Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Step back in time at the Riordan Mansion, a stunning 1904 Arts and Crafts masterpiece showcasing Flagstaff's rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Riordan Mansion, a stunning 1904 Arts and Crafts masterpiece showcasing Flagstaff's rich history.
"A fascinating stop, loved the history and the beautiful architecture!"
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Tours are essential for interior access and often sell out. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Explore the Grounds
The exterior and grounds are beautiful and offer great photo ops. Bring a picnic! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arts and Crafts Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning log-slab siding, volcanic stone arches, and hand-split shingles of this architectural gem.
The 'Fancy Duplex' Layout
Interior
Explore the unique design of two homes joined by a central lounge, offering a glimpse into communal living.
Riordan Family History
Throughout the Mansion
Learn about the influential Riordan family and their pivotal role in shaping Flagstaff's logging industry and development.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand the 'Duplex' Concept
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Tours are essential for interior access and often sell out. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Explore the Grounds
The exterior and grounds are beautiful and offer great photo ops. Bring a picnic! :camerawithflash:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the mansion and grounds, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Special Events
The mansion hosts events like haunted tours and celebrations. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours Ahead
Tours are essential for interior access and often sell out. Book online to secure your spot! :ticket:
Explore the Grounds
The exterior and grounds are beautiful and offer great photo ops. Bring a picnic! :camerawithflash:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around the mansion and grounds, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Special Events
The mansion hosts events like haunted tours and celebrations. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Visitor Center AC
Some visitors noted the visitor center could use better air conditioning. Be prepared for warmer temps inside. :thermometer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Riordan Mansion for its beautiful Arts and Crafts architecture and the rich history of the Riordan family's influence on Flagstaff. The guided tours are highlighted as particularly informative and engaging, offering a deep dive into early 20th-century life. While the interior is a highlight, some note the visitor center could benefit from better air conditioning.
"Very unique Arts & Crafts style mansion built with two separate living areas joined by common space. Our guide on 9/9/2025 (I forgot his name, sorry) was a wealth of knowledge regarding the mansion and family. A must see if you enjoy historical homes."
Renee Hansen
"A Fascinating Stop on Our Girls’ Weekend – Loved the History!
We visited the Riordan Mansion during a girls’ weekend getaway to Flagstaff, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. The home itself is beautiful and so well preserved, but what really made it special was the deep history connected to the Riordan family and Flagstaff itself.
The tour was full of interesting stories – from the family’s role in the logging industry to how they helped bring electricity to Arizona. It was eye-opening to learn how many major parts of Flagstaff’s development are tied back to this one family. If you enjoy history, vintage architecture, or just want to learn more about Arizona’s roots, this is such a worthwhile stop.
The mansion is beautifully maintained, and the staff was friendly, welcoming, and very knowledgeable. Whether you're with friends, family, or exploring solo, I highly recommend visiting. It’s a quiet, enriching experience that gives you a new appreciation for Northern Arizona’s past."
Shannon
"For anyone that loves house tours & history- definitely put this on your list! Highlight of our trip for me. I did the guided tour, self-guided tour & Jr Ranger packet & learned different things from each one. Such cool history in a calm and beautiful place.
Note to facilitators- please add better AC in the visitors center!"
Kelsey Backus
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is located in Flagstaff, Arizona. It's easily accessible by car and is often visited as part of a day trip from nearby areas. Parking is available on-site.
Yes, it's conveniently located near other Flagstaff attractions like Sunset Crater National Monument and Wupatki National Monument, making it easy to combine into a day of exploration.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's possible depending on your starting point. It's also close to Northern Arizona University (NAU), making it accessible for students.
From downtown Flagstaff, head north on Milton Road, then turn east onto Riordan Road. The park entrance will be on your left. GPS is recommended for precise navigation.
Information on public transportation options can be found on the official Arizona State Parks website or by contacting local Flagstaff transit services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park entrance fees are typically low, around $2 for grounds access. Guided interior tours have a separate fee, often around $18 for adults and $12 for children. Check the official website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book guided tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or weekends.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Riordan Mansion State Historic Park website for the most up-to-date information on park hours and tour schedules.
