Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens - A park in Guangzhou
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Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

4.8
·2k reviews·Washington, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Tulips and azaleas in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens - A park in Guangzhou

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

Best Time

Spring mornings

Tulips and azaleas in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful gem in the garland of DC's museums, don't miss this unforgettable experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mansion's Art Collection

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

French Formal Garden

Gardens

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

Japanese 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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Guided Tours in Advance

To truly appreciate the art and history, book a guided tour of the mansion. These are highly recommended by visitors for their knowledgeable guides and fascinating anecdotes. Tours can fill up, so booking ahead is wise, especially during peak seasons.

Garden Seasons Matter

While beautiful year-round, the gardens are particularly stunning in spring and fall. If you're a flower enthusiast, aim for tulip season or when the fall foliage is at its peak. Check their schedule for specific garden tour dates.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Tulips and azaleas in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Vibrant foliage and crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My favorite gardens in the DC area part 2!! Hillwood estate is one of the best gardens to picnic in 💗 #spring #flowers #flowergirl #whimsical #washingtondc #dctiktok #thingstodoindc #garden #gardening #gardens #gardensoftiktok #hillwood #hillwoodestate #hillwoodmuseum #hillwoodgarden #gardensindc #favoritegardens #tulips #wisteria #french #japanesestylegarden #european #greenhouse #picnic #picnicd...
@ansleyinalexandria
38.3K likes • 330.2K views

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:

Replying to @bestaddress Inside Look at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens #bestaddress #hillwoodmuseum #HiFromHillwood #marjoriemerriweatherpost #kitchen #hightech #stateoftheart #housemuseum #americanhistory #dchistory #historichomes #insidelook #prewar #gardens #foresthills #dcrealtor #dcrealestate #realtoroftiktok
@bestaddress
8.7K likes • 146.6K views
[🔗 IN BIO] Looking for something totally new? 🖼️Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens is a museum experience that feels like no other! Avoid museum crowds and explore a beautiful estate filled with art, and then wander their impeccably maintained gardens. Head to our link in bio for more info! #smn 📍@hillwoodmuseum
secret.washington.dc
1.1K likes • 269.5K views

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:

🌸✨ Escape into a hidden gem in D.C. — the Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens! Wander through 13 acres of stunning landscapes, vibrant flowers, and peaceful pathways surrounding a historic mansion. 🌿🏛️Perfect for a dreamy garden stroll or a culture-filled afternoon! 🌷 📍 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 Suggested Donation Adult: $20 Senior (65+): $17 College Students: $10 Child (6-18): $5 Chi...
kateo.dc
0 likes • 3.6K views

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

4.8
(2k reviews)

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

Stunning gardens
Impressive art collection
Knowledgeable guided tours

What People Dislike

Photography restrictions inside mansion

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Hillwood Estate and its gardens are incredibly picturesque, offering stunning backdrops for photos, especially during bloom seasons. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hillwood Estate offers a unique experience for families, blending history, art, and nature. The gardens are a fantastic place for children to explore, with plenty of open space to run around and discover different plant life. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it a fun and affordable outing. TikTok

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. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

Hillwood Estate provides a wonderfully romantic setting, especially during the spring bloom or fall foliage. The manicured gardens offer picturesque backdrops for leisurely strolls and quiet moments together. Imagine a peaceful walk through the Rose Garden or a serene moment by the pond in the Japanese Garden. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Hillwood Estate is a dream destination for photographers, offering a wealth of visual opportunities. The diverse gardens, from the formal French to the tranquil Japanese, provide endless compositions. Capture the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers in spring or the rich hues of autumn leaves. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Marjorie Merriweather Post

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens was once the opulent residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a prominent American businesswoman, philanthropist, and collector. She was the heiress to the Post cereal fortune and a formidable figure in her own right, known for her sophisticated taste and extensive travels. Post meticulously curated her collections of 18th-century Russian Imperial art and French decorative arts, filling her estate with treasures from around the world. Her vision was to create a place where these collections could be shared and appreciated by the public.

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Exploring the Enchanting Gardens

The 13 acres of gardens at Hillwood Estate are a significant draw, offering a diverse and beautifully maintained landscape that changes with the seasons. Visitors consistently rave about the visual splendor and tranquility found within these grounds. The French Formal Garden is a masterpiece of symmetry and design, featuring manicured hedges, vibrant floral displays, and elegant fountains that evoke a sense of classic European elegance. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and offers breathtaking views of the mansion. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. InstagramReddit

A Glimpse Inside the Mansion: Art and History

The mansion at Hillwood Estate serves as a magnificent showcase for Marjorie Merriweather Post's extraordinary collections of Russian Imperial art and French decorative arts. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to an era of unparalleled luxury and artistic refinement. The collections include exquisite Fabergé eggs, intricate porcelain, gilded furniture, and stunning jewelry, many of which were acquired during Post's travels and her connections to European aristocracy. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok The combination of historical architecture, priceless art, and compelling personal stories makes the mansion tour a highlight for many. Reddit

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