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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

The opulent former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post, this historic house museum showcases a world-class collection of Russian and French decorative arts set within sprawling, landscaped gardens.

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Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
www.hillwoodmuseum.org, website_hero_img_www.hillwoodmuseum.org

What is Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens known for?

It is a decorative arts and historic house museum in Washington, D.C., that served as the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post. It is known for its 18th- and 19th-century French art, one of the country's finest orchid collections, and a comprehensive collection of Russian art focusing on the House of Romanov, which includes two Fabergé eggs.

What are the hours?

Hillwood is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Mondays, most national holidays, and several weeks in January.

How much does it cost?

The suggested donations are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors (65+), $10 for college students, and $5 for children aged 6-18. Admission is free for children under 6 and Hillwood members.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, mansion and garden tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Mansion tours occur daily at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. (with an additional 3:30 p.m. tour Friday through Sunday), and seasonal garden tours are offered in spring and fall at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Advance reservations are not necessary for a general visit, though advance registration may be convenient during peak garden seasons in the spring and fall.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens serves as a decorative arts and historic house museum located in Northwest Washington, DC. The estate was the former residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a philanthropist and businesswoman who was the heiress to the Postum Cereal Company fortune. Today, the site preserves her legacy as a prolific collector of art and decorative objects. The museum is renowned for its focus on the House of Romanov, housing the most comprehensive collection of Russian art outside of Russia. Visitors can admire rare treasures, including two Fabergé eggs, alongside an exquisite collection of 18th-century French art. These interior galleries offer a glimpse into the lavish tastes of Post and the imperial history of Europe. Beyond the mansion, the estate features expansive outdoor spaces. Depending on the source, the property includes between 13 and 25 acres of landscaped gardens and natural woodlands. A particular highlight for nature lovers is the orchid collection, which is regarded as one of the finest in the country. To maximize the experience, guests can participate in mansion tours held daily at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., with an additional 3:30 p.m. session from Friday through Sunday. During the spring and fall, seasonal garden tours are available at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to highlight the estate's horticultural beauty.

Visitor tips

  • Plan for a three-hour visit to fully enjoy both the mansion and the gardens.
  • Arrive early for mansion or garden tours, as they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Consider registering in advance during peak garden seasons in the spring and fall for convenience.
  • Note that the estate is closed on Mondays and most national holidays.

Nearby context

Situated at 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Hillwood is nestled in the hills of Northwest Washington, DC, offering a quiet, residential escape from the city's central monuments.

Sources

Evidence and links