Docent Guided Mansion Tour at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

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Date: Sunday, November 3, 2024 | 01:00 pm EST

Price: Price Varies

Location:  Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
4155 Linnean Avenue, NW,
Washington, District Of Columbia  20008
United States


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Duke alumni, current parents and guests are invited to attend a docent guided group tour of the Mansion at Hillwood Estate, the former home of businesswoman, philanthropist and collector Marjorie Merriweather Post.  Known for its extensive decorative arts collection, Hillwood displays 18th and 19th century French art, and an impressive collection of Russian art including two Fabergé eggs. We will view the short orientation film in the visitor's center, enjoy the tour and stay for social time and snacks at Merriweather To-Go.  Our program provides ample time to explore the gardens and museum shop.

The 10 minute orientation film, which runs in  the visitor center theater every 15 minutes, is recommended for your first visit to Hillwood. The film offers a wonderful introduction to Marjorie Post’s life and legacy. It may also be viewed on Hillwood's website in advance of our group visit.

The mansion tour will begin promptly at 1:30 PM inside the entry way and offer knowledgeable perspectives on the collections, the interiors, and how this grand estate was used during Marjorie Post’s life. Our tour is expected to last one hour.  Our group of 50 (max capacity) will be divided into two smaller groups each with a docent. 

After the tour, stay for social time and leisurely explore the estate! Snacks and beverages are available for purchase at the Merriweather To-Go, or dine at the Merriweather Cafe (dining ends at 3:30 PM and individual reservations are encouraged via Resy).  In addition, we may visit the current exhibition Fragile Beauty, Art of the Ocean located in the Adirondack building, and stroll through the many gardens (Greenhouse, French Parterre, Japanese Style, Lunar Lawn, Four Seasons and Putting Green). Check out the beautiful museum shop on the second floor of the visitor's center. 

Hillwood's hours are 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.  Your ticket provides access to the estate for the entire day. We hope that you will join us for this very special autumn afternoon at one of DC's finest treasures!

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