You can explore the grounds and exterior of the mansion without a tour. However, to see the interior and learn about its history, a guided tour is required.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as children, seniors, or students. It's advisable to inquire directly with the park or check their website for any applicable discount information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour of the beautifully preserved 1904 mansion, learn about the Riordan family's impact on Flagstaff, and explore the surrounding grounds.,
Photography inside the mansion is generally not permitted to preserve the historic artifacts. However, you can take photos of the exterior and grounds.
Yes, children can enjoy the mansion tour, especially learning about the family history. The grounds also offer space to explore. Consider the Jr. Ranger packet for kids. [^Review]
A guided tour usually lasts about an hour. If you also explore the grounds and visitor center, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities can be found on the official Riordan Mansion State Historic Park website or by contacting the park directly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the mansion itself. However, the park grounds offer picnic areas, so you can bring your own lunch.
Flagstaff has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries located a short drive from the mansion. You'll find options to suit any taste and budget.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas on the grounds.
Riordan Mansion can be a venue for events, and some catering services like Phatboyz Taco have been associated with events held there.
Flagstaff offers diverse cuisine, including Southwestern, Mexican, and American comfort food. Many restaurants are located downtown or near NAU.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the mansion, with its unique architecture and surrounding gardens, offers excellent photo opportunities. The grounds provide scenic backdrops.,
No, photography is not allowed inside the mansion to protect the historic artifacts and maintain the integrity of the tour experience.
The main restriction is no interior photography. Otherwise, feel free to capture the exterior beauty and grounds.
Many visitors enjoy architectural photography of the Arts and Crafts style, as well as landscape shots of the gardens and surrounding Ponderosa pines.
Drone usage is typically regulated at state parks. It's best to check the official Arizona State Parks regulations or contact the park directly for drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider getting the Jr. Ranger packet for children, which provides an interactive way for them to learn about the park's history and features. The grounds and picnic areas offer space for kids to move around and enjoy the outdoors. While interior photography isn't allowed, the exterior and gardens provide ample photo opportunities.,
[^Review]🏛️ History Buffs
The guided tours are highly praised for their informative content, detailing not just the family's personal lives but also the broader historical context of the region. You'll learn about how this single family played a significant role in shaping Flagstaff's economy and infrastructure. [^Review]
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The surrounding grounds and gardens also provide beautiful backdrops for landscape and portrait photography. Consider visiting during different times of day to capture varying light conditions. The park's location amidst Ponderosa pines adds to the scenic beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Riordan Mansion
The interior continues this theme with exposed wooden beams, handcrafted details, and a focus on functionality and beauty. The mansion's unique 'fancy duplex' design, housing two separate residences for brothers Timothy and Michael Riordan, is a fascinating aspect of its architecture. This layout provided both privacy and a sense of shared family life, with common areas like the central lounge facilitating interaction between the households.,
Visitors often marvel at the preservation of the original furnishings and decorative elements, which offer a tangible connection to the past. The mansion's design not only showcases the architectural trends of the early 20th century but also tells a story of the Riordan family's prosperity and their significant contribution to the development of Flagstaff. [^Review]
The Riordan Family's Impact on Flagstaff
Beyond their business ventures, the Riordans were influential figures in the community, contributing to civic improvements and the establishment of essential services. Their wealth and vision allowed them to invest in Flagstaff's future, including bringing electricity to the area. The construction of their grand mansion in 1904 was a testament to their success and commitment to the town. [^Review]
Visiting the Riordan Mansion offers a unique opportunity to understand this pivotal period in Flagstaff's history. The guided tours delve into the family's personal lives, their business dealings, and their broader impact on the region, providing context for how Flagstaff evolved from a frontier logging town into the vibrant city it is today. [^Review]
Experiencing Riordan Mansion: Tours and Activities
Beyond the standard tours, the park sometimes offers special events. These can include haunted tours around Halloween, providing a different, more spooky perspective on the mansion's history, or other seasonal celebrations. For younger visitors, a Jr. Ranger packet is often available, offering an interactive way for children to learn about the park and its history.,
[^Review]While interior photography is prohibited, the grounds and exterior of the mansion are perfect for photography and leisurely strolls. Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making for a relaxing and enriching visit.,
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit