THE 10 BEST New England Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in new england.

  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Cultural Tours
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mansion tour new england

  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

mansion tour new england

1. Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

mansion tour new england

2. Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

mansion tour new england

3. Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

mansion tour new england

4. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

mansion tour new england

5. Newport Trolley Tour with Breakers Mansion - Viking Tours

mansion tour new england

6. Downtown Portland, Maine City and Lighthouse Tour-2.5 hour Land Tour

mansion tour new england

7. Bewitched Walking Tour of Salem

mansion tour new england

8. Boston Top 10 Highlights - Freedom Trail & ‘Cheers’ Landmark Tour

mansion tour new england

9. 3 Hour Private Tour: Explore all the top spots of Acadia!

mansion tour new england

10. Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour with Breakers Admission

mansion tour new england

11. The Salem Night Ghost Tour

mansion tour new england

12. Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

mansion tour new england

13. Mayflower Excursions National Seashore & 4 pm Sunset Tour

mansion tour new england

14. Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

mansion tour new england

15. Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

mansion tour new england

16. The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local

mansion tour new england

17. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

mansion tour new england

18. Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

mansion tour new england

19. 3-Hour Martha's Vineyard Island Tour from Oak Bluffs

mansion tour new england

20. 4 Hour Private Tour: Explore Acadia Nat'l Park, Fjord & Mansions

mansion tour new england

21. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

mansion tour new england

22. Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl

mansion tour new england

23. Boston Sightseeing Tour - a fully-narrated driving tour

mansion tour new england

24. A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland

mansion tour new england

25. Iconic Boston Food Tasting and History Tour On the Freedom Trail

mansion tour new england

26. All Island Bus Tour

mansion tour new england

27. Walking Tour: Downtown Freedom Trail plus Beacon Hill to Copley Square/Back Bay

mansion tour new england

28. Haunted Boston Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

mansion tour new england

29. Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour

mansion tour new england

30. Salem Witch Trials Historical Walking Tour

What travelers are saying.

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  • Adam J 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Harvard Campus tour Kate's knowledge of the Harvard campus was impeccable and her energy made the tour super enjoyable, her puns and jokes were also funny definitely recommend her Read more Review of: Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour Written March 10, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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USA TODAY 10Best

10 of the best historic homes to visit in New England

Linda Laban

October 15, 2021 // By Linda Laban

By Linda Laban October 15, 2021

In New England, historic houses are two a penny, of course, but these ten homes have stories beyond brick and mortar, or clapboard and shingle.

Orchard House - Concord, Massachusetts

Orchard House in Concord, Massachusetts

This was the house where Louisa May Alcott and her family lived when she wrote "Little Women," creating one of literature’s most endearing and enduring works. Remarkably preserved, this Federal-style clapboard house on the outskirts of still-bucolic Concord still has the very furnishings used by the family, including the simple shelf desk in Louisa’s room where she wrote her most famous novel.

Florence Griswold Museum - Old Lyme, Connecticut

Cafe Flo at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme, Connecticut

Griswold opened up her coastal Connecticut boarding house to artists, nurturing and encouraging them, and charging small rents. For that, she's often called the patron saint of American Impressionism. At the turn of the 20th century, following the nearby Cos Cob Art Colony, her boarders founded the Old Lyme Colony, which became the largest and best known Impressionist art center in the nation.

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Griswold would be happy to see an impressive art museum now stands on the beautiful grounds, and that the paintings the artists added to the interior of her house are still on view. The house, gallery and Cafe Flo are a truly delightful experience.

The Mount - Lenox, Massachusetts

The Mount in Lenox, Massachusetts

Novelist Edith Wharton (“The Age of Innocence”) built her magnificent home in the picture-perfect Berkshires, surrounded by the estates of America’s wealthy Gilded Age elite. The author and her husband maintained the massive house and extensive gardens as their escape from city rigors.

The couple’s beloved dogs are buried on a hillock in the garden, each with an inscribed gravestone. Take a guided tour for the inside story, which reveals the couple did not lead a quiet country life – and their affairs were far from innocent.

Strawbery Banke Museum - Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Named Strawbery Banke by the first English settlers, and later called Puddle Dock, this salvaged neighborhood is now an outdoor history museum. Begun in 1958, many of the 32 historic buildings, the earliest dating to 1695, are open to tour; some have exhibits.

Costumed interpreters and informed staff bring to life the stories of families who lived and worked there, including enslaved people and the Abenaki, the Indigenous people who owned this land for thousands of years.

Hildene - Manchester, Vermont

Hildene in Manchester, Vermont

Robert Todd Lincoln, President Abraham Lincoln’s son, and his wife Mary built this Georgian Revival mansion in 1905. Lincoln was the Pullman Company’s president and already aged 62. The non-profit Friends of Hildene took over the property in the 1970s, beautifully restoring the house and formal garden, and turning the carriage barn into a lively gift shop.

The 400-plus acres of natural landscaped grounds houses a restored 1903 Pullman car, called Sunbeam, as well as an agricultural and ecology educational facility that includes Dene Farm, with a solar-powered goat dairy and cheese-making facility and a 600-foot floating wetland boardwalk.

The Crane Estate - Ipswich, Massachusetts

The Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr., head of a very successful plumbing business (among other things), purchased the land overlooking Ipswich Bay in 1910. It was to be the Crane family’s summer home complete with a grand house that Mr. Crane built twice because Mrs. Crane disliked the first. Finished in 1928, and perched atop Castle Hill, the second house includes lavish Crane plumbing fixtures.

Uniquely, the estate now includes The Inn at Castle Hill, originally Castle Hill Farm, a bed and breakfast at the foot of the hill. The Great House’s undulating half-mile Grand Allée leads from the house to the bluff and passes by the hidden casino complex, where a ballroom and bachelors' quarters were housed.

The best view comes the rooftop terrace, accessed from the third-floor Ship Room – and it does resemble a ship’s cabin. Nearby, Crane Beach is a beautiful pinky-amber sandy expanse not to be missed.

The Breakers - Newport, Rhode Island

The Breakers in Newport, Rhode Island

When Cornelius Vanderbilt II created The Breakers off Newport’s mansion packed Bellevue Avenue, he intended it to be jaw-dropping. Mission accomplished. Even today, its opulence amazes – they didn’t incorrectly call it the Gilded Age – and the views over the ocean are magnificent, especially from the second-floor Grecian Revival outdoor terrace.

The Breakers is now part of the Preservation Society of Newport County, which owns nine other historic properties: Chateau-sur-Mer, Chepstow, The Elms, Hunter House, Isaac Bell House, Kingscote, Marble House, Rosecliff, and the fun Green Animals Topiary Garden.

Highfield Hall & Gardens - Falmouth, Massachusetts

Highfield Hall & Gardens, Falmouth, Massachusetts

Built by James Madison Beebe, a Boston-based dry goods merchant and co-founder of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Highfield Hall is now a cultural and community center. The main house’s interior is an art gallery, and there are adult and children’s programs. One room on the second floor is dedicated to the tragic history of the Beebe Family, a mighty rise and steep fall.

The gardens are a delight and also include commissioned sculptures and installations. Walk in the 700-acre Beebe Woods, or make some music on the chimes, xylophones and congas in a dell near the main house.

Victoria Mansion - Portland, Maine

Victoria Mansion in Portland, Maine

Built by hotelier Ruggles Sylvester Morse and his wife Olive between 1858 and 1860, the Maine natives used the magnificent house as an escape from oppressive summers in their adopted home of New Orleans . Yet, no expense was spared or luxury excluded. One of the top designers of the day, Gustave Herter, created handsome cabinetry and voluptuous interiors. Victoria Mansion has the only surviving examples of Herter’s work.

Also, almost all of the original trompe l’oeil murals painted by the Italian-born artist Giuseppe Guidicini have survived. The house is a trove of treasures, beautifully cherished.

The Old Manse - Concord, Massachusetts

The Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts

If any town in New England deserves mention twice for its historic homes, it is Concord, birthplace of two revolutions: firstly, the American Revolution on April 19, 1775, and then in the early 1800s, a revolution in thinking, Transcendentalism, a movement headed by Ralph Waldo Emerson.

The Old Manse belonged to Waldo’s grandfather, Reverend William Emerson, and the family had front row seats to the Battle of Concord by the Old North Bridge, visible through the windows. Emerson eulogized the April 19th battle in his "Concord Hymn," writing about the "shot heard round the world."

He wrote his acclaimed book "Nature" (1836) here, stating “To lose sight of nature is to lose sight of God.” One later tenant, author Nathaniel Hawthorne ("The Scarlett Letter"), describes the 1770 house in "Mosses from an Old Manse" (published in 1846). Not only did he write that book here, but Hawthorne and his wife Sophia etched messages on a window pane that are still visible today.

Linda Laban

About Linda Laban

Linda Laban travels the highways and byways of New England.

Read more about Linda Laban here.

Connect with Linda via: Instagram | Twitter

See Historic Mansions on Caravan New England Tour

Enjoy a fall foliage tour with Caravan Tours and visit many of the historic New England mansions.

The glamorous lives of the members of the 400 Club in Newport, Rhode Island, have certainly been long admired. In the early 1900’s, New England socialites built summer cottages and vacation homes along Rhode Island’s beautiful 400-mile coastline.

These are much more than ‘cottages’. They are now historic New England mansions that are still unrivalled even to this day. At the time, these New England mansions were social hubs for hosting and attending weekly parties.

Today, vacationers to Newport Rhode Island in New England, enjoy guided tours of these Gilded Age mansions and dream of what it would be like to live as one of America’s wealthiest families back in the day.

The Marble House “Vanderbilt Summer Cottage”

The Marble House RI has become one of the most famous historic New England mansions. Located in Newport Rhode Island, its notoriety may be due to its owners – William K. Vanderbilt and his wife Alva – and their role in Newport society.

