Mordecai Historic Park Raleigh
Step back in time at Mordecai Historic Park, home to Raleigh's oldest residence and President Andrew Johnson's birthplace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Mordecai Historic Park Raleigh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Mordecai Historic Park, home to Raleigh's oldest residence and President Andrew Johnson's birthplace.
"So much history here! Definitely recommend walking through and learning about everything this park has to offer!"
Book Guided Tours
To enter the Mordecai House, tours are generally required. Call ahead to confirm availability! :ticket:
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate 2-3 hours to explore the grounds, buildings, and exhibits thoroughly. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mordecai House
Main House
Step into Raleigh's oldest residence on its original foundation, built in 1785. Experience antebellum life and presidential history.
President Andrew Johnson's Birthplace
Small Cabin
See the humble beginnings of the 17th U.S. President in this preserved cabin, offering a glimpse into early American life.
Historic Chapel
Chapel Building
A charming, historic chapel that has hosted many events, adding to the park's picturesque and storied atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Tour or Self-Guided?
Time for Exploration
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
To enter the Mordecai House, tours are generally required. Call ahead to confirm availability! :ticket:
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate 2-3 hours to explore the grounds, buildings, and exhibits thoroughly. :clock:
Check for Events
The park hosts markets, performances, and even ghost tours. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
To enter the Mordecai House, tours are generally required. Call ahead to confirm availability! :ticket:
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate 2-3 hours to explore the grounds, buildings, and exhibits thoroughly. :clock:
Check for Events
The park hosts markets, performances, and even ghost tours. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the historic grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the lovely garden behind the kitchen, filled with flowers and plants. :seedling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mordecai Historic Park for its rich history, well-preserved buildings, and knowledgeable staff who offer engaging tours. The park is noted as a great place to learn about Raleigh's past, including the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson. While the grounds are freely explorable, tours are generally needed for house access. Some mention the possibility of unexplained phenomena during special ghost tours.
"So much history here! It was interesting to learn that some of the buildings were moved from their original locations and placed in the park to preserve them. Definitely recommend walking through and learning about everything this park has to offer!"
Kyle
"The weekend before Halloween, my wife and I went on the Ghost Guild’s ghost tour. The Mordecai house is suppose to be the most haunted house in Raleigh. It was fun and interesting. And FREE!! It started in the Visitor Center across the street with a power point presentation. Then we entered the birthplace of Andrew Johnson, the Chapel and the Mordecai house. I like that they make every effort to explain that their finding (mostly sound recordings) were explainable, and not actually ghosts. Though, they let you decide for yourself. One black image moving across the video lens was probably a spider or insect and not other worldly.
Fun,interesting and entertaining!!"
Sal Panettieri
"The staff were extremely knowledgeable about the history. We learned a lot. The estate and the artifacts are preserved in really good shapes. It wasn't busy when we arrived and we got a nice and very detailed tour of the entire place. You should definitely think about taking a tour. The garden behind the kitchen was so lovely with many flowers and plants."
Farzad Ehtemam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mordecai Historic Park is conveniently located in Raleigh, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check with the local transit authority for routes and schedules.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Mordecai Historic Park, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
Mordecai Historic Park is situated near downtown Raleigh, and some sources suggest it's a stroll away, offering a peaceful retreat with city access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can explore the grounds of Mordecai Historic Park freely. However, to enter the historic Mordecai House, a guided tour is typically required. It's best to call the visitor center to confirm tour availability and any associated fees.
Park hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Mordecai Historic Park website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating hours for both the grounds and the house tours.
Yes, guided tours are available for the Mordecai House. These tours offer in-depth historical insights from knowledgeable staff.
While exploring the park grounds is free, there may be a fee for guided tours of the Mordecai House. Senior discounts are often available, with prices as low as $4 for seniors.
It is highly recommended to book guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons or for specific events, to ensure your spot. Contact the park directly for booking information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mordecai Historic Park features the historic Mordecai House (Raleigh's oldest residence), President Andrew Johnson's birthplace, a historic chapel, and beautifully preserved grounds. It offers a deep dive into local and national history.,
Yes, Mordecai Historic Park is considered kid-friendly, offering educational exhibits and open spaces for children to explore and learn about history.
Photography is generally allowed within Mordecai Historic Park, and the picturesque grounds and historic buildings make for great photo opportunities. Some areas or events might have specific photography restrictions.
Mordecai Historic Park frequently hosts special events, including vendor markets, historical reenactments, and even ghost tours, especially around Halloween. Check their schedule for upcoming events.,
The park is significant for preserving Raleigh's history, featuring the oldest house in the city and the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson. It showcases antebellum life and architectural heritage.,
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself may not have extensive dining facilities, it often hosts vendor markets and food trucks during special events, offering a variety of food and drink options.,
Picnicking on the grounds is generally permitted at parks, but it's advisable to check the specific park rules regarding outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic Mordecai House, the charming chapel, the gardens, and the preserved cabins offer beautiful backdrops for photography. The tree-lined streets surrounding the park also provide scenic views.,
Yes, Mordecai Historic Park is a popular and gorgeous venue for wedding ceremonies and photos, featuring a chapel and beautiful garden areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit with one of the park's special events, such as vendor markets, which can add an extra layer of entertainment. While tours of the Mordecai House are typically required to enter, the stories and visuals are often captivating for younger audiences.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take advantage of the guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge from experts. The park's commitment to preserving and presenting historical buildings, some of which were relocated for preservation, offers a comprehensive look at the region's heritage.
📸 Photographers & Event Planners
The park's serene atmosphere and architectural beauty make it an attractive venue for smaller wedding ceremonies and other intimate events. Its proximity to downtown Raleigh also adds to its convenience for event planning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Mordecai House
Insights from visitors highlight the knowledgeable staff who provide detailed tours, making the history come alive. Some buildings within the park were actually moved from their original locations to be preserved here, adding another layer to the park's historical significance.
Architectural Significance
The Mordecai House itself is an example of the architectural styles prevalent during its construction. Understanding its design and evolution offers a deeper appreciation for the historical context of the region. The surrounding grounds also contribute to the historical narrative, with structures like President Andrew Johnson's birthplace adding to the park's educational value.
Presidential Roots and Community Events
Beyond its historical structures, the park serves as a vibrant community hub. It frequently hosts vendor markets, featuring local artisans and businesses, creating a lively atmosphere. These events, like the 'Geek & Grub Market,' transform the park into a bustling marketplace, attracting locals and visitors alike.,
Special Performances and Tours
The park also becomes a stage for various performances and unique tours. MOJOAA Performing Arts Company has presented shows like 'Escape to Freedom' here, utilizing the historic setting for immersive theatrical experiences.
Additionally, the park has been known to host ghost tours, particularly around Halloween, adding an element of spooky intrigue to its historical offerings. 
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