Whether you are looking for a walking trail lined with breathtaking Vermont views or a guided tour of Lincoln’s historical 412-acre estate, the Hildene Lincoln Family Home has something for everyone.
The Hildene Lincoln Family Home formerly belonged to Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln’s only surviving son, Robert, who turned the estate into a summer home. The Georgian Revival mansion was later restored by the community and currently offers an array of historical tours and events for an exceptional and educational guest experience for people of all ages.
1903 Pullman Car | Photo Courtesy of Hildene.org
Some key features of Hildene include not only the home but the formal garden, the observatory, a 1903 Pullman Car and the estate’s newest feature, the Dene Farm. The 1903 Pullman Car is particularly special since it has been restored and still maintains its original appearance. Once the day is over, after the recommended three to six hours spent touring the grounds, be sure to stop at the Museum Store in the historic carriage barn for another must-see hallmark of the Lincoln Home, as well.
Not only does the estate offers guided tours and a behind-the-scenes look at the Lincoln Family Tree, but Hildene also doubles as an educational facility for high school students. These students have access to a teaching greenhouse, composting facility, animal barn, vegetable gardens, apple orchard, and a 600-foot floating wetland boardwalk, as well.
Summer Tours and Programs
Every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. until September 16, Hildene will be holding Thursdays in the Garden, where visitors can join the gardeners for a walk-and-talk in the teaching gardens dealing with various topics. These tours are included in admission. In addition, interested visitors can reserve a tour of the historic formal, cutting, and kitchen gardens for up to 10 people. These tours are $10 per person and can be reserved on Monday at 11 a.m. or on Friday at 2 p.m.
From July to October, Hildene also has a program special for kids from 5 to 10 years old called the Into the Woods Exploration Backpack Program. Kids can take an adventure for about 1-2 hours after purchasing a pack to give them all the tools necessary.
In addition to these programs, on August 29, visitors can partake in a Summer in a Jar: Pressure Canning Workshop where they will learn how to make and preserve a tomato-squash-onion sauce. This event is from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and is $15 for members and $20 for non-members.
Hours and Ticket Information
Free entrance is provided to Hildene members and anyone under the age of five-years-old, while tickets for non-member adults are $23 and $6 for youths 6-16. The hours of operation are Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please check here for current guidelines regarding capacity, mask and social distance requirements.
“An absolutely stunning estate experience from a bygone era of American wealth.”
—David E., Yelp
Take Amtrak to the Hildene Lincoln Family Home
Experience this unforgettable attraction via Amtrak to Manchester (MCQ) Thruway Bus Connection—Don’t forget to use the Visit Vermont & Save 20% Discount!