The owners and their hired designer didn’t spare any expense when building the mansion; it cost approximately $11 million to build back in 1892 (which is the equivalent of $308 million in 2019)! The mansion was actually built as a 39 th  birthday present for Mrs. Alva Vanderbilt. As a leading hostess in Newport Society she dreamed that this historic New England mansion would be a “Temple to the Arts” in America.

The Vanderbilt’s summer cottage is named the Marble House because of its incorporation of marble into the design and structure. Nearly 7 million was spent on marble – over 500,000 cubic feet – that was used in fountains, statues and carved walls.

Many suggest that The Marble House and the Vanderbilt dynasty played a pivotal role of changing Newport’s quiet colony into a legendary resort filled with opulent, over-the-top stone palaces. Today, the cliffs on the property provide the same view of the Atlantic Ocean, while the Chinese Tea House on the property can be rented for private cocktail events.

The Breakers Mansion

The Breakers historic New England mansion is perhaps the most popular attraction in the entire state of Rhode Island, hosting nearly 300,000 visitors each year.

Preserved as a National Historic Landmark, the Breakers mansion was the summer home (or cottage) of Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Built in just 24 months (1893-1895), The Breakers was named for the ocean waves that continually crash or break on the cliffs below. At a cost of $7 million to build ($182 million today) this 13 acre estate withheld nothing – French and Italian Fashion, The Gold Room, a Great Hall with 45 foot high ceilings, and over 70 rooms in all.

Although The Breakers is now owned by the Preservation of Society of Newport County, Cornelius Vanderbilt’s great-grandchildren still occupy the third floor of the mansion during summer months.

The Elms Mansion

The Elms has been named the best historic New England mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, and was once owned by New England socialites other than the Vanderbilt family. Although it is not built on oceanfront property, the Elms Mansion still offers one of the best Newport mansion tours.

The Elms mansion was originally built by Edward Julius Berwind and his wife Sarah. This Newport mansion was modeled after the French Château d’Asnières and was completed in 1901. The Elms remained in the Berwind family for nearly 60 years.

The Elms mansion tour is a must if you spend more than a couple days in Newport, Rhode Island. Many Rhode Island tourists opt for the additional Rooftop/ Behind the Scenes Tour, which takes visitors to the servant’s quarters, kitchens, and through the underground tunnel system used to transport coal to the basement.

The Carriage House at the Elms, which is located just a short walk down the lawn, provides visitors with a light lunch during peak season.

Luckily, the Preservation Society of Newport County bought this historic New England mansion within weeks of it being scheduled to be demolished. In 1996, the Elms Mansion became a National Historic Landmark with its famous underground tunnel system and rooftop views of Newport Harbor.

Historic New England Mansions Part of Fall Foliage Tour

Caravan Tours has been offering fully escorted tours since 1952.

Our all inclusive New England   Fall Foliage Vacations   include a tour of The Marble House and a drive through the 400 Club where The Breakers and The Elms are built.

Caravan New England Vacations offer plenty of things to see and do. Check out the reviews for Caravan New England tours.

Call Caravan Tours at  1-800-CARAVAN   (227-2826) to check availability and reserve your vacation spot today!

Business Hours

Plan Your Visit

Tours & tickets, frequently asked questions, directions & parking, accessibility.

Explore Lyndhurst, a majestic estate on the banks of the magnificent Hudson River, where every visitor can experience firsthand an American icon of architecture and landscape. Located in the Lower Hudson Valley, Lyndhurst’s proximity to New York City makes it an easily accessible day trip by train or car. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning guest there is always something new to discover.

Lyndhurst Mansion can be experienced through multiple guided tour options.  Perfect for first-time guests, our one-hour Classic Mansion tour explores Lyndhurst’s sumptuously decorated first and second floors and includes entry to occasional special exhibitions. The Upstairs/Downstairs tour visits unique mansion spaces such as the observation tower, kitchen, laundry building, and servant spaces.  Landscape tour options highlight our restored lower landscape ,  with fountains, views of the Hudson River, and entry to the c.1894 Bowling Alley. Occasionally specialty tours visit the Rose Garden, Greenhouse Frame, and the c. 1911 Swimming Pool building.

If you prefer to spend the day outdoors and stroll through the beautiful grounds, a Daily Grounds Pass will allow you to explore the Lyndhurst property on your own.

mansion tour new england

¡Hay visitas en español disponibles! Comuníquese con nosotros a  [email protected]  para preguntar sobre las opciones.

mansion tour new england

Read our Visitor Guidelines for COVID Explore our Tour Options

Explore the Grounds

Spend a day outdoors exploring the 67-acres of magnificent grounds at Lyndhurst. Discover the restored Civil War-era pathways, sit on one of three viewing platforms perched on rock outcroppings, and enjoy unparalleled views of the widest point of the Hudson River. There are also fountains, specialty gardens, and numerous outbuildings.

Lyndhurst’s grounds are open daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (last entry at 3:30 PM) April through December. A Daily Grounds Pass is required for entry by vehicle. We require purchasing a Daily Grounds Pass in advance as quantities are limited each day, and there are no on-site sales. Walkers may enter Lyndhurst via the Old Croton Aqueduct State Park trail or the Westchester RiverWalk. Restrooms are available seven days a week from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Bowling Alley (seasonally May through November. Restrooms are also available at the Welcome Center on days that we are open for tours. At the Welcome Center, you will also find the museum gift shop. Please use this PDF map provided for site orientation .

Download Site Map

Lyndhurst visitors assume their own risk while on property. Please note our posted guidelines and restrictions, which are designed to keep our visitors and property safe.

  • Dogs are welcome on leashes only. Please clean up after them!
  • Lyndhurst is a smoke/vape-free property .
  • Please park in designated areas only.
  • Drones are prohibited on the property.
  • Special Event Photography (engagement, graduation, wedding, baby, family, etc.) is not allowed anywhere on the grounds.
  • Carry-in/carry-out picnicking is allowed. No BBQ grills or open flames are allowed on the grounds.
  • Please no alcohol.
  • Skateboarding and rollerblading are prohibited.
  • Bicycles must stay on paved or gravel roads and should not ride across the lawns or on the restored pathways.
  • Please support Lyndhurst’s conservation efforts by refraining from climbing our historic trees, inside or on our fountains, or on any of our landscape structures.
  • The site may be closed during inclement weather or due to private events; please check the website before arriving to confirm daily admission information.

Purchase Your Grounds Pass

Museum Shop

The Museum Shop is located at the Welcome Center, in the former Carriage House building. Originally used as a tack room for saddles, harnesses, and other horse equipment, this space has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. Open the same hours as guided tours, the Shop offers a variety of items unique to Lyndhurst, including seasonal items, local merchandise, decorative apparel, jewelry, and accessories, as well as a strong selection of local history books.

Photography

Personal, casual, non-flash photography is permitted inside the mansion during tours at your guide’s discretion. Due to capacity limitations, interior photography may not be allowed during October and December. Photography is not permitted inside the mansion during special events or theater performances. Video, filming, selfies, tripods, or other external equipment is not permitted in the mansion at any time. All special event photography, including wedding and engagement, is prohibited. The use of aerial vehicles or drones while on Lyndhurst property is prohibited.

Upon entering the property, you grant to Lyndhurst and its employees, agents and assigns the right to photograph you and your dependent(s) for use in Lyndhurst print, electronic, digital media, and publications.

Back to Top

Lyndhurst is open seasonally from April through December, seven days a week from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (last entry at 3:30 pm) for grounds visitation. For those not taking a tour, Daily Grounds Passes are available seven days per week and must be purchased, online in advance, to access the property by car.

Tours are offered seasonally from April through December, please check our events calendar for tour times and tickets. The mansion is closed for the first three weeks in November in order to prepare for seasonal tours and events. Lyndhurst is also closed on the following major holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Lyndhurst is closed entirely, January through March, except for special theater events.

Always check our events calendar to see what is happening!

Tours & Tickets

Lyndhurst Mansion is accessible by ticketed entry only. Our Classic Mansion Tours are perfect for first-time visitors who cover the house’s history and visit the main two floors. If you’d like to see it all, you can take our Upstairs/Downstairs tour, which covers the main two floors, tower, and service spaces. If you’d like to explore the Mansion and the Bowling Alley, you can take our Inside/Outside Tour .

Our landscape tour for this season is the expanded Lyndhurst Ramble ! Usually only offered in October, it is now offered this spring and early summer to take advantage of the popularity of hearing about the evolution of our grounds and the auxiliary buildings.

Please visit our  EVENTS CALENDAR to help plan your visit!

Pre-arranged group and private tours are also offered throughout the season.

We offer tours in Spanish! Please reach out to us to set up a tour!

¡Hay visitas en español disponibles! Comuníquese con nosotros a [email protected] para preguntar sobre las opciones.

Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended, tours do sell out. Guests without tickets may be accommodated depending on availability. To purchase tickets by phone, call 1(888)718-4253  and choose option 1.

Tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

You can find our current tour and ticket offerings on our events page:

Current Tours and Ticketing

Please visit our EVENTS CALENDAR to help plan your visit!

When is Lyndhurst open?

Lyndhurst is open seasonally from April through December. The property is open seven days a week from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm for grounds visitation during our open season.

Are pets allowed? What about service animals?

Yes, leashed pets are welcome on Lyndhurst’s grounds; please pick-up waste. Service animals are allowed inside public buildings as defined by ADA; dogs individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.

Does Lyndhurst offer Tours in other languages?

At this time Lyndhurst has tour options in Spanish. Please reach out to us to set up a tour!

Is picnicking allowed? Can I bring outside food and drink?

Yes, and yes! Please carry out what you carry in. Please do not use any open flame or barbeque while visiting. Alcohol is not permitted on the property.

Can I take photos?

Casual outdoor photography is allowed. Drones are strictly prohibited. Indoor non-professional photography is allowed at your tour guide’s discretion. Special Event photography (engagement, wedding, graduation, family, etc.) is not allowed.

Is Lyndhurst an appropriate place for children?

Lyndhurst is absolutely enjoyable for all ages! Those visiting the grounds will find plenty of space for outdoor family time. If you are interested in attending our events or taking a tour, please read the individual event pages for recommended ages. Please contact us in advance if you have any questions about programs suitable for children.

Are vehicles allowed on the property? Where can I park?

Those arriving by vehicle must pre-purchase either a Daily Grounds Pass or one of our guided tour tickets. On-site parking is available in designated parking areas only. Please do not park along our driveways, on the lawns, under our historic trees, and in non-designated parking areas. Please do not park on the street adjacent to the property. Please do not park on the Old Croton Aqueduct State Park trail. ADA accessible parking is available at our Welcome Center Parking lot and next to our ADA accessible path to the rockeries.

Download a site map here to familiarize yourself with our various parking areas:

Where are the local accommodations and dining?

There are many accommodations and restaurants located in Tarrytown and Irvington, please check out the Visit Sleepy Hollow website below for a comprehensive list of local businesses.

Visit Sleepy Hollow

Does Lyndhurst host private events/weddings?

Yes, please visit our wedding page to contact Great Performances!

Weddings at Lyndhurst

Parking is available in designated parking areas on the property. Please do not park along the driveways, pull off onto lawns, or park in front of the mansion. There is NO additional charge for parking to pre-paid tour or event ticket holders. Ticket holders will be required to show their tickets at the Lyndhurst entry booth to avoid making any additional payment upon entry.

For those who only wish to explore our 67-acre estate and not take a tour, please purchase a Daily Grounds Pass. The Daily Grounds Pass fee can be credited towards guided tour tickets, when available, which can be purchased at the Lyndhurst Welcome Center.

Please note, that there is no available off-site parking in the residential neighborhoods near Lyndhurst. Please do not park on side streets and walk into the grounds.

Lyndhurst is located at 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591, one-half mile south of the Mario Cuomo Bridge on Route 9. Lyndhurst is approximately 24 miles north of Midtown Manhattan. All tours begin at the Welcome Center.

Get Directions from Google Maps

Step-By-Step Directions

Taxi and other ride services Please notify your Taxi, Lyft, or Uber driver to drop you off at the Welcome Center within the Lyndhurst property. The Welcome Center is located a half-mile from the main entrance. Please note taxi service during busy summer and fall seasons may be limited. If you are relying on a car service for drop-off and pick-up, consider scheduling in advance, as availability may be limited.

From Westbound 287 (from Eastern Westchester/Connecticut) : Take 287 west/87 North to the last exit before the Tappan Zee Bridge, exit 9 off of the NY State Thruway, marked Route 9 Tarrytown. Take a left onto 119 at the first stoplight and a left (south) onto Route 9 at the second stoplight. The Lyndhurst gates are ½ mile on the right-hand (river) side of the road.

From Eastbound 287 (from Rockland/New Jersey): Take 287 east across the Tappan Zee Bridge. Immediately after the toll booth, take the first exit, Exit 9. Turn left (south) onto Route 9 and proceed ½ mile to the Lyndhurst gates on the right-hand (river) side of the road.

From New York City’s East Side: Drive north on the East River Drive, across the Willis Avenue Bridge onto the Major Deegan Expressway North. Follow the Deegan to the NY State Thruway (I-87) to Westbound 287 (Tappan Zee Bridge). Follow westbound 287 directions above.

From New York City’s West Side: Drive North on the West Side Highway to the Henry Hudson north to the Saw Mill Parkway north to the NY State Thruway (I-87) North to 287 West (Tappan Zee Bridge). Follow westbound 287 directions above.

From Connecticut: Take either I-95, I-684, or the Merritt Parkway south to 287 West (to the Tappan Zee Bridge). Follow westbound 287 directions above.

From Long Island: Take either: The Whitestone or Throgs Neck Bridge to the New England Thruway (I-95). Take Exit 21 onto 287 west (to the Tappan Zee Bridge). Follow westbound 287 directions above. –OR– The Triboro Bridge to the Major Deegan north and the NY State Thruway (I-87) to 287 West (to the Tappan Zee Bridge). Follow westbound 287 directions above.

From Grand Central Terminal in New York City: Take the Metro-North – Hudson Line north to Tarrytown. Taxis are available at the train station. Please notify your Taxi, Lyft, or Uber driver to drop you off at the Welcome Center within the Lyndhurst property. The Welcome Center is a half-mile from the main entrance.

Lyndhurst offers some accessible options for visitors, particularly in its landscape. An ADA-accessible pathway with an adjacent parking area can be visited in our lower landscape, offering majestic views of the Hudson River. Our Classic Mansion tour visits two floors of the mansion. The mansion’s ground floor is fully accessible, with an alternative experience to view rooms on the second floor of the mansion. ADA bathrooms are available at our Welcome Center and in the Bowling Alley.

Certain tours and programs are not recommended for all audiences, particularly those that require climbing multiple flights of stairs or traversing uneven terrain. The Upstairs/Downstairs and Landscape Tours are physically demanding and are not recommended for individuals with limited mobility or small children.

mansion tour new england

Explore Lyndhurst’s 67-acre Estate

Purchase a Daily Grounds Pass to explore Lyndhurst’s majestic Hudson River setting at your own pace.

New England With Love

16 Incredible Castles in New England

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While you may think that you have to travel to Europe to explore castles, you don’t! All you have to do is head to New England, where there are castles galore. Believe it or not, there are many great castles in New England, some of which have now been converted to historic sites and even top-notch bed and breakfasts. 

Here are some of the must-visit castles in New England!

Table of Contents

Hammond Castle, Massachusetts

A stone castle next to a rock wall

Hammond Castle is arguably the most-visited castle in New England. It is certainly one of the most popular castles in Massachusetts.

Located in Gloucester, it was built in the 1920s for John Hays Hammond, Jr. After taking the time to explore Europe, Hammond returned home and realized he wanted his own medieval castle at home. He filled it with a lot of his most significant artworks. 

Today, visitors can explore the castle for an affordable price of $18 for adults and $10 for children. It’s been converted into a museum which leads you through the greatest parts of the castle. There are also guided tours available that are only offered during specific hours but will give you lots of information about the castle’s history!

After exploring the castle, be sure to explore downtown Gloucester, including its great restaurants.

Gillette Castle, Connecticut

A very large stone castle

Next is Gillette Castle, which William Gillette created in 1919. This truly looks like a medieval castle, almost like it was taken right out of Scotland and placed in Connecticut! Gillette was a big part of the art world, not only in acting and directing, but he also designed the entire castle himself and the surrounding grounds. 

Because Gillette was most well known for his role portraying Sherlock Holmes, the castle is sometimes called Sherlock’s Castle.

The castle has been kept in excellent condition and is now a top place to visit in Connecticut ! By visiting, you can see a lot of the great architectural pieces that Gillette added to the castle. Tours are available, and you can also explore the grounds.

Herreshoff Castle, Massachusetts

A wooden stockade fence next to a castle

Herreshoff Castle is another castle located in Massachusetts. This castle is built in the Gothic style and was constructed in the 1920s by Waldo Ballard. A man named Francis Herreshoff ended up purchasing the castle, which is why it’s named after him today. 

Eventually, it was sold to another man who ended up taking the castle and making it a bed and breakfast, which is what it is today! By staying at the bed and breakfast, you can find out exactly what it’s like to live inside this Gothic castle, inspired by Viking fortresses in Europe. It’s located in Marblehead and is not that far from Boston.

Searles Castle, New Hampshire

Searles Castle is one of the best castles in New Hampshire to visit! This castle was built in the early 20th century under Edward Francis Searles, a famed interior designer. It served many different purposes over the years, including as a retreat house for the Sisters of Mercy.

In 2019, the castle was essentially turned into an event space and is often used for weddings! It’s also used for parties, birthdays, concerts, meetings, and retreats by businesses in the area. If you happen to have a birthday during your next trip to New England, why not party in style at Searles Castle?

Castle in the Clouds, New Hampshire

Aerial shot of a red-roofed castle surrounded by fall foliage

The Castle in the Clouds is a 1913 mansion in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. It was built for Tom Plant and his family and is located on more than 6,000 acres of land. For the longest time, it was referred to as Lucknow Estate but soon became known as the Castle in the Clouds in the 1950s.

Today, the castle serves as a museum and event space! Inside, you can truly step back in time and explore artifacts and exhibits on what life was like back when the castle was built. Tours are also available of the basement (which is a must-do). You can also dine at the restaurant or cafe at the castle or go on a hike on one of the 28 miles of trails.

Wilson Castle, Vermont

A brick Victorian style castle

While you won’t find many castles in Vermont , it is home to the fascinating Wilson Castle! Located in Proctor, this castle was built in the 1860s. The architecture is a combination of both Dutch and Scottish, which makes for a unique castle! It’s located directly in the Green Mountains, so the atmosphere is breathtaking. 

Traditionally, you’d want to visit a castle to just go on a regular tour, which Wilson Castle does have. However, it also offers haunted tours . This is a fun way to experience the castle, but it isn’t for those who get scared easily! 

Saint Clements Castle, Connecticut

Located on 90 acres of land, Saint Clements Castle in Portland is one of the castles in Connecticut that you won’t want to miss. The castle was built in 1898 by Howard Taylor and his wife, who were farmers in the area. Parts of the castle are reminiscent of castles in Europe from the 16th century.

This castle is now the top event spot in the area and is filled with tons of spots waiting to be explored. It’s often used for weddings, fundraisers, meetings, theater shows, and even reunions. 

Castle Craig, Connecticut

A stone turret against a bright blue sky

Castle Craig is a historical landmark that will make you feel like you’re in Ireland! It’s located in Meriden and was built by Walter Hubbard in 1900. It’s technically a part of Hubbard Park and offers sweeping views of the area, no matter where you look.

