The commanding east portico of the mansion designed by Stanford White.
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Staatsburgh State Historic Site Mills Mansion

4.8
·216 reviews·Staatsburg, United States

Step into the Gilded Age at Mills Mansion, a grand estate on the Hudson River showcasing opulent interiors and stunning river views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

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

Staatsburgh State Historic Site Mills Mansion

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the Gilded Age at Mills Mansion, a grand estate on the Hudson River showcasing opulent interiors and stunning river views.

4.8
(216 reviews)

"Every corner exuded luxury, adorned with original or meticulously reproduced artifacts, from velvet curtains to oriental rugs."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Reserve Tickets Ahead

Tours can sell out; booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot. :ticket:

🚶 Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the beautiful walking trails down to the Hudson River. Great for dogs too! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Opulent Interiors

The Opulent Interiors

Throughout the Mansion

Marvel at the Gilded Age splendor, from velvet curtains to gilded furniture and original artifacts.

Reddit
Hudson River Views

Hudson River Views

Grounds and Riverfront Trail

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River from the estate's scenic grounds and walking trails.

Reddit
Gilded Age Christmas

Gilded Age Christmas

Mansion Interior

Experience the mansion transformed with festive Gilded Age holiday decorations.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Gilded Age Experience

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly. Don't miss the chance to step back into the opulent Gilded Age. Reddit

Seasonal Closures & Decor

The mansion may close for seasonal decorating, particularly for Gilded Age Christmas events. Always check the official website for current hours and any temporary closures before your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Fall, during foliage
Why
Stunning natural beauty
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season
Why
Magical Gilded Age decor
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Quick tour of Phelps Mansion, on this lovely False Fall day 🍂 🍁 #victorianhouse #historichome #museumtok #Binghamton
@amandapandah79
110 likes • 1K views

🎯 Reserve Tickets Ahead

Tours can sell out; booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot. Reddit :ticket:

🚶 Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the beautiful walking trails down to the Hudson River. Great for dogs too! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Staatsburgh State Historic Site a/k/a Mills Mansion 🏛 @friendsofmills #millsmansion #staatsburghstatehistoricsite #nationalhistoricsite #harleydavidson #ride #newyork #american #historicsite #history #historic #landmark #landmarks #historiclandmarks #historicbuildings #building #buildings #mansion #mansions
mariaproi
7 likes • 227 views
enter the gilded age ⚜️ mills mansion is a gilded age era estate located at staatsburgh state historic site 📍built in 1832, it was home to one of america’s wealthiest families—the mills. originally built as a 25-room greek revival, it was later transformed into a 65-room beaux-arts mansion. today you can visit the palatial home or explore miles of hiking trails along the hudson! house tours...
upstater
108 likes • 3.1K views

🗣️ Engage with Guides

The knowledgeable tour guides bring the mansion's history and residents to life. Reddit+1

📸 Focus on the Details

While photos are allowed, you might get too engrossed in the ornate details to take many! Reddit :camerawithflash:

Living in Newport, I know a thing or two about mansions, and Mills Mansion / Staatsburgh State Historic Site left an impression. Ogden Mills and his wife Ruth summered at Ocean Lawn on Bellevue Avenue in Newport. Staatsburg was their autumnal home.
newportstyle
39 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Reserve Tickets Ahead

Tours can sell out; booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot. Reddit :ticket:

🚶 Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the beautiful walking trails down to the Hudson River. Great for dogs too! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🗣️ Engage with Guides

The knowledgeable tour guides bring the mansion's history and residents to life. Reddit+1

📸 Focus on the Details

While photos are allowed, you might get too engrossed in the ornate details to take many! Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚗 Check Hours Before

Hours can vary seasonally, especially around holidays. Verify online before you go. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(216 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Mills Mansion for its stunning Gilded Age interiors, with many artifacts being original, and its knowledgeable tour guides who bring history to life. The beautiful grounds and Hudson River views are also frequently highlighted as major attractions. Some visitors note that reservations are essential and that the site may have seasonal closures.

