The Mount Edith Wharton's Home
Edith Wharton's historic estate, The Mount, offers a stunning blend of Jacobean architecture, formal gardens, and outdoor art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
The Mount Edith Wharton's Home
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edith Wharton's historic estate, The Mount, offers a stunning blend of Jacobean architecture, formal gardens, and outdoor art.
"The grounds are beautiful, with a French gardens and Italian gardens manicured into picturesque perfection."
Free Admission Weekends
Look for Bank of America 'On Us' weekends for free entry to The Mount. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the French and Italian gardens; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edith Wharton's French Flower Garden
The Mount Estate
A meticulously restored garden, a favorite of Edith Wharton, bursting with seasonal blooms and charm.
Outdoor Sculpture Trails
The Mount Estate Grounds
Wander through a captivating exhibition of large-scale sculptures set against the estate's natural beauty.
Jacobean Revival Mansion Tour
The Mount House
Explore the stunning 28,000-square-foot mansion, learning about Edith Wharton's life and the Gilded Age.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Outdoors
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission Weekends
Look for Bank of America 'On Us' weekends for free entry to The Mount. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the French and Italian gardens; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Sculpture Garden Stroll
Enjoy the outdoor art exhibition along the trails; sculptures are often for sale.
Self-Guided Tour Option
Go at your own pace with a self-guided tour, or opt for an informative guided one.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission Weekends
Look for Bank of America 'On Us' weekends for free entry to The Mount. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the French and Italian gardens; they're a highlight for many visitors.
Sculpture Garden Stroll
Enjoy the outdoor art exhibition along the trails; sculptures are often for sale.
Self-Guided Tour Option
Go at your own pace with a self-guided tour, or opt for an informative guided one.
Bookstore & Cafe
Browse the bookshop and enjoy lunch with a view at the Terrace Café.
NightWood Experience
Check for seasonal NightWood events for a unique light and sound show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Mount for its beautiful grounds, meticulously restored gardens, and the fascinating insights offered by house tours into Edith Wharton's life and the Gilded Age. The outdoor sculpture trails are a particular highlight, adding an artistic dimension to the estate. While the admission fee is noted, many find the experience well worth the cost, especially when taking advantage of free admission days or enjoying the cafe and bookshop.
"This was a beautiful detour. We managed to go during a Bank of America 'On Us' weekends so we were exempt from the fee ($23 for adults, I believe).
The grounds are beautiful, with a French gardens and Italian gardens manicured into picturesque perfection. The house is maintained beautifully, the information inside it was clear, and concise, and the rooms maintain a lot of charm.
The sculpture garden in of itself is worth the trip, and we recommend the bookshop."
Laura G
"Beautiful, historical location with great walking trails and gardens. There is a nice bookstore/gift shop and a cafe. The staff on site are very knowledgeable and friendly. We did the self guided tour and that was nice to go at your own pace. There was a great 13 minute video to watch in the stables at the beginning of the tour. There was plenty of material in each room to learn about Edith Wharton and her life there. We heard part of the guided tour and it was so informative and contained lots of details; would recommend that if that is what you like. The grounds were beautiful and there were lots of spectacular views and places to sit and enjoy the surroundings."
Sharon Hartmann
"Fascinating place to learn about an interesting decade in Edith Wharton‘s life. Interesting to hear about the family and a small slice of the Gilded Age history. We had a nice lunch on the outside patio overlooking the gardens. The gardens have been restored and although not my style, two symmetrical for me, it was a fun place to visit."
Dana Little
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount is located in Lenox, Massachusetts. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. For those using public transport, you can take a bus or train to nearby Pittsfield and then a taxi or rideshare to Lenox.
The grounds offer walking trails and gravel roads, which can be uneven. The house itself has multiple levels. It's advisable to contact The Mount directly for specific accessibility information regarding tours and grounds.
There is parking available at The Mount. Visitors can typically park on-site, though specific details or fees might apply during special events.
Yes, The Mount is a feasible day trip from Boston, approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive each way. Consider leaving early to maximize your time exploring the estate.
The Berkshires region offers many attractions, including other historic homes, museums, and natural landscapes. Combining a visit with Naumkeag or exploring Lenox town center is popular.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $23 for adults, but prices can vary. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially for special events.
Yes, The Mount participates in Bank of America's 'On Us' weekends, offering free admission on select dates. Keep an eye on their promotions for other potential discounts.
Admission typically includes access to the grounds, gardens, and a self-guided tour of the mansion. Guided tours may be available at an additional cost or as part of specific packages.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or for special events like NightWood, to secure your spot.
Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check The Mount's official website for their current hours of operation before planning your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can tour Edith Wharton's historic mansion, explore the beautifully restored French and Italian gardens, wander through the outdoor sculpture trails, and visit the bookshop.
Many visitors find the guided tours very informative, offering in-depth details about Edith Wharton's life and the estate. However, a self-guided tour is also a great option if you prefer to explore at your own pace.
The Mount hosts various cultural events, including literary talks, garden tours, and seasonal attractions like NightWood, a light and sound show. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
NightWood is a popular seasonal event featuring a magical sound and light experience throughout the estate's grounds, often including dance performances.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use on the grounds and in designated areas of the house. Professional photography, especially for weddings, requires specific arrangements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Mount has a Terrace Café that offers lunch with views of the gardens. It's a lovely spot to relax after exploring the estate.
Picnicking might be allowed on certain areas of the grounds, but it's best to confirm with The Mount's visitor services. The Terrace Café is a convenient option for meals.
The Terrace Café typically offers light fare, sandwiches, salads, and refreshments, perfect for a midday break during your visit.
Lenox offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, just a short drive from The Mount.
The Mount is a popular venue for weddings and private events, offering a stunning backdrop. Inquiries can be made through their events department.
📸 📸 Photography
The French and Italian gardens, the mansion's exterior, and the sculpture trails offer picturesque backdrops. The sweeping lawns and mature trees also provide beautiful framing.
Personal photography is generally allowed, but commercial photography and videography, including wedding shoots, require prior permission and may incur fees.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic estates to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check The Mount's specific drone policy.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens provide shade.
NightWood events are designed for visual spectacle, offering unique and atmospheric photo opportunities with the light installations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during warmer months when the outdoor sculptures are on display, offering visual interest for younger visitors. The seasonal NightWood event is particularly family-friendly, with its engaging light and sound show creating a magical experience. +1Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds, and be mindful that some garden paths and house interiors may have limited accessibility for strollers. Bringing snacks and drinks is a good idea, though a cafe is available for refreshments.
📚 Book Lovers & Literary Enthusiasts
Don't miss the bookshop, which is likely to have a selection of Wharton's works and related literature.
📸 Photographers & Art Admirers
+1 The Jacobean Revival architecture of the mansion itself presents a grand subject, with its symmetrical facades and elegant details. The rotating outdoor sculpture exhibitions transform the estate's grounds into an open-air gallery, offering unique and contemporary subjects to photograph.
+2 The interplay of art, architecture, and nature creates a visually rich environment. For the best light, aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, though the shaded gardens can also offer excellent conditions midday. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: The Mount
Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms, which offer a glimpse into the Gilded Age and Wharton's personal life. The house tour provides insights into her literary career, her travels, and the social circles she inhabited.
Beyond its architectural significance, The Mount served as a creative sanctuary for Edith Wharton. It was here that she wrote some of her most famous works, including 'The House of Mirth.' The estate's design and atmosphere are intrinsically linked to her literary output, offering a tangible connection to the world she so vividly described in her novels.
Gardens and Grounds: A Landscape Masterpiece
This garden was one of Wharton's personal favorites, and its restoration allows visitors to experience its intended beauty. In addition to the French Garden, The Mount boasts an Italian Garden, offering a different aesthetic with its terraced levels and classical elements.
+1 During the warmer months, the grounds are often adorned with impressive outdoor sculpture exhibitions, transforming the landscape into an open-air gallery. +1 These sculptures, ranging in style and scale, add a contemporary artistic layer to the historic setting, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors. +1Exploring the grounds provides a serene escape and a deeper appreciation for Wharton's holistic approach to her home. The interplay between the manicured gardens, the natural landscape, and the artistic installations offers a multi-sensory experience.
+1 Whether you're a garden enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a peaceful stroll, the outdoor spaces at The Mount are a major draw and a crucial part of understanding the estate's enduring appeal. Edith Wharton: Literary Icon and Estate Designer
Wharton's influence extended beyond literature; she was also a tastemaker in architecture and interior design. She co-authored 'The Decoration of Houses' (1897), a seminal work that advocated for a more refined and functional approach to home design, emphasizing classical principles and order.
The estate's design reflects her belief that a home should be both a sanctuary and a reflection of its owner's intellect and taste. Visiting The Mount offers a unique opportunity to connect with Edith Wharton's multifaceted legacy. It allows visitors to step into the world that inspired her writing and to appreciate her contributions to architecture and design.
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