Front of Harrington House
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Harrington House Historic Home

4.3
·38 reviews·Amarillo, United States

Explore a magnificent 1914 historic mansion in Amarillo, offering free tours of its opulent interiors and seasonal exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Tuesday & Thursday mornings

Limited tour slots available

CrowdLow
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Front of Harrington House

Harrington House Historic Home

Best Time

Tuesday & Thursday mornings

Limited tour slots available

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a magnificent 1914 historic mansion in Amarillo, offering free tours of its opulent interiors and seasonal exhibits.

4.3
(38 reviews)

"This museum is a can't miss when visiting Amarillo; an absolute local GEM!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Free Tours Early

Free tours are limited; reserve your spot via email or phone well in advance.

👟 Be Ready to Climb Stairs

Tours cover three floors, so comfortable shoes and ability to climb stairs are essential.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mrs. Harrington's Designer Gowns

Mrs. Harrington's Designer Gowns

Garden Room

See exquisite designer gowns worn by Mrs. Harrington for parties, offering a peek into 1940s and 50s fashion.

Louis Vuitton Luggage Set

Louis Vuitton Luggage Set

Fall Travel Exhibit

Admire Mrs. Harrington's custom monogrammed Louis Vuitton luggage, showcasing her stylish travels.

Arthur Elliott Portraits

Arthur Elliott Portraits

Various rooms

View striking portraits by Arthur Elliott, including one of Mrs. Harrington wearing a Hattie Carnegie gown.

Beau Brummell Men's Dressing Table

Beau Brummell Men's Dressing Table

Sally Harrington's Room

Discover this unique piece of furniture, a historical 'vanity' or makeup table for men, reflecting 18th-century dandyism.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Free Tour in Advance

Harrington House offers free tours, but they are limited to specific weekday mornings with small group sizes. Booking well in advance is crucial to secure a spot, as tours fill up quickly. Be prepared for an hour-long experience that involves climbing stairs.

Explore Seasonal Exhibits

The historic home features rotating exhibits, often tied to seasons like Fall or Christmas. These displays showcase Mrs. Harrington's personal style, travel collections, and holiday decorations, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

Best Times

When
Tuesday & Thursday mornings
Why
Limited tour slots available
Crowd
Low
When
During Christmas exhibit
Why
Festive decor & special tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another beautiful mansion checked off of our historic home bucket list. We stopped and toured the 15,000 square foot Harrington House in Amarillo on our way back home from New Mexico. This 1914 home is filled with so many amazing treasures and has been impeccably maintained by an endowment that also allows for tours to be free. #harringtonhouse #amarillo #roadtrip #historichomes #mansion #archit...
curatedoncobblerstreet
37 likes • 0 views

🎯 Book Free Tours Early

Free tours are limited; reserve your spot via email or phone well in advance. Reddit+1

👟 Be Ready to Climb Stairs

Tours cover three floors, so comfortable shoes and ability to climb stairs are essential. Reddit

The Mentors of the Harrington House are hard at work preparing to open our doors once again for a new season. Preparing a historic home for tours is no easy task. Our Mentors spend many tedious hours making sure every last nook and cranny is properly addressed with care. These dedicated ladies bring white gloves service to a new level! April 25th is our opening day of the 2023 season, we can't wa...
harringtonhousehistorichome23
17 likes • 0 views
Our Fall Exhibit will be ending October 27th and the Christmas Exhibit will be startling October 31st! Christmas tours fill up fast so call to reserve your spot today. Come walk through this beautiful home full of Texas Panhandle History. Book a FREE tour at, harringtonhousehistorichome.org or call us at (806)374-5490 #harringtonhousehistorichome #dondharrington #sybilbharrington #1600southpolk #...
harringtonhousehistorichome23
15 likes • 0 views

✨ Explore Seasonal Exhibits

Check for special Fall or Christmas exhibits showcasing Mrs. Harrington's collections. Instagram

🤓 Knowledgeable Volunteers

Docents are very informed and share great details about the home and its history. Reddit

At Christmas we like to display Mrs. Harrington’s timeless Hattie Carnegie black silk faille suite by the painting in which she is wearing it. The beautiful portrait of Mrs. Harrington was painted by Arthur Elliott. Another beautiful Arthur Elliott portrait painting of Sally Harrington resides in the dining room. Hattie Carnegie's specialty was "the little Carnegie suit". Carnegie's suit designs ...
harringtonhousehistorichome23
15 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Free Tours Early

Free tours are limited; reserve your spot via email or phone well in advance. Reddit+1

👟 Be Ready to Climb Stairs

Tours cover three floors, so comfortable shoes and ability to climb stairs are essential. Reddit

✨ Explore Seasonal Exhibits

Check for special Fall or Christmas exhibits showcasing Mrs. Harrington's collections. Instagram

🤓 Knowledgeable Volunteers

Docents are very informed and share great details about the home and its history. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the furnishings and decor. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Harrington House as a local gem, highlighting its free tours, knowledgeable volunteers, and the exquisite preservation of its 1914 architecture and furnishings. Many recommend booking in advance due to limited tour slots. Some note the tour involves stairs and is best for those who can appreciate historical details.

"Beautiful home, built in 1914, with exquisite furnishings.

Great tour, but be forewarned that while this is a free tour, they only schedule tours on two weekday mornings per week, with only a few tours on each of those days, and a very small number of guests per tour, so you must book in advance.

Huge 4 story home.....tours include 3 of the floors...house had amazing features for when it was built. The artwork, rugs, and furnishings were amazing.

The volunteer docents are very knowledgeable about the home and its furnishings, and gave a wonderful tour.

