Lilly House at Newfields
Step into a historic 1930s mansion and its enchanting gardens, transformed seasonally with dazzling lights and festive decor.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Lilly House at Newfields
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a historic 1930s mansion and its enchanting gardens, transformed seasonally with dazzling lights and festive decor.
"A blissful escape from the main city area, offering a peaceful and lovely experience with well-maintained gardens."
Book Holiday Tickets Early
Winterlights and Harvest Nights sell out fast! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the Lilly House; they're perfect for a leisurely stroll. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lilly House Interiors
Inside the historic mansion
Step back in time in this elegant 1930s mansion, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Meticulously Maintained Gardens
Surrounding the Lilly House
Wander through vibrant, lush gardens that change with the seasons, offering a serene escape.

Seasonal Festivities
Various locations at Newfields
Experience enchanting holiday lights, spooky Halloween displays, and vibrant spring blooms.

Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse
Adjacent to the Lilly House
Discover a stunning collection of orchids and verdant plant life in this historic greenhouse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Seasons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Holiday Tickets Early
Winterlights and Harvest Nights sell out fast! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the Lilly House; they're perfect for a leisurely stroll. :walking:
Check Seasonal Themes
The Lilly House is often decorated for holidays like Halloween and Christmas – check their schedule! :christmas_tree:
Greenhouse is a Gem
The Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse is packed with orchids and plants; a must-see! :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Holiday Tickets Early
Winterlights and Harvest Nights sell out fast! Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. :ticket:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the Lilly House; they're perfect for a leisurely stroll. :walking:
Check Seasonal Themes
The Lilly House is often decorated for holidays like Halloween and Christmas – check their schedule! :christmas_tree:
Greenhouse is a Gem
The Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse is packed with orchids and plants; a must-see! :evergreen_tree:
Audio Tour Recommended
Enhance your visit to the Lilly House with the audio tour for historical context. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lilly House and Gardens at Newfields for their enchanting beauty and historical charm. The meticulously maintained gardens and the elegant interiors of the historic mansion are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While some find special events like Harvest Nights to be a bit underwhelming for the price, the overall experience is described as a peaceful, picturesque escape, especially during seasonal festivities.
"Beautiful gardens. Thoroughly enjoyed the walk around the grounds and ended with a giant pretzel and 2 glasses of cider! Perfect day spent with my wife!"
Andrew Thomas
"Orchids and other verdant denizens populate this delightful greenhouse. It's not spacious, but if you enjoy plants and colorful life in any capacity (since you're visiting Newfields, I assume you are), it's 100% worth the detour. Unlike some public gardens, it doesn't seek to achieve lusciousness and color by being overly ordered and sanitized - instead, there is an air of walk-ability that really does provide a "lived-in" sense, and it is all the more welcoming for it.
I wonder what the estate grounds look like at night - does it flip towards an eerie Hounds of Baskerville? Or is it even more romantic than it is during the day? Either way, a stroll through it feels like a storybook.
By comparison, the inside of the house was much more of a historical site - excellent primary experience of an era gone by in this country. Still very much worth seeing, with an audio tour and a much needed, air conditioned reprieve if you're visiting during the summer months."
Elliott Yu
"Bliss escape from the main city area. A lovely experience here which is peaceful. The gardens are well maintained and nice pathways to have an enjoyable walk."
Nas Sol
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lilly House is located within Newfields, the Indianapolis Museum of Art. You can drive and park on-site, or use ride-sharing services. Public transportation options are also available to reach the Newfields campus.
Yes, Newfields offers ample parking for visitors. During popular events like Winterlights, it's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation due to high demand.
The Lilly House is part of the Newfields campus, so it's a pleasant walk from the main museum buildings through the grounds. Allow extra time to enjoy the outdoor spaces.
Several bus routes serve the area around Newfields. Check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops.
Newfields is located at 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208. Use your preferred navigation app for the most direct route from your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Newfields typically includes access to the grounds and the Lilly House. However, special ticketed events like Winterlights and Harvest Nights require separate admission.
General admission prices vary. Special event tickets, such as for Winterlights, can start around $25 and are often priced dynamically. Check the Newfields website for current pricing.
For special events like Winterlights, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance as they can sell out. On-site purchases may be limited or unavailable.
