property have been restored or reconstructed, such as the outbuildings where enslaved men and women worked, and a museum showcases artifacts from Washington’s life and presidency.

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March 4, 2024

  • Year overview

Open Properties

Operating schedule is subject to change

The Breakers

The Breakers is the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages" and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family's social and financial pre-eminence in the Gilded Age.

Marble House

William Vanderbilt built Marble House as a 39th birthday present for his wife, Alva. It was a social and architectural landmark that set the pace for Newport's subsequent transformation from a quiet summer colony of wooden houses to the legendary resort of opulent Gilded Age mansions.

The Elms was modeled after an 18th-century French chateau but featured the latest technology of the Gilded Age. It houses an outstanding collection of paintings, statuary and tapestries, and its landscape features formal gardens, terraces, pavilions and fountains.

Rosecliff was built for Nevada silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs, who used it to host many fabulous Gilded Age entertainments. Architect Stanford White modeled Rosecliff after the Grand Trianon, the garden retreat of French kings at Versailles.

Chateau-sur-Mer

Chateau-sur-Mer epitomizes High Victorian architecture, furniture, wallpapers, ceramics and stenciling. It was the most palatial residence in Newport until the appearance of the Gilded Age Vanderbilt houses in the 1890s.

Kingscote is a landmark of the Gothic Revival style in American architecture. Its appearance in Newport marked the beginning of the “cottage boom” that would distinguish the town as a veritable laboratory for the design of picturesque houses throughout the 19th century.

Isaac Bell House

Isaac Bell House is one of the best surviving examples of shingle-style architecture in the country. Its architects and designers drew from a mix of international and American influences to create a unique Gilded Age style.

Green Animals Topiary Garden

Home to more than 80 topiary animals and other figures for more than a century, Green Animals also blazes with colorful flowers from May until October. The 7-acre property overlooks Narragansett Bay.

Hunter House

Hunter House (c. 1748) is one of the finest examples of Colonial architecture in Newport. The house was owned by wealthy merchants who furnished it with decorative arts produced by expert craftsmen. Such a luxurious lifestyle depended on the labor of enslaved people of African descent. Recent research by the Preservation Society has identified at least 13 enslaved individuals who lived and worked at Hunter House. Today's Hunter House honors their perseverance and incalculable contributions to Newport’s past. Guide-led tours only, advance reservations required

Chepstow is highly evocative of the taste and collections of a descendant of one of America's founding families, placed in the context of a contemporary Newport summer home. Guide-led tours only, advance reservations required

The Breakers Stable & Carriage House

Tours, events and exhibitions, beneath the breakers tour, daily 10:30 am.

Explore the underground systems that made this great house a marvel of technology for its time.

Servant Life Tour

Daily starting april 1, 10:30 am and 2:30 pm*.

See and hear how the other half lived. This tour will highlight the stories of some of the men and women who worked to service the social whirl of Newport during the Gilded Age. * May 11-May 31, tour will be offered daily at 10:30 am & 3:30 pm. June 1-Aug. 31, 10:30 am, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Sept. 1-Oct. 14, 10:30 & 3:30. Oct. 15-Jan. 1, 2025, 10:30 & 2:30.

Open Properties and Events

Updated February 17, 2024. Schedule is subject to change

February 17 – March 14, 2024

Please note: Advance reservations are required for all guide-led tours

Open daily 10 am – 4 pm for self-guided tours

House & grounds close one hour after last tour admission

Beneath The Breakers Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am

March 15 – March 31, 2024

Open daily 10 am – 3 pm for self-guided tours, april 1 – may 10, 2024.

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm

May 11 – May 31, 2024

Open daily 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours.

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am & 3:30 pm

Grounds close one hour after last tour admission

June 1 – August 31, 2024

The Breakers Children’s Cottage will be open to tour daily July 1 – August 17, 10 am – 4 pm

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am, 2 pm & 3:30 pm

Open daily 10 am – 3 pm for self-guided tours*

*Rosecliff will be closed to tours June 19 – June 24; open to Newport Flower Show ticket holders only

*Rosecliff will be closed July 1 – August 29

Open Sundays through Thursdays, 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours

Open fridays & saturdays, 10 am – 5 pm for guide-led tours, open fridays & saturdays, july 1-31, 10 am – 4 pm.

Closes one hour after last tour admission

September 1 – September 30, 2024

*Rosecliff will be closed to tours September 19 – 23; open to Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival ticket holders only

Open weekends & holidays 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours

October 1 – october 14, 2024, october 15 – october 31, 2024, november 1 – november 22, 2024, open daily 10 am – 4 pm for self-guided tours*.

*The Breakers will close at 3 p.m. on Friday, November 22

*Rosecliff will be closed November 22 – December 8 for “The Newport Nutcracker”

November 23, 2024 – January 1, 2025

Holidays at the newport mansions.

All houses closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

All houses close at 2 p.m. on December 24

Get the Newport Mansions app

Download our tour app before your visit and bring your earbuds.

Do you want to visit multiple houses?

With the Duo and Trio tickets, you can tour multiple mansions and gardens at a discounted price. These tickets can be used on different days and they do not expire.

Plan your visit

See tour options, frequently asked questions, information on our policies and everything else you need to know.

  • Visitor Info
  • Where to Eat
  • Group Reservations

Additional Visitor Info

Map & parking info.

Parking is free onsite at all properties except for Hunter House and The Breakers Stable & Carriage House, where street parking is available.

Answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Mansions & Gardens

Explore the 11 properties under the stewardship of the Preservation Society and open as historic house museums.

Partners in Preservation

10 Historic Homes You Can Virtually Tour

Our list ranges from Buckingham Palace to the Frida Kahlo Museum to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Estate, Property, House, Natural landscape, Home, Building, Tree, Cottage, Manor house, Mansion,

Buckingham Palace, London, England

Buckingham Palace, London, England

If you’ve ever wanted to see how the Queen of England lives without having to leave your house, now is your moment. Since 1837, Buckingham Palace has been the official London home to the monarchy of the United Kingdom. Although the palace is still Queen Elizabeth’s primary residence, the State Rooms are available to visit every year during the summer. In total, Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, 19 of which are State Rooms, 188 rooms are staff bedrooms, 52 are guest and Royal bedrooms, 78 are bathrooms, and 92 are offices.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami, FL

Villa Vizcaya...

Vizcaya is a Mediterranean Revival-style villa with Baroque elements that was once the home of businessman James Deering. The estate currently consists of 43 acres, but was previously located on an impressive 180 acres. It took eight years and $15 million to build the villa, and another year to complete the Italian Renaissance-style gardens and Vizcaya Village, which consists of 11 buildings across 12 acres, including greenhouses, fields, staff quarters, a garage, barns, and workshops.

The Frick Collection, New York, NY

Room, Property, Interior design, Furniture, Building, Ceiling, House, Estate, Floor, Architecture,

This Beaux Arts-style mansion located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan was once home to Henry Clay Frick, one of the most prominent industrialists during the Gilded Age. Expect to see Old Masters paintings, decorative arts, and European sculptures in this former residence turned art museum. The Frick Collection is located on Fifth Avenue and is one of the last remaining Gilded Age mansions in New York City. It became a museum in 1935, and since then, the public has been able view Frick’s expansive collection of artwork, which includes Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Whistler, Bellini, Vermeer, and Goya, to name a few.

Monticello, Charlottesville, VA

Home, House, Spring, Tulip, Plantation, Estate, Property, Mansion, Flower, Natural landscape,

At just 26 years old, future President Thomas Jefferson inherited a plantation in rural Virginia. An architecture enthusiast, Jefferson himself devised a combination of Neoclassical and Palladian architecture for the estate that would come to be known as Monticello. It is now a National Historic Landmark, and, along with the University of Virginia—which was also one of Jefferson’s designs—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If Monticello looks familiar to you, it’s probably because it’s on the reserve side of the nickel.

Frida Kahlo Museum, Mexico City, Mexico

General Views Of Mexico 2019

In 1958, just four years after Frida Kahlo’s death, her eye-catching, bright blue house in Mexico City became a museum. Not only was Frida Kahlo born and raised in this historic home, it was also where she lived with her husband and fellow painter, Diego Rivera, and later, where she passed away. Diego Rivera donated the house in 1957 so that it could be turned into a museum in honor of his late wife. Kahlo’s house has since been operating as both a historic house museum and an art museum for over 60 years, and it is now the most visited museum in Coyoacán. Artworks by both Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are on display in the home.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston, MA

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

The onetime home of Isabella Stewart Gardner was built in 1903 and is a designated Boston Landmark. As is evident when looking at the home's Instagramable courtyard, the building was inspired by a 15th-century Venetian palace. Isabella Stewart Gardner once said that she wanted her extensive art collection to be exhibited “for the education and enjoyment of the public forever.” Well, so far, so good! The museum is home to American, Asian, and European art, including paintings, tapestries, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown, NY

USA - New York - Lyndhurst Estate

This spooky Gothic Revival mansion, built in 1838, was once the home of railroad tycoon Jay Gould. It sits on 67 acres and overlooks the Hudson River. The National Historic Landmark home was used as a filming location for The Blacklist, Project Runway, House of Dark Shadows, and Night of Dark Shadows, to name a few. Former owner Jay Gould had a 243-foot yacht built so that he didn’t have to take the nearby railroad built by his archnemesis, Cornelius Vanderbilt. Talk about rich people problems...

Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon, VA

Estate, Property, House, Natural landscape, Home, Building, Tree, Cottage, Manor house, Mansion,

Mount Vernon began as a one-and-a-half story home built by George Washington’s father, Augustine, in 1734. It went on to become the plantation of George and Martha Washington, the first President and First Lady of the United States of America. The architectural style of the home is described as loose Palladian, which is a European style inspired by Ancient Greek and Roman structures. Mount Vernon was expanded twice during George Washington’s lifetime, in the late 1750s and in the 1770s, and it was his home until his death in 1799. In 1858, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association acquired the historic home and saved it from ruin by restoring it.

The Mark Twain House, Hartford, CT

Living room, Room, Furniture, Property, Interior design, Hearth, Fireplace, Building, Home, House,

Mark Twain (real name: Samuel Langhorne Clemens) lived with his family in this Victorian Gothic-style home from 1874 to 1891. This is where Mark Twain wrote novels like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Prince and the Pauper, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Life on the Mississippi, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, and A Tramp Abroad. It was Mark Twain and Charles Dudley who coined the term “Gilded Age,” given the title of their 1873 novel, The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today. Events held at the home have included appearances by fellow novelists Judy Blume, Stephen King, and John Grisham.

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England

Landmark, Palace, Architecture, Classical architecture, Building, Sky, Château, City, Stately home, Cloud,

To end this list with a bang, look no further than Blenheim Palace, the former home of Consuelo Vanderbilt and her husband, the ninth Duke of Marlborough. It was the $2.5 million dowry of Consuelo’s father, William Kissam Vanderbilt—which translates to $76.8 million today—that made the restoration of this historic palace possible. Blenheim Palace has been used as a filming location for a variety of films, including Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Gulliver's Travels, Cinderella, Spectre, Orlando, Transformers: The Last Knight, Dolittle , and Hamlet . It was also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

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How This Builder-Grade Condo Got Major Charm

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Maymont

Maymont Mansion

Historic buildings, carriage collection, james and sallie dooley, african american voices, the maymont mansion is closed in preparation for the biggest preservation project in maymont's history.

