Lorenzo State Historic Site
Step into the 19th century at Lorenzo, a historic site boasting original furnishings and stunning Cazenovia Lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Lorenzo State Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the 19th century at Lorenzo, a historic site boasting original furnishings and stunning Cazenovia Lake views.
"Everything in the house is original to the people who lived there; a powerful and authentic experience."
🎯 Guided Tours are a Steal
Don't miss the guided tours! At just $5, they offer incredible value and insight from knowledgeable guides.
👟 Explore the Grounds
Beyond the mansion, the 87-acre site boasts beautiful gardens and a unique 'Dark Aisle' of pines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 1807 Federal-Style Mansion
Main Manor House
Step back in time with original art, antiques, and furnishings from over 160 years ago.
Expansive Formal Gardens
Grounds
Meander through stunning formal gardens, a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll.
Cazenovia Lake Views
Front Lawn
Enjoy spectacular, panoramic views of Cazenovia Lake from the picturesque front lawn.
The 'Dark Aisle' of Pines
Grounds
Walk through the atmospheric 'Dark Aisle,' a striking path lined with mature pine trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Embrace the Legacy: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tours are a Steal
Don't miss the guided tours! At just $5, they offer incredible value and insight from knowledgeable guides.
👟 Explore the Grounds
Beyond the mansion, the 87-acre site boasts beautiful gardens and a unique 'Dark Aisle' of pines.
📅 Check Event Calendar
From concerts to driving competitions, Lorenzo hosts diverse events. Plan your visit around them! 
📸 Capture the History
The original furnishings and art offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the unique jewelry pieces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tours are a Steal
Don't miss the guided tours! At just $5, they offer incredible value and insight from knowledgeable guides.
👟 Explore the Grounds
Beyond the mansion, the 87-acre site boasts beautiful gardens and a unique 'Dark Aisle' of pines.
📅 Check Event Calendar
From concerts to driving competitions, Lorenzo hosts diverse events. Plan your visit around them!
📸 Capture the History
The original furnishings and art offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially the unique jewelry pieces.
🤝 Friendly Volunteers
Visitors often praise the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who enhance the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lorenzo State Historic Site for its exceptional preservation of original furnishings and art, offering a powerful and authentic glimpse into 19th-century life. The knowledgeable guides and the beautiful grounds, including gardens and lake views, are frequently highlighted as major draws. While the site is highly recommended, some may find the interior photography restrictions limiting.
"Husband and I got a guided tour( an absolute steal at $5 per person) of the mansion, spent a long time exploring the gardens, the "Dark Aisle" of 150+ yr old pine trees, the horse carriage exhibit and gazing with wonder at the spectacular view of the lake from front lawn.
We love history and tour a lot of historic sites but this place is extraordinary- everything( except 1 piano) in the house is original to the people who lived there. To have such a comprehensive collection of family possessions displayed was very powerful and gave us a real appreciation for the people who called this magnificent place home. Added bonus, and our favorite part of today's visit, was that our tour guide is a descendent of a family who worked there- what an amazing family legacy. Highly recommend that everyone visit here!"
Katherine Ashland
"Very interesting tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable about anything we asked about during the tour. Beautiful old mansion. Great history of the family."
Brenda Marks
"Pretty neat piece of history. We were the only one there for the tour. The woman was very knowledgeable and answered our questions. The Lorenzo property is pretty big with other areas to explore."
K I
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lorenzo State Historic Site is located in Cazenovia, NY. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. For those using GPS, inputting 'Lorenzo State Historic Site' should guide you directly. Public transportation options are limited in this area, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, Lorenzo State Historic Site is a short drive from Syracuse, NY, making it a popular day trip destination for those in the city. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
The site offers convenient parking for visitors. It's generally ample enough to accommodate visitors, especially during non-peak hours.
Absolutely! Lorenzo is nestled in the charming town of Cazenovia, making it easy to combine a visit with exploring the town's shops, restaurants, and other attractions.
Besides the historic site itself, Cazenovia Lake offers beautiful views and recreational opportunities. The town of Cazenovia also has local shops and eateries to explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are very reasonable. Guided tours of the mansion are often highlighted as an 'absolute steal at $5 per person,' offering excellent value for the historical insights provided.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially for guided tours or during special events, is often a good idea to secure your spot and ensure availability. Check their official website or contact them directly for specific event bookings.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change. It's best to check the official Lorenzo State Historic Site website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
While specific discount programs aren't always advertised, the standard admission for guided tours is already very affordable at $5 per person, making it a low-budget friendly option.