"I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a delightful bus tour to Mills Mansion in Staatsburgh, New York, and the experience left an indelible mark on my memory. Mills Mansion, a marvel from the Gilded Age, nestled on the banks of the Hudson River. The opulence of the lady’s pink bedroom, the enchanting boudoir, the grand library, and the majestic dining room were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Every corner exuded luxury, adorned with original or meticulously reproduced artifacts, from velvet curtains to oriental rugs, and gilded furniture to porcelain dinnerware. Our knowledgeable tour guide, Don, brought the mansion to life, sharing captivating anecdotes about its former residents. A visit here is an absolute must, deserving a perfect rating of 5 out of 5."

Luda P

"Truly a gem, excellent tour guide with lots of information. 95% of what you see in the house is original which is rare, usually houses have replicas or items from the period just not owned by the family. Truly worth a visit, views of the Hudson are amazing."

Christine Staab

"Great mansion to tour when your are in the area. I recommend reserving tickets in advance (they turned a group of ppl away from our tour because they did not have reservations). Out tour guide Jarrell was excellent and shared enough knowledge that made the tour fun. It’s fun to see how ‘old money’ lived back in the day. This house is what happens when someone has way too much money! lol the grounds are beautiful and this is well worth the visit!"

Stephen R (เท่ห์)

What People Like

Original artifacts and decor
Knowledgeable tour guides
Beautiful Hudson River views

What People Dislike

Need for advance reservations
Seasonal closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Staatsburgh State Historic Site is accessible by car via Route 9 in Staatsburgh, NY. It's located between the historic towns of Rhinebeck and Hyde Park. Parking is available on-site. Instagram+1

While public transportation options are limited in the immediate area, Amtrak trains stop at nearby Rhinecliff station, which is a short taxi or rideshare away from the site. Instagram

Yes, many visitors make a day trip from NYC. You can drive (approx. 1.5-2 hours) or take an Amtrak train to Rhinecliff and then arrange local transport. Instagram

The grounds offer well-marked walking trails, including a popular path leading down to the Hudson River. Maps are usually available at the visitor center. Reddit

The approach along Route 9 offers scenic views, and the grounds provide ample opportunities for exterior shots of the mansion and river vistas. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees apply for mansion tours. It's best to check the official Staatsburgh State Historic Site website for the most current pricing information. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to reserve your tickets in advance, as tours can fill up and they may turn away visitors without reservations. Reddit+1

Operating hours vary seasonally. The mansion may close for decorating, especially for holiday events. Always check the official website for current hours and dates. Reddit

Typically, exploring the grounds and walking trails is free, but mansion tours require a ticket. Confirm this on their official site. Reddit

During government shutdowns, National Park Service sites may be affected. While Mills Mansion is a NY State Historic Site, it's wise to check for any potential impacts or closures. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find opulent rooms like the lady's pink bedroom, boudoir, grand library, and dining room, many featuring original or reproduced artifacts and furniture. InstagramReddit

Yes, guided tours are provided by knowledgeable staff who share fascinating anecdotes about the Mills family and the Gilded Age. InstagramReddit+1

Photography is generally allowed inside, but some visitors find themselves too captivated by the ornate details to take many pictures. Reddit

The estate boasts beautiful grounds with walking trails, offering scenic views of the Hudson River and opportunities for leisurely strolls. InstagramReddit

Yes, the grounds and walking trails are popular for dog walkers. However, pets are not permitted inside the mansion itself. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly on-site at Mills Mansion. Visitors typically bring their own picnics to enjoy on the grounds or dine in nearby towns like Rhinebeck or Hyde Park. Instagram

Yes, picnicking on the beautiful grounds of Staatsburgh State Historic Site is a popular activity. Enjoy the river views while you eat. Reddit

Nearby Rhinebeck and Hyde Park offer a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, catering to different tastes and budgets. Instagram

Currently, there is no cafe or snack bar available at Staatsburgh State Historic Site. It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks if needed. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy exploring the culinary scene in Rhinebeck, known for its charming eateries, or Hyde Park, home to historic inns and restaurants. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the mansion offers grand architectural shots, while the grounds provide stunning river vistas and garden scenes. Instagram+1