It is expected to reopen in time for the 2024 holiday season with a fresh new red slate roof and upgraded climate control system.  Learn more about the plans for Maymont's 100th anniversary as a public space.

About the Mansion

In 1886, James and Sallie Dooley acquired farmland on the banks of the James River, where they planned to build a new home. Their architect, Edgerton Stewart Rogers (1860-1901), born and educated in Rome, combined the Romanesque Revival style with the picturesque Queen Anne for the Dooley residence. By 1893, the Dooleys were living in their new 12,000 square-foot, 33-room home, which they named “May Mont,” a name which combines Mrs. Dooley’s maiden name and the French word for hill.

Among historic house museums, the Maymont Mansion is rare in that no intervening families or adaptive conversions separate us from the original owner’s 32-year occupancy. Despite the fact that no architectural drawings or other early records of its construction and design have survived, its physical integrity and ongoing research has provided a solid base of documentation. Within six months of Mrs. Dooley’s death in 1925, the mansion was opened to the public as a museum. The upper floors’ interiors and a large original collection remained relatively untouched until the beginning of the restoration in 1970. Since the nonprofit Maymont Foundation took responsibility for the estate in 1975, extensive conservation and restoration have greatly enhanced its authenticity, condition, and presentation.

Thus today, Maymont Mansion is a well-preserved document of Gilded Age design and the taste of well-educated, cosmopolitan millionaires. The house also illustrates the dynamic interplay between server and served, working class and upper class and Black and white through a compelling exhibition in its restored belowstairs rooms – the culmination of a decade-long research project that was completed in 2005.

Swan Bedroom

Gilded Age Design

When you enter Maymont Mansion’s upper floors, you step into the luxurious world of James and Sallie May Dooley. Tour 12 restored rooms on the first and second floors and view items on display from the Maymont Mansion Collection.

Belowstairs Kitchen Inset

Belowstairs

Restoration of Maymont’s kitchen, wine cellar, laundry, butler’s bedroom, maids’ bedroom, butler’s pantry, and other service areas was completed in May 2005. Through eight period rooms and informational panels, visitors can now meet specific employees and consider their lives in and outside the workplace.

WomansSuffrageRally Button

Women's Suffrage

Diverse perspectives of the women's suffrage issue existed at Maymont, where Sallie Dooley and her sisters-in-law found themselves on opposite sides of the issue, and African American women felt resistance due to their gender and their race. 

Button Chandelier

Technology in the Gilded Age

Cutting-edge comforts of the 1890s—central heat, indoor plumbing, telephone service, an elevator and more—made the Dooleys’ home one of the most modern in Gilded Age Richmond. 

Button Fashion Trunk 2

Gilded Age Fashion

Spanning the 1890s to the mid-1920s, the Maymont era was a time of dramatic change for women’s clothing. The Maymont costume collection primarily focuses on the fashions of the early years, the 1890s, including fashions for a variety of different social occasions.

Banner Kitchen CDennisMcWaters

Food and Entertaining

The work of the kitchen staff revolved around a rigid schedule with many deadlines. Discover more about the preparation of food at Maymont.

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Passing Thru Travel

Passing Thru Travel

2024’s Ultimate Tour of 10 Historic Mansions Unveiling Luxury Lifestyles

Posted: February 17, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

<p><strong>Exploring historic mansions offers a unique window into the past, revealing the luxurious lifestyles and cultural histories of bygone eras. Each mansion is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, opulent décor, and fascinating stories. From the grand estates of Europe to the stately homes of America, this guide will take you on a journey through some of the most magnificent historic mansions around the world, each offering its own unique glimpse into the lives of those who once walked their halls.</strong></p>

Exploring historic mansions offers a unique window into the past, revealing the luxurious lifestyles and cultural histories of bygone eras. Each mansion is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, opulent décor, and fascinating stories. From the grand estates of Europe to the stately homes of America, this guide will take you on a journey through some of the most magnificent historic mansions around the world, each offering its own unique glimpse into the lives of those who once walked their halls.

<p><span>At Château de Versailles, you’ll find yourself amidst the pinnacle of French royal extravagance. This sprawling palace, with its intricate architecture and beautifully detailed interiors, is a testament to the lavish lifestyle of the French monarchy. The Hall of Mirrors, the grand apartments, and the extensive gardens with their ornate fountains and geometrically arranged walkways offer hours of exploration.</span></p> <p><span>Don’t miss the Grand and Petit Trianon retreats for French royalty and Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, a rustic escape within the grounds. Visiting in the quieter spring or early fall seasons allows a more intimate experience, as the corridors and gardens are less crowded.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit the gardens on a weekend to see the spectacular fountain show. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Spring or early fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy the gardens. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Take the RER C train from Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.</span></p>

Château de Versailles, France

At Château de Versailles, you’ll find yourself amidst the pinnacle of French royal extravagance. This sprawling palace, with its intricate architecture and beautifully detailed interiors, is a testament to the lavish lifestyle of the French monarchy. The Hall of Mirrors, the grand apartments, and the extensive gardens with their ornate fountains and geometrically arranged walkways offer hours of exploration.

Don’t miss the Grand and Petit Trianon retreats for French royalty and Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, a rustic escape within the grounds. Visiting in the quieter spring or early fall seasons allows a more intimate experience, as the corridors and gardens are less crowded.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the gardens on a weekend to see the spectacular fountain show.

When To Travel: Spring or early fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy the gardens.

How To Get There: Take the RER C train from Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station.

<p><span>Hearst Castle in San Simeon is a monument to early 20th-century opulence and extravagance. Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the castle blends European architectural styles. It houses an eclectic collection of art and antiques. Touring this estate reveals a mix of Spanish and Italian influences, with luxurious guest houses, grand social rooms, and two impressive pools – the Roman-inspired Neptune Pool and the indoor Roman Pool. The estate’s elevated position provides stunning views of the California coast. Visiting in spring or fall offers ideal weather for exploring the estate’s expansive grounds and outdoor pools.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Check out the Neptune Pool for its stunning Roman-inspired architecture. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for a scenic route.</span></p>

Hearst Castle, California, USA

Hearst Castle in San Simeon is a monument to early 20th-century opulence and extravagance. Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the castle blends European architectural styles. It houses an eclectic collection of art and antiques. Touring this estate reveals a mix of Spanish and Italian influences, with luxurious guest houses, grand social rooms, and two impressive pools – the Roman-inspired Neptune Pool and the indoor Roman Pool. The estate’s elevated position provides stunning views of the California coast. Visiting in spring or fall offers ideal weather for exploring the estate’s expansive grounds and outdoor pools.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the Neptune Pool for its stunning Roman-inspired architecture.

When To Travel: Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for a scenic route.

<p><span>Blenheim Palace, a monumental estate in Oxfordshire, is an architectural marvel and a place steeped in history. As the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the palace holds significant historical importance. The State Rooms display exquisite craftsmanship, with intricate tapestries and stunning artwork. The palace is set within over 2,000 acres of parklands, landscaped by the famous Capability Brown, featuring formal gardens, a lake, and beautiful walking paths. Summer visits allow you to enjoy the palace’s full grandeur, with outdoor events and the gardens in full bloom, making it a perfect time to explore the vast estate.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Don’t miss the Churchill exhibition within the palace. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Summer for the best weather and full access to the grounds. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>A short drive or bus ride from Oxford city center.</span></p>

Blenheim Palace, England

Blenheim Palace, a monumental estate in Oxfordshire, is an architectural marvel and a place steeped in history. As the birthplace of Winston Churchill, the palace holds significant historical importance. The State Rooms display exquisite craftsmanship, with intricate tapestries and stunning artwork. The palace is set within over 2,000 acres of parklands, landscaped by the famous Capability Brown, featuring formal gardens, a lake, and beautiful walking paths. Summer visits allow you to enjoy the palace’s full grandeur, with outdoor events and the gardens in full bloom, making it a perfect time to explore the vast estate.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the Churchill exhibition within the palace.

When To Travel: Summer for the best weather and full access to the grounds.

How To Get There: A short drive or bus ride from Oxford city center.

<p><span>The Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg, once a residence of Russian emperors, now serves as part of the renowned Hermitage Museum. With its opulent baroque architecture, this grand palace is a treasure trove of art and history. Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated rooms and a vast collection of artworks, ranging from ancient artifacts to masterpieces by renowned painters. The palace itself is a masterpiece of architectural design, with its grand façade and intricate interiors. Allocate a full day to explore, and consider visiting in late spring or early fall when Saint Petersburg is less crowded and the weather is pleasant.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Allocate a full day to explore the Hermitage Museum. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Late spring or early fall to avoid peak tourist season. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Easily accessible by metro or bus in Saint Petersburg.</span></p>

The Winter Palace, Russia

The Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg, once a residence of Russian emperors, now serves as part of the renowned Hermitage Museum. With its opulent baroque architecture, this grand palace is a treasure trove of art and history. Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated rooms and a vast collection of artworks, ranging from ancient artifacts to masterpieces by renowned painters. The palace itself is a masterpiece of architectural design, with its grand façade and intricate interiors. Allocate a full day to explore, and consider visiting in late spring or early fall when Saint Petersburg is less crowded and the weather is pleasant.

Insider’s Tip: Allocate a full day to explore the Hermitage Museum.

When To Travel: Late spring or early fall to avoid peak tourist season.

How To Get There: Easily accessible by metro or bus in Saint Petersburg.

<p><span>Villa d’Este near Rome is an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture and garden design. Renowned for its terraced gardens and elaborate fountains, this 16th-century villa is a testament to the creativity and engineering of the period. The gardens are adorned with a series of impressive fountains, including the Fountain of Neptune and the organ-playing Fountain of the Owl. The villa itself, with its frescoed rooms and historical significance, is equally impressive. Spring or early autumn is ideal for visiting, as the weather is mild and the gardens either bloom or display autumnal hues.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Witness the Fountain of Neptune show for a spectacular water display. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Take a train from Rome to Tivoli, then a short taxi ride.</span></p>

Villa d’Este, Italy

Villa d’Este near Rome is an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture and garden design. Renowned for its terraced gardens and elaborate fountains, this 16th-century villa is a testament to the creativity and engineering of the period. The gardens are adorned with a series of impressive fountains, including the Fountain of Neptune and the organ-playing Fountain of the Owl. The villa itself, with its frescoed rooms and historical significance, is equally impressive. Spring or early autumn is ideal for visiting, as the weather is mild and the gardens either bloom or display autumnal hues.

Insider’s Tip: Witness the Fountain of Neptune show for a spectacular water display.

When To Travel: Spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Take a train from Rome to Tivoli, then a short taxi ride.

<p><span>The Breakers in Newport is a magnificent example of the Gilded Age’s wealth and extravagance. Built by the Vanderbilt family, this Italian Renaissance-style mansion features opulent interiors with rich furnishings, ornate ceilings, and a vast art collection. The mansion’s position overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offers stunning sea views. The summer months bring the estate to life with guided tours, but visiting during the Christmas season offers a unique experience as the mansion is adorned with festive decorations.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit during Christmas for special decorations and festivities. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Summer for guided tours and beautiful weather. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Newport is a short drive from Providence or Boston.</span></p>

The Breakers, Rhode Island, USA

The Breakers in Newport is a magnificent example of the Gilded Age’s wealth and extravagance. Built by the Vanderbilt family, this Italian Renaissance-style mansion features opulent interiors with rich furnishings, ornate ceilings, and a vast art collection. The mansion’s position overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offers stunning sea views. The summer months bring the estate to life with guided tours, but visiting during the Christmas season offers a unique experience as the mansion is adorned with festive decorations.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during Christmas for special decorations and festivities.