In my opinion, this museum is a can't miss when visiting Amarillo."

Suzanne Pike

"This is an absolute local GEM. Don't miss the opportunity to take the FREE tour offered by schedule on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The guides are a blessing to give us all of the information that they do, and my GOODNESS the art and decor details!! My grandma and I went this morning and I loved every minute! Wish we would have had longer to look at every single thing. Please check it out and tell your friends!"

Desire Castellon

"We had a wonderful free tour of this historic home on a Thursday with a 24 hour email reservation. You have to be able to climb stairs. The volunteers did a great job of sharing the gifted Harrington family home with us. We highly recommend this hour long tour when in the area."

Deborah Dowell

What People Like

Free guided tours
Knowledgeable docents
Exquisite furnishings

What People Dislike

Limited tour availability
Requires stair climbing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Harrington House is located at 1600 S. Polk Street in Amarillo, Texas. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Parking availability is generally good for visitors attending scheduled tours. TikTok

Yes, parking is typically available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive a little early to ensure you find a convenient spot before your tour begins.

From downtown Amarillo, head south on Polk Street. Harrington House will be on your left. The drive is short and straightforward.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, tours of Harrington House are completely free! This is a significant draw for visitors, making it an accessible cultural experience. Reddit

Tours must be booked in advance, typically via email or phone. Due to limited slots, it's advised to book at least 24 hours ahead, or even further in advance for popular times. Reddit+1

Tours are generally scheduled for specific weekday mornings, often Tuesdays and Thursdays. It's essential to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current schedule. Reddit

The guided tours typically last about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the historic home and its contents. Reddit

No, access to the interior of Harrington House is exclusively through guided tours. This ensures visitors receive the full historical context and experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find exquisite furnishings, original tapestries, artwork, and personal belongings of the Harrington family, offering a glimpse into their affluent lifestyle. TikTokReddit

The tours cover three floors of the house, which involves climbing stairs. Visitors should be able to navigate stairs comfortably. Reddit

Yes, the house has multiple bathrooms, and they are accessible during the tour. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside the house, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your guide upon arrival. Focus on capturing the details without flash if possible.

Built in 1914, it's a significant example of early 20th-century architecture and a testament to the wealth and lifestyle of Amarillo's prominent families. It's maintained by an endowment for public benefit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the house is quite striking. Inside, focus on the ornate details of the furniture, the artwork, and the seasonal decorations. Instagram+1

While photography is usually allowed, flash photography is often discouraged in historic homes to protect delicate artifacts and artwork. Always ask your guide for clarification.

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, especially for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the rooms. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Harrington House offers a unique educational opportunity for families, though it's best suited for children who can appreciate historical details and remain engaged during a guided tour. The house itself is a grand, old mansion, which can spark imagination. However, the tour involves climbing stairs and requires a certain level of quiet observation, making it more appropriate for older children or those with a keen interest in history. Reddit

Consider focusing on specific exhibits that might capture a child's attention, such as the display of Mrs. Harrington's gowns or her travel accessories. The sheer size of the home and its ornate decor can be impressive. Ensure you book your free tour well in advance, as slots are limited and fill up quickly, which is important when planning around children's schedules. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Harrington House is an absolute gem for budget travelers, offering a rich historical and cultural experience completely free of charge. The main cost consideration is transportation to Amarillo and potentially accommodation if you're not a day-tripper. TikTok

The key to maximizing this free attraction is planning. Since tours are limited and require advance booking, prioritize securing your spot. This allows you to enjoy a high-quality, hour-long guided tour without spending a dime on admission. It's a fantastic way to experience local history and impressive architecture on a shoestring budget. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Harrington Legacy: A Glimpse into Amarillo's Past

Harrington House is more than just a historic building; it's a preserved time capsule of the affluent lifestyle of Don and Sally Harrington, prominent figures in Amarillo's development. Built in 1914, the 15,000-square-foot mansion showcases the grandeur and opulence of the era, featuring exquisite furnishings, original tapestries, and a remarkable collection of art. The endowment established by the Harrington family ensures the home's meticulous maintenance and its availability for free public tours, making it a unique cultural asset for the Texas Panhandle. TikTok

Visitors often remark on the sheer scale of the home and the incredible detail in its decor. The volunteer docents are highly praised for their knowledge, sharing insights into the family's life, their travels, and the historical context of the house's contents. This community-driven approach to preservation and education makes each tour a rich and engaging experience, offering a tangible connection to Amarillo's history. Reddit+1

The house also serves as a venue for special exhibits, often themed around seasons or Mrs. Harrington's personal interests, such as her extensive travels and designer wardrobe. These exhibits, like the Christmas displays or Fall Travel Exhibit featuring Louis Vuitton luggage, add another layer of discovery for repeat visitors and provide a dynamic element to the historical presentation. Instagram+1

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers

Planning your visit to Harrington House is key to a smooth experience. The most frequently cited tip is the necessity of booking tours in advance. As tours are free but limited to specific weekday mornings with small group sizes, securing a reservation is paramount. Many visitors recommend booking at least 24 hours ahead, though popular times might require even earlier planning. Reddit+1

Be prepared for an hour-long tour that involves navigating multiple floors. Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll be on your feet and climbing stairs throughout the visit. While the house is a treasure trove of history and beauty, the physical demands should be considered. Reddit

Beyond logistics, visitors consistently highlight the value of the volunteer docents. Their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling significantly enhance the tour. Don't hesitate to ask questions; the guides are passionate about sharing the Harrington family's story and the home's historical significance. Reddit Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the details – from the artwork to the personal belongings – for a truly memorable experience.

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