Yes, the grounds, including the gardens and lake views, are often accessible for exploration even if you don't opt for the full mansion tour. However, the guided tour is highly recommended for the full historical experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the meticulously preserved 1807 mansion with original furnishings, wander through beautiful formal gardens, enjoy stunning views of Cazenovia Lake, and walk the 'Dark Aisle' of pine trees. The site also hosts various events like concerts and driving competitions.
A typical visit can range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the mansion tour, exploring the grounds, and attending any special events. Many visitors spend a good amount of time enjoying the gardens and lake views.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the grounds and gardens. The mansion tour offers historical insights, and the site sometimes hosts family-friendly events or activities like scavenger hunts.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors at the site. It's always a good idea to confirm their availability when you visit, especially if you plan on spending an extended period exploring the grounds.
Lorenzo hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, garden events, horse and carriage competitions, holiday celebrations like 'Christmas at Lorenzo,' and even public programs like story times.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some historic sites restrict interior photography to protect artifacts, others allow it without flash. It's best to check with your tour guide or signage upon arrival for specific rules regarding interior photography.
The formal gardens, the 'Dark Aisle' of pines, the exterior of the Federal-style mansion, and the panoramic views of Cazenovia Lake from the front lawn are all highly photogenic. The interior, if photography is permitted, offers stunning details of original furnishings.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. It's advisable to check the site's specific drone policy before flying one in the vicinity.
Commercial photography or videography usually requires special permission. If you plan to use images or footage for commercial purposes, contact the site administration in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – often provide the most beautiful, soft light for exterior photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade of the 'Dark Aisle' can offer good opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Look out for family-friendly events like scavenger hunts or story times, which are often organized to engage younger visitors. The picturesque setting also makes it a pleasant spot for a picnic. Consider focusing on the outdoor elements if your children have shorter attention spans for indoor historical tours.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the tour, exploring the extensive grounds, gardens, and enjoying the lake views is free, providing hours of enjoyment without additional expense. The site's location in Cazenovia also allows for combining a visit with other low-cost activities in the charming town.
❤️ Couples & History Buffs
Wandering through the beautiful formal gardens, enjoying the serene 'Dark Aisle,' and taking in the stunning Cazenovia Lake views create a picturesque and memorable outing. The knowledgeable guides, some with personal family connections to the site, add an intimate layer to the historical narrative, making for a truly special visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of the Linklaen Family
Visitors often express awe at the comprehensive collection of family possessions, including original art, antiques, and furnishings, which have been carefully maintained for over 160 years. This dedication to preservation allows for a deeply immersive historical experience, where one can truly appreciate the daily lives, tastes, and social standing of the Linklaen family. The presence of these original items provides a tangible connection to the past, making the history feel alive and personal for those who visit.
Adding another layer to this rich history are the personal stories shared by guides, some of whom are descendants of families who worked at Lorenzo. These narratives enrich the visitor experience, providing intimate details and family legacies that go beyond the documented history. This blend of architectural preservation, original artifacts, and personal storytelling makes Lorenzo State Historic Site a truly unique and compelling destination for history enthusiasts.
Exploring the Expansive Grounds and Natural Beauty
A particularly striking feature of the grounds is the 'Dark Aisle,' a pathway enveloped by mature pine trees. This creates a unique, almost atmospheric experience as visitors walk through the shaded, serene environment. The contrast between the manicured gardens and the natural, wooded areas provides a diverse landscape to explore.
Furthermore, the site boasts spectacular views of Cazenovia Lake, particularly from the front lawn of the mansion. This scenic vantage point allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and understand why this location was chosen for such a prominent estate. The combination of historical architecture and picturesque natural surroundings makes Lorenzo a well-rounded destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.
Lorenzo's Vibrant Event Calendar
Notable events include concerts, garden gatherings, and impressive horse and carriage competitions, such as the Lorenzo Driving Competition. These equestrian events showcase classic disciplines and the versatility of horses, drawing enthusiasts and participants alike. The site also embraces holiday traditions, with events like the 50th Annual 'Christmas at Lorenzo' offering a festive and decorated experience, often with unique themes tied to past celebrations.
+1Lorenzo also collaborates with local organizations, such as the Cazenovia Public Library, for special programs like outdoor story times. Even astronomical events, like a solar eclipse viewing party, have been hosted on its grounds. This active event schedule ensures that Lorenzo State Historic Site remains a relevant and exciting destination, offering unique experiences beyond its historical tours.
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