The Glass House
Philip Johnson's iconic transparent residence and 49-acre estate, a masterpiece of modernist architecture and landscape design.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
The Glass House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Philip Johnson's iconic transparent residence and 49-acre estate, a masterpiece of modernist architecture and landscape design.
"A beautifully preserved modernist landmark and a must-visit for anyone who loves design or architecture."
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Weekends
Tickets for The Glass House sell out fast! Book online in advance, particularly for weekend visits.
🚶♀️ Guided vs. Self-Guided
Guided tours offer deep insights, while self-guided allows more personal exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Glass House (1949)
Main structure
Philip Johnson's iconic transparent residence, a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
The Brick House
Adjacent structure
Features a striking circular window and houses Johnson's dream reading room.
Sculpture and Art Collection
Throughout the 49-acre site
Explore impressive 20th-century paintings and sculptures integrated into the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Plan for a 2-Hour Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Weekends
Tickets for The Glass House sell out fast! Book online in advance, particularly for weekend visits.
🚶♀️ Guided vs. Self-Guided
Guided tours offer deep insights, while self-guided allows more personal exploration.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking around the 49-acre site, so wear comfortable footwear.
📸 Capture the Reflections
The transparent walls offer unique photo opportunities with shifting reflections.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead, Especially Weekends
Tickets for The Glass House sell out fast! Book online in advance, particularly for weekend visits.
🚶♀️ Guided vs. Self-Guided
Guided tours offer deep insights, while self-guided allows more personal exploration.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking around the 49-acre site, so wear comfortable footwear.
📸 Capture the Reflections
The transparent walls offer unique photo opportunities with shifting reflections.
📍 Day Trip from NYC
Easily accessible via Metro-North, making it a perfect day trip from New York City.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Glass House as a stunning architectural landmark and a delightful day trip, particularly from NYC. The knowledgeable guides and the immersive experience of the transparent house and its grounds are frequently highlighted. Some reviewers note the historical context of Philip Johnson, while others focus on the site's beauty and design.
"The tour was great! Our host gave an indepth history of the creation and ideas behind the formation of the Glass House and surrounding buildings. It's heartwarming to know this very special group of structures is going to be around for a long time. Buy tickets ahead of time. The tours accommodate up to 13 people and you will be shuttled to the site in a van."
Gayle Anderson
"The Glass House is the ultimate minimalist’s dream home. While simple, one can imagine the sunsets and scenes during changes in seasons. They do offer sunset tours. The Brick House contains my dream reading room with its circular window. The gallery, library, and other buildings and sculptures are worth visiting as well. The artwork that Phillip Johnson collected were massive! I recommend the self-guided tour so that you can ask questions to your heart’s content and have plenty of time to explore and enjoy. The staff are very knowledgeable and eager to answer your questions. The Glass House is not open all year round! Check the website and read the rules!"
bubblesncups
"This is a phenomenal site fillled with architectural history and mixed media collections. The 49 acre site is stunning and the self-guided educators a joy! Free and easy parking on Sundays!"
Karl Gercens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Glass House is accessible via Metro-North train from Grand Central Terminal to New Canaan station. From there, a shuttle or taxi will take you to the site.
Yes, there is free parking available on Sundays. For other days, check the website for details, as parking can be limited.
Absolutely! The Metro-North train makes it a convenient car-free day trip from NYC.
Taking the Metro-North train is highly recommended for ease and accessibility from NYC.
The train ride from Grand Central to New Canaan is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus travel time to and from the stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour type and season. It's best to check the official website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend tours, as they often sell out. +1
The Glass House is not open year-round. Check the official website for their operating schedule and tour times.
Yes, The Glass House offers guided tours, self-guided tours, and special sunset tours.
It is strongly advised to purchase tickets online in advance, as on-site purchases may not be available due to limited tour capacity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour typically lasts about two hours, including shuttle time to the site.
The 49-acre site includes the Brick House, gallery, library, other structures, and a collection of sculptures and 20th-century art. +1
The site involves walking on varied terrain. It's best to contact The Glass House directly to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations.
Photography is generally allowed, but check specific guidelines on-site. The transparent nature of the house offers unique photographic opportunities.
Restroom facilities are available. It's advisable to check the website for details on other amenities like cafes or gift shops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full-service restaurant on-site, there might be a cafe or refreshments available. It's recommended to check their website for current offerings.
Picnicking rules can vary. It's best to confirm with The Glass House administration if outside food is permitted on the grounds.
New Canaan offers several dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, a short drive or taxi ride away.
The Glass House itself is an architectural site, not a dining venue. However, some venues named 'The Glass House' in other locations serve progressive Indian food or host special dinners. 
The Glass House can be a venue for special events and intimate gatherings, offering a unique backdrop. Inquire directly for event planning.
📸 📸 Photography
The transparent walls of the main house offer stunning reflections. The surrounding landscape and sculptures also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the property and other visitors. Check the official rules before visiting.
Late afternoon or during sunset tours can provide beautiful, soft lighting and dramatic reflections.
Tripod usage might be restricted to preserve the visitor experience and protect the site. It's best to verify their photography policy.
A camera that handles varied lighting conditions well, from bright exteriors to interior shots, would be ideal. Wide-angle lenses can capture the expansive views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the visual aspects – the transparency of the house, the art installations, and the natural beauty of the landscape. Engaging children by asking them to describe what they see and how the house interacts with its surroundings can make the visit more interactive and memorable.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Pay close attention to the details: the play of light and shadow, the seamless transitions between interior and exterior, and the deliberate placement of art. The guided tours offer in-depth historical and architectural context, while the self-guided option allows for personal contemplation and detailed observation.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the house's changing moods. Sunset tours are particularly recommended for their dramatic lighting. Be mindful of photography guidelines on-site, as tripods or extensive equipment might be restricted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Philip Johnson
+1Visitors often remark on the profound impact of the shifting reflections and sightlines within the house, which constantly interact with the surrounding environment. The minimalist design emphasizes simplicity, balance, and form, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Despite its transparency, the house offers moments of intimacy, particularly within the Brick House, which contains a circular reading room.
It's worth noting that Philip Johnson's legacy is complex, with some historical accounts mentioning his past affiliations. However, the architectural significance and artistic merit of The Glass House remain undeniable, making it a crucial site for understanding 20th-century American architecture and design.
Exploring the 49-Acre Site
The landscape itself is an integral part of the design, with pathways winding through manicured lawns and natural woodlands. The integration of art is also a key feature, with significant 20th-century paintings and sculptures strategically placed throughout the grounds, adding another layer of artistic discovery to the visit.
Whether on a guided tour or a self-guided exploration, taking the time to wander the grounds allows for a deeper appreciation of Johnson's holistic approach to design, where architecture, landscape, and art converge. The site offers a tranquil escape and a rich educational experience for anyone interested in design, art, or history.
Accessibility and Transportation
Upon arrival at New Canaan station, visitors can arrange for a shuttle service or a taxi to reach The Glass House site. This seamless transition from urban transit to a serene architectural landmark is a significant convenience. For those driving, parking is available, though it's advisable to check the website for specific details and potential fees, especially on weekends.
While the main house is a marvel of design, the 49-acre site involves walking on varied terrain. Visitors with mobility concerns are encouraged to contact The Glass House directly to discuss accessibility options and ensure a comfortable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit