The commanding east portico of the mansion designed by Stanford White.
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Staatsburg New York

4.8
·242 reviews·Staatsburg, United States

Step into the opulent Gilded Age at Mills Mansion, a stunning 65-room estate overlooking the Hudson River, filled with original artifacts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Scenic grounds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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The commanding east portico of the mansion designed by Stanford White.

Staatsburg New York

Best Time

Fall mornings

Scenic grounds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the opulent Gilded Age at Mills Mansion, a stunning 65-room estate overlooking the Hudson River, filled with original artifacts.

4.8
(242 reviews)

"Shockingly beautiful, rivaling many European houses, and truly an American gem."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tours Ahead

Limited showings mean tours fill up fast! Reserve your spot online to guarantee entry.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking inside and potentially on the grounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Staircase

Grand Staircase

Main Hall

A breathtaking, sweeping staircase that immediately immerses you in Gilded Age opulence.

Dining Room

Dining Room

First Floor

Experience the lavish setting where the wealthy Mills family entertained guests in style.

Historic Furnishings

Historic Furnishings

Throughout the Mansion

Marvel at original artifacts, including ancient Greek vases and furniture owned by royalty.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Mills Mansion offers limited showings in small groups. Booking your guided tour in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

Exterior Restoration in Progress

While the interior of Mills Mansion is stunning, the exterior and grounds are undergoing restoration. Manage expectations for the outside appearance, but focus on the incredible Gilded Age interiors. Reddit

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Scenic grounds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, events possible
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Mills Mansion, Staatsburg, New York, USA (1536 x 842) [OC]

🎯 Book Guided Tours Ahead

Limited showings mean tours fill up fast! Reserve your spot online to guarantee entry. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking inside and potentially on the grounds. Reddit

📸 Photography Etiquette

Check current rules; sometimes interior photos are restricted. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least a half-day to enjoy the mansion tour and grounds. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tours Ahead

Limited showings mean tours fill up fast! Reserve your spot online to guarantee entry. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking inside and potentially on the grounds. Reddit

📸 Photography Etiquette

Check current rules; sometimes interior photos are restricted. Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least a half-day to enjoy the mansion tour and grounds. Reddit

🌟 Ask Your Guide Questions

Guides are passionate and knowledgeable; they enhance the experience! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(242 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty and historical richness of Mills Mansion's interiors, with many highlighting the knowledgeable and passionate guides who bring the Gilded Age to life. The collection of original artifacts is a major draw. Some guests note that the exterior and grounds are still undergoing restoration, which slightly impacts the overall visual appeal, but the interior experience is overwhelmingly positive and highly recommended for a half-day trip. Reddit

"Today’s Gilded Age adventure took us to Staatsburg.

Along the Hudson in Staatsburg, New York, Mills Mansion tells a story that spans centuries. On land originally granted to the Livingston family by King Charles II, Governor Morgan Lewis built his home in 1792 and later welcomed the Marquis de Lafayette to dine beneath its roof. After fire and rebuilding, the estate passed to Ruth Livingston and Ogden Mills, who in 1895 transformed it into a breathtaking palace of sixty five rooms.

In 1938, their daughter Gladys Mills Phipps gifted the house, complete with every original furnishing, incliding 3000 year old greek vases and a desk ownwd by Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette to New York State. Today, stepping inside feels like slipping back into another world.

This is one of the most impressive homes I have ever seen. Entering the dining room and the sweeping main staircase literally took my breath away. It is shockingly beautiful, rivaling many European houses, and truly an American gem.

The exterior tells another story. As New York’s largest surviving Gilded Age mansion, it is in need of care and funding to preserve its grandeur for future generations.

I’d also like to extend my thanks to our guide, Joe (if I remember his name right). He was wonderful, so knowledgeable, and his genuine passion for the stories he shared made the entire experience even more special.

The only reason I didn’t give a full five stars is because the grounds and exterior are still a work in progress. I sincerely hope they receive the proper funding and attention they deserve to restore this beauty to her original grandeur."

David Thomas Garren

"Beautiful house on the Hudson with walking trails. The tour and trails are definitely worth a half day trip! Magnificent, Gilded Age Mills Mansion set in the hamlet of Stattsburg, town of Hyde Park, steeped with personal artifacts of the time period, ahead of it's own time in up and coming technology."

Becky Gambill

"It was very nice and beautiful! The guide was very informative and humorous. Unfortunately, for us, the weather was so hot that we were not able to see all of the mansion."

Paula Sturge

What People Like

Stunning interior decor
Knowledgeable guides
Historic artifacts

What People Dislike

Exterior restoration needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mills Mansion is located within Mills-Norrie State Park in Staatsburg, NY. It's accessible by car via Route 9. Parking is available on-site. For those using public transport, Amtrak stops at the Poughkeepsie station, which is a short taxi or rideshare away. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at Mills-Norrie State Park, near the mansion entrance. Reddit

While possible, it's more challenging. You can take Amtrak to Poughkeepsie and then arrange for a taxi or rideshare to Staatsburg. Reddit

From the south, take the Taconic State Parkway North to Route 55 West, then Route 9 North. From the north, take the Taconic State Parkway South to Route 199 West, then Route 9 South. Follow signs for Mills-Norrie State Park. Reddit

