Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
Historic 1830s mansion and restored gardens in Pelham Bay Park, offering a peaceful escape into NYC's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
Best Time
Access to more areas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1830s mansion and restored gardens in Pelham Bay Park, offering a peaceful escape into NYC's past.
"A true historical gem in the Bronx, this mansion & its grounds are straight out of a movie set."
🎯 Navigate with Care
GPS can be tricky! Use the Golf Club as a landmark on Shore Road. :round_pushpin:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The gardens are free to tour and offer a serene escape. Allow ample time to wander. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coral-Shaped Staircase
Mansion Interior
A stunning, unique architectural marvel that's a true showstopper inside the historic mansion.
Restored Gardens
Estate Grounds
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, a peaceful oasis perfect for quiet contemplation and scenic strolls.
Carriage House & Stable
Estate Grounds
Explore the historic outbuildings, offering a glimpse into the estate's operational past, especially on weekends.
Peacock Statues
Gardens
Charming decorative statues that add a touch of whimsy and elegance to the picturesque garden landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: It's a Journey!
Pack Smart: Amenities are Limited
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Navigate with Care
GPS can be tricky! Use the Golf Club as a landmark on Shore Road. :round_pushpin:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The gardens are free to tour and offer a serene escape. Allow ample time to wander. :hiking_boot:
🗣️ Ask the Docents
Docents are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share stories. Don't hesitate to ask questions! :speech_balloon:
📅 Check for Events
The museum hosts delightful events year-round, from holidays to historical reenactments. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Navigate with Care
GPS can be tricky! Use the Golf Club as a landmark on Shore Road. :round_pushpin:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The gardens are free to tour and offer a serene escape. Allow ample time to wander. :hiking_boot:
🗣️ Ask the Docents
Docents are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share stories. Don't hesitate to ask questions! :speech_balloon:
📅 Check for Events
The museum hosts delightful events year-round, from holidays to historical reenactments. :calendar:
🌡️ Third Floor Temps Vary
Be prepared for temperature fluctuations on the third floor – it can get quite hot or cold! :thermometer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
A hidden gem in the Bronx, the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is praised for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and unique architectural features like the coral staircase. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable docents and the peaceful atmosphere, though some note the remote location and limited on-site amenities. Occasional events can be a highlight, but staff interactions during these can sometimes be inconsistent.
"The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum and Gardens is a hidden gem that demands a full day of exploration! Nestled far from civilization, you'll want to leave your deli cravings behind—no sandwiches or takeout in sight. Instead, indulge in the serenity of the gardens, where I've witnessed meditative souls spending hours in quiet contemplation.
This historic estate unfolds the tales of the Bartow and Pell families, along with their loyal servants and assorted visitors, all intertwined in a rich tapestry of history. Don’t miss the mansion’s show-stopping coral-shaped staircase and the charming peacock statues that grace the gardens.
Inside, the rooms are beautifully decorated, but beware: the third floor has a mind of its own when it comes to temperature—hotter than a sauna in summer or chillier than a winter’s night, depending on your timing!
Take your time and consider joining one of the free tours included with admission—they're packed with delightful surprises. For the full experience, weekends are best; that’s when you can peek into the stable, too! And don’t hesitate to pepper the docents with questions—they’re treasure troves of information.
Keep your eyes peeled for quirky architectural details throughout the mansion and gardens, and don’t forget to check the Bartow-Pell website for upcoming events. They host some truly delightful happenings!
P.S. The Bartow-Pell Mansion acknowledges that its grounds are situated on the ancestral land of the Lenape people."
MaJo Espejo
"This is one of those rare places that deserve a 5 out of 5 star rating. Bartow-Pell Mansion is so unique & beautiful with rich history & beautiful original vintage pieces housed inside the mansion from a bygone era.
I was searching for things to do in NYC that are off the beaten path during my vacation from work & this place came up in 2 different articles on Google. Set in the Pelham Bay Park section of Bronx,NY this mansion & it's grounds are straight out of a movie set.
The staff was very friendly & welcoming. Our tour guide Robin(if I remember her name correctly) was a sweetheart & thoroughly explained to us the history of the mansion & it's owners. There is a ton of stuff to see here. From the servant quarters to the carriage house to the absolutely stunning spiral staircase this place is mesmerizing.
