Nelly Garden
Step into Iloilo's opulent past at Nelly Garden, a magnificent 1928 Beaux-Arts mansion and heritage gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Nelly Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Iloilo's opulent past at Nelly Garden, a magnificent 1928 Beaux-Arts mansion and heritage gem.
"Behold the grandeur of Nelly Garden Mansion — a symbol of Iloilo’s opulent past and rich heritage."
📞 Book Ahead for Tours
Tours are by reservation only. Call ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
📸 No Interior Photos Allowed
Respect the rules and enjoy the ambiance. Focus on the exterior and gardens for your shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Beaux-Arts Mansion
Main House
Step back in time in this opulent 1928 mansion, a testament to Iloilo's rich heritage and architectural grandeur.
Lush Gardens and Expansive Lawns
Exterior Grounds
Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens and vast lawns, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picturesque backdrop.
A Glimpse into Aristocratic Life
Interior Rooms
Explore rooms adorned with antique furniture and fixtures, offering a unique insight into the lifestyle of a prominent Filipino family.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Dress for the Occasion (and Weather)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Book Ahead for Tours
Tours are by reservation only. Call ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
📸 No Interior Photos Allowed
Respect the rules and enjoy the ambiance. Focus on the exterior and gardens for your shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds, so comfy footwear is a must!
🌸 Event Venue Vibes
It's a popular events spot, so expect beautiful setups, especially for weddings!
Best Heritage Mansion to Visit
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Book Ahead for Tours
Tours are by reservation only. Call ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment!
📸 No Interior Photos Allowed
Respect the rules and enjoy the ambiance. Focus on the exterior and gardens for your shots.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds, so comfy footwear is a must!
🌸 Event Venue Vibes
It's a popular events spot, so expect beautiful setups, especially for weddings!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nelly Garden is lauded for its magnificent Beaux-Arts architecture and well-preserved interiors, offering a captivating glimpse into Iloilo's opulent past. Visitors appreciate the grand gardens and the unique, albeit sometimes eerie, atmosphere. However, the strict no-interior-photography rule and increasing entrance fees are points of consideration for some.
"The place feels haunted, it probably is. I did not take photos of the interior of the house because it was not allowed but more so because it felt so eerie.
A tour for 5 people costs P1000.
Traditional Filipino architecture from the times of old."
Owens Besabe
"We visited Nelly's Garden way back in 2019 and the entrance was only 150 pesos at that time and price hike afterwards especially after the pandemic! The white mansion was off limits to the public so we just roamed around it up to the backyard. Visitors may stroll around the gardens and that vast lawn which is so wide for a soccer game or like a mini-golf course."
Si Joan T. Teves
"Nelly garden is a famous events place in Iloilo. Such an amazing view both during daytime and nighttime. The setup itself is beautiful.
However, one thing to consider is the weather. Since this is outdoor, you need to consider the rain and the wet/muddy soil for those wearing gowns and heels.
The food is also so-so. But this is a fantastic venue that your photographers would love."
Renz L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nelly Garden is located in Jaro, Iloilo City. You can reach it by taxi or local jeepneys heading towards Jaro. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, jeepneys going to Jaro pass by or are near Nelly Garden. Taxis are also readily available for a more direct route.
From Iloilo International Airport (ILO), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked car service directly to Nelly Garden. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, Nelly Garden has ample parking space, which is convenient if you're arriving by private vehicle.
Ride-sharing apps like Grab are available in Iloilo City and can be a convenient way to get to Nelly Garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary. In the past, it was around P150, but recent reviews suggest it might be around P1000 for a tour for 5 people. It's best to confirm the current rates when booking.
Yes, visits are by reservation. You need to contact them by phone to schedule your tour.
Operating hours can vary, and tours are typically scheduled based on your reservation. It's advisable to inquire about specific timings when you book.
While the mansion tour requires booking, visitors can often stroll around the gardens and the vast lawn. However, confirm this when making your reservation.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with Nelly Garden when making your reservation, especially for group bookings.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
No, photography inside the mansion is generally prohibited to preserve the interiors and the eerie ambiance some visitors report.
Absolutely! The mansion and its grounds provide a stunning backdrop for wedding photos, making it a popular venue.
The mansion features a Beaux-Arts architectural design, popular in the late 1920s when it was built.
You'll see the opulent interiors with antique furniture, hardwood floors, and historical photos, offering a glimpse into the Lopez family's lifestyle.
Some visitors have described the atmosphere inside as eerie or haunted, adding to its unique charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Nelly Garden is primarily known as an events venue. While some events might have catering, dedicated dining facilities for casual visitors are not typically advertised. You might need to dine elsewhere in Iloilo City.
It's best to check with Nelly Garden when booking your tour. Outside food and drinks might be restricted, especially if you are not part of a booked event.
Reviews suggest that food quality can be 'so-so' when used as an events venue, but this can vary greatly depending on the caterer.
Yes, Iloilo City has a vibrant food scene. You can find numerous restaurants offering local and international cuisine a short drive away from Nelly Garden.
Nelly Garden is a popular events place, frequently used for weddings and receptions. You can inquire about booking it for your own private functions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks for the kids, as dedicated dining facilities for casual visitors might be limited. The experience can be enhanced by discussing the history of the house and the prominent figures who lived there, making it a fun and informative outing for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Many photographers love using Nelly Garden as a backdrop for events like weddings, capturing the romantic and elegant atmosphere. Even without an event, the sheer beauty of the estate offers ample opportunities for capturing breathtaking images. Remember to check if any specific areas are restricted due to ongoing events when planning your shoot.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Aficionados
Exploring the mansion and its grounds allows for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural styles and social history of the time. The guided tours are invaluable for gaining insights and context that might otherwise be missed. It’s a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring legacy of Iloilo's heritage houses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Nelly Garden
The mansion's interior is a time capsule, featuring spacious living and dining rooms, as well as well-appointed bedrooms. Visitors can admire historical photographs of prominent figures adorning the walls, offering a visual narrative of the family's influence. While the exterior is grand, the interior is where the lifestyle of the rich and famous from that period truly comes to life. The meticulous maintenance ensures that the mansion retains its historical integrity and charm, making it a captivating destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Beyond the mansion itself, the property boasts expansive lawns and lush gardens. These outdoor spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a versatile area for events. The combination of the majestic house and its beautiful grounds creates a picturesque setting that is highly sought after for celebrations. The sheer scale of the property allows for comfortable exploration and appreciation of its grandeur.
Experiencing Nelly Garden: Beyond the Tour
Visitors often note the unique atmosphere of the mansion, with some describing it as having an eerie or haunted feel. This adds an intriguing layer to the experience, drawing in those who appreciate a touch of mystery with their historical exploration. The prohibition of interior photography, while perhaps disappointing for some, encourages visitors to be more present and absorb the surroundings rather than viewing them through a lens.
For those planning a visit, it's crucial to remember that reservations are mandatory for tours. This ensures a more organized and personalized experience for guests. The cost of tours has seen an increase over the years, so it's wise to confirm current pricing when booking.
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