For professional photoshoots, it's best to contact the site administration in advance to inquire about permits and regulations. Instagram

Visitors often capture architectural details, landscape shots of the Hudson River, and interior details during guided tours. InstagramReddit+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Check the site's official policy. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for both exterior and interior shots, enhancing the mansion's grandeur. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Staatsburgh State Historic Site offers a unique educational experience for families. While the mansion tour focuses on Gilded Age history, the expansive grounds provide ample space for children to explore and burn energy. The walking trails, especially those leading to the Hudson River, are great for a family adventure. Instagram+1

Consider checking for any family-specific programming the site might offer, as they have been known to develop creative educational activities. Instagram Bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds can make the visit more relaxed and enjoyable for younger visitors. Remember that pets are welcome on the grounds, which can be an added bonus for families with furry friends. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the Gilded Age, Mills Mansion is a must-visit. The site boasts a remarkable preservation of original or meticulously reproduced artifacts, offering an authentic glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of America's wealthiest families. Reddit+1 The transformation from a Greek Revival home to a Beaux-Arts mansion showcases significant architectural evolution. Instagram+1

Engage deeply with the guided tours, as the guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and captivating storytelling, bringing the history of the Mills family and the era to life. Reddit+1 Pay close attention to the details in each room – from the furniture and decor to the layout – as they all speak volumes about the social and economic context of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Staatsburgh offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, both inside and out. The mansion's Beaux-Arts architecture, intricate interiors, and the stunning Hudson River vistas provide diverse subjects. Instagram+1 Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful shots of the estate. Instagram

While the ornate details inside the mansion are captivating, some visitors find themselves so engrossed in the history and ambiance that they take fewer photos than usual. Reddit However, for those who love capturing architectural details, grand interiors, and scenic landscapes, this site is a dream. Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions, especially for professional shoots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Gilded Age Experience at Mills Mansion

Staatsburgh State Historic Site, also known as Mills Mansion, offers a vivid glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of America's wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. Originally built in 1832 as a 25-room Greek Revival home, it was dramatically transformed in the 1890s into a 65-room Beaux-Arts mansion by Ruth Livingston and Ogden Mills. This expansion reflects the era's penchant for grandeur and opulence, with lavish interiors designed to impress. Instagram+1

The mansion's interiors are a treasure trove of Gilded Age design, featuring meticulously preserved or reproduced artifacts. Visitors can explore rooms adorned with velvet curtains, oriental rugs, gilded furniture, and exquisite porcelain dinnerware. Highlights include the lady's pink bedroom, the enchanting boudoir, the grand library, and the majestic dining room, each telling a story of the era's social customs and aesthetic sensibilities. Reddit The sheer scale and detail of the decor underscore the immense wealth and influence of families like the Mills. Reddit

Beyond the mansion itself, the estate provides a broader context of Gilded Age country living. The sprawling grounds offer miles of hiking trails that lead down to the banks of the Hudson River, providing a serene natural counterpoint to the mansion's opulence. Instagram+1 This combination of architectural splendor and natural beauty makes Staatsburgh a compelling destination for understanding this transformative period in American history. Instagram

Exploring the Grounds and Riverfront

The expansive grounds of Staatsburgh State Historic Site are as much a draw as the mansion itself, offering visitors a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley. Miles of walking trails wind through the estate, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls and more vigorous hikes. Instagram+1 These paths are well-maintained and offer diverse scenery, from manicured lawns to wooded areas. Reddit

A significant highlight is the trail leading down to the Hudson River. This path allows visitors to experience the riverfront setting that was so crucial to the estate's appeal and the region's historical significance. The views of the Hudson are often described as amazing, providing a tranquil and picturesque backdrop. Reddit It's a popular spot for reflection, photography, and even dog walking, making the grounds accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of visitors. Reddit

These outdoor spaces not only offer recreational opportunities but also provide context for the estate's historical importance. The landscape design itself is a testament to the era's appreciation for grand country estates and their integration with the surrounding environment. Instagram+1 Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply a peaceful walk, the grounds of Mills Mansion offer a rewarding experience. Reddit

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