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The Casements

4.6
·495 reviews·Ormond Beach, United States

Historic Rockefeller mansion on the Halifax River, now a cultural center showcasing art and community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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The Casements - If you use our image, it would be so nice if you credited our website www.shopcatalog.com!

The Casements

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Rockefeller mansion on the Halifax River, now a cultural center showcasing art and community events.

4.6
(495 reviews)

"A refreshing view of history in the areas, still very impressive with the times opulence."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Docents offer incredible insights and stories! Donations are appreciated.

🚗 Free Parking Available

Utilize the free lot next door or find street parking nearby.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

John D. Rockefeller's Winter Home

John D. Rockefeller's Winter Home

Main Mansion

Step back in time in the opulent winter residence of America's richest man, John D. Rockefeller.

Riverside Views

Riverside Views

Grounds overlooking Halifax River

Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Halifax River from the beautifully maintained grounds.

Rotating Art Exhibits

Rotating Art Exhibits

Art Gallery

Discover local and regional artistic talent through ever-changing exhibitions.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

To avoid crowds and fully appreciate the historic charm of The Casements, consider visiting during weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and special events can draw larger groups, so plan accordingly if you prefer a more intimate experience. Check the official schedule for events like 'Art in the Park' or holiday decorations, as these are popular draws.

Understanding Tours and Access

While the grounds are generally accessible, guided tours offer the most in-depth experience of the mansion's history and Rockefeller's life. Tours are typically free, but donations are highly encouraged and support the preservation efforts. Docents are knowledgeable and share fascinating stories, making the visit more engaging than using an app alone.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Festive atmosphere, unique activities
Crowd
High
When
Early November
Why
Pleasant weather, historical exhibits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Known as the “Jewel of Ormond Beach” The Casements was the winter home to the late John D. Rockefeller #lovedaytonabeach #thecasements #ormond
@kayscapart
43 likes • 1.9K views

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Docents offer incredible insights and stories! Donations are appreciated. InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Utilize the free lot next door or find street parking nearby. Reddit

The Casements is a mansion in Ormond Beach, Florida, U.S., famous for being the winter residence of American oil magnate John D. Rockefeller. It is currently owned by the city of Ormond Beach and is used as a cultural center and park. It is located on a barrier island within the city limits, overlooking the Halifax River, which is now part of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway. #ormondbeach
@leliamarlaine
340 likes • 2.9K views
Join us behind the scenes at @thecasements as the halls come alive with twinkling lights, garlands, and the merry touch of the season. The Casements Guild and Staff have been very busy this week transforming this historic home into a winter wonderland for the holiday season! 🛷 ❄️ 🎁 The excitement doesn’t end there! ✨🎉 SAVE THE DATE! This weekend is the 45th annual Casements Christmas Gala, a daz...
ormondparksandrec
26 likes • 733 views

✨ Check Event Schedule

From art shows to holiday decor, events add extra magic. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

The architecture and river views are perfect for photos. TikTok

Art in the Park 🦋 RECAP May 4 & 5, 2024 at The Casements, Ormond Beach So many incredible and inspiring Florida artists at Art in the Park this weekend! Great connections and rich conversations! There is space for every artist in this world 🤍🗺️🌎 artists in order of appearance: @carolineherb - @risingtideartstudio, live illustration food trucks in front of @thecasements @woodturner_david - Best ...
risingtideartstudio
17 likes • 675 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Docents offer incredible insights and stories! Donations are appreciated. InstagramReddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Utilize the free lot next door or find street parking nearby. Reddit

✨ Check Event Schedule

From art shows to holiday decor, events add extra magic. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

The architecture and river views are perfect for photos. TikTok

💖 Support Preservation

Consider a donation or purchase from the gift shop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(495 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Casements for its historical significance as John D. Rockefeller's former winter home and its beautiful riverside location. The knowledgeable docents and the rotating art exhibits are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. While the tours are free, donations are appreciated and support the preservation of this Ormond Beach gem.

"A visit to Ormond Beach just would not be right without a visit to the Casements. Our group of four were in the area and we convinced them it is a must see. My wife and I had been there about ten years earlier and really enjoyed it. So on a beautiful early November day we made a visit.

Still very impressive with the times opulence, it was a refreshing view of history in the areas. Rooms, offices, kitchen, library, etc. One remodeled large room had pictures from the early days of racing on the beach.

Paintings, sculptures, desks, an elegant coffee server. It was all very fascinating to see. Also pictures of a disastrous fire that occurred there, and has been fully restored. The tour takes about 30-35 minutes, depending on how many questions you might have. The docent was very well versed on all the aspects of the home and the history. Hard to imagine being the richest man in America and being able to live in this fine house in the Winter.

After the tour, I made a donation to the Historical Society thar do the excellent tours. And my wife made a separate donation by purchasing a necklace from the gift shop."

L Sipe

"A very pleasant & knowlegeable team welcomed us in just an hour before closing and helped us make the most of our short visit to this JD Rockefeller mansion preserved by the City of Ormand Beach."

David Forthuber

"I was surprised to see the number of ongoing classes & events held here as well as a lovely art gallery that has rotating exhibits. You can use an app to tour the house but I highly recommend touring with one of the docents. I did a Saturday tour with Jade and it was terrific -- she was very knowledgeable, had many stories to tell, and was always open to questions. A great look at another time period in Ormand Beach."

Judy Grillo

What People Like

Historic Rockefeller mansion
Knowledgeable docents
Riverside views

What People Dislike

Limited access to upper floors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Casements is located at 25 Riverside Drive, Ormond Beach, FL 32176. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors mention free parking is available in a lot next door or on the street. Reddit

While specific public transport routes might vary, the most common advice points to driving. If relying on public transport, check local Volusia County transit schedules for routes serving the Ormond Beach area. TikTok

Driving is generally recommended for exploring Ormond Beach and reaching The Casements. The location on the Halifax River is a key landmark. TikTokReddit

Yes, Ormond Beach offers other attractions like beaches and parks. Some visitors suggest driving north on the coast for more exploration. Reddit

Yes, its prominent location on the Halifax River makes it a recognizable landmark in Ormond Beach. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds is generally free. Guided tours of the mansion are also free, though donations to the Historical Society are highly encouraged to support preservation efforts. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for tours and special events. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on tour times and opening hours. Reddit

You can explore the grounds freely. However, a guided tour is highly recommended to fully experience the history and see the interior of the mansion. InstagramReddit

Some special events, like holiday celebrations or community nights, may be free, while others might have a nominal fee or require registration. Always check the event details in advance. Instagram+1

Yes, The Casements is a popular venue for events and weddings. Inquiries for booking should be directed to their event management team. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can tour the historic Rockefeller mansion, admire rotating art exhibits, enjoy the riverfront grounds, and attend various community events. TikTokInstagramReddit

A guided tour usually takes about 30-35 minutes, but can be longer depending on your engagement and questions for the docent. Reddit

Yes, the grounds are generally accessible for walking and enjoying the river views. TikTok

The Casements features rotating exhibits showcasing local and regional artists, including photography and paintings. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The mansion is filled with historical items, furniture, paintings, and photographs that offer a glimpse into Rockefeller's life and Ormond Beach's past. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Casements itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, food trucks are often present during special events like 'Art in the Park'. Instagram

Picnicking on the grounds might be permissible, but it's best to check their specific policies. Many visitors enjoy the nearby dining options in Ormond Beach. Reddit

Ormond Beach offers a variety of dining establishments, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants, located just a short drive from The Casements. TikTok

Typically, there are no permanent cafes or snack bars within The Casements, but keep an eye out for vendors during events. Instagram

