Visit & Tour Guide: Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

Explore the Vermont retreat of Robert Todd Lincoln, where history, elegance, and scenic beauty come together in one unforgettable visit.

Whe you visit Hildene, you will find it is Tucked into the lush hills of Manchester, Vermont, Hildene is more than a beautifully preserved estate—it’s a deeply personal reflection of American history, family values, and enduring civic ideals. Built in 1905 by Robert Todd Lincoln, the only surviving son of President Abraham Lincoln, the home offers a rare glimpse into the private life of the Lincoln family and the values they carried into the 20th century.

📍 Getting There

Hildene is located in Manchester, Vermont, just a short drive from the charming village center. Whether you’re coming from the Albany, NY region or driving through the Green Mountains, it’s an easy and scenic route.

Address:
1005 Hildene Road, Manchester, VT 05254
Official website: Hildene.org

Headed to Hildene—Vermont’s scenic Route 7 points the way to history, tucked just beyond the tree-lined bend.

🚗 Parking & Accessibility

Parking:
There’s a dedicated parking area near the welcome center, and from there, it’s a short walk or accessible shuttle ride to the main house.

Accessibility:
The entire property is thoughtfully laid out, and many of the trails and paths are wheelchair-friendly. If mobility is a concern, you’ll find staff to be helpful and accommodations easy to arrange.

🗓️ Best Times to Visit

Late Spring (May–June): Gardens in full bloom

Autumn (mid-September to late October): Vibrant foliage, crisp air, fewer crowds

Winter holidays: The house is seasonally decorated, and the setting feels especially cozy and timeless

🏡 What to See at Hildene

There’s something quietly spectacular about exploring Hildene. The moment you step onto the property, it feels like time slows down—and history steps forward.

Step inside the Lincoln family’s summer home, where richly appointed rooms remain just as they were over a century ago—refined, personal, and deeply historic.

Main House:
Start your visit at the Georgian Revival mansion, where rooms are preserved much as they were during the Lincoln family’s time. Personal belongings of Robert Todd Lincoln are displayed alongside heirlooms from his famous parents, including original furniture, rare documents, and family photographs.

Formal Garden:
Right outside the house lies the parterre garden, designed by Robert’s daughter Jessie in the early 20th century. From above, the garden is shaped like a stained glass cathedral window, and it’s especially stunning in late spring and summer.

Goat Dairy & Farm:
Just a short walk from the main estate, this working farm houses Nubian goats and produces cheese sold on site. It’s a favorite for families and a reminder that the estate was more than just a showpiece—it was a functioning home and farm.

Pullman Railcar ‘Sunbeam’:
Don’t miss the beautifully restored Pullman car, a nod to Robert’s presidency of the Pullman Company. Standing inside this 1903 railcar gives visitors a glimpse into luxury travel during the Gilded Age.

rom the working goat dairy to the elegant Pullman railcar, Hildene blends rural charm with industrial-era innovation—all on one historic estate.

🌲 Nature Trails and Scenic Walks

More than 12 miles of walking trails weave throughout the estate, ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes. The Boardwalk Trail is an especially peaceful route that passes through wetlands teeming with birds and native plant life.

The trails at Hildene offer serene woodland walks with beautiful mountain views—perfect for a quiet stroll or a scenic photo stop.

🛍️ The Museum Store

The gift shop at Hildene is more than just a place to grab a keepsake—it’s a carefully curated extension of the estate itself. Nestled inside the welcome center, the store features an elegant mix of items that reflect both the Lincoln legacy and Vermont craftsmanship.You’ll find handcrafted goods by local artisans, including pottery, candles, woven textiles, and small woodwork items that echo the quiet sophistication of the property.

There’s also a wide selection of Lincoln-themed books, keepsakes, and historically inspired souvenirs—ranging from children’s stories about Abraham Lincoln to rare biographies and reproductions of historic documents. It’s a thoughtful place to pick up a gift for history lovers or young learners.

Don’t miss the museum store’s collection of house-made and locally sourced goods—everything from preserves and granola to lavender soaps and herbal teas.

And don’t miss the house-made and locally sourced products, including Hildene’s own cheeses, fruit preserves, herbal teas, and garden-scented soaps. These items are created in small batches, often using ingredients grown right on the estate.

In short, the museum store reflects the same values Hildene was built upon: quality, heritage, and timeless charm. It’s well worth exploring before you head home.

📸 Photo Ops

Hildene’s Parterre Garden is one of its most iconic photo spots—designed like a stained-glass window and bursting with seasonal color.

Whether you’re a casual phone photographer or someone who travels with a tripod, Hildene offers no shortage of picture-perfect moments.

• The Parterre Garden is a must-capture scene, especially from the second-floor balcony of the main house. The garden’s stained-glass-window design is both intricate and breathtaking, framed by views of the Battenkill Valley.
• The Main House façade is striking in all seasons. In spring and summer, it’s framed by lush greenery and blooming flower beds. Come fall, the building is accented by golden maples and crimson ivy.
• The Pullman Railcar makes for a fascinating and nostalgic shot. Try photographing it from the front to capture the polished brass details and deep burgundy paint.
• For nature lovers, the wetlands boardwalk offers beautiful early-morning light, reflections in the water, and the chance to spot birds and butterflies.

You’ll leave with more than just memories—this is a place where even the simplest path or garden bench feels like a postcard from the past.

🍽️ Dining Nearby

While Hildene does not have a restaurant onsite, the nearby town of Manchester Village offers several great options:

• The Silver Fork – Fine dining in an elegant library setting
• Up for Breakfast – A cozy and creative breakfast/lunch spot with Vermont charm
• Zoey’s Deli – Great for a casual sandwich or takeout lunch before your visit

🛏️ Where to Stay

If you’re planning an overnight trip, Manchester has a range of options from historic inns to charming B&Bs:

• The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa – A grand historic hotel with spa and mountain views
• Kimpton Taconic Hotel – Boutique-style comfort with modern elegance
• The Inn at Manchester – Family-run and warm, right near downtown
• Casual stays and Airbnb options – Plenty of cozy cabins, cottages, and rentals in the area

For full listings, check: Booking.com – Manchester, VT

Whether you’re staying in a historic inn or a cozy boutique hotel, you’ll find warm comfort and classic Vermont charm just minutes from Hildene.

🧭 Why It’s Worth the Stop

There’s a gentle richness to Hildene—not in opulence, but in meaning. It’s not just the home of a president’s son. It’s a living story of a family that carried forward a legacy of public service, intellect, and quiet dignity.

And with views of the Battenkill Valley, beautifully kept grounds, and a clear thread connecting past to present, Hildene stands out as one of Vermont’s most serene and thoughtful destinations.