Meadow Brook Hall
Step into America's largest historic mansion, a 110-room Tudor-revival estate built by the Dodge family, offering tours and stunning gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Meadow Brook Hall
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into America's largest historic mansion, a 110-room Tudor-revival estate built by the Dodge family, offering tours and stunning gardens.
"This mansion is breathtaking. The architecture is amazing."
🎯 Book 'Behind the Scenes' Tour
More intimate than holiday tours, this offers a deeper dive into family history.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the expansive mansion.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Tudor-Revival Mansion
Main Estate
Step into America's largest historic mansion, an 88,000-square-foot testament to 1920s opulence and craftsmanship.
+2Exquisite Gardens and Grounds
Estate Grounds
Wander through breathtaking gardens, a perfect backdrop for photography and a peaceful escape.
+1
The Sun Porch
East Wing
Experience a sun-drenched seasonal room with stunning views of the estate, a unique architectural gem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Explore Beyond the Mansion
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book 'Behind the Scenes' Tour
More intimate than holiday tours, this offers a deeper dive into family history.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the expansive mansion.
📸 Perfect for Photography
The architecture and gardens are stunning year-round, ideal for portraits and scenic shots.
🚗 Consider Ride-Sharing
Parking can get congested, especially for events. Uber/Lyft might be easier.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book 'Behind the Scenes' Tour
More intimate than holiday tours, this offers a deeper dive into family history.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the expansive mansion.
📸 Perfect for Photography
The architecture and gardens are stunning year-round, ideal for portraits and scenic shots.
🚗 Consider Ride-Sharing
Parking can get congested, especially for events. Uber/Lyft might be easier.
✨ Visit During Special Events
From holiday lights to floral installations, these add extra magic to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Meadow Brook Hall for its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and beautifully maintained grounds. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides and intimate 'Behind the Scenes' tours as particularly enriching experiences. While some find the holiday tours crowded, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it for its historical significance and picturesque setting.
"We visited both the interior and the exterior Christmas lights of Meadow Brook Hall separately, but on the same day. The mansion is beautiful with each room decorated for Christmas. It gives you a peek at how the ultra rich lived over 100 years ago. It's astonishing that a maximum of 6 people lived in this 110 room mansion at any given time. Without mobile phones, they probably spent a good deal of time looking for each other! Sheesh!
The grounds are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and family stories highlighted. Concessions and hot drinks are available for purchase at the light show.
I highly recommend one off these tours, as it's worth the price."
Ned Gosaynie
"A very amazing place. I couldn't imagine living in that house. So many rooms so many wings. I could put my whole family in that house and never see them for a whole year. The Christmas decorations were spectacular. I can't believe they make sure they are different every year. I would like to come back and have a meal there.I'm quite sure it is delicious.It sure smelled wonderful."
Denise Goldsmith
"First time visiting! We choose the Guided House Tour and would highly recommend to those interested in learning about the family history. Our guide (forgot her name) was knowledgeable and open to questions from the group. When we’re back in town we’ll definitely take the Behind the Scenes tour."
Michelle Holliday-Levy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meadow Brook Hall is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. For events, consider ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as parking can become congested.
Public transport options to Meadow Brook Hall are limited. Driving or using ride-sharing services is generally the most convenient way to reach the estate. Check local transit schedules for potential bus routes serving the Rochester Hills area.
There is parking available at Meadow Brook Hall. However, for concerts or large events, it can get congested. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advised.
While possible, visiting without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport. Ride-sharing services are your best bet for a convenient trip to and from the estate.
Meadow Brook Hall is located approximately 40-50 minutes north of downtown Detroit, making it a feasible day trip from the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of tour or event. General admission for house tours typically ranges from $15-$25. Special event tickets, like holiday light tours, will be priced higher. Check their official website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for guided tours and during peak seasons or special events, to ensure availability.
Opening hours vary by season and day of the week. Tours are typically offered daily, but it's best to check the official Meadow Brook Hall website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Yes, Meadow Brook Hall offers several tour options, including the Guided House Tour, 'Behind the Scenes' tours, and seasonal tours. The 'Behind the Scenes' tour is often praised for its intimacy.
Yes, a yearly membership is available and can pay for itself in just a few visits, offering great value for frequent visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the 110-room mansion with guided tours, wander through beautiful gardens, and enjoy seasonal art installations. It's a journey through history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Absolutely! The stunning architecture, intricate details, and lush gardens make it a photographer's dream, perfect for portraits and scenic shots.
Meadow Brook Hall hosts various events throughout the year, including holiday light displays, floral art installations, and concerts at the Meadow Brook Amphitheater.