To get to Castle Craig, you have to go on a scenic 3-mile hike, but it’s well worth it. It’s an out-and-back trail that is moderate difficulty, just because of the slight elevation gain. Once you get to the castle, be sure to take a look at the view around you! For an unbeatable experience, consider visiting in autumn during fall foliage.

Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins, New Hampshire

Stone curving stairway with arches in the Autumnal forest

One of the more exciting castles in New England is Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins! Located in West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, these ruins are what’s left of an old house. Today, just part of the base from the home and the stairs leading up to it are still in existence. Unfortunately, this is because the house was set on fire in the 1960s.

Many people say that Madame Sherri herself haunts the ruins. To get to the castle, you have to visit Madame Sherri Forest (yes, it’s named after her!) and walk the trail. It’s only about a mile or so until you reach her castle ruins.

Kimball Castle, New Hampshire

A castle on a hill

Next is Kimball Castle , which used to be one of Benjamin Ames Kimball’s homes. He was an essential person in the railroad industry in the 19th century. The castle has a very long history, and its architecture is reminiscent of castles in Europe from the Middle Ages.

While Kimball Castle was recently purchased and is currently undergoing some renovations to become a new venue in the area, you can rent an Innkeeper’s Cottage on Airbnb to stay there. Once it’s restored, there may be more places to stay!

Blantyre Castle, Massachusetts 

An ivy covered mansion

Blantyre Castle is located in the most beautiful part of Massachusetts: the Berkshires . More specifically, it’s in Lenox! The castle was built in the early 20th century and was officially opened to the public as one of the best hotels in the entire world! It was revamped back in 2000.

Today, the castle is still serving its original purpose of being a top-rated hotel oozing elegance. You can stay in the manor house, the carriage house, or one of the cottages. It’s mainly been a popular place to stay among couples visiting the area! 

Sleeping Giant Castle, Connecticut

A large tower surrounded by a fence

Though it’s not a traditional castle, Sleeping Giant Castle in Connecticut is one of the must-visit castles in New England. It was built approximately 100 years ago and even became a state park in 1924. 

To get to the castle, you do have to walk up a hill. However, it was built having ramps leading up to it instead of stairs by the original architect. From the castle, visitors can look out and get some incredible views of the area since it’s located on top of a mountain. Be sure also to take the time to explore the rest of Sleeping Giant State Park when you visit!

Norumbega Castle, Maine

Another castlet-urned-hotel is Norumbega Castle in Camden, Maine. This castle was built in the 1880s for Joseph Barker Stearns and was built in the Queen Anne style. It has a traditional Old English charm that sets it apart from other castles on this list. 

They have a wide variety of rooms available, all of which are named after other famous castles worldwide! For instance, you could stay in the Kensington, Versailles, Balmoral, or Windsor rooms, among others. There are also unique suites if you’re heading to the castle for a wedding event or you want a romantic weekend away! There aren’t many castles in Maine, so make sure to add this to your itinerary.

Harry Barber’s Miniature Castles, Vermont

Statue of a stone castle on a pedestal

This may not be the type of castle you can walkthrough, but it’s still worth seeing! Harry Barber’s Miniature Castles in South Hero, Vermont, were created by Harry Barber, who moved to Vermont from Switzerland. He built the tiny castles to remind him of his home. 

They are located throughout South Hero, so you have to look around a bit to find them. This is a great way to spend the day while visiting Vermont and is one of the lesser-known hidden gem activities to do when visiting the state!

Oceancliff Castle, Rhode Island

Rest assured, there are even castles in Rhode Island. Oceancliff Castle is a historical landmark turned event space and hotel! It’s situated in Newport , arguably one of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire state. It was built in the 1860s as a villa for Arthur Bronson.

The castle is most often used to host weddings and other events in the area. However, you can also stay here since it’s a hotel too! Plus, there’s a restaurant where you can indulge while taking in some of the best views in Newport.

Winnekenni Castle, Massachusetts

A castle surrounded by flags of various nations

Last but not least is Winnekenni Castle in Haverhill, Massachusetts! It’s located on 700 acres of land and is truly breathtaking. It was built in the 1870s by Dr. James R. Nichols, a chemist in the area. He used it just for his summer home!

Today, visitors can book the castle for an event and visit the surrounding area that it’s located in. Because it’s on so much land, there are many trails available for the public to visit! The trails surround the breathtaking Kenoza Lake and can be used for biking, hiking, walking, or even cross country skiing. 

There are a multitude of impressive castles in New England! No matter where you plan on visiting in New England, there’s sure to be a castle somewhere in each state. Some of these castles are a lot more popular during peak season, so if you want to visit without as many people, be sure to plan your trip wisely. Which of these New England castles do you most want to visit? 

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Pinterest graphic reading "CASTLES of New England"

The rambling yellow Wentworth Coolidge mansion was built by Royal Governor Benning Wentworth (1696-1770) in the mid-eighteenth century. Benning Wentworth governed New Hampshire from 1741 to 1767 – the longest serving royal governor in British America. His house, both awkward and elegant, was the political and social heart of late colonial New Hampshire.

Domestic Life Relatively little is known about Wentworth’s domestic life. Myths are numerous, facts are few. He hired farmers to cultivate the extensive land around the house, and housekeepers to care for the sprawling mansion. A French-born tavern keeper regularly rode out from Portsmouth to shave the governor and sometimes to cook in a special French kitchen that still survives in the mansion. Wentworth was an advocate of the Anglican Church in a predominantly Calvinist region. He outlived his sons, and his first wife died in 1755. The lonely governor then married Martha Hilton (c. 1737-1805) in 1760. Daughter of a genteel widow, Martha had been serving as housekeeper at the mansion.

The Coolidge Family In 1886 J.Templeman Coolidge of Boston bought the house as a summer home for his family. Coolidge was a Harvard graduate, an accomplished amateur artist, and a recreational sailor, who found the place an ideal summer home. In Boston he promoted arts education, was a trustee of the Museum of Fine Arts and the Boston Athenaeum, and served on many other art boards. He and his artist friends and associates constituted a creative summer colony here at Little Harbor.

Visitors included John Singer Sargent, Edmund Tarbell, and Isabella Stewart Gardner. Over the years Coolidge added a small guest wing at the north-east corner of the house, a low servants’ wing at the north-west corner of the house, and the shingled carriage house at the top of the sloped lawn. A former hen house was converted to a guesthouse. Later this and scattered small parcels were sold to friends and acquaintances for their summerhouses. Coolidge died in 1945, and his widow, Mary Abigail Parsons Coolidge, offered the mansion and remaining property to the State of New Hampshire. Governor Hugh Gregg and the executive council accepted the property in 1954.

In addition to its fifty-eight parks statewide, the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation also maintains thirteen historic sites. They include: the Hannah Dustin Memorial in Boscawan, Endicott Rock in Laconia, Fort Constitution and Fort Stark in New Castle, White Island Lighthouse at the Isles of Shoals, the Robert Frost Farm and the Taylor Sawmill in Derry, the Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough, Tip-Top House on Mount Washington, the Daniel Webster Memorial in Franklin, the John Wingate Weeks Historic Site in Lancaster, the Governor John Wentworth site in Wolfeboro, the Wentworth Coolidge Mansion.

Hours and Contact Information The grounds are open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk. Tours of the mansion are given from mid-May to Labor Day, Wednesday to Sunday; weekends only from September to mid-October. The site may be rented for meetings, weddings and other functions. The Wentworth-Coolidge Commission, supported in part by your membership, operates this site on behalf of and in cooperation with the New Hampshire Parks Department and the Division of Historic Resources. For more information please call the office of the Wentworth-Coolidge Commission at 603-436-6607 or visit the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion web page .  

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Mansions & Gardens

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

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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:

mansion tour new england

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.

mansion tour new england

  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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9 Festive Mansion Museums | The New England Holiday Bucket List

Celebrate the season in style at one of New England’s famously decked-out mansion museums.

By Yankee Editors

Oct 28 2021

HBL_HouseHunting-6

The Chase House, Strawbery Banke | Portsmouth, NH

Take a merry trip back in time at one of these festive New England mansion museums, and for more New England holiday essentials, check out the Yankee ’s 2021 feature “The New England Holiday Bucket List.”

9 Festive Mansion Museums | The New England Holiday Bucket List

9 Festive New England Mansion Museums

1. eustis estate | milton, ma.

Outfitted with 14 fireplaces, ornate carving throughout (in seven kinds of wood), and a hidden staircase to the original owner’s third-floor laboratory, this Gilded Age gem maintained by Historic New England draws holiday inspiration from its Aesthetic Movement interiors, which include textiles by William Morris.

mansion tour new england

2. Blithewold | Bristol, RI

This c. 1907 coastal estate puts on quite a seasonal show inside, including a two-story Christmas tree in the front hall and decorations throughout many of its 45 authentically furnished rooms. But where it really shines is outdoors, where the masterfully landscaped grounds transform into a magical display of lights and handcrafted ornaments.

mansion tour new england

3. The Mark Twain House & Museum | Hartford, CT

Despite its imposing High Gothic grandeur, this manse was brightened by the holiday spirit of its celebrated original owner, who once wrote that “that old hallowed Christmas legend … warms the torpid kindnesses and charities into life” and whose family would put together yuletide gift baskets for the less fortunate. Meanwhile, the speaking tubes in the nursery were “connected” to the North Pole so the children could tell Santa what they wanted.

Delivered Daily: The Latest in Travel, Food, and Living in New England

9 Festive Mansion Museums | The New England Holiday Bucket List

 4. The Breakers | Newport, RI

Last year it took 780 volunteer hours to deck the halls at this 138,000-square-foot oceanfront estate, an Italian Renaissance–style palazzo built for a shipping and railroad tycoon in 1895 (hence, tiny trains can be seen among the home’s 12 themed Christmas trees). Outside the home—which, like its similarly lavish c. 1901 neighbor, will be open for holiday tours—visitors will find a landscape awash in countless colored lights, including 28 twinkling spruce trees.