When To Travel: Summer for guided tours and beautiful weather.

How To Get There: Newport is a short drive from Providence or Boston.

<p><span>Pena Palace in Sintra stands as a vibrant example of 19th-century Romanticist architecture. Perched atop a hill, the palace mixes bright colors and eclectic styles, with Moorish and Manueline influences. Its interiors are equally fascinating, with restored rooms that reflect the tastes and interests of the Portuguese royal family. The surrounding parkland, with hidden paths and exotic plants, complements the palace’s whimsy. Climbing to the palace early in the morning offers a quieter experience, and visiting during spring or fall avoids the peak tourist seasons.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Hike up the hill early in the morning for fewer crowds and great views. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>A train from Lisbon to Sintra, followed by a short bus ride.</span></p>

Pena Palace, Portugal

Pena Palace in Sintra stands as a vibrant example of 19th-century Romanticist architecture. Perched atop a hill, the palace mixes bright colors and eclectic styles, with Moorish and Manueline influences. Its interiors are equally fascinating, with restored rooms that reflect the tastes and interests of the Portuguese royal family. The surrounding parkland, with hidden paths and exotic plants, complements the palace’s whimsy. Climbing to the palace early in the morning offers a quieter experience, and visiting during spring or fall avoids the peak tourist seasons.

Insider’s Tip: Hike up the hill early in the morning for fewer crowds and great views.

When To Travel: Visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall.

How To Get There: A train from Lisbon to Sintra, followed by a short bus ride.

<p><span>Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is a cultural jewel, once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Its Rococo style is evident in its ornately decorated rooms, each telling stories of its imperial past. The palace is surrounded by equally impressive gardens, including a zoo, Roman ruins, and the Gloriette, with its panoramic views of Vienna. Guided tours of the palace provide insights into the lavish lifestyles of the Habsburgs. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the gardens are in transition, and the tourist crowds are smaller.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s intriguing past. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Spring or autumn for comfortable weather and fewer tourists. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Easily reached by Vienna’s efficient public transport system.</span></p>

Schönbrunn Palace, Austria

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is a cultural jewel, once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Its Rococo style is evident in its ornately decorated rooms, each telling stories of its imperial past. The palace is surrounded by equally impressive gardens, including a zoo, Roman ruins, and the Gloriette, with its panoramic views of Vienna. Guided tours of the palace provide insights into the lavish lifestyles of the Habsburgs. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the gardens are in transition, and the tourist crowds are smaller.

Insider’s Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the palace’s intriguing past.

When To Travel: Spring or autumn for comfortable weather and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Easily reached by Vienna’s efficient public transport system.

<p><span>Topkapi Palace in Istanbul offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent life of the Ottoman sultans. The palace complex, with its beautiful courtyards, elaborate harem, and the Imperial Treasury, is rich in history and culture. Highlights include the palace kitchens, now housing an extensive collection of porcelain and the Imperial Council chamber. The palace’s location provides stunning views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. Visiting in late spring or early fall ensures a comfortable exploration away from the summer heat and crowds.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Visit the harem for a deeper understanding of palace life. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Late spring or early fall to avoid the heat and crowds. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Located in Sultanahmet, accessible by tram or walking from Istanbul’s main sites.</span></p>

Topkapi Palace, Turkey

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent life of the Ottoman sultans. The palace complex, with its beautiful courtyards, elaborate harem, and the Imperial Treasury, is rich in history and culture. Highlights include the palace kitchens, now housing an extensive collection of porcelain and the Imperial Council chamber. The palace’s location provides stunning views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul. Visiting in late spring or early fall ensures a comfortable exploration away from the summer heat and crowds.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the harem for a deeper understanding of palace life.

When To Travel: Late spring or early fall to avoid the heat and crowds.

How To Get There: Located in Sultanahmet, accessible by tram or walking from Istanbul’s main sites.

<p><span>Chatsworth House, in the heart of the Peak District, is one of the UK’s most beloved historic estates. Known for its art collection, the house features works spanning 4,000 years. The estate also includes a farmyard, adventure playground, and a 105-acre garden with a maze, rockery, and the famous water Cascade. Summer is the ideal time to visit Chatsworth House, with the estate hosting various outdoor events and the gardens in full bloom.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore the extensive gardens, including the famous Cascade. </span></p> <p><b>When To Travel: </b><span>Summer for garden tours and outdoor events. </span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Drive from Sheffield or Chesterfield, or take a bus from local towns.</span></p>

Chatsworth House, England

Chatsworth House, in the heart of the Peak District, is one of the UK’s most beloved historic estates. Known for its art collection, the house features works spanning 4,000 years. The estate also includes a farmyard, adventure playground, and a 105-acre garden with a maze, rockery, and the famous water Cascade. Summer is the ideal time to visit Chatsworth House, with the estate hosting various outdoor events and the gardens in full bloom.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the extensive gardens, including the famous Cascade.

When To Travel: Summer for garden tours and outdoor events.

How To Get There: Drive from Sheffield or Chesterfield, or take a bus from local towns.

<p><span>Visiting these historic mansions provides a glimpse into opulent lifestyles and an appreciation for historical architecture and art. Each mansion is a gateway to the past, offering unique stories and splendors. As you plan your visits, consider the best times to travel and insider tips to enhance your experience. These journeys through grand estates will leave you with a lasting impression of the world’s cultural and architectural heritage.</span></p> <p><span>More Articles Like This…</span></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/barcelona-discover-the-top-10-beach-clubs/"><span>Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs</span></a></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/top-destination-cities-to-visit/"><span>2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities</span></a></p> <p><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/exploring-khao-yai-a-hidden-gem-of-thailand/"><span>Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand</span></a></p> <p><span>The post <a href="https://passingthru.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-exploring-historic-mansions/">2024’s Ultimate Tour of 10 Historic Mansions Unveiling Luxury Lifestyles</a> republished on </span><a href="https://passingthru.com/"><span>Passing Thru</span></a><span> with permission from </span><a href="https://thegreenvoyage.com/"><span>The Green Voyage</span></a><span>.</span></p> <p><span>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mistervlad.</span></p> <p><span>For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.</span></p>

The Bottom Line

Visiting these historic mansions provides a glimpse into opulent lifestyles and an appreciation for historical architecture and art. Each mansion is a gateway to the past, offering unique stories and splendors. As you plan your visits, consider the best times to travel and insider tips to enhance your experience. These journeys through grand estates will leave you with a lasting impression of the world’s cultural and architectural heritage.

More Articles Like This…

Barcelona: Discover the Top 10 Beach Clubs

2024 Global City Travel Guide – Your Passport to the World’s Top Destination Cities

Exploring Khao Yai 2024 – A Hidden Gem of Thailand

The post 2024’s Ultimate Tour of 10 Historic Mansions Unveiling Luxury Lifestyles republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mistervlad.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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‘Invitation to View’ offers exclusive tours behind the closed doors of some of the country’s most remarkable places. As part of a small group of like-minded people, you’ll have privileged access to some of Historic Houses’ most private homes.

Tours are usually led by the owners, and you’ll hear fascinating stories about the heroic or villainous exploits of their ancestors or the joys and struggles of caring for a historic building. As honoured guests, you’ll be offered something to eat and drink – from a cream tea to lunch with wine – and have a chance to socialise with the rest of your group and the owner, who will be happy to answer all your questions.

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Tours of Eagle's Nest

Public tours of the Vanderbilt family’s living quarters in the Mansion are offered regularly on Saturdays and Sundays during Museum hours. Public tours can be purchased from Admissions on a first-come, first-served basis.

The number of guests on each tour is limited to 12, so space on tours may sell out.

Tours are not recommended for children under 8.

For pricing, please see our visitor’s guide.

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Private Tours

The Vanderbilt Museum offers private tours for small groups. Each private tour is personalized to the interests of you and your party, offering unparalleled access to the living quarters and collections of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Private tours can be scheduled for times when the Museum is otherwise closed to the public.

The Museum currently offers two private tour experiences:

historic mansion tours

Mansion tours are perfect for groups interested in history, architecture, and design. Focused on the Vanderbilt living quarters, these tours showcase the antiques Vanderbilt collected during his lifetime. Guests will see more than 15 rooms, carefully preserved to their Jazz Age grandeur, and learn about the complex history of the Vanderbilt family.

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  Exhibit Tours

For more adventurous groups, this tour is a must! This tour will take your group through the three historic museum buildings on the estate, where you will learn about Mr. Vanderbilt’s expeditions around the world during which he collected the thousands of natural history specimens and cultural artifacts highlighted on the tour.

Please schedule private tours one week in advance of your anticipated visit to the Vanderbilt Museum.

For further information about scheduling your private tour, please email [email protected] or complete the form below.

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Moody Mansion

Mansio n Hours: Open 10am to 5pm 7 days/week (last tickets sold at 4pm). Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 

Locat ion: 2618 broadway, galveston island, tx 77550, self-guided tour:.

• Adults: $15 • Students age 6 through 17: $7 • Children 5 & Under Free • Family & Friends Package:          SAVE 15% WHEN YOU PURCHASE FOUR OR MORE TICKETS IN THE SAME TRANSACTION, INCLUDING ADULTS AND STUDENTS.

Exclusive All-Access Guided Tour:  

All ages: $35

Guided tours include 1st and 3rd floors not normally open to the public

3:45 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Memorial Day Weekend; tour concludes at approximately 5:45 p. m.

All-Access Tours must be booked by 3:30 p.m…. CLICK HERE (If the online ticket page says the event is ended,  call (409) 261-3117 to see if there have been any cancellations.)

To  view our orientation video about the moody family’s history: click here., to listen to the self-guided audio tour, click here, click here for 360-degree views of moody mansion.

Restored to its turn of the century splendor, Galveston’s 28,000 square-foot, four-story Moody Mansion is an historic home completed in 1895. The home has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of the Interior since 1994 and a Recorded Texas Historical Landmark since 1967.

Today, our guests visit 20 rooms on a tour that depicts the home life of a powerful Texas family. The Moodys established one of the great American financial empires. Based on cotton, it grew to include banking, ranching, insurance, newspaper publishing, railroading and hotels.

W.L Moody Jr. bought the Galveston Broadway mansion from the heirs of the original owners soon after the Great Galveston Storm of September 8, 1900. It was designed by British architect William H. Tyndall and decorated by the world-famous interior design firm of Pottier & Stymus of New York.

Mr. and Mrs. Moody and their four children celebrated their first Christmas in the house in December of that year, just three months after the 1900 hurricane. The house remained home to Moody family members until 1983, when Hurricane Alicia caused major damage. Following repairs and restoration, it was opened as a house museum in 1991. Today, its rooms are filled with the furnishings and personal effects of the family.

The philanthropic legacy of the Moody family of Galveston is carried on today by the Moody Foundation and the Mary Moody Northen Endowment. Both charitable foundations are major forces in health care, education, historic preservation, and the arts.

Moody Mansion Guide Book: To read our online guidebook, click here.

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Moody Mansion is the Travel Channel’s most famous in Texas!

