Willard House & Clock Museum
Step back in time at the Willard House & Clock Museum, home to exquisite antique timepieces and a preserved colonial dwelling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Willard House & Clock Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Willard House & Clock Museum, home to exquisite antique timepieces and a preserved colonial dwelling.
"A travel back in time, in the origins of watches, as the basis of Willard life."
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are first-come, first-served. Arrive early to secure your spot and learn from passionate guides! 🎟️
Engage with Guides
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the Willard legacy! :speech_balloon:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 63 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Simon Willard Roxbury Tall Case Clock
Clock Collection
Marvel at this world-famous 1793 masterpiece, a testament to Simon Willard's unparalleled craftsmanship.
Willard Family Home
Historic House
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved colonial house, showcasing period antiques and the family's way of life.
The Workshop
Museum Exhibit
See how these incredible timepieces were made, with a glimpse into the tools and techniques of the era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Clock Enthusiasts
Engage with History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Places to bring antique clock to repair
I have a 1930s (estimated), art deco clock that is in fine working order, but I have never gotten it serviced. Some of the places I called aren't taking orders. Does anyone here have any suggestions for me?
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are first-come, first-served. Arrive early to secure your spot and learn from passionate guides! 🎟️
Engage with Guides
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the Willard legacy! :speech_balloon:
Kid-Friendly Activities
Children can enjoy making old-school toys, like a ball-in-a-cup, adding a fun interactive element. :child:
Explore the Home
Beyond the clocks, the house itself is a treasure trove of colonial life and antiques. :housewithgarden:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are first-come, first-served. Arrive early to secure your spot and learn from passionate guides! 🎟️
Engage with Guides
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Ask questions to deepen your understanding of the Willard legacy! :speech_balloon:
Kid-Friendly Activities
Children can enjoy making old-school toys, like a ball-in-a-cup, adding a fun interactive element. :child:
Explore the Home
Beyond the clocks, the house itself is a treasure trove of colonial life and antiques. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Willard House & Clock Museum for its beautiful historic property and the stunning collection of antique clocks. The knowledgeable and personable guides are frequently highlighted for making the tours engaging and informative, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Willard family's life and legacy. While the museum is a hit for its historical charm and educational value, some may find the tour pace dependent on group questions.
"Beautiful property. We learned a lot about the Willard family. You see a great collections of their clocks and they way of living back in the day. I found very interesting the way they would warm up their sheets in the winter time. At the end of the tour they all the kids make a old school toy(ball in the cup). The kids had a great time playing with that. This place also affects stargazing. Will deff be back."
Virginia Norford
"My husband and I went out there this past weekend (June 2019) and it was such an interesting museum and I really can't wait to return with some other family members I know will enjoy it as much as we did. It is a gorgeous home to see on it's own but the clocks will take your breath away. Such beautiful time pieces that really piqued my interest. It was neat to be able to see the "workshop" as well, how the tools operate, etc. . Really just a wonderful experience. Out tour guide was absolutely fantastic, personable, knowledgeable, and fascinating to listen to. I will definitely return and am looking forward to our next visit!"
Jennifer Weaver
"Very interesting. The Old Colonial house had a great atmosphere and was tastefully decorated with period antiques. The Clock collection was amazing and our tour guide was so nice and very knowledgeable."
Raphael Coughlan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Willard House & Clock Museum is located in Grafton, Massachusetts. While specific public transport options might be limited, driving is the most common way to reach it. Check local listings for any regional bus services that may stop nearby. 🚗
Yes, typically there is parking available for visitors at the Willard House & Clock Museum. It's always a good idea to confirm directly with the museum if you have specific concerns about parking availability. 🅿️
Major highways like I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike) and I-495 are common routes to reach the Grafton area. Use a GPS navigation app for real-time traffic updates and the most efficient route. :road:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Willard House & Clock Museum website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times. 🕐
Admission fees typically apply for guided tours. Check the museum's website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts for seniors, students, or children. :moneybag:
Guided tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. While advance booking might not be required, arriving early is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. 📅
The museum may host special events or have occasional closures for holidays or maintenance. It's advisable to check their website or social media for any announcements before your visit. 🔔
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Guided tours usually last approximately an hour, but can extend longer depending on visitor questions. The guides are known for being patient and engaging. :timer:
You'll see a remarkable collection of Willard clocks, the historic Willard family home furnished with period antiques, and learn about the family's significant contributions to clockmaking. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Yes, the museum is considered excellent for both adults and young people. Children often enjoy making old-school toys like the ball-in-a-cup during their visit. :child:
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with your tour guide or museum staff upon arrival regarding whether photography is permitted, especially without flash. :camerawithflash:
As an historic house, accessibility might be limited in certain areas. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations. ♿
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a restaurant or cafe. Visitors usually bring their own snacks or plan to dine in nearby towns like Grafton. 🍴
Grafton and surrounding towns offer various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. Research local eateries for a meal before or after your visit. 🍽️
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic house and the intricate details of the Willard clocks are prime photo opportunities. Capture the charm of the colonial architecture and the craftsmanship of the timepieces. 📷
Generally, flash photography is discouraged or prohibited inside historic house museums to protect delicate artifacts and furnishings. Always confirm with staff. :no_flash:
You can likely photograph this iconic clock, but always be mindful of museum policies regarding photography, especially if it's a central display. 🎨
Social
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