On a Journey to the Past at Old Westbury House and Gardens
Balancing the towering skyscrapers that highlight New York’s skyline, Old Westbury House and it’s gardens invites you to step back in time and peek into New York’s opulent past.
Built in 1906 to fulfill a promise, this 200-acre home is better known today as a museum with a collection of priceless English antiques. While others might recognize it as a venue for concerts, shows, and cultural festivals.
Background on Old Westbury House
The mansion’s story goes like this: when John S. Phipps married Margarita Grace, he promised her a home in New York which would be similar to her family home in England. The result was the a 200 acres mansion now known as Old Westbury. The couple and their 4 children lived there until the estate opened it to the public in 1959.
Westbury House is a Charles II-style mansion with a red-brick and limestone accented façade. It is surrounded by formal gardens, beautiful ponds, pathways, and landscaped grounds.
The mansion has 23 rooms which house several fine antiques including furniture and artwork. A painting of Mrs. Henry Phipps and her grandson Winston is one of the highlights of the collection.
The gardens at Old Westbury are works of art in their own right. On your next visit be sure to see the Walled Garden and the Lilac walk, the ponds, the primrose path and beautifully landscaped areas that bloom from spring to fall. Don’t miss the Thatched Cottage – which was built as a child’s playhouse!
The house and its gardens have been featured in countless photographs, over 25 movies, and dozens of television shows.
Where is Old Westbury Gardens and how can you get there?
The Old Westbury estate is located at 71 Old Westbury Road between the I-495 Expressway and the Jericho Turnpike. It’s about 20 miles east of New York City. Think of your visit as a day trip out of the city.
If needed, special parking is available for visitors with state-issued handicap parking. If you don’t have a permit, you can drop off the visitor at the mansion and then return to the parking lot. But note that the walk from the parking area to the mansion can be quite steep, and it isn’t short. Buses for group tours may enter from 60 Post Road.
Therefore, taking public transport can be more convenient. The Long Island Rail Road stops at the Westbury station from where you could take a taxi to your destination.
What should you expect when you visit?
Old Westbury Gardens attracts horticultural enthusiasts, art students and families. Nevertheless, you should keep in mind that it’s only open for visitors between April and October. You can take a guided tour of the property or wander through the 23 rooms and the gardens on your own.
With so much history and beauty inside and outside the house, Old Westbury Gardens is popular with children and adults. Apart from people on family outings, Old Westbury is popular as a venue for cultural events, weddings, outdoor photography sessions, and educational workshops.
To avoid these crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, plan your visit on a weekday in the latter half of the day.
Preserving the Old Westbury Gardens is a priority and –from time to time– some sections may be temporarily closed for restorations.
All tickets (except for Old Westbury Gardens members and library pass holders) must be purchased in advance; although, children under the age of 6 have free admission to the venue. Furthermore, Old Westbury Gardens also participates in many discount ticketing programs.
What else can you do when you visit Old Westbury Gardens?
Old Westbury Gardens hosts educational and cultural events of all kinds for children and adults. There are painting workshops, yoga and tai-chi sessions, extended tours, gardening programs and more. You can also enjoy a picnic on the north lawn or grab a bite at the Café in the Woods. Before you leave, don’t forget to buy a souvenir at the Estate gift shop.
Nearby, don’t miss the chance to explore the charming village of Old Westbury or visit the picturesque Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park for more outdoor adventures.
FAQs
Can you schedule a professional photoshoot?
Yes, you can schedule a professional photoshoot for headshots, an engagement, wedding, prom, etc.
Are service animals allowed at Old Westbury Gardens?
While pets are not allowed on the premises, service animals are welcome.
What are visitor timings?
It is open every day except Tuesday from 10 am to 6 pm, with a half-hour lunch break from 1 pm to 1.30 pm.
A historic mansion nestled in lush gardens, Old Westbury House and Gardens promises an unforgettable experience. From the opulent mansion and beautiful landscaped gardens to the array of cultural events and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Spend the day here and immerse yourself in an era gone by.
Old Westbury House and Gardens
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