Moody Mansion has been listed as one of the most famous historic houses open for tours in the nation by the Travel Channel. To see our listing, go to Travelchannel.com and scroll to Texas, then come visit Moody Mansion!

Gather a group: Moody Mansion offers discounts for groups. Call (409) 762-7668 for details.

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11 Beautiful Historic Hudson Valley Mansions You Must Visit

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From ancestral homes dating back to pre-Revolutionary War times to opulent mansions that celebrated the prosperity of business magnates during the Industrial Revolution, Upstate New York’s Hudson Valley is full of impressive historic homes.

Filled with impressive art, framing the beautiful valley scenery, preserving America’s rich history, and showcasing elegant architecture, the valley’s historic mansions are sure to excite everyone in your travel party. Be sure to add these ten beautiful mansions in Upstate New York to your Hudson Valley itinerary !

Note: Some of my experiences were hosted. All opinions are my own.

11 Beautiful Historic Hudson Valley Mansions You Need To Visit

1. lyndhurst.

Lyndhurst Mansion in the Hudson Valley, New York.

Just 25 miles north of the Big Apple , the Lyndhurst Mansion sits on 67 acres overlooking the Hudson River. This Tarrytown mansion is an imposing limestone building of sharp angles, narrow hallways, and limited natural light, making it one of the most notable examples of Gothic architecture in the United States. But the average American may recognize it as the spooky setting for movies like House of Dark Shadows and series like 7 Deadly Sins and The Blacklist .

Explore the history, art, and architecture of the former country home of “robber baron” Jay Gould on an hour-long classic tour of Lyndhurst. For some of the best views in Tarrytown, take the Backstairs Tour, which allows guests to climb to the fifth-floor observation tower, where you can look out over the River and see all the way to Manhattan on a clear day.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a beautiful mansion firsthand at the Tarrytown House Estate . Perched on a hill above Lyndhurst, the white porticoed King Mansion is now home to Goosefeather, an upscale Cantonese restaurant, and offers elegant accommodations. You can dig into crispy shrimp bao and sip a signature cocktail in the mansion’s dining room before retiring to one of the beautiful rooms with a view for a unique experience not available at other Upstate New York mansions.

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Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate in the Hudson Valley.

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Built on the highest point in Pocantico Hills, Kykuit is an impressive four-story ivy-covered brick mansion surrounded by 87 acres of beautifully terraced grounds overlooking the Hudson River. Four generations of Rockefellers enjoyed this Tarrytown mansion as a summer getaway and winter weekend retreat. This uniquely named mansion is derived from the Dutch word for “lookout,” and it’s easy to understand the inspiration when you gaze out at the wide Hudson River lined with evergreen firs and colorful maples and elms.

While some Hudson Valle y historic sites allow visitors to explore the grounds independently, Kykuit can only be seen via a guided tour. Tour options range in length. Allow at least 2 hours to explore Kykuit, and if you’re interested in viewing the manicured grounds, be sure to select a tour that provides that option.

3. Locust Grove

Poughkeepsie.

Overlooking the Hudson River from a bluff in Poughkeepsie, Locust Grove is an Italianate mansion set on 200 acres; it was once the summer home of Samuel Morse. While you may know him as the man who revolutionized the way the world communicated with the invention of the telegraph and Morse Code, you may not know that Morse was originally a painter.

As his Upstate New York estate was being designed, Morse reminisced about the years he spent enjoying the Italian countryside, sketching his vision for the floor plan and exterior features on scraps of paper given to architect Alexander Jackson Davis.

See the mansion from the gardens and grounds or tour the inside of Locust Grove via a guided tour. Note that this Upstate New York mansion is not ADA-accessible. Visitors should be prepared to walk up several steps to the front door and a flight of stairs to the second floor when visiting.

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4. Springwood

Springwood in Hyde Park, New York. Birthplace and home of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

America’s 32nd president was born in and spent most of his life in the sprawling three-story Italian-style mansion known as Springwood , dubbed “the Summer White House” for the 12 years Franklin D. Roosevelt was in office. The president is now buried in the adjacent rose garden, and his presidential library (the nation’s first) is also on-site.

A ranger-led tour of FDR’s home lasts about an hour and includes a look at original furnishings, artwork, books, photographs, and other Roosevelt family belongings.

Pro Tip: While not as grand and imposing as Springwood, you might also enjoy Val-Kill Cottage , the nearby retreat that Eleanor Roosevelt called home, and Top Cottage in Poughkeepsie, the wooded retreat where the Roosevelts welcomed heads of state and other distinguished guests.

5. Vanderbilt Mansion

Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, New York, within the Hudson Valley.

Just a few miles up the river from Springwood, the Vanderbilts built a jaw-dropping 54-room, 44,000-square-foot beaux arts country house known as Hyde Park . The interior includes all of the finest finishing touches, from rich wood paneling to European marble.

The Hyde Park estate included greenhouses and a working farm that ensured the Vanderbilts had in-season produce, dairy and meat products, and fresh flowers when they spent time here. On the surrounding 200 scenic acres overlooking the Hudson River, the family enjoyed golf, lawn tennis, and carriage rides.

Since 1940, the National Park Service has managed the property, offering daily public tours.

Pro Tip: Be sure to read Anderson Cooper’s book Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty to learn about the fascinating (and often scandalous) events that took place inside this beautiful Upstate New York mansion.

6. Mills Mansion

Mills Mansion in Staatsburg, New York.

With its two-story front portico supported by eight massive Ionic columns, the Mills Mansion looks like a Greek temple, courthouse, or bank. It was originally a 25-room Greek revival mansion built in the 1830s. Ogden Mills and his wife, Ruth, expanded it into a French chateau-inspired, 65-room beaux arts mansion as the 20th century approached.

When you tour the impressive Gilded Age Mills Mansion, note that it includes all of its original furniture, including the long table and carved chairs in the dining room and all of the pieces in Ruth’s frilly, rose-colored bedroom. As you explore the colossal home sitting on more than 100 acres in this hamlet of Hyde Park, keep in mind that the couple owned four other homes and typically stayed in Staatsburg only from mid-September until Christmastime.

Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting several attractions operated by New York’s state park system, you may want to purchase an Empire Pass . Most sites charge an $8 to $10 admission fee, but for $80, you can purchase an annual pass that gives you access to all of the properties managed as state parks, including historic sites, forests, beaches, trails, and more.

7. Wilderstein

Wilderstein, a mansion in Rhinebeck, New York, within the Hudson Valley.

Wilderstein , a three-story Queen Anne mansion at the center of 40 wooded acres overlooking the Hudson River in Rhinebeck , was Daisy Suckley’s family home for 140 years. And while the rose-tinted Victorian mansion with hunter-green accents and its distinctive circular tower is certainly an impressive sight, so are the gorgeous grounds, where Calvert Vaux (one-half of the dynamic duo who designed New York City’s Central Park ) created an impressive network of carriage drives and walking trails rimmed with native flora and accented by wooden gazebos.

Explore the grounds and exterior of Wilderstein between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. year-round at no charge. Or dive deeper into the property’s history with a guided tour.

Fun Fact: A confidant to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Suckley also bred Scottish terriers, including the World War II leader’s beloved Fala .

8. Clermont

The Clermont mansion in Germantown, New York.

Mike Virgintino / Shutterstock

Seven generations of the prominent Livingston family lived on the banks of the Hudson River in a home dating to pre-Revolutionary War times. The most notable member of the family was Robert R. Livingston . A member of the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence, Livingston was the first chancellor of New York. And as the Empire State’s highest judge, he administered the oath of office to George Washington when he was sworn in as the nation’s first president in New York City in April of 1789.

Now part of New York’s state park system, the Clermont State Historic Site protects one of the oldest riverfront estates in the mid-valley region. Step inside the white house, with dormer windows and moons carved into its shutters, on a guided tour. Or explore the surrounding 500 acres, where you’ll be treated to amazing views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains .

Olana in Hudson, New York. Frederic Church's home.

Just across the Rip Van Winkle Bridge from his mentor’s home and studio, Hudson River School artist Frederic Church built his home, Olana , on a hill overlooking the Hudson River Valley. Working closely with architect Calvert Vaux, who once again left his mark on Upstate New York, Church created an impressive stone-and-brick home adorned with elaborate stencils blending Victorian and Persian architecture.

While many historic mansions in the valley were built as summer or vacation homes, Church and his wife, Isabel, raised their four children at Olana. As one should expect from an artist whose career was largely built around the beauty of the Hudson Valley , the home was designed to accentuate panoramic views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains.

The grounds of Olana are a public park, so the exterior of the home, views of the valley, and carriage roads are free to visit from 8 a.m. to sunset. A variety of tours of the grounds and historic home are available, including an electric carriage tour of the 250-acre grounds.

10. Schuyler Mansion

Schuyler Mansion in Albany, New York.

Enjoying renewed fame thanks to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s wildly successful Broadway musical, Hamilton , the childhood home of Eliza Schuyler, Alexander Hamilton’s wife, is the northernmost mansion I recommend visiting. Relatively modest — at least compared to a Gilded Age Vanderbilt or Rockefeller home — this two-story red-brick Georgian mansion is where Hamilton and Eliza wed in 1780.

Once part of an 80-acre farm overlooking the Hudson River, today the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site occupies just the northeastern corner of the block at Catherine and Clinton Streets. Take a guided tour to explore the beautifully maintained mansion and learn more about the Schuyler sisters — Eliza, Angelica, and Peggy.

11. Boscobel House and Gardens

The original Boscobel was built by wealthy Loyalist States Morris Dyckman in Crugers, NY in 1804. However, after being threatened by demolition due to neglect in the early decades of this century, this Federal-style mansion was dismantled, stored, and finally reassembled as a historic preservation 15 miles north of its original location. 

With a majestic view toward West Point, the new location is maybe the best of any house on the Hudson. The well-appointed grounds include a lush rose garden with scores of different varieties. Apart from the Neoclassical mansion, which has a comprehensive collection of antiques and arts from the Federal period, this 68-acre historic site is also home to a woodland trail. 

Exploring the house with a guide, and then enjoying a picnic in the gardens overlooking the Hudson River, makes for a great way to spend a day. Boscobel hosts various events and performances, including the prestigious Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival , which takes place on the front lawn of the estate each summer. 

Pro Tip: Boscobel is open Fridays to Mondays from May through December.

What Is the Area Along Hudson Known For Besides Mansions?

It is the oldest continuous settlement in the nation and a national historic preservation site that has inspired painters, poets, essayists, and novelists for centuries. It is also home to the Forever Wild Catskill Park, the largest publicly protected area in the United States.

How Much Time Do I Need For a Tour of the Hudson Mansions?

A tour of the mansions can be made in a single day, but a weekend would be even better. You could plan a half dozen visits, with some pleasant dining and an overnight stay in one of the many accommodations in the area. 

What Is the Best Time to Visit Hudson Mansions?

The best time to visit is in early October when the valley is most resplendent with its fall foliage. It is a glorious season and a splendid time to visit these historic sites along the Hudson.

What Are the Most Interesting Mansions Along the Hudson?

The most interesting mansions are those on the eastern shore, along a winding Route 9. The 18th‐century Sleepy Hollow Restorations in Westchester and three 19th‐century estates in the Hyde Park area are especially worth seeing.

Which Mansion in the Hudson Region Is Best for Walks and Picnics?

It depends on individual preferences, but from Vanderbilt estate one of the lanes leads to the river and access to walks and picnic areas along a waterway which is considered as one of the most beautiful and dramatic in the world.

Is it Free to Visit Hudson Valley Mansions?

The accessibility and admission fees for Hudson Valley mansions vary depending on the specific mansion you plan to visit. Some are privately owned and charge an admission fee, while others are open to the public for free or have specific areas that are free to access. We recommend that you check the individual websites or contact the mansions directly to get up-to-date information on admission fees and access policies.

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Bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time, Sage Scott is addicted to travel. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 other countries.

Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage writes with a midlife traveler’s perspective from Kansas City — the Midwestern cowtown affectionately called the Paris of the Plains and the undisputed Barbecue Capital of the World — and is always in search of new experiences whether in her hometown or halfway around the world.

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Western Reserve Historical Society

Western Reserve Historical Society

historic mansion tours

Historic Mansions

Historic mansions on-site at the cleveland history center.

The 9-acre site of the Cleveland History Center includes two historic mansions: the Bingham-Hanna Mansion  and the Hay-McKinney Mansion . The Bingham-Hanna Mansion is available for self-guided tours and contains our museum galleries, while the Hay-McKinney Mansion is available for guided tours on Saturdays, which are included with general admission to the Cleveland History Center. See the schedule below and come in for a visit:

Now Showing in the Hay-McKinney Mansion: Fashion After Dark

Guided Tours of the Hay-McKinney Mansion

Saturdays, 11:00am and 1:00pm

Space is limited to 12 guests per tour. No reservation is necessary, although registration in the Museum Store is required the day of your visit. If you’re bringing a large group, we suggest you call (216) 721-5722 ext. 1108 in advance to reserve your time.

Private group tours with a museum educator are available for a fee. To arrange a group tour with the education department, please call (216) 721-5722 ext. 1108.

A History of Two Homes

The Bingham-Hanna Mansion Exiting the Crawford Galleries at the Cleveland History Center, visitors will enter the reception area of the historic Bingham-Hanna mansion, which was built by Harry Payne Bingham between 1916 and 1919. Bingham never lived in this luxurious, Italian Renaissance style home he purchased and instead, moved to New York and sold the home to Mrs. Leonard C. Hanna in 1920, who lived here until her death in 1936. The home features thick walnut doors, heavy stone mantels, marble walls, and mosaic floors. The second floor of this mansion currently houses the administrative offices of WRHS staff.

historic mansion tours

The Hay-McKinney Mansion The Hay-McKinney Mansion is 20,000 square foot, Italian Renaissance Revival home, located in the fashionable Wade Allotment. Only briefly inhabited, this living museum tells the stories of Mrs. Clara Hay, the McKinney family, and prominent Clevelanders who built a city through savvy entrepreneurship and generous philanthropy. This mansion is now open to the public during their visits to the Cleveland History Center. Guests may sign up for a guided tour of both floors of the mansion (Tuesday through Saturday) or self guide the first floor.

Built in 1911 by Clara Hay, daughter of railroad magnate Amasa Stone and wife of diplomat and Washington socialite John Hay, this mansion tells the story of Cleveland’s influential citizens. Like many wealthy Clevelanders, the Hays originally lived on Euclid Avenue, or Millionaire’s Row, as it was known. After John Hay’s death in 1905, Clara wanted to be closer to her sister Flora. She had their home demolished and decided to build a new one, this mansion, in Wade Oval. Although the Hay family carefully oversaw the home’s construction they, much like Bingham, never moved in. Unfortunately Flora passed away within the year so Clara chose to return to Washington D.C. after overseeing the completion of the mansion.

The house sat empty, only visited by the groundskeepers and servants who maintained its condition, until Cleveland industrialist and steel executive Price McKinney bought the property in 1916. He, his wife Lucy, and his three children inhabited the house until 1925. The house then sat empty once again until the Western Reserve Historical Society purchased the home from Lucy McKinney in 1938.

The home is now furnished with period artifacts from the WRHS collections, ornate yet comfortable. Each room is laid out as it might have been in the late 18th and early 19th century – even the kitchen. Built from Clara’s vision, shaped by the McKinney’s daily life, and furnished by historic Clevelander’s donations, the mansion on East Boulevard is a picture of a city’s rise and the men and women who shaped it. Today, the Hay-McKinney Mansion is the only historic house in Cleveland open for guided tours on a semi-regular basis.

historic mansion tours

See video from Cleveland.com’s story on the Hay-McKinney Mansion by clicking here .

Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens, Victorian mansion tours where history is fun

Mansion Tours

Guided tours of falcon rest mansion bring the faulkner family and the 1890s to life for visitors of all ages., there's something for everyone on this historic mansion tour between nashville and chattanooga, tenn..

  • The Victorian mansion called “Tennessee’s Biltmore” by PBS. Mr. Faulkner’s obituary described him as a mechanical genius, so it’s easy to understand why his mansion was equipped with “all the modern conveniences of a model city residence.”
  • Museum quality Victorian antiques in every room
  • Gardens reflecting the bounty of McMinnville, “the nursery capital of the world”
  • A restoration that so revived a near-derelict old building that it won the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Great American Home Award” — an inspiration to visitors who are redoing old homes themselves
  • Intriguing accounts of experiences that hint Falcon Rest might be inhabited by a friendly ghost
  • Real stories about real people associated with the mansion over the years, from Mr. Faulkner (the “secret soldier” of the Civil War) and his colorful family, through its days as a local hospital and its dedicated restoration

History of Falcon Rest Mansion, McMinnville, TN. 1897 view

They all add up to the Victorian mansion where history is fun.

PLEASE NOTE: The mansion and gardens are not visible from the road.  They are entirely hidden in the 1890s inside our tall holly hedge.  Enter at the Visitor Center just past the hedge at 85 Bluff Springs Road.  Access to the gardens is restricted to paid tourists, overnight guests, and participants in large events.

  • GROUP TOURS
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QUESTIONS? Call us at 931-668-4444 or e-mail .

Open wednesday - sunday 9 am to 5 pm..

  • Walk-ins welcome Wednesday thru Sunday.
  • Gift shop open all day Wed. – Sun., tea room open 11-2, no tour required
  • Tours usually start within 15 minutes of guests arrival, and last between 45 minutes to an hour.  We try to start our last tour by 4 pm.
  • Closed Monday and Tuesday*, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
  •   *If you will only be in town on Monday and Tuesday, call for a tour appointment.  We will be happy to schedule one if a tour guide is available.
  • Adults & Teens: $17  | Children 4-12: $9 Plus tax.  No charge for age 3 and under.

Includes guided mansion tour and self-guided gardens tour at your leisure.

  • All buildings except the mansion are handicapped accessible. There are three steps to the first floor of the mansion, and 24 very easy ones to the second floor. The buildings are close enough together to make it easy to walk from one to another.  See our property map.
  • Please note:  Photographs  are not allowed inside the mansion, but guests are encouraged to stay as long as they like after a tour to take pictures outside and explore the grounds.

Falcon Rest is 1.3 miles north of Hwy. 70S at the end of Faulkner Springs Rd. To enter at the Visitor Center, turn left at the end of Faulkner Springs Rd. onto Bluff Springs Rd., then left onto the driveway just past the mansion. (GPS Address)

No GPS? No problem.  Follow the written directions.

Take Manchester Exit 111 (Hwy. 55) to McMinnville. DO NOT turn and go to the McMinnville business district. Instead, keep going straight and follow Hwy. 70S signs toward Sparta. Turn left onto Faulkner Springs Rd. at the FIFTH traffic light (the one AFTER Korner Market).

Simple way Follow directions above from I-24 through Manchester.

Closest way Take I-24 exit 81B to Murfreesboro. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Rutherford Blvd. After you pass Wal-Mart, turn right again onto Mercury Blvd., which is Hwy. 70S. Go through Woodbury and into McMinnville. Instead of crossing Hwy. 70S toward the downtown McMinnville business district, take the exit toward Sparta. Turn left onto Faulkner Springs Rd. at the FIFTH traffic light (the one AFTER Korner Market).

Closest way Choose the scenic route across the gorgeous Sequatchie Valley (just beware of deer at dusk!)

Take Hwy. 27 across the Tennessee River at the Aquarium, then Hwy. 111 past Dunlap.

Approximately 10+ miles past the Dunlap turnoff, turn left onto Hwy. 8.

Turn right when Hwy. 8 meets Hwy. 56 on the outskirts of McMinnville, enter downtown on Main Street, take the first right onto Sparta St., first left onto Morford St., and first right onto Spring St.

Go straight across the Hwy. 70S Bypass, where Spring St. becomes Faulkner Springs Rd. (Call for directions with less turns if you’ll be in a motorcoach!)

From I-40 West (from Nashville), take Exit 273 south onto Hwy. 56 through Smithville into McMinnville. Turn left onto the Hwy. 70S Bypass, then left again at the second traffic light onto Faulkner Springs Rd.

Closest way Go west on I-40 to Crossville Exit 317. Turn left at the end of the ramp; go about 1-1/2 miles and turn right at the traffic light by Walgreens. Stay on this road (Hwy. 70) just through Sparta, then turn left onto Hwy. 111.

A couple of miles south of Sparta, take fork toward McMinnville on Hwy. 70S. Stay on the four-lane Hwy. 70S Bypass in McMinnville, and turn right at the fourth traffic light onto Faulkner Springs Rd.

Simple way If you’d prefer to stay on 4-lane roads all the way from Knoxville, take I-40 west to Cookeville. Exit onto Hwy. 111 toward Sparta. Follow directions above from Sparta.

Exit the park at the south entrance onto Hwy. 284. For the quickest route, go straight across Hwy. 111 instead of turning north to Spencer. Hwy. 284 curves north and meets Hwy. 30 west of Spencer.

Turn left onto Hwy. 30. Go to the end of Hwy. 30, and turn left where it “y’s” into Hwy. 70S.

Go to the fourth traffic light; turn right onto Faulkner Springs Rd.

Go through Fayetteville, Tullahoma and Manchester, Tenn. Don’t turn onto I-24. Instead, go straight across the Interstate and follow the directions above from I-24 Exit 111 in Manchester.

“This was the best tour I have ever taken. If you have never been here, give it a try. Its beautiful inside and out. Read the history of the place — very interesting.  I give it 5 stars. Gift shop and tea room very nice.”‘

Patricia — walk-in tourist

historic mansion tours

Lunch in the Tea Room

Enjoy a delicious lunch in our Victorian Tea Room Wednesday thru Sunday, 11-2.

historic mansion tours

Browse the Gift Shop

Allow some time to shop for 1800s treasures. The Victorian Gift Shop has around 3,000 items you won't find anywhere else.

historic mansion tours

Relax in the Gardens

After the guided mansion tour, linger at your leisure in Falcon Rest's gardens. Access to the gardens is included in tour admission.

historic mansion tours

Explore the Local Area

Check out lots more fun things to do in the McMinnville area and Middle Tennessee.

Give a Gift Certificate to tour, shop, dine or stay on the grounds.

Where history is fun

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Thing to Do

Mansion Tours

Hampton National Historic Site

NPS/Tim Ervin

Tour Times: 

Mansion tour times vary. For current information on tour times visit Ranger Programs

Tickets Required:

Due to limited space on mansion tours, visitors must first get tickets for the tour. Tours are limited to 15 visitors a tour. Tickets are free and available on a first come, first serve basis at the park visitor center. Tickets can only be acquired the day of your visit. Tickets tend to go fast, so visitors are encouraged to get to the park early if they are interested in a mansion tour.

Tour Overview:

Tours of the mansion offer a glimpse of over 150 years of American history as lived by the Ridgely family, European indentured servants, enslaved African-Americans, and paid laborers. Visitors can join a guide and walk the halls of this historic structure and learn about its architectural features, artwork, and the thousands of other authentic collection items that are on display. The mansion's artifacts and decor is changed twice a year - once in the winter and again in the summer to showcase seasonal fashions and adjustments that predate modern utilities and luxuries. The only way to see the interior of the mansion is by being on a mansion tour.

  • hampton national historic site
  • museum artifacts
  • enslaved labor
  • architecture
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  • tour hampton

Virtual programs are available for self guided tours or learning from home!

Learn more about Hampton's complex and detailed history in addition to what you learn on a house tour!

Hampton was originally preserved for its architecture. Learn more about the mansion architecture!

Last updated: December 19, 2022

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Get Inspired

Get the travel guide, become an insider, gatsby gold coast mansions, the luxurious and historical gold coast.

Along the North Shore, step inside Long Island’s Gold Coast for a look into the elegant and opulent lifestyles of the elite. Owned by past presidents, artists and aristocracy, many of these homes once hosted royalty, heads of state and stars such as Charlie Chaplin. Often the backdrop for Hollywood productions, the Gold Coast mansions also served as inspiration for The Great Gatsby. Open for tours and events, travel back to an era bygone when visiting these estates.

Sands Point Preserve

  • 127 Middle Neck Road
  • (516) 571-7900

Sand's Point Preserve is home to three spectacular mansions: Falaise; Hempstead House; and CastleGould. Falaise is a Normandy style home filled with antiques and open to the public for tours. It's here that Charles Lindbergh wrote his famous book "WE," while staying with the Guggenheim family at…

Coe Hall at Planting Fields Arboretum

Visit Planting Fields Arboretum/Coe Hall, a Tudor Revival mansion where you can view the family’s original furnishings, including the completely restored Louis XVI reception room and the spectacular grounds and gardens (created by the Olmstead Brothers).

Sagamore Hill

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site in Oyster Bay is the place President Theodore Roosevelt called home from 1885 until his passing in 1919. President Roosevelt spent so much time in this beloved home that it claimed the nickname ‘Summer White House’. Explore the 80 acres of serene landscape 7 days…

The Mansion at Glen Cove

  • 200 Dosoris Lane
  • (646) 518-8771

Built in 1910 on the 55- acre estate of John and Ruth Pratt, The Mansion at Glen Cove boasts 187 luxuriously designed guest rooms and suites, 60 renovated rooms featuring Safavieh designs. All rooms richly-appointed with plush bedding, coffee/tea maker, 32’ flat screen HD LCD TV with cable…

Insider Tip

Explore more  Gold Coast Mansions

Tour the Glen Cove Mansion

After your overnight stay, take a tour of the mansion, grounds and modern amenities. The mansion includes an indoor heated pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, steam room / suana, yoga room, basketball court and spa treatments.

Old Westbury Gardens

  • 71 Old Westbury Road
  • (516) 333-0048

This elegant estate, which features a 44-room English manor house and traditional, formal gardens sprawling over 200 acres, was built by financier John S. Phipps and his wife, Margarita Grace Phipps, in 1906. The spectacular estate has been featured in over 25 movies including North by Northwest and…

Old Westbury Gardens hosts festivals and seasonal events in the garden throughout the year They also occasionally have garden yoga classes. Check their  website  for more information.

Oheka Castle

  • 135 West Gate Drive
  • (631) 659-1400

A breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion located on the famed Gold Coast of Long Island between New York City and The Hamptons. At OHEKA CASTLE guests will discover a World of charming luxury and European ambiance. OHEKA is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of…

The OHK Bar & Restaurant offers patrons a unique culinary experience paired with a European ambiance and al fresco dining.

Tour of Oheka Castle

Resting majestically on the highest point of Long Island, emanates the elegant refinement of a chateau in France and a rich history that is distinctly American. Financier and philanthropist, Otto Hermann Kahn built OHEKA CASTLE close to a century ago on the highest point on Long Island in Cold…

Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium

William K. Vanderbilt II was heir to one of America’s greatest fortunes and traveled the world collecting marine and cultural artifacts for the museum and mansion he built on Long Island in 1910. Eagle’s Nest boasts 43-acres of waterfront estate in Centerport, Long Island with a 24-room…

Prime: An American Kitchen & Bar

  • 117 North New York Avenue
  • (631) 385-1515

Dedicated to the expression of modern American cuisine, Prime is more than just a culinary adventure, it is a true experience. Guests can choose from an array of raw bar favorites, like blue point oysters, little neck clams, and lobster cocktail, along with Mizu Sushi, and steaks and chops like…

Enjoy unique shops, dining, and nightlife in trendy downtown Huntington Village

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13 best historic mansions you can visit in Upstate NY

  • Published: Nov. 10, 2016, 12:30 p.m.
  • Chuck D'Imperio

historic mansion tours

Gary Walts | [email protected]

13 best historic Upstate NY mansions you can visit

By Chuck D'Imperio | Contributing writer

When it comes to regal, historic mansions, Upstate New York has an embarrassment of riches. Lucky for us, many of these are now open to the public. What a fun way to get a glimpse of the glories of another era. Here are a baker's dozen mansions worthy of a look. Of course, there are hundreds of them across the state. Which ones would you add to the list?

historic mansion tours

Stephen D. Cannerelli | [email protected]

Seward House Mansion (Auburn)

Built in 1816 by the Miller family, this became the home of William H. Seward when he married Elijah Miller's daughter, Frances. Seward went on to become a U.S. Senator, New York State Governor and U.S. Secretary of State. The house is now a museum to Mr. and Mrs. Seward's life and times. During one period, while Mr. Seward was travelling overseas, Mrs. Seward harbored runaway slaves in the mansion's' basement!

historic mansion tours

John Renfro via flickr

Schuyler Mansion (Albany)

This historic brick mansion was built in 1761 for Revolutionary War hero General Philip Schuyler.  Many of that era's famous personalities came, visited and stayed the night at this mansion. In fact, Elizabeth Schuyler, Philip's second daughter, got married to Alexander Hamilton in the parlor of this mansion on Dec. 14, 1780.

historic mansion tours

NYup.com file photo

Yaddo (Saratoga Springs)

The present structure was built by financier Samuel Trask after his original home burned down in 1881. The stone and wood Queen Anne Revival mansion is not technically open to the public as it is an active working writer's colony. It is a three-story, tower-topped, 55-room estate encompassing nearly 50,000 square feet. However, the famous Yaddo Gardens, which surround the estate, are visited by thousands each year. The writer's colony here has hosted 66 Pulitzer Prize winners, 61 National Book Award winners and a double Nobel Prize-winning writer (Saul Bellow).

historic mansion tours

Pubdog via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Reuben Fenton Mansion (Jamestown)

Now the home of the Fenton History Center, this Jamestown landmark was built in 1863. The brick mansion known as "Walnut Grove" features a four-story tower and a life-size bronze statue of Gov. Fenton on the front lawn. He was governor of New York from 1869 to 1875. The Italianate Villa design sets this building apart from the other historic buildings in the city. The mansion is filled with period antiques and is a popular venue for public and private events.

historic mansion tours

Jeff Goulding for nyup.com

Olana (Hudson)

This is one of Upstate New York's most visited mansions. Located in Columbia County, this 1872 home incorporates a hodge-podge mix of architectural designs to best reflect the owner's love of world travels. Painter Frederic Church positioned his mansion to take advantage of the breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley in the distance. The valley, and the Hudson River itself, was the subject of many of his most famous paintings. Tours here, of both the mansion and the grounds, are extremely popular, and many interesting public events are scheduled every year. And be sure and ask about the four teapots located on the top of the tower!

historic mansion tours

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

George Eastman Mansion (Rochester)

This was the home of George Eastman. Today it is a museum which holds the world's largest and oldest photography collections. Eastman, the founder of Eastman Kodak, was a millionaire who spent considerable sums creating this extravagant mansion, which he bequeathed to the University of Rochester at the time of his death. The building lacks nothing in splendor, extravagance and excess. Rooms include a conservatory, billiard room, library, great hall, living room and much more. Note the large African elephant trophy head crashing through the wall above your head in the Conservatory. Guided tours are offered daily. The public is not allowed into Eastman's private bedroom quarters on the second floor where he committed suicide on March 14, 1932.

historic mansion tours

Jay Parker via flickr

Skene Manor (Whitehall)

This 1874 Gothic stone mansion was built overhanging a mountain in Whitehall in 1874. The view from here is spectacular. It is three stories tall, features a clock tower and is made of sandstone blocks quarried from the mountainside by a team of Italian stonemasons. Some call this one of the most haunted mansions in Upstate New York. Tours are given, and many public events are held inside this gorgeous structure.

historic mansion tours

George Fisher | Visit1000Islands

Boldt Castle (Thousand Islands)

This is one of the most popular mansions in all of Upstate New York. Literally thousands of visitors have come to this island mansion over the years. Doomed and sad, the home was a love token built by the millionaire general-manager of the Waldorf Astoria hotel, George Boldt.  The object of this tender souvenir was to be his wife, Louise Kherer Boldt. Unfortunately she died in 1904 before the home was finished and Boldt walked away from it. The mansion, projected to have been one of the largest private residences in the U.S., sat empty and forlorn in the middle of the St. Lawrence River for almost 75 years before preservationists came to its rescue. Tours today reveal the extreme opulence and luxuriousness of what was to be a happy home for Mr. and Mrs. Boldt.

historic mansion tours

apryldenise via flickr

Hyde Hall (Cooperstown)

This home, at the head of Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, has been called the "finest example of neoclassical country house design in the country." Built between 1817 and 1834 for the George Clarke family, the stone mansion consists of dozens of rooms including massive entertaining rooms which feature 20 foot ceilings. Tours are offered, and the view of the lake, referred to as the "Glimmerglass" by native-Cooperstown author James Fenimore Cooper, can be breathtaking.

historic mansion tours

Carol via flickr

Phelps Mansion (Binghamton)

This stunning 1870 mansion was built as the home of Binghamton Mayor Sherman Phelps. The architect of this three-floor Second Empire-style extravagance was Isaac G. Perry, who also worked on the New York State Capitol as the building's last lead architect (1883-1899). The mansion is packed with historic artwork, rare antiques, period furniture and unusual woodwork. Tours are very popular and many public events are scheduled here, hosted by the current owners, the Phelps Mansion Museum.

historic mansion tours

Lizzylane via flickr

Clermont (Germantown)

Seven generations of the famous Livingston family called this mansion home. The estate was built in 1740 on 13,000 acres of lush Hudson River Valley property. Tours of the home and gardens are available, and there is a gift shop and a public event area (many weddings are held at Clermont). A visitor's center tells the story of the famous Livingstons who lived here, including Robert, who swore George Washington into office and who helped draft the Declaration of Independence.

historic mansion tours

Joed Viera for nyup.com

McClurg Mansion (Westfield)

Now the home of the Chautauqua County Historical Society, this residence was built in 1818 for James McClurg, the son of a wealthy Pittsburgh industrialist. The mansion is packed with Victorian collectibles on all three floors and tours are popular. Be sure and check out the extensive collection of antique dolls in the children's nursery room. When it was built, locals called this "McClurg's Folly" for its unusually expansive layout and attention to extravagant design.

historic mansion tours

Heather Ainsworth for syracuse.com

Rose Hill Mansion (Geneva)

With its graceful columned façade, this grand home was built in 1839 and was once one of the great centers for society life and agricultural productivity in the beautiful Finger Lakes community. More than 20 rooms have been restored and are open (seasonally) to the public. Of interesting note is that one of the owners, Robert Swan, invented a method for farming using drain tiles as an irrigation method. Cornell University called this "the greatest agricultural innovation of its time (1850s). The views of Seneca Lake from the front porch are gorgeous.

historic mansion tours

Gary Walts for nyup.com

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  • Historic Homes & More

12 Historic Homes You Can Tour from Your Couch

Even if you're stuck inside, you can still do a bit of traveling. take a virtual trip and pick up a little history while you're at it by exploring these fascinating historic homes., take a peek at history.