9 Festive Mansion Museums | The New England Holiday Bucket List

5. The Chase House , Strawbery Banke | Portsmouth, NH

Part of a one-of-a-kind collection of preserved residences, this Georgian-style home boasts a long and colorful history that includes a reputed visit by George Washington, the survival of three major city fires, and a stint as an orphan’s home. When the holidays roll around, it’s decorated in late-18th-century style with wreaths and floral arrangements including both native and exotic flowers and foliage.

mansion tour new england

6. Hildene | Manchester, VT

Though the famed American political family who built this Georgian Revival beauty used it mainly as their summer home (and twice hosted President Taft there), two coal-burning furnaces in the basement ensured that any holiday stays would be cozy. On hand to provide seasonal tunes: the family’s 1908 electric pneumatic Aeolian pipe organ and original Steinway piano, which are still used to greet visitors at Christmastime.

mansion tour new england

7. The Mount | Lenox, MA

A turn-of-the-century masterpiece of classic Italian and French influences, this palatial home was named one of the nation’s top 10 holiday house tours. Notably, its owner was a famed American author who, no fan of sentimentality, once wrote a Christmas memoir about wartime refugees in Paris.

9 Festive Mansion Museums | The New England Holiday Bucket List

8. Victoria Mansion | Portland, ME

Inspired by Queen Victoria’s favorite residence, Osbourne House, this coastal mansion began its holiday event 40 years ago as a weekend tea attended by 67 people. These days, it’s known for hosting a six-week event that draws up to 10,000 people to ooh and aah at rooms filled with lavish 1860s furnishings by Gustave Herter and Victorian-era Christmas decorations by local designers.

mansion tour new england

9. Castle Hill on the Crane Estate | Ipswich, MA

The family who built this c. 1928 Stuart-style seaside mansion were such avid sailors that they had five wind indicators installed throughout the home—they could tell if it was a good sailing day even before getting out of bed! Now overseen by The Trustees, the home is decorated for holiday tours (don’t miss the antique sled on the first floor) and holds a festive Roaring ’20s cocktail party with some 200 guests in vintage attire.

See More: 17 Magical Christmas Light Displays

Castleton's Historic House Tour

"New England Historic House Tours","Vermont Historic House Tours","Lake Bomoseen","Castleton, Vermont","Vermont Historic Places","Castleton University",Vermont Day Trips","New England Day Trips"

mansion tour new england

THE CASTLETON HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR

COME and visit some of the most interesting and beautiful historic homes in Vermont!

COME and enter several of the oldest commercial buildings in Vermont!

COME and watch a current archaeology dig at The Granger House on the campus of Castleton University.  Hear from University faculty member, Dr. Matthew Moriarty along with students about the work being done at this 19 th Century site.

COME and visit the masterpiece of Thomas R. Dake, a 19 th Century carpenter/joiner and early architect who designed and built The Castleton Federated Church with its magnificent pulpit and one of a kind seating design!

COME and view selections of private collections including antique quilts, The Blue Cat of Castleton and period clothing displays!

Colonial Day: August 19, 2023 10AM – 3PM

Adults: $20.00    Seniors: $18.00   Children 12 and under Free

Tickets available on day of tour at The Castleton Federated Church Green on Main Street, Castleton, VT.

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How an English Cottage Got Its New Look From Old Materials

It's filled with the most gorgeous reclaimed tile.

The property sits right on the River Ouse, overlooking the countryside. Located in a conservation village in York, a place where conservation equals preservation, Thornley and his husband purchased a circa 1820s semi-detached home with two kitchens, two staircases, two of everything…think of it as an American duplex . "Despite being over 3,000 square feet, it felt pokey and like a warren of small spaces," says Thornley. Their goal was to turn it into a single family home that worked for their family of four–plus two dogs–and respected the natural environment surrounding it.

While the exterior had to maintain its historic appeal per conservation village rules, the interior needed a lot of work to function. "The idea of ripping it apart is dangerous, but the internal walls were never features," says Thornley. "It's the beams, the stone, the brick, the fireplaces—those are the features. So our view was to say, 'Let's take it back and figure out what's underneath.' And that was the exciting part. Many of its original features were hidden beneath several generations of renovations." That said, in this case what comes down must go back up, and in pulling down walls Thornley was able to rethink how the home worked, adding in four ensuite bedrooms and an additional bath. In what was a true labor of love, he insisted on using salvaged materials to put the house back together again.

"I think there's a duty on all of us to stop buying things you don't need," Thornley says. "If you have the privilege that you can pay to do your interior in the way that we've done it, then I just don't think that it's right to think of this as a choice. I think if there's beautiful materials already out there, people should be using them." Throughout the home you see this mantra in living form: reclaimed tiles and wooden timbers, salvaged beams (found in place and kept), and vintage furnishings from 1st Dibs and Vinterior —alongside two fireplaces discovered hidden behind walls. The home officially has seven fireplaces, with five that work. "Oh my God, I need a full-time person just putting wood on the fire," Thornley says, joking.

Where reuse wasn't an option, they worked with brands known for creating heritage-worthy products. Aside from using Bert & May's own artisanal handmade tiles throughout, they partnered with Devol to design the kitchen and Samuel Heath for fittings. The entire home is ultimately a testament to honoring the best of the past and making it work well into the future. "We wanted to create a home that felt like a sanctuary. Life's too short to go home and take a picture for Instagram," says Thornley. "I'd rather come home and open a bottle of wine."

fireplace and sitting area

The entry point to this "new" single-family home is an original door at its center. During the colder winter months, the fireplace stove keeps everyone lounging in here comfortably.

Living Room

house

During the renovation, a steel structural beam was discovered that was essentially holding up the top floor. "Rather than take the more obvious decision of just lowering the ceiling and plaster boarding, we actually found some reclaimed timber, cladded that beam, and then, to give it symmetry, added a mock version of that same sized beam next to it. Now it looks like it's always been there," says Thornley.

house

Instead of working with a designer to custom design a complete kitchen, Thornley sought out the expertise and superb craftsmanship of Devol. He went with the Haberdasher Kitchen, a collection of unpainted modular oak cabinetry inspired by midcentury English interiors.

Naturally, owning Bert & May, Thornley had access to beautiful tile, which features abundantly in the kitchen and throughout the house on floors, walls, and fireplace facades. While Carrara marble was the material of choice for the countertops and the Tuscan farmhouse sink, Thornley purposefully switched up the surface directly around the wet zone.

marble kitchen sink

Asked why he went with copper, he says, "Well, unlike humans, where I think we get probably uglier as we get older, I love materials that get prettier with age. So for me, I think the tiles look more and more beautiful every year because they get aged and the sun's been on them and they've been used. So I dislike materials that you've got to keep looking new because it's a pain. You're always thinking, How do I make this look as good as I got it on day one? The copper ages beautifully over time, it gets different shapes on it, different marks. It's like having a beautiful old leather jacket but on your worktop." Appliances: Smeg . Tiles: Bert & May . Kitchen: Devol . Fixture: Samuel Heath .

Eat-In Kitchen

house

A reclaimed dining table sits in opposite the kitchen island near a fireplace clad in reclaimed tiles. Through the open doorway is a little "TV-slash-chill-out room" where the family hangs out pre- and post-dinner.

Primary Suite

house

To transform what had been a sitting room into an ideal retreat for adult catchups, Thornley put in a giant wall of windows to take in the gardens and countryside and added wood panels all the way up the ceiling to play up the room's height. A freestanding clawfoot tub sits opposite the bed and serves as a favorite spot to soak after a long day.

Daughter's Bedroom

house

The youngest of their two daughters already loves design. She mood-boarded her entire space with references to boho style and nude color palettes, with the rattan bed really setting the style. Thornley jokes that his older daughter is not even remotely interested in design. "I could literally paint my oldest daughter's room purple, and she would not notice," he says. "Whereas I could buy a plant pot that was not quite right and my youngest would say, 'That's not my style.'"

Daughter's Bath

bathroom

Bert & May green marble and green Majadas on the floor complement the pine door's washed-out color. Thornley jokes that the original door is a bit impractical. "They never stop slamming their asses off because they're quite thin, they don't have a lot of insulation, they've got holes in them. Sometimes you virtually don't even need the door there, you can see right through them…but hey, they look good in, right?!"

bathroom

"The guest bathroom was inspired by my love for Spain, and therefore the two reclaimed marble basins were a must and all was built around those features in the space," says Thornley.

House Beautiful: What was the home like before?

Lee Thornley: The house had the footprint of the two former cottages with two staircases, two kitchens, and many small rooms both upstairs and down. It wasn’t practical for our youngish family. We knew it had the potential for so much more, but we felt it needed to be entirely remodeled to create more open spaces. The aim was to celebrate all the character behind the false ceilings and plaster walls. We wanted to create a beautiful family home, a forever home for ourselves and our two girls.

HB: What was the reason or inspiration for the new design? What are a few ways you achieved your vision?

LT: The design goal was to create a family home which is stylish and centered around nature. We both love the outdoors, and therefore bringing the garden into the home was a big focus.

Our priority was to uncover the architectural bones of the house and assess how they could be incorporated into the design. We removed all ceilings upstairs, exposing the vaulted ceiling and original beams. While some people felt the high ceilings would create a cavernous vibe, we chose to embrace this.

We also removed all internal walls and started remodeling the upstairs into four ensuite bedrooms. The main bedroom was formerly the sitting room, but we elected to turn this into a suite overlooking the garden.

I asked the Bert & May design team to design each of the bathrooms based on our mood boards. Each of the children (and us) created a mood board of how we wanted our space to look and feel.

HB: How did you incorporate the tiles?

LT: The tiles used in the kitchen are Moroccan zellige on the floor and backsplash and a reclaimed tile on the chimney breast. We wanted the floor to be a neutral palette but full of texture. As each tile is handmade, there are lots of imperfections, and this makes it feel really beautiful. The patterned tiles on the chimney breast are very bold and brave and act as a piece of art, which they really are. The children picked their own tiles and had very clear ideas of what they wanted to achieve.

HB: How did you save money/DIY/get crafty? Please detail as many of these as you can!

LT: One significant cost-saving measure was uncovering the original flagstone floor and deciding to keep it. Additionally, we discovered two fireplaces during the process and opted to leave them untouched. We also found some beams that added character to the space, and rather than removing them we incorporated them into the design, meaning we emphasized the architectural details in the house and kept costs down. HB: Any other memorable details?

LT: If used well, it's impossible to overuse reclaimed materials, so I simply used them wherever I could. We elected to use handmade terra-cotta on the floor in the kitchen, reclaimed elm boards throughout the downstairs space, and a reclaimed oak floor upstairs. We also used reclaimed tiles in the kitchen around a main feature fireplace, and this really feels like a piece of art. The tiles are of no practical use, simply a statement of beauty.

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The Points Guy

Best Canada and New England cruise excursions

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The cruise season in Canada and New England may be brief — most ships visit between July and October — yet tour opportunities for everything from historical immersion to outdoor adventure abound. The best Canada and New England cruise excursions are as varied as the states and provinces you’ll visit.

Options include Revolutionary War landmarks in Boston, whale watches in New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy, “Anne of Green Gables” lore on Prince Edward Island and atmospheric old towns in French-speaking Quebec. And, of course, you’ll find plenty of scenic drives, walks and boat trips to admire the gorgeous fall foliage from late September to late October.

Whether you prefer vibrant cities, charming coastal hamlets or unspoiled natural landscapes, New England and Canada cruises offer access to all three. If your tour does not include snacks, make sure to save time to taste the region’s iconic treats — lobster rolls, clam chowder and all things maple. No matter which tour you choose, remember to dress for changeable weather and wear comfortable but sturdy shoes.

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Here are the best Canada and New England cruise excursions to introduce you to all the region has to offer.

  • $ Inexpensive (less than $70)
  • $$ Moderate ($70-$140)
  • $$$ Expensive ($140-$200)
  • $$$$ Very expensive (more than $200)

Newport, Rhode Island

Grand mansions and newport highlights tour.

The excesses of the Gilded Age live on in Newport’s magnificent landmark mansions, which were “summer cottages” built by the Astors, Vanderbilts, Morgans and other titans of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Book a tour to step inside one of these impressive homes.

Most tours include a panoramic bus ride through the scenic Ocean Drive historic district, where sights include the Tennis Hall of Fame and Trinity Church. Next, along Bellevue Avenue, you’ll admire elegant mansions and the Gothic-style St. Mary’s Church, where John and Jacqueline Kennedy married in 1953.

You’ll finish your tour with a visit to a historic mansion. Examples include The Elms, modeled after an 18th-century French chateau and built in 1901, and Rosecliff, designed by architect Stanford White and completed in 1902.

Important to know: Most mansion excursions last two and a half hours and combine easy sightseeing by bus with a walking tour of a mansion. Many mansion tours are self-guided and require you to download the Newport Mansions app to your smartphone and listen to the audio tour with earbuds.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Newport Cliff Walk and The Breakers

If you prefer to sightsee by foot and love oceanfront vistas, a Newport Cliff Walk and The Breakers excursion will put you center stage. You can admire Narragansett Bay on one side and the famed mansions of Newport on the other.

While the entire Cliff Walk spans 3.5 miles along the scenic coastline, this guided excursion typically covers just 1.25 miles as you pass the backyards of some of Bellevue Avenue’s most celebrated mansions. The walk ends with a tour of The Breakers, an Italian Renaissance palazzo built in 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II. It features 70 rooms, 27 fireplaces and a central Great Hall with a 50-foot ceiling.

Important to know: Most Cliff Walk and The Breakers excursions last three hours. The Cliff Walk is flat and paved in this section, but comfortable footwear is a must since this tour involves more than two hours of walking and standing.

Boston, Massachusetts

Freedom trail walking tour.

Do you love American history? Will you be cruising with school-age kids? A port call in Boston offers a chance to learn about major historic events, such as when the colonies battled for independence from England almost 250 years ago.

A guided walking tour along the city’s famed Freedom Trail lets you discover 16 historical sites. These include Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, the Old South Meeting House (where a gathering sparked the Boston Tea Party in 1773) and the Old North Church. The latter is where Paul Revere placed two lanterns to signal that the British were approaching by sea during his midnight ride on April 18, 1775.

Important to know: Freedom Trail walking tours generally last three and a half hours and cover a distance of 2 to 2.5 miles at a moderate pace. The walk generally ends near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, so you might have time to explore on your own before returning to your ship.

Related: The best time for a Canada and New England cruise

Fenway Park and Boston highlights tour

Love ’em or hate ’em, the Boston Red Sox play in one of baseball’s most celebrated stadiums: Fenway Park. Book this popular New England cruise excursion, and you’ll find yourself among some of the sport’s most dedicated fans. All will be eager to step inside the oldest stadium in the major leagues, built in 1912.

You’ll see the dugouts, the press box, the manually operated scoreboard, Pesky’s Pole in right field and the 37-foot-tall left-field wall known as the Green Monster. On your way to and from Fenway, you’ll also take in some of Boston’s top historic sites from inside your bus with guided commentary.

Important to know: Family-friendly Fenway Park and Boston highlights tours are generally three and a half hours and involve some walking within the stadium. Tours do not include an actual game, and some areas may be off limits due to activity within the stadium.

Related: An insider’s guide to Boston’s top 16 attractions

Portland, Maine

Portland highlights and lighthouse tour.

Aside from its lobster, Maine is perhaps best known for the lighthouses that dot its rugged coastline. This sightseeing tour showcases a picturesque landmark that has long protected sailors from meeting a tragic end, along with several popular Portland neighborhoods.

After enjoying a bus tour through downtown Portland — home to Victorian houses and a modern Arts District — you’ll drive along the scenic coast to Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse. Sitting in the onetime military outpost of Fort Williams, the Instagram-worthy landmark dates to 1791 and features beautiful grounds; there’s also a museum in the lighthouse keeper’s quarters.

Important to know: These scenic tours are generally two hours, and much of that time is spent on the bus. The museum entrance fee ($2) is not always included in the tour cost.

Kennebunkport

Price: $$-$$$

Exploring Kennebunkport is a popular daytrip from Portland. Cruise lines offer several shore excursions to this charming seaside village, perhaps best known as the summer residence of former President George H.W. Bush and first lady Barbara Bush.

Shorter excursions focus on the town’s 18th- and 19th-century sea captains’ mansions and offer free time to explore independently. They may also include a scenic sailing (the best way to have a look at the Bush compound at Walker’s Point).

Longer tours combine bus sightseeing with a scenic cruise, a clam chowder and lobster roll lunch, and free time to browse Kennebunkport’s shops and galleries.

Important to know: Kennebunkport is approximately a 45-minute drive from Portland, and excursions range from three to seven hours. If you plan to shop, ask the shore excursion desk how much free time will be allotted.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

Bar Harbor, Maine

Acadia national park.

Your cruise line is likely to offer a variety of excursions that explore Acadia National Park, the coastal preserve known for its 3,478 miles of shoreline and the 360-degree panoramic views from atop 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain.

The easiest excursions involve sightseeing from a bus (or an executive minicoach on a small-group tour) and generally cover the 27-mile Loop Road and/or coastal highlights. The most strenuous involve hikes or bike rides. Another option is an excursion that combines a Loop Tour in Acadia with an authentic lobster bake lunch.

Important to know: Acadia National Park tours range from two to four hours and the visibility from atop Cadillac Mountain depends on weather conditions. Additionally, the park regulates the number of buses allowed to stop atop the mountain, so in September and October (foliage season) tour buses are not always allowed there.

Kayaking in Frenchman Bay

Active, outdoors-loving cruisers can opt to paddle the waters surrounding Mount Desert Island, considered one of the top sea kayaking spots on the East Coast.

Local outfitters provide stable tandem (two-person) kayaks; you’ll be instructed on how to perfect a fluid stroke and glide past the scenic coastline off of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Keep your eyes open for local residents, such as harbor seals, porpoises and bald eagles.

Important to know: Kayaking tours typically last two and a half to three hours and are considered a strenuous excursion. Anyone in good physical condition (upper body strength is key) can participate, and beginners are welcome. You’ll hear instructions from a professional guide and get a dry bag.

Related: 5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond

Saint John, New Brunswick

Whale watching by zodiac on the bay of fundy.

From June to October, the Bay of Fundy is home to hundreds of finback and minke whales; humpbacks arrive in late summer. So, a port call here offers an opportunity to view these magnificent creatures as they feed and play.

The Zodiacs (some tours also use larger vessels or catamarans) depart from Saint Andrews, about 75 minutes from Saint John. You have a 90% or greater chance of spotting whales as you zip around the bay for two hours. You might also see seals, porpoises and eagles. Most tours allow you free time to explore the picturesque seaside town of Saint Andrews, and some include a snack or lunch — typically seafood chowder.

Important to know: Whale watching by Zodiac tours are generally six or seven hours long, and the Zodiacs do have fixed chairs (some with shock absorption). This makes them suitable for most adults without major back or mobility issues and older children (generally ages 9 and above).

Reversing Falls, St Martins sea caves and the Bay of Fundy

Fallsview Park’s dynamic reversing rapids are a must-see when visiting Saint John. Your cruise line will likely offer a variety of Bay of Fundy tours, but look for one that combines a visit to the park with a drive to the small town of Saint Martins.

The Reversing Rapids is what happens when the Saint John River meets the strong and dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy. The exchange of water flowing into the bay at low tide and back from the bay at high tide creates a series of rapids and whirlpools.

The highlight in Saint Martins is the Sea Caves, dramatic formations carved into the red-hued cliffs by the tides. You’ll walk along the pebble-strewn beach — and even into the cave entrances if your visit is at low tide — and afterward enjoy a hearty bowl of seafood chowder. Saint Martins is also home to several covered bridges and gift shops. Before returning to your ship, you’ll visit the circa-1876 Old City Market in Saint John.

Important to know: Saint Martins is about 70 minutes from Saint John and tours generally last five to six hours. The sights you’ll see are dependent on the daily tide schedules and the weather (fog is not uncommon). While this is a moderate activity, some walking is involved, especially to reach the sea caves from the rocky beach.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Peggy’s cove.

Peggy’s Cove, a coastal village dating back to 1811, has inspired numerous painters and photographers. It’s also a popular Canadian cruise excursion destination.

Your ship will likely offer several different excursions here, from a scenic coastal drive and tour to a longer option that allows time to savor a delicious lobster lunch and explore the town’s shops and galleries on your own. A highlight is the circa-1914 lighthouse set atop an impressive rocky outcropping. Back in Halifax, some tours also do a drive-by of Province House, where the Nova Scotia House of Assembly has gathered every year since 1819.

Important to know: Excursions to Peggy’s Cove range from three to seven hours. The drive from Halifax is about an hour each way, which means shorter tours offer very little time to actually explore the town.

Halifax Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus tour

Prefer to sightsee at your own pace? If so, book a tour that lets you utilize Halifax’s hop-on, hop-off vintage double-decker buses to explore the sights on its 90-minute loop.

The bus will take you to the Public Gardens, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the fashionable North End shopping district and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, where 121 passengers who perished on the Titanic in April 1912 are laid to rest. Some cruise lines also add extras, such as fast-pass access to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic — home to some Titanic memorabilia — and Citadel Hill National Historic Site — a star-shaped fortress constructed in 1856.

Important to know: Buses run every 30 minutes, so plan your stays at the various sights carefully to avoid wasting precious port time.

Related: Best cruise destinations for every type of traveler

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Cape breton island.

Nova Scotia’s rich Scottish-Gaelic history and culture come to life during a visit to Cape Breton Island. The area is in eastern Nova Scotia and is encircled by a roadway called the Cabot Trail.

Tours from Sydney, the island’s largest city, vary by cruise line. Still, highlights include the Bras d‘Or Lakes region, which is home to Highland Village — a cultural center and living history museum dedicated to early Gaelic settlement in Nova Scotia. You’ll also visit Baddeck village, the birthplace of Alexander Graham Bell, and can visit a museum that showcases his life and inventions.

Explore Baddeck’s shops and cafes on foot; then make a final stop at Seal Island for a photo-op atop Kelly’s Mountain overlooking Saint Ann’s Bay.

Important to know: Canada cruise excursions to Cape Breton last between four and seven hours, with a one-hour drive each way from and to the port in Sydney. A fair amount of walking is required, especially in Highland Village. Longer tours typically include lunch.

Fortress of Louisbourg

History buffs with a penchant for live reenactments can enjoy a guided excursion to the Fortress of Louisbourg, North America’s largest reconstructed 18th-century French fortified town.

The original fortress was built from 1720 to 1740 and once ranked as France’s most important military and trade center on the continent. The entire 12-acre complex, now a Canadian National Historic Site, is home to more than 50 period buildings. A wide range of characters dressed in mid-18th-century garb offer historical context as they reenact everyday life from almost 300 years ago.

Important to know:   The Fortress of Louisbourg is about 45 minutes away from Sydney. Excursions less than four hours may not offer enough time (just 30 to 45 minutes) to explore the complex independently after the guided tour ends. This excursion involves a significant amount of walking.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Anne of green gables.

There are many reasons to visit Prince Edward Island, including its beach-fringed national parks and fresh-from-the-sea cuisine. But perhaps the biggest tourist draw, especially for literary enthusiasts, is Anne of Green Gables — the character created by PEI native Lucy Maud Montgomery in her series of books for young readers.

Feisty Anne, with her red pigtails and straw bonnet, remains beloved more than a century after her literary debut. Most cruise lines offer a variety of excursions to the place that inspired Montgomery, a farm estate now known as Green Gables Heritage Place. In addition to a museum that chronicles Montgomery’s life and literary works, this Canada National Historic Site encompasses the farm and surrounding woodlands that inspired the author.

Important to know: Tours are generally four to seven hours. If you’re a tried-and-true Anne fan, ensure the tour you book allows enough time to explore both the museum and grounds at Green Gables Heritage Place, about 40 minutes from Charlottetown. If your port call is long enough, you might also be able to book separate tickets for “Anne & Gilbert, The Musical,” staged in Charlottetown from late May to early October.

Charlottetown culinary tour

Charlottetown is an atmospheric spot to take a foodie walking tour and sample a variety of local specialties. On the menu: oysters, mussels, lobster rolls, french fries made with local PEI potatoes, craft beer and more. Tip: If you’re not completely full, stop at Cows to sample the local ice cream — and buy a bag of Cow Chips (chocolate-covered potato chips) to savor later.

Important to know: Foodie tours generally last about three hours and require you to walk about two miles.

Quebec City, Quebec

A stroll through old town.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back hundreds of years and across the Atlantic to France as you explore the photogenic streets of Quebec City’s Old Town with your guide.

Founded in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site charms visitors. Highlights include Lower Town’s Place Royale, the city’s first settlement, and Le Quartier Petit-Champlain, its first shopping street.

In Upper Town, you’ll explore sites that include the Place d’Armes, Dufferin Terrace and Place de l’Hotel de Ville, all while being mesmerized by the towering Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. On some tours, you’ll head inside this landmark hotel — constructed in 1893 and inspired by the castles of France — for afternoon tea and pastries. Other strolls conclude with a wine tasting.

Important to know: These walking tours are generally about three hours across hilly and cobblestoned streets.

Montmorency Falls

Just 20 minutes from Quebec City in the rural Island of Orleans, known for its photogenic villages, Montmorency Falls cascades 270 feet down a cliff face into the Saint Lawrence River. The drop is one and a half times that of Niagara Falls.

Some tours here visit the base of the falls for a photo op, while others include a tram ride to the top for spectacular close-up views from a suspension bridge. Some Montmorency excursions also combine a visit to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, a late-19th-century basilica considered one of the top Catholic shrines in North America. Others stop at a sugar shack where you can sample maple candy and other treats.

Important to know: Tours to Montmorency Falls are typically three to four hours long.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Old Montreal walking tour

Montreal, the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris, is also home to an atmospheric cobblestoned Old Town. This must-see neighborhood is known as Vieux-Montreal and dates to the city’s founding in 1642.

Here, you’ll find the landmark Place d’Armes and the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica (its interior is awash in heavenly blue). There’s also the Place Jacques-Cartier, lined with cafes. The adjacent Old Port, which stretches along the Saint Lawrence River, is a vibrant mix of historic and modern buildings.

Some Old Montreal walking excursions combine top sites with a culinary tour that can include tastes of everything from French pate and cheese to smoked meats and Portuguese natas (puff pastry).

Important to know: Walking tours of Old Montreal are usually two and a half to three hours in length, with most of that time spent on your feet.

Montreal highlights city tour

If walking tours aren’t your thing, you can also get a great overview of Montreal via a bus excursion that visits many of the city’s architecturally dynamic neighborhoods.

Notable spots include Old Montreal and Notre-Dame Basilica, the city’s modern downtown business district, leafy 500-acre Mount Royal Park, Golden Square Mile with its historic Victorian and Renaissance homes, and the east side with its iconic Olympic Stadium.

Important to know: City tours by bus generally last three hours and are mostly panoramic, meaning you’ll spend as much as two-thirds of your time on the bus. There might be three or four stops for photos and a quick visit to Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.

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And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

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Best Canada and New England cruise excursions

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Porn Star Rocco Siffredi’s Netflix Bio-Series ‘Supersex’ Is More Tedious Than Sexy: TV Review

By Aramide Tinubu

Aramide Tinubu

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  • Porn Star Rocco Siffredi’s Netflix Bio-Series ‘Supersex’ Is More Tedious Than Sexy: TV Review 6 days ago

Supersex. (L to R) Alessandro Borghi as Rocco, Gaia Messerklinger as Moana in episode 104 of Supersex. Cr. Lucia Iuorio/Netflix © 2024

Loosely based on the experiences of real-life porn sensation Rocco Siffredi , known as the “Italian Stallion,” Netflix ’s “ Supersex ” isn’t actually very sexy at all. Instead, the seven-part series, created by Francesca Manieri, is a tale about family, masculinity and toxic bonds. While the show, which stars Alessandro Borghi in the lead role, has some interesting chapters, the surrealist elements — including some hallucinatory moments and the bizarre way some of the sex scenes are filmed — make it more than a biographical account. Instead, it’s an overly complex examination of relationships and the vices people indulge in to escape their emotional turmoil.

Series opener “Superpower” acts mainly as a coming-of-age story. Following Rocco’s retirement news, the show zips back to 1974. Ten-year-old Rocco Tano feels trapped in the impoverished rural town of Ortona and lost in the chaos of his family life. His mother is devoted to his mentally disabled brother Claudio, and Rocco lives in the shadow of his charismatic older half-brother, Tommaso (Adriano Giannini). Tommaso is Rocco’s North Star. He represents a type of freedom and hypermasculinity that appears out of reach for the men of Ortona. Tommaso also has the love of the town’s most stunning woman, Lucia (Jasmine Trinca), which only endears Rocco to him further.

In addition to examining Rocco’s family dynamic, “Supersex” zooms in on his fixation on sex, which begins at a very young age. The series unpacks his crush on Lucia and later his discovery of “Supersex,” a pornography magazine starring Gabriel Pontello. The euphoria from observing and later engaging in sex is a feeling Rocco chases across the next three decades. But his sex work comes at the expense of his mental health. It also destroys the romances and familial bonds he tries to form and maintain.

Despite a lifelong admiration of Tommaso’s machismo, his brother’s treatment of Lucia, who funds their lifestyle through her sex work on the streets of Paris, slowly shifts Rocco’s point of view. An invitation to a sex club awakens previously unknown desires. Becoming a porn star gives him financial security, but his inner turmoil stems from trying to live up to the expectations his family places on him.

“Supersex” dwells far too long on Rocco’s dysfunctional brotherhood with Tommaso, giving the toxic and exhausting connection unneeded exposition. Fewer episodes and less time spent on the self-destructive café manager would have kept the storyline squarely on Rocco’s psyche. Moreover, Manieri positions Lucia’s life as a counternarrative to Rocco’s. As with Rocco’s female co-stars, she isn’t allowed the same agency and status he obtains. Women are sexualized and then vilified for being sexual in the same breath. While Lucia eventually finds herself on a new path, it’s not without suffering and sacrifice, difficulties Rocco never contends with. The pair are an intriguing juxtaposition, but this mirroring gets muddled under their dark pull toward Tommaso. Similarly, Rocco’s enthusiasm for rough sex acts is never fully explored.

Still, “Supersex” makes some smart choices. Intercourse and other types of sex are showcased, of course, but these scenes aren’t gratuitous. Instead, they illustrate Rocco’s emotional state as he deals with loss and yearning or even demonstrate his self-worth.

The penultimate episode, “Resurrection of the Bodies,” is the standout and centers on Rocco’s return to Ortona amid his mother’s illness and one of the biggest highlights of his career, winning best European actor at the Hot d’Or Awards. In 53 minutes, Rocco confronts the effects of shame and how so-called family members react to him when he’s no longer playing by their rules.

Though Rocco’s story is solidly depicted, audiences hoping for a bio-series-type narrative won’t find it here. It’s also worth noting that Netflix offers a dubbed English version, but the show is best viewed in Italian with subtitles. Overall, “Supersex” isn’t just an examination of one man’s life and career but a look at the lives people create, however unconventional, when they dare to move through the world as their most authentic selves.

“Supersex” premieres March 6 on Netflix .

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The Sunday Read: ‘Can Humans Endure the Psychological Torment of Mars?’

Nasa is conducting tests on what might be the greatest challenge of a mars mission: the trauma of isolation..

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That people will travel to Mars, and soon, is a widely accepted conviction within NASA. Rachel McCauley, until recently the acting deputy director of NASA’s Mars campaign, had, as of July, a punch list of 800 problems that must be solved before the first human mission launches. Many of these concern the mechanical difficulties of transporting people to a planet that is never closer than 33.9 million miles away; keeping them alive on poisonous soil in unbreathable air, bombarded by solar radiation and galactic cosmic rays, without access to immediate communication; and returning them safely to Earth, more than a year and half later. But McCauley does not doubt that NASA will overcome these challenges. What NASA does not yet know — what nobody can know — is whether humanity can overcome the psychological torment of Martian life.

A mission known as CHAPEA, an experiment in which four ordinary people would enact, as closely as possible, the lives of Martian colonists for 378 days, sets out to answer that question.

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    A National Historic Landmark, Jackson House is the oldest surviving wood-frame house in New Hampshire. It was built by Richard Jackson, a woodworker, farmer, and mariner. ... a self-guided experience, plus guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Advance tickets are recommended, and Historic New England members tour for free. Explore a rare ...

  7. Historic New England Mansions Part of Caravan Tour

    Our all inclusive New England Fall Foliage Vacations include a tour of The Marble House and a drive through the 400 Club where The Breakers and The Elms are built. Caravan New England Vacations offer plenty of things to see and do. Check out the reviews for Caravan New England tours. Call Caravan Tours at 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826) to check ...

  8. Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House

    Tour involves standing, walking, and stairs. Visitors with limited mobility may be able to enjoy a first floor tour of the house and grounds. ... has been open to the public and operated as a museum by Historic New England. In May 2003 the house was designated a National Historic Landmark, one of only two in Gloucester. In December 2007 ...

  9. Eustis Estate Museum

    The museum currently offers a self-guided experience, plus guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Advance tickets are recommended, and Historic New England members tour for free. Explore a rare surviving example of late nineteenth-century architecture and design. Designed by renowned Boston architect W. Ralph Emerson and built in 1878, the Eustis Estate sits on eighty acres of picturesque ...

  10. You can visit these festive New England mansions this holiday season

    This 19th century mansion is full of holiday cheer this season during its " A Holiday Wonderland at the Mansion " event, taking place through Dec. 31. The exhibit features historic-era trees ...

  11. Plan Your Visit

    The Whitestone or Throgs Neck Bridge to the New England Thruway (I-95). Take Exit 21 onto 287 west (to the Tappan Zee Bridge). ... Our Classic Mansion tour visits two floors of the mansion. The mansion's ground floor is fully accessible, with an alternative experience to view rooms on the second floor of the mansion. ADA bathrooms are ...

  12. Best Modern House Museums in New England

    Open year-round. Guided house tours available on the hour; for details on specialty group tours, contact Historic New England. 68 Baker Bridge Road, Lincoln, MA. 781-259-8098; historicnewengland.org. Frelinghuysen Morris House and Studio in Lenox, MA | Modern Home Museums. Photo Credit : Frelinghuysen Morris House and Studio.

  13. 16 Incredible Castles in New England

    You may be surprised there are many amazing castles in New England you can visit, with some in each state! ... you can see a lot of the great architectural pieces that Gillette added to the castle. Tours are available, and you can also explore the grounds. Herreshoff Castle, Massachusetts ... The Castle in the Clouds is a 1913 mansion in ...

  14. Plan a Visit

    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 ...

  15. Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

    The rambling yellow Wentworth Coolidge mansion was built by Royal Governor Benning Wentworth (1696-1770) in the mid-eighteenth century. Benning Wentworth governed New Hampshire from 1741 to 1767 - the longest serving royal governor in British America. His house, both awkward and elegant, was the political and social heart of late colonial New ...

  16. Virtual tours

    Six remarkable audio tours bring you a new and unique perspective on the lives of the people who lived and worked in the grand mansions of the Gilded Age in Newport. ... Get the Newport Mansions app. Download our tour app before your visit and bring your earbuds.

  17. Historic Mansion Tours Long Island

    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. Tour Times (Fridays): 1 pm. 2 pm. 3 pm Tour Times (Saturdays and Sundays): 11:30 am ...

  18. Garden Travel

    Sept 18—20, 2022. A 3-day tour of beautiful Connecticut gardens and specialty nurseries including Hollister House, Brush Hill Gardens, Roseland Cottage, Elizabeth Park, White Flower Farm, Cricket Hill Garden, O'Brien Nursery and several wineries. Sorry you missed it….

  19. 9 Festive Mansion Museums

    9 Festive New England Mansion Museums 1. Eustis Estate | Milton, MA. Outfitted with 14 fireplaces, ornate carving throughout (in seven kinds of wood), and a hidden staircase to the original owner's third-floor laboratory, this Gilded Age gem maintained by Historic New England draws holiday inspiration from its Aesthetic Movement interiors, which include textiles by William Morris.

  20. Castleton's Historic House Tour

    COME and visit some of the most interesting and beautiful historic homes in Vermont! COME and enter several of the oldest commercial buildings in Vermont! COME and watch a current archaeology dig at The Granger House on the campus of Castleton University. Hear from University faculty member, Dr. Matthew Moriarty along with students about the…

  21. Phillips House

    Take a self-guided tour of the carriage house from April to November. 1800 - 1820 1830 - 1836 1836 - 1875. 1875 - 1896 1911 - 1971 1971 - Present. Phillips House - Exterior. The Oak Hill Estate, South Danvers. ... Historic New England acquired Phillips House in 2006 from the board of trustees. The museum offers a variety of public programs ...

  22. How an English Cottage Got Its New Look From Old Materials

    The idea of reuse was paramount in every decision Lee Thornley, the founder of Bert & May, a company specializing in hand-poured artisan tiles, made when restoring his family's Georgian cottage in ...

  23. Best Canada and New England cruise excursions

    Related: 5 best fall foliage cruises in New England, Canada and beyond. Saint John, New Brunswick. Whale watching by Zodiac on the Bay of Fundy. Price:$$$. From June to October, the Bay of Fundy ...

  24. 'Supersex' Review: Rocco Siffredi's True Porn Story Doesn't Shine

    The euphoria from observing and later engaging in sex is a feeling Rocco chases across the next three decades. But his sex work comes at the expense of his mental health. It also destroys the ...

  25. Hamilton House

    In 1987 Historic New England embarked on a project to recapture the Tysons' Colonial Revival vision of Hamilton House. The bases of the restoration were interior and exterior photographs of the house and gardens taken by Paul Weber for a series of articles published in House Beautiful magazine in 1929. Major garden restoration began in 1992 ...

  26. Anant Ambani pre-wedding photos: Rihanna, Mark Zuckerberg among stars

    The three-day celebrations, hosted by Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani, welcomed around 1,200 guests from Silicon Valley, Bollywood and beyond.

  27. The Sunday Read: 'Can Humans Endure the ...

    Narrated by Eric Jason Martin. March 10, 2024. By Nathaniel Rich. Produced by Adrienne Hurst and Aaron Esposito. Original music by Aaron Esposito. Engineered by Corey Schreppel and Brian St. Pierre.

  28. Lyman Estate

    The family enlarged the house in 1882 in the Victorian style and then remodeled it in the Colonial Revival style in 1917. The thirty-seven acres include beautifully preserved gardens and historic greenhouses. Hear the story of the Lyman family during a tour of the mansion, which is used today as a venue for weddings and corporate events.

  29. New England Patriots Linebacker Matthew Judon Lists His $3.6M Florida Home

    New England Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon is trying to sell his home in Winter Garden, FL. The seven-bedroom, 6.5-bath mansion sprawls across 7,700 square feet and sits on more than 1.5 acres ...