Newfields offers various membership levels that provide free admission. Check their website for potential discounts for students, seniors, or specific community groups.
The Lilly House hours generally align with Newfields' operating hours. However, it's best to check the official Newfields website for the most current hours, especially during seasonal events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic interiors of the 1930s mansion, wander through the beautiful surrounding gardens, and visit the adjacent Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse.
Yes, kids often enjoy the Lilly House, especially during themed events like Harvest Nights (spooky but not scary) or Winterlights. The gardens also provide space for them to explore.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but check Newfields' specific policies regarding professional photography or commercial use.
Docent-led tours are often available for the Lilly House, providing in-depth historical context. An audio tour is also a great option for self-guided exploration.
Harvest Nights is a popular fall event featuring thousands of illuminated jack-o'-lanterns, themed decorations, and often includes access to the Lilly House with a spooky twist.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Newfields typically has dining options, including cafes and restaurants, on its campus. Specific offerings may vary seasonally.
Outside food and beverages may be restricted, especially during special events. It's best to check Newfields' policies regarding picnics or outside food.
Yes, there are dining facilities within Newfields. For options outside the campus, you'll find various restaurants in the surrounding Indianapolis area.
Dining options often include casual fare, snacks, and beverages. During events like Harvest Nights, special themed food and drinks might be available.
Yes, alcoholic beverages like beer and cider are often available for purchase during special events such as Harvest Nights.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens, the exterior of the Lilly House, and the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse offer picturesque backdrops. Seasonal decorations also provide unique photo opportunities.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check Newfields' official photography guidelines on their website to ensure compliance.
While personal photography is generally allowed, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always refer to Newfields' official guidelines.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting for the gardens. For interiors, consider visiting when natural light is optimal.
Absolutely! The Winterlights display is incredibly photogenic, with millions of lights creating a magical atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gardens provide ample space for children to explore and run around. The Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse can also be a point of fascination with its diverse plant life. For holiday events like Winterlights, the dazzling light displays are sure to captivate younger visitors, with some children skipping with glee through the decorated house. Consider visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays for a more relaxed experience with little ones.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during seasonal events for an extra touch of magic. The Winterlights display transforms the estate into a dazzling wonderland, creating a truly memorable experience. Even a simple afternoon visit, perhaps followed by a treat from one of Newfields' cafes, can be a delightful and romantic outing.
🌿 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the Lilly House, the broader Newfields campus offers extensive grounds to explore. Whether you're interested in landscape design, specific plant species, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk amidst nature, this area provides a rich and rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Magic: Beyond the Blooms
Autumn brings the highly anticipated Harvest Nights, a popular Halloween event that turns the grounds into a festive spectacle with thousands of illuminated jack-o'-lanterns. The Lilly House itself often gets a spooky makeover, reminiscent of Disney's Haunted Mansion, making it a fun, 'spooky not scary' adventure for families.
Winter transforms Newfields into a wonderland with Winterlights, featuring over three million lights and extensive light displays that extend inside the historic Lilly House. This dazzling event is a beloved holiday tradition, offering a magical escape with its intricate light installations. These seasonal events are highly popular, and booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
A Glimpse into History: The Lilly House Estate
Inside, the house is preserved to showcase its original architecture and decor, providing an authentic glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy family in the mid-20th century. Docent-led tours or an audio tour can greatly enhance the experience, offering insights into the history of the estate, its former residents, and the cultural context of the time. The interiors are often air-conditioned, making it a welcome respite during warmer months.
Beyond the mansion itself, the estate grounds are equally captivating. The meticulously maintained gardens and the historic Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse add layers of beauty and interest. The greenhouse, also dating back to the 1930s, is a treasure trove of diverse plant life, including an impressive collection of orchids, making it a must-visit for plant enthusiasts.
Photography at Newfields: Capturing the Charm
From the vibrant blooms of spring to the festive decorations of winter, each season presents unique visual elements. The Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse is another photographic gem, packed with exotic plants and orchids that create stunning compositions. During seasonal events like Winterlights, the entire estate is illuminated, offering a truly magical, albeit challenging, environment for capturing breathtaking night shots.
While personal photography is generally encouraged, it's always wise to check Newfields' official guidelines regarding professional shoots, tripods, and any specific restrictions to ensure a smooth and compliant photography experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit