Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
An elegant Neoclassical Revival mansion on 50 acres, famed for its beauty, events, and cinematic appearances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive decorations create magic
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
Best Time
Festive decorations create magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant Neoclassical Revival mansion on 50 acres, famed for its beauty, events, and cinematic appearances.
"A gorgeous historic home and grounds, offering a Downton Abbey experience in the SF Bay Area."
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a $15 parking fee.
📅 Book Tours in Advance
Interior tours and special events like high tea sell out fast. Book online early!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Mansion
Main House
A stunning Neoclassical Revival mansion, a true architectural gem offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Lush Landscaped Grounds
Estate Grounds
Explore 50 acres of beautifully manicured lawns and gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Gatsby Summer Afternoon
Estate Grounds
Experience a magical 1920s-themed event with music, dancing, and vintage flair.
+1
Holiday Decorations
Main House & Grounds
During the holidays, the estate transforms into a festive wonderland with themed rooms and outdoor photo ops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tours
Event Venue & Filming Location
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a $15 parking fee.
📅 Book Tours in Advance
Interior tours and special events like high tea sell out fast. Book online early!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and potentially inside the mansion.
📸 Filming Location
Channel your inner Bond or horror fan; this estate has been featured in films!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee
Be prepared for a $15 parking fee.
📅 Book Tours in Advance
Interior tours and special events like high tea sell out fast. Book online early!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and potentially inside the mansion.
📸 Filming Location
Channel your inner Bond or horror fan; this estate has been featured in films!
🧺 Picnic Ready
The expansive grounds are perfect for a relaxing picnic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate for its stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and festive holiday decorations, often comparing it to a 'Downton Abbey experience.' It's also a hit for its role as a filming location and for hosting unique events like the Gatsby Summer Afternoon. Some reviews note that the City of Oakland could allocate more funds for upkeep, and accessibility for those with mobility issues might be a concern.
"Gorgeous mansion in a city park, used as a filming site in several films. Explore the pool area as well.
Inside tours are possible with advance request and can be booked for private events.
Recommended."
cliffb1930
"Gorgeous historic home and grounds open for tours. The house was built by Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride in 1899. The house was decorated beautifully for the holiday season and also had lots of holiday photo opportunities outside for children, as well as two bouncy houses. There was a high tea event available, tickets available online and had sold out by our arrival. Friendly and helpful staff were plentiful. Parking was $15. Disability Information: Disabled parking available on request, with drop off and shuttle available to the house. The lovely walk through the grounds is on a paved but slightly bumpy narrow road that gently ascends to the house, which sits on a small rise. The road is perhaps 1/8th mile long. There is a ramp to the back door, but tours enter through the front and people are carefully routed in one direction only. Some stair climbing is necessary to see the house; I did not see any elevator or disabled access to the second floor. The restrooms are nearby in another building, but require either ascending a fairly long stair up the hill or using the slightly steep ramp walkway tucked around the back. Printed information throughout the house offered no Braille. The movement of foot traffic through the house moved at a fairly good pace, but if one wishes to move at a more leisurely pace most of the time there is room to allow others to pass. A lovely place to visit and we all very much enjoyed it!"
Cheryl Cruise Canaday
"This review is for the Dunsmuir House at the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate. The mansion captures the charm of a bygone era. The tours during the Christmas holidays are special events. Each room is decorated with a different theme. It is the closest to a Downton Abbey experience in the SF Bay Area. The City of Oakland operates the mansion and needs to allocate more funds for its upkeep as some portions of the house need to be better maintained."
Stephen Cassidy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The estate is located in Oakland, CA. Public transportation options are available, but driving is common. Parking is available on-site for a fee.
Yes, there is parking available, but it comes with a $15 fee.
Disabled parking is available upon request, with drop-off and shuttle services to the house. The grounds have paved paths, but some areas may be bumpy. Interior access to the second floor may be limited.
The grounds are often accessible for exploration, but interior tours require advance booking. Check the estate's schedule for any event-related closures.
From San Francisco, you can drive across the Bay Bridge towards Oakland. Public transit options like BART are also available, followed by a short taxi or rideshare to the estate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for interior tours and special events, such as holiday decorations or high tea, should be booked in advance through the estate's official website. These events often sell out.
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on tour availability and event schedules.
Yes, the estate hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Gatsby Summer Afternoon, holiday decorations, and high tea events. +1
Absolutely! The Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate is a popular venue for weddings, parties, and corporate events. Inquire directly with their events team for booking information.
While the grounds are often accessible, specific events may have their own admission fees. Parking also incurs a fee. Check the website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the grand mansion, wander through the beautiful 50-acre grounds, enjoy picnics, and attend special events like holiday celebrations or the Gatsby Summer Afternoon. +1
Yes, the stunning architecture and picturesque grounds make it an excellent location for photography, both for personal memories and professional shoots.
Photography policies inside the mansion may vary, especially during tours. It's advisable to check with staff on-site or during your booked tour.
Yes, guided tours of the mansion are available, but they require advance booking. These tours offer insights into the history and architecture of the estate.
It's an annual event where attendees dress in 1920s attire, enjoy live jazz music, dancing, and picnics on the estate grounds, celebrating the Roaring Twenties.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be a permanent restaurant, special events like high tea or the Gatsby Summer Afternoon often include food options or encourage picnics.
Yes, the expansive grounds are perfect for picnics, making it a great spot to bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful scenery.
The Gatsby Summer Afternoon encourages a picnic-style experience, so attendees often bring their own food and beverages to enjoy.
Yes, high tea events are sometimes offered, particularly during the holiday season. These are popular and tend to sell out quickly.
Yes, the estate is located in Oakland, which offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand facade of the mansion, the manicured gardens, the pool area, and the sweeping lawns all offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Professional photoshoots may require special permits or arrangements. It's best to contact the estate management for their specific policies regarding commercial photography.
Absolutely! The elegant architecture and beautiful grounds provide a romantic and picturesque backdrop for wedding photography.
While general photography is usually allowed, there might be restrictions inside the mansion during tours or for commercial purposes. Always check with staff.
It's known for its use as a filming location, so fans often visit to recreate movie scenes. The elegant architecture also makes it popular for portrait and event photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While interior tours are available, consider the accessibility notes if you have very young children or strollers, as some areas may be challenging. For a unique outing, consider visiting during a special event like the Gatsby Summer Afternoon, where the lively atmosphere and vintage theme can be engaging for older children.
+1 Remember to factor in the parking fee and book any desired tours or events in advance, as they can sell out. 🎬 Film Buffs & Pop Culture Fans
+1 You can walk the grounds and imagine yourself in these cinematic scenes, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Fans of the Roaring Twenties will also be captivated by events like the Gatsby Summer Afternoon, which fully immerses attendees in the Art Deco era with music, dancing, and vintage fashion.
+1 It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the estate's grandeur through a historical lens. 💍 Couples & Event Planners
For those planning events, the estate is equipped to host a variety of functions, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The ability to book private tours or host themed events like the Gatsby Summer Afternoon adds a unique flair for any occasion.
Consider the estate for anniversaries, engagement photos, or simply a romantic day out exploring its beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
The estate has been a significant landmark in Oakland for over a century, witnessing various historical periods and transformations. Beyond its architectural splendor, the estate holds a place in popular culture as a filming location. Movie buffs will recognize it from films like the James Bond movie A View to a Kill and the cult classic horror film Phantasm.
+1 This cinematic history adds another layer of intrigue for visitors, allowing them to step into scenes from their favorite movies. The estate is now operated by the City of Oakland and serves as a venue for public events, concerts, weddings, and private parties, ensuring its continued relevance and preservation. Experiencing Special Events at the Estate
+2 This event is a testament to the estate's ability to host themed gatherings that transport visitors to another era.During the holiday season, the mansion is adorned with festive decorations, with each room often themed differently. This creates a warm and enchanting atmosphere, making it a popular destination for families and those seeking holiday cheer.
Navigating Accessibility and Amenities
Restrooms are located in a separate building, requiring either an ascent up a stair or use of a steep ramp.
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