Hampton National Historic Site
Explore a preserved 18th-century Georgian mansion, formal gardens, and the complex history of a vast plantation built on enslaved labor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Hampton National Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a preserved 18th-century Georgian mansion, formal gardens, and the complex history of a vast plantation built on enslaved labor.
"A great place to visit and learn colonial and post-colonial history. Diving into an atmosphere is a need we all possess."
Book Guided Tours
Tours are highly recommended for understanding the site's complex history. Arrive early as group sizes are limited. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the mansion. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mansion Tour
Main House
Explore the Georgian architecture and original furnishings of this 18th-century estate. Learn about the Ridgely family and the lives of those who lived and worked here.
Formal Gardens
Grounds surrounding the mansion
Wander through beautifully maintained formal gardens, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into 18th-century landscape design.
The Farm
Lower grounds
Discover remnants of the plantation's agricultural past, including historic outbuildings and the story of its operation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Tours are highly recommended for understanding the site's complex history. Arrive early as group sizes are limited. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the mansion. :athletic_shoe:
Check Operating Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. Call ahead or check the official website to confirm opening and closing times. :calendar:
Embrace the History
The site's narrative includes the history of enslaved people. Be prepared for an educational and moving experience. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Tours are highly recommended for understanding the site's complex history. Arrive early as group sizes are limited. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the mansion. :athletic_shoe:
Check Operating Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. Call ahead or check the official website to confirm opening and closing times. :calendar:
Embrace the History
The site's narrative includes the history of enslaved people. Be prepared for an educational and moving experience. :books:
Passport Stamps Available
If you're a National Parks passport collector, you can get your stamps at the visitor center. :passport_control:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hampton National Historic Site for its well-preserved mansion, beautiful grounds, and knowledgeable guides who offer insightful tours. The opportunity to see original furnishings and learn about the estate's complex history, including the lives of enslaved people, is frequently highlighted as a significant aspect of the visit. Some note that tours can have a wait due to small group sizes.
"Lovely property and grounds. You can do a free 45 minute guided tour of the mansion at 10:00am or 3:00pm. We didn't have time so we just walked around the property and it was nice seeing the beautiful trees and garden. The lady at the visitor center was very nice. The visitor is open normal hours and you can get the passport stamps there. Plenty of parking there and up at hill at the mansion. I heard the elevator lift in the mansion is currently broken."
Adam Greyson
"Great place to visit and learn colonial and post colonial history. Diving into an atmosphere is a need we all possess. Our guide was great. Kudos to her passion and attention to us visitors. Can’t wait to get back here again!"
Pavel Gailans
"North-west of Towson, this 1790 estate once owned 20,000 acres around Baltimore. It has been restored to it's condition in 1820.
We have taken the tour through the interior of the house several times. The guides are knowledgeable & helpful. There can be a bit of a wait in the waiting area inside the house, since the group size is kept small.
The history of the house & it's decor is really interesting. This is off the beaten track but well worth seeing. Call ahead to make sure they're open when you want to go."
JB Lighter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hampton National Historic Site is located northwest of Towson, MD, just off I-695. Ample parking is available both at the visitor center and near the mansion. While some visitors mention the ease of public transport to the Hamptons from NYC,,
reaching Hampton NHS is best done by car for convenience. :car:
Yes, there is plenty of parking available. You can find spots at the visitor center and also up by the mansion itself. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the grounds is generally free, but guided tours of the mansion may have a fee or require advance booking. It's always best to check the official website for the most current admission policies and tour availability. :ticket:
Operating hours can vary by season. The site is often described as opening at sunset and closing at dusk for the grounds, while the visitor center and mansion tours have specific hours. It's recommended to call ahead or check their website to confirm. :clock:
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is a good idea, especially for the free 10:00 AM or 3:00 PM guided tours, as group sizes are kept small and can fill up. :calendar:
Yes, you can get your National Parks passport stamps at the visitor center. :passport_control:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic mansion with its original furnishings, wander through the formal gardens, and visit 'The Farm' to see remnants of the plantation's agricultural past. Ranger-guided tours offer deep dives into the history. :camerawithflash:
Yes, pets are welcome at Hampton NHS, particularly on the grounds, and can even earn a 'Bark Ranger' tag! Ensure they are leashed and cleaned up after. :dog:
While the historic nature of the site presents some challenges, the grounds are generally accessible. Information regarding elevator access within the mansion should be confirmed, as it has been reported as temporarily broken. :wheelchair:
A visit can range from a quick stroll on the grounds (1-2 hours) to a more in-depth experience including a mansion tour (2-3 hours). :timer:
This 1790 estate was once a vast plantation, built and maintained through the labor of over 500 enslaved African Americans. The site preserves the Georgian mansion and offers insights into the lives of both the wealthy Ridgely family and the enslaved people. :books:
📸 📸 Photography
The mansion exterior, especially from the front lawn, offers iconic shots. The formal gardens provide beautiful backdrops, and the historic farm buildings add character. Capturing the sweeping landscapes is also a must. :camerawithflash:
Photography policies inside historic buildings can vary. It's best to check with the visitor center or your tour guide about restrictions on interior photography. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more tangible aspects of the site, like the architecture and the gardens, to keep younger visitors engaged. While the mansion tours delve into complex historical narratives, including slavery, rangers are skilled at presenting this information in an age-appropriate manner. It's a valuable opportunity for children to learn about different facets of American history. Check for any specific family-friendly programs or activities that might be offered during your visit.
🐾 Pet Owners
They can even participate in the 'Bark Ranger' program, earning a special tag for exploring the park responsibly. Remember to keep your pets leashed at all times and to clean up after them. This ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors and helps maintain the beauty and integrity of the historic site. Enjoy your adventure with your four-legged friend! :dog:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Complex History of Hampton
+1Ranger-guided tours are essential for grasping this complexity. They don't shy away from the realities of slavery, offering a more complete and honest portrayal of the site's past. Visitors often express how eye-opening these tours are, highlighting the importance of acknowledging all narratives.
Beyond the mansion, exploring 'The Farm' provides tangible links to the agricultural operations of the past. Seeing remnants of outbuildings and learning about the daily lives of those who worked the land offers another perspective on the estate's history. This multi-faceted approach makes Hampton NHS a powerful educational experience.
Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
Beyond the manicured gardens, the wider estate provides a sense of the plantation's former scale. Walking the grounds allows you to connect with the landscape that shaped the lives of both the Ridgely family and the enslaved community. You can still see remnants of the former plantation-style farm, offering a glimpse into the agricultural backbone of the estate.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the grounds are perfect for a walk or even a picnic. The open spaces and scenic views make it a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot to explore!
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