The mansion staff are very accommodating. While some areas might have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the building, they will do their best to ensure everyone has a positive experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees are typically charged for guided tours of the mansion. Check the official Staatsburgh State Historic Site website for current pricing and any potential park entrance fees. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to book guided tour tickets in advance, as showings are in small groups and can sell out. Reddit

Operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Staatsburgh State Historic Site website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and days of operation. Reddit

Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is usually available on the official website. It's worth checking for any special offers. Reddit

Yes, the grounds of Mills-Norrie State Park are generally accessible for exploration, offering beautiful views of the Hudson River. However, access to the mansion interior requires a guided tour. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find 65 rooms filled with original Gilded Age furnishings, art, and personal artifacts belonging to the Mills family, including ancient Greek vases and furniture owned by European royalty. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are the primary way to experience the interior of Mills Mansion. The guides are known for being knowledgeable and passionate. Reddit

Originally built in the 1790s, the estate was transformed into a grand Gilded Age mansion in the 1890s by Ogden and Ruth Livingston Mills. It was later gifted to New York State. Reddit

Photography policies can change. It's best to confirm with the site staff upon arrival or check their website for current restrictions on interior photography. Reddit

Besides touring the mansion, the park offers walking trails along the Hudson River, picnic areas, and opportunities for enjoying the natural scenery. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no dining facilities directly within Mills Mansion. Visitors may find picnic areas in Mills-Norrie State Park. Nearby towns like Hyde Park offer various dining options. Reddit

You can usually bring food for a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas of Mills-Norrie State Park. Check park regulations for specifics. Reddit

The hamlet of Staatsburg has limited dining. Nearby Hyde Park and Rhinebeck offer a wider range of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining. Reddit

Yes, there is a gift shop located at the end of the tour, offering souvenirs, books, and local items. Reddit

The mansion and its grounds may be available for private events or rentals. Inquire directly with the Staatsburgh State Historic Site for details on event bookings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The sweeping staircase, the grand dining room, and the exterior views of the mansion overlooking the Hudson River are prime photo opportunities. Reddit

Photography rules can vary. Always check with staff on-site or the official website for the most current policy regarding interior photos. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be good for interior shots if allowed. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks and historic sites to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations before flying. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for both wide interior shots and details. A tripod might be helpful for low-light interiors if permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mills Mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into a different era for families. While the mansion itself is a historical treasure, younger visitors might find the extensive grounds of Mills-Norrie State Park more engaging. Encourage them to imagine life in a grand mansion and explore the walking trails. The knowledgeable guides can often tailor their stories to be more engaging for children, so don't hesitate to ask. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited on-site, and consider a picnic in the park for a more relaxed family experience. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and architecture, Mills Mansion is a must-visit. The meticulously preserved interiors, original furnishings, and the stories behind the Gilded Age elite offer a deep dive into a pivotal period of American history. Pay close attention to the architectural details, the craftsmanship, and the historical artifacts, such as the ancient Greek vases and royal furniture. The guided tours are invaluable for gaining in-depth knowledge from passionate docents who bring the mansion's past to life. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Mills Mansion presents a wealth of photographic opportunities. The dramatic sweep of the main staircase, the opulent dining room, and the intricate details throughout the mansion are perfect subjects. If interior photography is permitted, focus on capturing the grandeur and the historical artifacts. The exterior views of the mansion overlooking the Hudson River, especially during golden hour, offer stunning landscape shots. Remember to check photography policies beforehand and be respectful of other visitors and the historic site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Gilded Age Grandeur of Mills Mansion

Mills Mansion, also known as Staatsburgh State Historic Site, is a magnificent testament to the Gilded Age, a period of immense wealth and extravagant living in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This 65-room Beaux-Arts masterpiece, built in the 1890s for Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills, was designed to impress. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time, with opulent furnishings, intricate architectural details, and a palpable sense of history. The mansion showcases the lavish lifestyle of America's wealthiest families during this era, offering a glimpse into their world of art, culture, and social gatherings. Reddit

One of the most striking aspects of Mills Mansion is its preservation. Unlike many Gilded Age estates that have been lost to time or development, Mills Mansion retains much of its original character. The estate was gifted to New York State by the Mills' daughter, Gladys Mills Phipps, in 1938, complete with its original contents. This includes a remarkable collection of artifacts, such as 3,000-year-old Greek vases and furniture once owned by Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The guided tours are essential for understanding the stories behind these treasures and the lives of the people who inhabited this grand home. Reddit

While the interior is a marvel, visitors should be aware that the exterior and grounds are currently undergoing restoration. This means that while the mansion's grandeur is preserved within, the outside may appear to be a work in progress. Despite this, the overall experience remains incredibly rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to explore one of America's most impressive surviving Gilded Age mansions. The scenic location overlooking the Hudson River adds to its charm, making it a worthwhile destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Reddit

Exploring Mills-Norrie State Park

Mills Mansion is nestled within the beautiful Mills-Norrie State Park, a sprawling natural area along the Hudson River. The park offers more than just the historic mansion; it provides visitors with opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley. Miles of walking trails wind through the park, offering picturesque views of the river and the surrounding landscape. These trails are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural setting that complements the grandeur of the mansion. Reddit

Beyond the trails, the park features picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Mills-Norrie State Park a well-rounded destination. Visitors can spend a morning exploring the mansion and an afternoon enjoying the outdoors, creating a memorable day trip. The park's location also makes it a convenient stop for those traveling along the scenic Route 9 corridor in the Hudson Valley. Reddit

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