Historic house tours available online

Thanks to technological advances, it’s now easier than ever to travel the world from the comfort of your own home. Video tours and 3-D virtual technology let you tour beautiful historic homes throughout the world, exploring every nook and cranny. Escape the confines of your four walls to delight in interiors that are steeped in history and only a click away.

istockphoto.com

Pittock Mansion

Pittcock Mansion house tour online

The Pittock Mansion  in Portland, Oregon, was once home to Henry Pittock, who became publisher of The Oregonian newspaper in 1860 and went on to found a financial empire. The French Renaissance-style mansion, completed in 1914, was designed by Edward T. Foulkes, an architect who trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. At Pittock's insistence, the home was packed with the latest technology, including thermostat-controlled central heating, indirect electric lighting, and a central vacuum system. Today, the 16,000-square-foot mansion serves as a museum and gallery space. While the museum is closed, visitors are welcome to explore the interior and grounds via an impressive virtual tour .

Related:  11 Vintage Houses That Came from a Catalog

Wikimedia Commons via Tiptoety

Mount Vernon Estate

Mount Vernon Estate house tour online

The Mount Vernon Estate, the former home of George Washington, is one of the most popular historical attractions in Virginia. While the current state of the world makes it impossible for you to wander in the footsteps of our first president, you can easily check out his estate online. The virtual tour of Mount Vernon offers panoramic views of the gardens and 360-degree views of the mansion's interiors. Visitors can click on points of interest to learn more about the history, architecture, and decor of this national treasure. 

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House house tour online

A variety of virtual exhibits are available for those who want to learn more about Anne Frank, her diary, and the secret annex in Amsterdam that sheltered her family, along with five other individuals, for more than two years during World War II. Online resources include YouTube video diaries, virtual tours of the secret annex, a 360-degree tour of the home where the Franks lived before they went into hiding, and more.

Related:  Straight and Narrow: 22 Shotgun Houses We Love

Mark Twain House

Mark Twain House house tour online

If you’re itching for a bit of literary history, check out the Mark Twain House and Museum online . Explore the interior of the High Victorian Gothic home through room-by-room photos or via an immersive, richly annotated 360-degree tour. Whichever approach you choose, you'll gain an appreciation of the great American writer and the beloved home where he spent his happiest years.

Frank Lloyd Wright Houses

Frank Lloyd Wright house tour online

Architecture aficionados can now enjoy unusual virtual access to a number of the renowned architect’s masterpieces. In response to pandemic lockdown measures, a social media project dubbed #WrightVirtualVisits launched at the beginning of April. Organizations participating in the initiative have been posting short tour videos of Wright-designed houses— 12 homes in total .

Lyndhurst Mansion

Lyndhurst Mansion house tour online

While the grounds of this Gothic Revival mansion in Tarrytown, New York, are open for socially distant visits, those who wish to see the interior can do so only virtually. Built in 1838 and expanded by its second owner, Lyndhurst had a number of occupants, including railroad magnate Jay Gould. Because the property was often used as a summer home, the estate's collection of art and antiques has remained largely intact and is in excellent condition. Available virtual tours include an aerial view of Lyndhurst , a traditional 360-degree walk-through, a festive tour of the interiors dressed up for the holidays, and—certainly the creepiest tour on this list—a peek at the mansion during the Halloween season, complete with ghoulish inhabitants.

Related:  On the Waterfront: 10 Tiny Lake Houses

Gropius House

Gropius House tour online

Soon after Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius accepted an appointment to Harvard in 1937, he decided to build a home for his family in nearby Lincoln, Massachusetts. That home,  Lincoln House , was designed according to Bauhaus principles and is now filled with furniture and decorative items from the era. Beautiful photography and abundant text let virtual visitors explore the house and learn about the influential architect and his social milieu. 

flickr.com via Ken Schwarz

Mabry-Hazen House

Mabry-Hazen House tour online

This historic home in Knoxville, Tennessee, built in 1858, sheltered three generations of the same family. Today, it is filled to the brim with original furniture and mementos—more than 2,000 artifacts in all. Because of recent closures, the museum is now offering  video field trips  that let visitors get up close and personal with various objects and historical documents housed within the museum's walls.

Related:  Take a Peek Inside 11 Charming Carriage Houses

Wikimedia Commons via Brian Stansberry

Lexington Historical Society

Lexington Historical Society tours online

The Lexington Historical Society offers virtual tours of three properties, including Buckman Tavern, the Hancock-Clarke House, and Munroe Tavern. The tours are accessible via almost any platform. The taverns, built in 1710 and 1735, respectively, were important meeting places for locals and travelers, and played important roles in the Battle of Lexington and Concord. The Hancock-Clarke house, home to Reverend Jonas Clarke, played host to both John Hancock and Samuel Adams in the days before the battle.

flickr.com via Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Whitehern House & Garden

Whitehern House & Garden tour online

Head to Hamilton, Ontario (virtually, of course), to take a 3-D tour  of this walled Georgian-style estate, built around 1850, which housed three generations of the McQuesten family. Each stage of the tour is accompanied by informative narration that provides a deeper learning experience. You can even choose to exit the house and explore the enclosed garden and terrace.

flickr.com via Can Pac Swire

Winchester Mystery House

Winchester Mystery House tour online

For a nominal rental fee (or a purchase price of $13.99), you can get access to a video tour of the famous Winchester Mystery House. Those interested in a deeper exploration can also access an immersive 360-degree tour for $8.99. This San Jose, California, landmark is known for its weird and wacky architecture. The sprawling structure boasts 2,000 doors, 160 rooms, and a whopping 17 chimneys! In 2008, Time Magazine included the house in a list of top 10 haunted places.

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10 Historic Homes That Were Part of the Underground Railroad

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Browse by genre, featured programs, featured programs & series, more gpb news, for kids & teachers, ghsa sports, high school football, browse by type, browse by category, for parents & caregivers, support gpb, gpb newsletter cta, banner image, section branding, header content, tagged as: , 'a different world' hbcu college tour 2024 kicks off in atlanta with stars of hit 1980s show.

February 29, 2024 11:20 AM

  • Donnell Suggs

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From left: actors Darryl M. Bell, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, Jasmine Guy,  Glynn Turman, Dawnn Lewis and Charnele Brown visited a restaurant in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward for a tip-off dinner ahead of their national HBCU tour in honor of the iconic NBC television series, “A Different World,” and its impact on generations of Black youth.

Primary Content

One by one, several of the main characters of what many consider the best representation of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in television history made their way into the Marcus Bar & Grille on Wednesday night. 

Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, Dawnn Lewis, Darryl M. Bell, Charnele Brown and Glynn Turman were at the Old Fourth Ward restaurant for a tip-off dinner for a national HBCU tour in honor of the impact that iconic NBC television series, A Different World, had on generations of Black youth.

For many people, Black or not, A Different World  and the fictional Hillman College was their first look at an HBCU campus, and most importantly, the culture, sound, and feel of an HBCU. 

The first stop on the  A Different World HBCU College Tour , which is presented by  Cisco  and sponsored by  Wells Fargo , is in Atlanta and begins tonight in the Atlanta University Center. The cast will meet with students, faculty and guests from Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College. The 10-stop tour will then move on to the nation’s capital at Howard University, and to Alabama at both Alabama State University and Tuskegee University in April. The remainder of the tour stops and dates will be announced at a later date, according to the tour’s I nstagram page  and  website .

The first episode of the show, which was created by Bill Cosby and producers Susan Fales and Debbie Allen, aired on Sept. 24, 1987. Asked what the show’s legacy, impact on HBCUs, and this tour mean to him and the rest of the cast, Bell, who played Ron Johnson on the show, said it meant a lot. 

“It means everything to us. We’ve spent the better part of 35 years as the preeminent representation for HBCUs in film and television,” Bell said. “The number of engineers, lawyers, doctors, HBCU presidents that have come up to us and said, ‘I am who I am today because I went to an HBCU and watched A Different World . It’s what matters.”

The cast and the show remain synonymous with HBCUs decades after airing its final episode on July 9, 1993. Bell acknowledged that impact and seemingly timeless connection with people that weren’t even born when the show came on the air or went off the air. 

“For us to have the opportunity to carry that message to the next generation, it’s a blessing,” said Bell. “We want to get to as many schools as we can. That’s why we all do it.” 

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with The Atlanta Voice.

Secondary Content

About the author.

Donnell Suggs

Donnell Suggs is the Editor-in-Chief for The Atlanta Voice.

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Related news.

Actor Bethany Anne Lind stands in her backyard garden in Atlanta, wearing a pin in support of the SAG-AFTRA union on Oct. 18, 2023. Lind has been a vocal proponent of the strike, which has had an especially large effect on Atlanta, one of the nation's filming hubs.

As the 'Hollywood of the South,' Atlanta has boomed. Its actors and crew are now at a crossroads

Work dried up in Atlanta's booming film industry last winter and has been at a near-standstill ever since the industry's writers went on strike in May and actors joined them in July. Writers reached a deal late last month, but with the actors strike still ongoing, many Atlanta-based performers and behind-the-scenes crew members members are grappling for financial survival.

  • Associated Press

The $100 million comes as Spelman marks 100 years since its official naming in 1924.

Atlanta's Spelman College receives historic $100 million donation

The donation is from businesswoman and philanthropist Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston, Chairman of Greenleaf Trust.

  • Collin Kelley

Cast members, from left, Mark Ruffalo, Benedict Wong, Robert Downey Jr. and Benedict Cumberbatch, appear on location in Atlanta during the filming of "Avengers: Infinity Wars" on June 26, 2017.

Where you've seen Atlanta, dubbed the 'Hollywood of the South,' on screen

Metropolitan Atlanta is home to the second highest number of soundstages in the U.S., including the massive Tyler Perry Studios and Trilith Studios. But many productions have chosen to shoot in and around the city itself, often as stand-ins for other locations.

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Moscow Metro Underground Small-Group Tour - With Reviews & Ratings

Moscow metro underground small-group tour.

