Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
Opulent estate showcasing 18th-century Russian Imperial & French decorative art, set amidst 13 acres of stunning gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips and azaleas in bloom
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
Best Time
Tulips and azaleas in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Opulent estate showcasing 18th-century Russian Imperial & French decorative art, set amidst 13 acres of stunning gardens.
"A beautiful gem in the garland of DC's museums, don't miss this unforgettable experience."
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep dives into history & art. Knowledgeable guides make the experience unforgettable. :informationdeskperson:
Picnic in the Gardens
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful grounds. A perfect way to relax and soak in the scenery. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mansion's Art Collection
Inside the Estate
Explore Marjorie Merriweather Post's opulent mansion, filled with 18th-century Russian Imperial and French decorative arts.

French Formal Garden
Gardens
Wander through meticulously manicured hedges, vibrant flower beds, and serene fountains in this classic French-style garden.

Japanese Garden
Gardens
Discover a tranquil escape with a serene pond, stone lanterns, and lush greenery, offering a peaceful contrast to the formal gardens.
The Rose Garden
Gardens
A fragrant paradise showcasing a stunning array of roses in bloom, perfect for a romantic stroll or a moment of quiet reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Guided Tours in Advance
Garden Seasons Matter
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep dives into history & art. Knowledgeable guides make the experience unforgettable. :informationdeskperson:
Picnic in the Gardens
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful grounds. A perfect way to relax and soak in the scenery. :sandwich:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 13 acres of gardens and estate. :athletic_shoe:
Check Garden Bloom Schedules
Plan your visit around peak bloom times for tulips or azaleas for the most vibrant garden experience. :tulip:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep dives into history & art. Knowledgeable guides make the experience unforgettable. :informationdeskperson:
Picnic in the Gardens
Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful grounds. A perfect way to relax and soak in the scenery. :sandwich:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the 13 acres of gardens and estate. :athletic_shoe:
Check Garden Bloom Schedules
Plan your visit around peak bloom times for tulips or azaleas for the most vibrant garden experience. :tulip:
Explore the Cafe
Enjoy fresh food and a peaceful ambiance at the Merriweather Café. Great for a lunch break. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens as a beautiful and serene gem in Washington D.C. The meticulously maintained gardens and the opulent mansion filled with art are major highlights. Many recommend the guided tours for their insightful commentary and the café for a pleasant dining experience.
"It's a beautiful gem in the garland of DC's museums. Its size and relation to others are similar to the Wallace collection in London. You definitely don't want to miss this experience. The best thing you can do, if you decide to visit the museum, is to get on a guided tour they provide. There is so much knowledge behind all those exhibits. The garden is a special treat. It's not big but it's a delight for your sight."
Aleksei Kudriashov
"One of my friends had just finished reading The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post and wanted to go see her home. What a wonderful place to visit! Our tour guide in MP 's home was delightful and knowledgeable. We definitely want to come back for a spring tour of the gardens. They are lovely in the summer, but there is no tour except in spring or fall."
Crystal Whitfield
"Amazing and unforgettable experience. The volunteers are wonderful and knowledgeable. Don’t miss the garden and mansion tours with great explanations and anecdotes. The museum shop has many selections."
Mireille Basselin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hillwood Estate is located at 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop nearby. Many visitors find it a convenient spot to reach within the DC area.
Yes, Hillwood Estate is generally easy to find, situated in Northwest DC. It's often described as a 'hidden gem,' suggesting it's not as overtly advertised as some larger DC attractions but is well-marked once you're in the vicinity.
For a day trip, driving is convenient if you have a car, as parking is available. Alternatively, using ride-sharing services or checking DC Metro bus routes can get you close to the estate.
Yes, Hillwood Estate is accessible by public transport. Several Metrobus lines serve the area, making it a viable option for those relying on public transit to explore DC.
While Hillwood Estate is in a residential area, it's not typically within easy walking distance of major DC tourist hubs like the National Mall. It's best reached by car, public transport, or ride-sharing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is typically a suggested donation. Adults are around $20, seniors $17, and students $10. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any special exhibition fees.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended, especially for special events or during peak seasons, to secure your spot. Check the Hillwood Estate website for ticketing information and to book your visit.
Hillwood Estate is generally open Tuesday through Sunday, with specific hours that can vary. It's closed on Mondays and major holidays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Discounts are often available for seniors, students, and sometimes for groups. Check the Hillwood Estate website for details on any available concessions or membership benefits.
Hillwood Estate operates on a suggested donation basis, meaning while there's no strict entry fee, visitors are encouraged to contribute a certain amount to support the estate.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Hillwood Estate features an opulent mansion filled with 18th-century Russian Imperial and French decorative arts, extensive gardens (including French Formal, Japanese, and Rose Gardens), and a café.
Yes, guided tours of the mansion are highly recommended and offered by knowledgeable volunteers. Garden tours are also available seasonally, particularly in spring and fall.
Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours exploring both the mansion and the gardens. You could easily spend half a day here if you plan to have lunch at the café or take a leisurely stroll.
Absolutely! Hillwood Estate and its gardens are incredibly picturesque, offering stunning backdrops for photos, especially during bloom seasons.
The gardens are a major highlight, covering 13 acres with diverse styles including a French Formal Garden, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and more. They are beautifully maintained and offer beauty in every season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Hillwood Estate has the Merriweather Café, which offers fresh food and a peaceful ambiance. It's a great spot for lunch or a light refreshment during your visit.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food for picnics, and there are lovely spots in the gardens to enjoy them. This is a popular option for a more relaxed experience.
The Merriweather Café typically serves a selection of sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries, focusing on fresh ingredients. It's a pleasant place to dine with garden views.
While not a regular daily offering, Hillwood Estate has hosted special afternoon tea events in the past. It's best to check their events calendar for any upcoming afternoon tea opportunities.
The immediate area around Hillwood Estate is primarily residential. For a wider range of dining options, you would need to travel a short distance to nearby neighborhoods in Northwest DC.
📸 📸 Photography
The French Formal Garden, Japanese Garden, and the mansion's exterior are prime photography locations. The blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall offer stunning backdrops.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in the gardens and exterior of the mansion. Inside the mansion, photography may be restricted to protect the artworks, so always look for signage.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits and advance arrangements. It's best to contact Hillwood Estate directly to inquire about their policies and fees for professional photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing look for both the gardens and the estate.
Drones are typically not permitted at historic estates and gardens like Hillwood due to privacy concerns and potential disturbance to visitors and wildlife. Always check their official policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the mansion's art collections might be more appreciated by older children or teens, the guided tours can be engaging if presented in an age-appropriate manner. The estate also has a theater that shows a film about Marjorie Merriweather Post's life, which can serve as a good introduction for younger visitors. The overall atmosphere is peaceful, making it a pleasant escape from the busier DC attractions.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a truly special experience, consider visiting during a time when special events or exhibitions are on. The Merriweather Café is also a charming spot for a relaxed lunch or afternoon tea, adding to the romantic ambiance. The combination of stunning natural beauty and opulent historical interiors makes Hillwood a memorable destination for couples seeking a sophisticated and tranquil escape.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside the mansion, while photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the art, the architectural details and opulent decor offer unique shots. The exterior of the mansion itself, set against the backdrop of the gardens, is also a prime subject. Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will yield the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Marjorie Merriweather Post
Post's life was as grand as her estate. She was a patron of the arts, a socialite, and a savvy businesswoman who managed her family's vast enterprises. Her homes were renowned for their elegance and the remarkable art they housed. Hillwood, her Washington D.C. estate, was designed to showcase her most prized possessions and her love for horticulture. Visitors today can still experience the grandeur of her era through the meticulously preserved mansion and its surrounding gardens, offering a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's most fascinating women.
Understanding Marjorie Merriweather Post's passion for collecting and her life story truly enhances the visit to Hillwood. The estate is not just a museum; it's a personal testament to her discerning eye and her desire to preserve and share beauty. The guided tours are particularly valuable for learning these rich details, bringing the art and the history to life with anecdotes and insights that you might otherwise miss.
Exploring the Enchanting Gardens
Beyond the formal French design, Hillwood boasts other distinct garden experiences. The Japanese Garden provides a serene escape with its tranquil pond, stone elements, and carefully chosen flora, creating a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. For those who love roses, the Rose Garden is a fragrant haven, bursting with color and scent during its blooming season. The estate also features a Conservatory, a Wildflower Garden, and a Cutting Garden, each offering unique botanical beauty.
Many visitors recommend visiting during spring for the tulips and azaleas or in fall for the stunning foliage. These seasons offer the most dramatic visual impact. The gardens are not just about aesthetics; they are a testament to Marjorie Merriweather Post's love for horticulture and her dedication to creating a beautiful sanctuary. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply appreciate natural beauty, the gardens at Hillwood are an unforgettable part of the experience.
A Glimpse Inside the Mansion: Art and History
Visitors are particularly impressed by the guided tours of the mansion, which offer in-depth insights into the history of the house, the art, and the life of Marjorie Merriweather Post. Guides share fascinating anecdotes and historical context, making the exhibits come alive. The theater within the estate also provides an excellent starting point, offering a film that introduces visitors to Post's life and legacy before they explore the house.
The mansion's interiors are as impressive as the art they contain, featuring grand ballrooms, elegant dining rooms, and private chambers, all preserved to reflect their original splendor. The kitchen, in particular, has been noted for its surprisingly high-tech features for its time, offering a glimpse into the domestic side of this grand estate. The combination of historical architecture, priceless art, and compelling personal stories makes the mansion tour a highlight for many.
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