Yes, if you are booking a private event or wedding, catering services can usually be arranged. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The riverfront views, the mansion's architecture, and the art exhibits offer excellent photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed inside, but it's always a good idea to confirm with your tour guide or staff, especially regarding flash usage. Reddit

While generally permitted, be mindful of other visitors and any specific exhibit rules. Professional photography sessions might require prior arrangement. Instagram

Exhibits often feature local photographers, including past showcases like the Young Adult Photography Exhibit in memory of David Pizzo. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Casements offers a blend of history and fun for families. While the mansion tour provides an educational glimpse into the past, the spacious grounds are perfect for kids to explore. TikTok Many community events held here, like 'National Night Out' or holiday celebrations, are specifically designed for families, featuring activities like face painting, balloon animals, and trunk-or-treating. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on their event schedule for kid-friendly happenings. The riverfront location also offers a pleasant backdrop for a family outing.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, The Casements is a must-visit. The venue regularly hosts 'Art in the Park' events, showcasing a diverse range of local Florida artists. TikTokInstagram You can also explore the rotating exhibits in the on-site art gallery, which often feature paintings, sculptures, and photography. Instagram The 'Ormond Art Walk' is another event that highlights local talent, making The Casements a central point for appreciating the region's art scene.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will be captivated by The Casements' connection to John D. Rockefeller. The guided tours offer in-depth narratives about his life and the mansion's past, complete with historical artifacts and period decor. InstagramReddit Learning about the Rockefeller era and the history of Ormond Beach through the docents' stories is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rockefeller Legacy at The Casements

The Casements, once known as the 'Jewel of Ormond Beach,' holds a significant place in history as the winter residence of oil magnate John D. Rockefeller. He purchased the mansion in 1918 and spent his winters here, enjoying the Florida sunshine and the tranquil setting along the Halifax River. TikTok+1 The home reflects the opulence and grandeur of the era, offering visitors a tangible connection to one of America's most influential industrialists. Docents often share fascinating anecdotes about Rockefeller's life and his time in Ormond Beach, making the tour a captivating journey into the past. Reddit

During your visit, you'll explore various rooms that have been preserved or meticulously restored, showcasing period furnishings, artwork, and personal effects. The tour provides insights into the daily life of a wealthy magnate, from the functional aspects of the estate to the luxurious living spaces. The historical society plays a crucial role in maintaining this legacy, ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate the history embedded within these walls. Reddit A donation is customary after the tour, directly contributing to the upkeep of this historic landmark.

A Hub for Arts and Community Events

Beyond its historical significance, The Casements has evolved into a vibrant cultural center for Ormond Beach. The mansion and its grounds frequently host a variety of events, transforming the space into a dynamic community hub. Visitors can often stumble upon 'Art in the Park' events, showcasing local artists and their creations, or enjoy seasonal festivities like holiday decorations that turn the mansion into a winter wonderland. TikTokInstagram+1

The art gallery within The Casements features rotating exhibits, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists from the region. These displays range from paintings and sculptures to photography, offering a diverse artistic experience. Instagram The venue also hosts community gatherings, such as National Night Out or outdoor movie screenings, fostering a sense of local engagement and providing family-friendly entertainment. Instagram+1 Checking the event calendar is highly recommended to catch these special occasions and experience The Casements in its full community-oriented glory.

Exploring the Grounds and Riverside Charm

The picturesque setting of The Casements on the banks of the Halifax River adds another layer to its appeal. The meticulously maintained grounds offer a serene escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or simply enjoying the waterfront ambiance. Visitors can take in the scenic views, watch boats pass by, and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. TikTokReddit

These outdoor spaces are often utilized for events, providing a beautiful backdrop for art festivals, community gatherings, and even weddings. Instagram+1 The combination of historical architecture and the tranquil riverfront makes The Casements a delightful place to explore, offering both a glimpse into the past and a pleasant natural environment to enjoy. Free parking adjacent to the property makes it convenient for visitors to access and spend time soaking in the surroundings. Reddit

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