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Tour Information

Key Details

  • Mobile Voucher Accepted
  • Free Cancellation
  • Duration: 3 Hrs
  • Language: English
  • Departure Time : 10:00 AM
  • Departure Details : Karl Marks Monument on Revolution Square, metro stop: Square of Revolution
  • Return Details : Metro Smolenskaya
  • If you cancel at least 4 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
  • If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
  • Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Go beneath the streets on this tour of the spectacular, mind-bending Moscow Metro! Be awed by architecture and spot the Propaganda , then hear soviet stories from a local in the know. Finish it all up above ground, looking up to Stalins skyscrapers, and get the inside scoop on whats gone on behind those walls.

Know More about this tour

We begin our Moscow tour beneath the city, exploring the underground palace of the Moscow Metro. From the Square of Revolution station, famous for its huge statues of soviet people (an armed soldier, a farmer with a rooster, a warrior, and more), we’ll move onto some of the most significant stations, where impressive mosaics, columns, and chandeliers will boggle your eyes! Moreover, these stations reveal a big part of soviet reality — the walls depict plenty of Propaganda , with party leaders looking down from images on the walls. Your local guide will share personal stories of his/her family from USSR times, giving you insight into Russia’s complicated past and present. Then we’re coming back up to street level, where we’ll take a break and refuel with some Russian fast food: traditional pancakes, called bliny. And then, stomachs satiated, we are ready to move forward! We’ll take the eco-friendly electric trolleybus, with a route along the Moscow Garden Ring. Used mainly by Russian babushkas(grannies) during the day, the trolleybus hits peak hours in the mornings and evenings, when many locals use it going to and from their days. Our first stop will be the Aviator’s House, one of Stalin’s Seven Sisters, followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs — and you’ll hear the legends of what has gone on inside the walls. Throughout your Moscow tour, you’ll learn curious facts from soviet history while seeing how Russia exists now, 25 years after the USSR.

Local English-speaking guide

Pancake snack and drink

Additional food and drinks

Tickets for public transport

Souvenirs and items of a personal nature

Tips and gratuities for the guide

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Dress standard: Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. For your Urban Adventure you will be in a small group of a maximum of 12 people

Traveler Reviews

This tour exceeded our expectations. Nikolai (Nick), our tour guide, was very knowledgeable, thorough, and has a great personality. He didn't take shortcuts and really covered everything that was on the agenda in great detail. We saw beautiful metro stations and learned the history behind them, including many of the murals and designs.

We did the tour with Anna her knowledge and understanding of the History surrounding the metro brought the tour alive. Well done Anna!

This tour was amazing!

Anna was a great tour guide. She gave us heaps of interesting information, was very friendly, and very kindly showed us how to get to our next tour.

Amazing beauty and history.

An excellent tour helped by an absolutely amazing guide. Anna gave a great insight into the history of the metro helped by additional material she had prepared.

great tour and guide - thanks again

great will do it again, Miriam ke was very good as a guide she has lived here all here life so knew every interesting detail.a good day

Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

  • 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
  • Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

  • Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
  • Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
  • Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
  • Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
  • Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
  • Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
  • Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
  • If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
  • Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
  • Have fun time with a very friendly local;
  • + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

  • Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
  • + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

  • Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
  • Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
  • The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

  • + A friend in Moscow.
  • + Private & customized Moscow tour.
  • + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
  • + An authentic experience of local life.
  • + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
  • + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
  • + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
  • + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
  • + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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After Historic Sydney Opera House Show, Fred Again Sets Australia Arena Tour

Fred Again became the first artist to announce, sell out, and perform at the Opera House, all within a 24-hour timeframe.

By Lars Brandle

Lars Brandle

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Fred again..

Fred Again is full of surprises.

The British producer and electronic music artist springboards from his pop-up show at the iconic Sydney Opera House to a six-date arena run of Sydney and Melbourne next month, plus the promise of another surprise show on the Gold Coast, south of Brisbane.

Beyoncé Retains U.K. Chart Crown With 'Texas Hold 'Em'

See latest videos, charts and news

The Grammy-and-Brit Award winning musician on Tuesday (Feb. 27) became the first artist to announce, sell out, and perform at the Opera House, all within a 24-hour timeframe .

Trending on Billboard

That’s the biggest on-sale demand the 2,679-capacity room has ever experienced.

Fred Again (real name Fred Gibson) won’t be going anywhere. Three consecutive concerts await at Melbourne’s 15,000-capacity Rod Laver Arena from March 4, followed by three consecutive nights at Sydney’s 22,000-capacity Qudos Bank Arena. The Gold Coast will host a show between those two runs at a location to be confirmed, reps say.

Support is Joy (Anonymous), and the general on-sale starts Thursday, Feb. 29 — with, surprise , no pre-sale.

Starting out as a producer, the Brit’s career has been nothing short of explosive. A prolific creator, Fred’s DNA is on at least seven U.K. No. 1 singles, and, along the way, he became the Brit Awards’ youngest ever producer of the year champ, and scooped two Grammy Awards earlier this month for best dance/electronic album (for Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 23, 2022) ) and best dance/electronic recording for his work on “Rumble” with Skrillex and Flowdan.

Fred Again has a special bond with Australian audiences. He made his live debut here in January 2023, performing sets at Laneway Festival, selling-out headline shows, and unleashing surprise DJ pop-ups that reportedly sold-out in under 5 seconds, including a set at Sydney’s 5,500-capacity Hordern Pavilion.

To celebrate the new tour dates, Fred Again drops “stayinit,” a collaboration with Lil Yachty and Overmono, the latest in his series of “USB” releases. U.S. fans get a taste of the action when Fred Again  headlines  Bonnaroo 2024 this June.

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    Reading about this famous site before visiting will enhance your experience.". "If you're in the Duluth, MN area, definitely make this a stop. History & beauty all in one place! Glensheen is a 39-room mansion on a 12-acre estate along the shores of Lake Superior in Duluth, MN. Take a tour today!

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    A tour of the house offers a look at the kitchen pantry, dining room, and parlor. With two floors to explore, the Pettigrew Home and Museum includes exhibits with Native American artifacts, natural history pieces, and Western-era weapons, as well as special exhibits. 4. Arbor Lodge Mansion.

  12. Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)

    Useful information to help you plan your visit to Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. Tickets & Tours. Everything you need to know about access to the Vanderbilt Mansion and how to obtain your tickets. We Have an App for That! Our free NPS App offers interactive maps, self-guided activities, and much more to enhance your visit. ...

  13. Moody Mansion

    To see our listing, go to Travelchannel.com and scroll to Texas, then come visit Moody Mansion! Gather a group: Moody Mansion offers discounts for groups. Call (409) 762-7668 for details. Plan your visit to Galveston's historic Moody Mansion, named one of the most famous houses in the nation. Tours, venue rentals, events, and more.

  14. 11 Beautiful Historic Hudson Valley Mansions You Must Visit

    The grounds of Olana are a public park, so the exterior of the home, views of the valley, and carriage roads are free to visit from 8 a.m. to sunset. A variety of tours of the grounds and historic home are available, including an electric carriage tour of the 250-acre grounds. Explore hotels and Airbnbs near. 10. Schuyler Mansion.

  15. Historic Mansions

    Historic Mansions on-site at the Cleveland History Center. The 9-acre site of the Cleveland History Center includes two historic mansions: the Bingham-Hanna Mansion and the Hay-McKinney Mansion.The Bingham-Hanna Mansion is available for self-guided tours and contains our museum galleries, while the Hay-McKinney Mansion is available for guided tours on Saturdays, which are included with general ...

  16. Historic Mansion Tour Between Nashville & Chattanooga: Falcon Rest

    Old house lovers -- don't miss this Victorian mansion tour between Nashville and Chattanooga, Tenn. Built in 1896 by manufacturer Clay Faulkner, its been called "Tennessee's" Biltmore by PBS. Open daily year round for guided historic home tours, gift shop, tea room, and gardens.

  17. Mansion Tours

    Tour Overview: Tours of the mansion offer a glimpse of over 150 years of American history as lived by the Ridgely family, European indentured servants, enslaved African-Americans, and paid laborers. Visitors can join a guide and walk the halls of this historic structure and learn about its architectural features, artwork, and the thousands of ...

  18. Long Island's Historic Gold Coast

    Open for tours and events, travel back to an era bygone when visiting these estates. Day 1. Sands Point Preserve. 127 Middle Neck Road (516) 571-7900; ... A breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion located on the famed Gold Coast of Long Island between New York City and The Hamptons. At OHEKA CASTLE guests will discover a World of charming ...

  19. 13 best historic mansions you can visit in Upstate NY

    The mansion is packed with historic artwork, rare antiques, period furniture and unusual woodwork. Tours are very popular and many public events are scheduled here, hosted by the current owners ...

  20. 12 Historic House Tours You Can See Remotely

    Winchester Mystery House. 12 /12. For a nominal rental fee (or a purchase price of $13.99), you can get access to a video tour of the famous Winchester Mystery House. Those interested in a deeper ...

  21. This Grand Galveston Manor Has a $1.3M Price Tag and a Past That Might

    One of 8.5 baths (Realtor.com) Upgraded abode. Although the mansion has undergone a number of upgrades in recent years—including a roof replacement and all-new electrical and air conditioning ...

  22. Private Moscow Metro Tour: explore the underground palaces

    Moscow is home to some extravagant metro stations and this 1.5-hour private tour explores the best of them. Sometimes considered to be underground "palaces" these grandiose stations feature marble columns, beautiful designs, and fancy chandeliers. Visit a handful of stations including the UNESCO-listed Mayakovskaya designed in the Stalinist architecture. Learn about the history of the ...

  23. Private Moscow Metro Tour

    The Moscow Metro system is full of art, but there are hundreds of stations. Eliminate the risk of getting lost in the vast network, or missing the most important stations. On this handy private tour you'll be taken to the most interesting and impressive art and architectural examples, and learn all about their history and cultural significance from your local guide.

  24. 'A Different World' HBCU College Tour 2024 kicks off in Atlanta with

    For many people, Black or not, A Different World and the fictional Hillman College offered their first look at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and most importantly, the culture, sound, and feel of a n HBCU. Tonight, the show's original stars Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, Dawnn Lewis, Darryl M. Bell, Charnele Brown and Glynn Turman reunite in Atlanta as part of a ...

  25. Moscow Metro Underground Small-Group Tour

    Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable. Overview. Go beneath the streets on this tour of the spectacular, mind-bending Moscow Metro! Be awed by architecture and spot the Propaganda, then hear soviet stories from a local in the know. Finish it all up above ground, looking up to Stalins skyscrapers, and get the inside ...

  26. Moscow Metro Tour with Friendly Local Guides

    Moscow Metro private tours. 2-hour tour $87: 10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off; 3-hour tour $137: 20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. Metro pass is included in the price of both tours. Highlight of Metro Tour

  27. Fred Again Sets Surprise Australia Arena Tour

    After Historic Sydney Opera House Show, Fred Again Sets Australia Arena Tour. Fred Again became the first artist to announce, sell out, and perform at the Opera House, all within a 24-hour timeframe.

  28. Cecilia in Arabia on Instagram: "Sharing the best itinerary in Al

    1,224 likes, 9 comments - ceciliainarabia on February 24, 2024: "Sharing the best itinerary in Al Balad after my tour with @discoverjeddah & @discoveralbalad 懶..." Cecilia in Arabia 🌴 on Instagram: "Sharing the best itinerary in Al Balad after my tour with @discoverjeddah & @discoveralbalad 🤍 Al Balad is the historical area of Jeddah ...