I took my dad with me & he thoroughly appreciated & enjoyed it as well. The museum mansion is for all age groups to young kids to older seniors & everyone in between. It also makes for a cute date spot. If you haven't checked it out already I highly recommend that you do. Entrance is $15 for adults & $13 for seniors. There is plenty of parking available in front of the mansion."
zo maq
"A true historical gem in the Bronx. Our tour guide was polite, friendly, and knowledgeable. The mansion and the grounds were clean and well kept. All this providing a window into the past where wealthy powers established the groundwork for our beautiful Bronx today"
Brenda Pacheco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 895 Shore Road in Pelham Bay Park, Bronx. It can be a bit challenging to find, so using the Golf Club as a landmark on Shore Road is recommended. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. There is parking available on-site.
While public transport can get you to Pelham Bay Park, reaching the mansion itself might require a significant walk or a taxi/rideshare from the nearest bus stops or subway stations. It's best to check current MTA routes for the most up-to-date information.
Many visitors find it helpful to use Google Maps and aim for the Golf Club on Shore Road. The gated entrance to the mansion's driveway is typically on the right, shortly after passing the golf club when traveling east.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. While it's generally not crowded, it's sufficient for visitors.
The travel time can vary significantly depending on traffic, but it typically takes around 45 minutes to over an hour to reach from Midtown Manhattan by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is generally open on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours and any seasonal changes.
Admission fees are typically $15 for adults and $13 for seniors. Children's pricing may vary. Guided tours are often included with admission.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events or during peak times, is recommended to secure your spot. Check the museum's website for ticketing options.
Yes, guided tours are a highlight and are usually offered on the hour during operating hours. They provide in-depth historical context and are included with admission.
The grounds and gardens are often free to explore, offering a beautiful space to wander. However, to see the interior of the mansion, an admission ticket is required.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the historic 1830s mansion with its period furnishings, the unique coral-shaped staircase, and the restored gardens. The estate also includes a carriage house and stable.
While the historical content might be more engaging for older children and adults, the beautiful gardens and occasional events like Easter egg hunts can be fun for younger visitors.
The mansion was built in the 1830s and has a rich history tied to the Bartow and Pell families, reflecting the lives of both the owners and their servants.
Yes, the museum hosts various events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, historical reenactments, and community gatherings. Check their website for an events calendar.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds and mansion. Dress in layers, as temperatures inside the mansion, particularly on the third floor, can vary significantly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities or restaurants on-site at the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum.
It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are no food services available. Enjoying a picnic in the park surrounding the mansion is a great option.
The nearest dining options would be located outside of Pelham Bay Park, requiring a drive. It's best to plan to eat before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. It's best to confirm with staff upon arrival.
The coral-shaped staircase inside the mansion is a popular photo spot. The beautifully landscaped gardens, with their statues and floral displays, also offer picturesque backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted in park areas and historical sites to ensure safety and preserve the environment. Check park regulations before flying a drone.
Commercial photography and videography usually require special permits and advance arrangements. Contact the museum directly for commercial inquiries.
Visitors often capture the mansion's architecture, the intricate details of the interior, and the serene beauty of the gardens. Engagement photos and romantic shoots are also common.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond the main mansion, the carriage house and stable offer further insights into the estate's functionality. These structures reveal the practical aspects of maintaining a large property in the 19th century, from housing horses to storing carriages. Exploring these areas provides a more complete understanding of the estate's operational history and the daily lives of those who lived and worked there.
The museum also acknowledges its location on the ancestral lands of the Lenape people, adding another layer of historical context. This recognition is crucial for understanding the long and complex history of the land before European settlement.
Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
Beyond the formal gardens, the estate is situated within Pelham Bay Park, the largest park in New York City. This provides opportunities for extended exploration, with hiking trails and natural landscapes accessible from the mansion grounds. Visitors can combine a historical tour with an outdoor adventure, making for a full day of exploration.
Weekends are particularly recommended for exploring the grounds, as this is when additional areas like the stable are often open to the public. This allows for a more comprehensive experience of the entire estate.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips
Once you arrive, be aware that amenities are limited. There are no on-site food services, so it's wise to pack snacks and drinks. This encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the historical and natural surroundings without the distraction of nearby conveniences.
Inside the mansion, be prepared for temperature variations, especially on the third floor, which can be significantly hotter in summer or colder in winter.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit