Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site
Step into Victorian grandeur at Culbertson Mansion, a stunningly restored 1860s estate showcasing French Second Empire architecture and opulent interi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Victorian grandeur at Culbertson Mansion, a stunningly restored 1860s estate showcasing French Second Empire architecture and opulent interiors.
"An amazing home that has successfully dodged the destruction of time and progress."
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Opt for a guided tour to unlock the mansion's rich history and stories.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and decor are incredibly photogenic; bring your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Architecture & Ornate Interiors
Throughout the mansion
Marvel at the French Second Empire style, frescoes, marble fireplaces, and intricate details that transport you to the 1800s.
+1
Victorian Garden Charm
Mansion grounds
Explore the beautifully maintained grounds, featuring a special magnolia tree planted over 150 years ago.
The Stories of the Women
Exhibits and tours
Discover the fascinating lives of Blanche Culbertson French and Rebekah West Harkness, key women in the family's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the History (and Maybe the Ghosts)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Opt for a guided tour to unlock the mansion's rich history and stories.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and decor are incredibly photogenic; bring your camera! +1
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While tours are under an hour, linger to soak in the details.
👻 Consider the 'Haunted' Aspect
Some visitors enjoy the mansion's spooky reputation and special events. +2
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Opt for a guided tour to unlock the mansion's rich history and stories.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and decor are incredibly photogenic; bring your camera! +1
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While tours are under an hour, linger to soak in the details.
👻 Consider the 'Haunted' Aspect
Some visitors enjoy the mansion's spooky reputation and special events. +2
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Culbertson Mansion for its stunningly restored interiors, rich history, and knowledgeable guides. The architecture and ornate details are frequently highlighted as breathtaking, offering a true step back in time. While some find the 'haunted' aspect a bit much, most agree the historical value and the engaging tours make it a highly recommended and worthwhile visit for its modest ticket price.
"We had a great time touring the Culbertson Mansion in New Albany. It’s an absolutely stunning historic home, and it was an honor to be able to walk through such a well-preserved piece of the past. The details, the architecture, the stories — all of it made for a fascinating experience. Big thanks to the tour guides, who did a fantastic job sharing the history and answering questions. You can tell they really care about the place. Highly recommend for anyone who appreciates history, beauty, and a glimpse into another time."
Jeremy
"This mansion was amazing! Every room was filled with unique and interesting items. Our tour guides were Devin and Olivia, who provided wonderful information about the history and restoration of the mansion. They readily answered all of our questions (which were many!) and allowed us plenty of time to view the various rooms. I would definitely recommend seeing the Culbertson mansion, and would suggest the tour rather than the self-guided walk-through. It provides so much more information to make the experience more enjoyable!"
Ellen Barry
"Excellent Indiana 1800 mansion of a well known local dry goods business person
beautifully restored interior
must see in Nee Albany!"
GODZILLA - K Plummer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Culbertson Mansion is located in New Albany, Indiana. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors arrive as part of a road trip through Southern Indiana. +1
Information on accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the site directly to inquire about specific accommodations for navigating the historic building.
The closest major airport is Louisville International Airport (SDF) in Kentucky, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from New Albany.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally considered a 'meager ticket price' and offer great value for the experience. It's recommended to check the official website for current admission fees.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot and ensure a comprehensive experience.
Yes, visitors often recommend the guided tour for its wealth of information. Self-guided options might be available, but the guided experience is frequently highlighted as superior.
While tours are highly recommended for the full experience, some visitors may have the option for a self-guided walk-through. Check with the site for current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully restored rooms featuring frescoes, marble fireplaces, ornate details, and unique furnishings that showcase Victorian-era grandeur. +2
Yes, the mansion has a reputation for being haunted, with whispers of ghostly figures and eerie happenings. Special paranormal tours or events are sometimes offered.
A guided tour typically lasts under an hour, but many visitors recommend allowing extra time to explore the grounds and appreciate the details of the mansion.
The mansion hosts various events throughout the year, including holiday-themed haunts like Krampus and historical reenactments. Keep an eye on their schedule! +1
The mansion is a prime example of French Second Empire style architecture, known for its mansard roofs and ornate detailing.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the site staff upon arrival regarding rules for interior photography, especially if flash is involved.
The grand staircase, ornate ceilings, marble fireplaces, and the exterior architecture are all highly photogenic. The gardens also offer beautiful backdrops. +1
The mansion has been a popular spot for photoshoots, including Halloween-themed ones. Inquire with the site about booking arrangements for professional photography sessions. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the mansion's historical context is valuable, keep in mind that younger children might have shorter attention spans. Opting for a guided tour can help keep them engaged with the guide's storytelling.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
+3Look out for any special events or tours that cater to this interest, especially around Halloween. These can offer a more immersive experience into the mansion's alleged ghostly inhabitants and chilling tales.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Aficionados
The guided tours are particularly valuable, providing in-depth historical context and stories about the prominent families who resided there.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of French Second Empire Style
Visitors are consistently impressed by the meticulous restoration of the mansion's interiors. The attention to detail in preserving original features, from the grand staircase to the intricate ceiling designs, allows guests to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Victorian life. This commitment to historical accuracy is a major draw for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.
The mansion's history is deeply intertwined with the prominent Culbertson family, who were influential figures in the local dry goods business. Understanding their story, along with the lives of other significant family members like Blanche Culbertson French and Rebekah West Harkness, adds a rich narrative layer to the visit.
Whispers of the Paranormal
+3Stories often circulate about ghostly figures and eerie happenings within the mansion's walls. While some visitors find this aspect adds to the intrigue, others suggest that focusing too heavily on the 'haunted' narrative might detract from the mansion's historical significance.
For those interested in the paranormal, the mansion occasionally hosts special events that lean into its spooky reputation, such as haunted house attractions or themed tours during the Halloween season.
The Stories of the Women of Culbertson Mansion
Blanche, a descendant of the original family, and Rebekah, a later owner with a fascinating life, represent different eras and contributions to the mansion's legacy. Learning about their lives provides a more nuanced understanding of the family's history and the mansion's evolution over time.
These stories offer a deeper connection to the human element of the mansion, moving beyond just architecture and dates to explore the personal narratives that shaped this historic site. It's a reminder that behind every grand estate are the lives and experiences of the people who inhabited it.
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