Yes, Meadow Brook Hall is a highly sought-after wedding venue, offering both elegant indoor spaces and beautiful outdoor settings for ceremonies and receptions.
Typically, access to the grounds may be included with a mansion tour ticket or require a separate admission fee, especially during special events. Check their website for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Meadow Brook Hall itself doesn't have a full-service restaurant, they may offer light refreshments or snacks during certain tours or events. For a full meal, explore nearby Rochester.
The nearby city of Rochester offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Ask locals or check online reviews for recommendations.
Picnicking might be allowed in designated areas of the grounds, but it's best to check Meadow Brook Hall's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand facade of the mansion, the meticulously maintained gardens, the Sun Porch, and various architectural details inside and out offer countless photo opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the mansion, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Professional or commercial photography may require special permits.
Yes, Meadow Brook Hall is a popular location for engagement and wedding photoshoots. Specific permits and fees may apply, so it's advisable to contact their events team.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for outdoor photography. Midday can be harsh, but the interior offers opportunities regardless of the time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, opt for tours that are not overly long or formal if you have very young children. The gardens offer a great opportunity for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors. Pack snacks and drinks, as on-site dining options may be limited.
The sheer scale of the mansion itself can be awe-inspiring for children, sparking curiosity about grand homes and historical periods.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the grandeur of the mansion's exterior, the delicate beauty of the floral displays, and the unique architectural elements both inside and out. The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most magical light for outdoor photography.Consider booking a portrait session here, whether for seniors, families, or engagement photos.
The estate's varied backdrops, from formal gardens to intimate nooks, allow for diverse and memorable images. Be sure to check their policies regarding professional photography permits and any restrictions on flash usage inside the mansion. 💍 Couples and Romantic Getaways
+4 Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, explore the opulent rooms of the mansion, or enjoy a quiet moment on the Sun Porch.The venue is a popular choice for weddings, promising a memorable and picturesque celebration.
+3 For a more casual romantic outing, consider visiting during a special event like a holiday light display or a floral exhibition for an added touch of magic. The peaceful ambiance and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories together.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Dodge Family Legacy
+2 The estate was designed to be a working farm and a luxurious family home, reflecting the immense wealth and taste of the era. Matilda's vision was to create a place of beauty and comfort, filled with art, antiques, and exquisite craftsmanship.The tours at Meadow Brook Hall offer a fascinating journey into the lives of the Dodge and Wilson families. Visitors can learn about Matilda's philanthropic endeavors, her passion for education, and the daily life within such a grand residence. The 'Behind the Scenes' tours, in particular, provide an intimate look at the mansion's history and its inhabitants, often highlighting lesser-known stories and details that bring the past to life.
Beyond its residential history, Meadow Brook Hall has evolved into a significant cultural and educational institution. It now serves as a museum, a popular wedding venue, and a site for various events and exhibitions, continuing its legacy of grandeur and community engagement.
+3 Its status as a National Historic Landmark underscores its importance in American architectural and social history.Architectural Marvel and Design Details
+2 Inside, visitors are treated to a symphony of handcrafted elements, including intricate plaster ceilings, rich oak paneling, and custom-designed stained-glass windows. Each room tells a story through its unique design and furnishings, many of which are original to the Dodge family.Particular attention is paid to the grand scale of the estate, with 110 rooms designed for both lavish entertaining and comfortable family living. The ballroom, library, and dining room showcase the opulence of the 1920s, while more private spaces offer a glimpse into the family's personal lives. The Sun Porch, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, offers a serene space to appreciate the surrounding gardens and the estate's natural beauty.
The meticulous preservation of these spaces allows visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur firsthand.The gardens and grounds are as much a part of the Meadow Brook Hall experience as the mansion itself. Designed with the same attention to detail, they feature formal gardens, winding paths, and scenic vistas. Seasonal installations, like the Floral Art exhibit, transform the landscape into an outdoor gallery, further enhancing the visitor experience and providing ample opportunities for photography.
+1Meadow Brook Hall as a Premier Event Venue
+3 Couples can choose from a variety of exquisite indoor spaces, such as the grand ballroom, or opt for a romantic outdoor ceremony amidst the beautifully manicured gardens. The versatility of the estate allows for celebrations of all sizes and styles, from intimate gatherings to large-scale events.The venue's dedicated event staff are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled to create an unforgettable experience.
Beyond weddings, Meadow Brook Hall also hosts a variety of other events, including concerts at the adjacent Meadow Brook Amphitheater, holiday celebrations, and special exhibitions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit