home tours in america

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The Best Home Tours in America

Take a trip back in time on these tours of historic homes throughout the country.

Gorgeous mansions from the Rhode Island shore to the California coast.

Thomas Jefferson's Virginia plantation continues to draw visitors to Charlottesville with its  extensive room tour and programming spotlighting the Hemings family . Green thumbs should check out the center for historic plants and garden tasting, while architecture buffs might enjoy the Making Monticello exhibition on the home's planning and construction . 

The Elms is the first of two Rhode Island mansions on this list. Built to resemble the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres  outside of Paris, the home cost over a million dollars to build, and was completed in 1901. 

Visitors to the property can expect to see gorgeous landscaped grounds peppered with fountains, and a window into the Gilded Age through the  eyes of coal magnate Edward Julius Berwind (the house served as his family's summer retreat).  Or, take the Servant Life tour for a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to run the house.

Tickets are available on newportmansions.org .

The Whitney Plantation

One of the few Southern plantations to focus on the slave experience, The Whitney Plantation uses hundreds of first-person narratives to paint a picture of what life was really like for Louisiana's enslaved population. 

A guided tour of the property takes visitors through the historic Antioch Baptist Church, the slave quarters, and the Big House, focusing on the lives of the men and women who lived and worked there.

For more information, visit whitneyplantation.com . 

Once described as "the grandest house west of Chicago," the Brucemore in Cedar Rapids Iowa offers visitors a glimpse back into early twentieth century life . Take a tour of the estate, noting the collection's antique electronics like a 1930s-era film projector and an Edison Phonograph , or wander the grounds, stopping in the flower shop, and admiring the 1910 landscape design. 

The site also features theatrical performances, art festivals, and other community events throughout the year. For more information , head to  brucemore.com .

The Biltmore

George Vanderbilt's Asheville manse is a favorite of travelers in North Carolina. Known for its manicured gardens, a heated, indoor swimming pool, and a bowling alley (one of the first of its kind) , the Biltmore is a prime example of late 19th-century American opulence .  

Plan your trip around the holidays to see the house decked out for Christmas, and stay at the nearby Inn on  Biltmore Estate for easy access to the historic site and the nearby winery.

Find out how at biltmore.com .

This 1917 mansion-turned site of the Natural Trust for Historic Preservation in Woodside, California is known for both  its 16-acre English Renaissance garden ( above ) and more than 654-acre property . Come for the traditional docent-guided home tour, but stay for orchard walks, nature hikes, and urban beekeeping classes.

For more information, visit filoli.org .

J.P Morgan Library

Most people know the Morgan name for its connection to the financial world, but J.P. Morgan, Jr. was also an avid art and literature collector, a passion made obvious by the contents of his New York City residence . 

He donated the home to the public in 1924, and now it serves as a museum, showcasing his extensive collections— which include works such as Gutenberg Bible, manuscripts by Mozart, Jane Austen, and George Washington, and the largest collection of Rembrandt etchings in the United States — as well as traveling exhibits. 

Visit themorgan.org  to learn more.

Hearst Castle

Set atop a hill overlooking the ocean, media magnate William Randolph Hearst's famous San Simeon estate — Hearst founded the company that owns  Town & Country — gives tourists the chance to step inside the inspiration behind  Citizen Kane 's Xanadu . 

Visitors can explore the grand rooms of the mansion, and the upstairs suites, or take the evening tour, complete with docents dressed in period clothes, to see the estate come alive at night.

Earlier this summer, the Chimney Fire in California threatened the property, but so far, it has remained unharmed.

Head to hearstcastle.org for more information.

Edith Wharton's Lenox, Massachusetts home is notable for its turn-of-the-century architecture, its 2,700-volume library , and its phantom inhabitants. Check out the latter on the estate's ghost tour, a popular attraction, or opt to attend their weekly literary roundtable for a lively discussion of Wharton's literary legacy.

For more information on the house as well as the estate's lecture series and other cultural events, visit edithwharton.org .

The Breakers

The second Rhode Island house tour on this list is a grand one: the Vanderbilt family's summer "cottage" (possibly the understatement of the year) was designed in the style of the Italian Renaissance, and to say it is impressive is an understatement. 

Clearly, the Vanderbilt family knew how to celebrate the holidays. Tour the Gilded Age mansion at Christmas time for live music, visits with Santa, and all things decorated in silver-and-gold.

Learn more on newportmansions.org .

Sleepy Hollow, New York is famous for two things: Ichabod Crane, and Kykuit, the 40-room estate of John D. Rockefeller . Take a tour of the six-story stone house, then stroll through the terraced gardens, which are filled with sculptures by artists like Pablo Picasso, David Smith, and Henry Moore.

Visit hudsonvalley.org for more information.

Mount Vernon

George Washington's former residence pays homage to America's foremost founding father with tours of the 21-room mansion,  its beautiful gardens, and a fully functioning distillery and gristmill.

Those looking to learn about this history of slavery should take a custom tour of the estate, while music buffs can join property's resident fifer for a musical demonstration. Dog lovers , on the other hand, might enjoy the "All the President's Pups" walking tour, which lets you and your furry friend explore the history canine life at Mount Vernon.

For more details, visit mountvernon.org .

As the digital director for Town & Country, Caroline Hallemann covers culture, entertainment, and a range of other subjects 

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A marvel of elegance and charm.

Experience America’s Largest Home®, as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. Your self-guided house visit spans three floors and the basement of the luxurious family home of  George and Edith Vanderbilt . Explore the stories of the Vanderbilt family, their guests, and employees through displays of vintage clothing, accessories, art, furniture, and more.

Biltmore: A Vision Made Real

Take a closer look at how a beloved national treasure has evolved over the years, from a history of significant events and decisions that ensure George Vanderbilt’s legacy lives on to the collection of rare and priceless objects that fill his grand home.

A Rich History

A vast collection, virtual tour: biltmore house—america’s largest home.

Rooftop Tour

Enjoy breathtaking views from rooftops and balconies of Biltmore House and get a closer look at its design and construction with this 60-minute guided tour of areas not seen on the regular house visit.

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These Are Our 10 Most Popular Home Tours of 2022

From cozy California cottages to grand French manors, here are the homes that reigned supreme this year.

When it comes to selecting the beautiful homes that are featured in our magazine or on our website, our editors don’t pay too much attention to where they’re located or fixate on a particular style aesthetic. We can find beauty in a bohemian bungalow, a Georgian manse or an island retreat, as long as the home is well-appointed, has plenty of personality and a unique story to tell. And it turns out, many of our readers feel the same way. We pulled our most popular home tours of 2022, and there’s a delightful mix of cozy California cottages, colorful coastal retreats, grand French manors and more. Here are our most popular home tours of 2022.

A Montecito Cottage Designed by Suzanne Tucker

A Michigan Lake Cabin Designed by Amy Meier

This low-maintenance lakefront cabin acts as a young family’s vacation home—and the rustic interiors were designed to be liveable, durable, and full of character. The cozy design and massive glass windows overlooking the lake make this home a fan fave for good reason.

A Historic Block Island Home Designed by Miles Redd and Gil Schafer

This beautiful Block Island home is our third most popular house tour of 2022. The sunlight-dappled home is full of romantic coastal charm, thanks to seashell pink accents, gorgeous ocean views, and a "party barn" that serves as a place to entertain guests.

A French Manor House Apartment Designed by David Jimenez

A centuries-old manor in the French countryside is pretty much the definition of romance, at least in our dictionary. An hour north of Paris, this manor apartment designed by David Jimenez is surrounded by ancient oaks, fragrant pines, and open fields. Inside, convivial French touches and an incredible art collection make this home truly special.

A Charming Colorado Guest House Designed by Heidi Callier

Heidi Callier reimagined an old workshop on the property of a Colorado home into a well-appointed retreat for guests . This intimate cottage is inspired by British design and is filled with collected items, layered textiles, and cheerful colors for an extra dose of charm.

Noel Pittman's Elegant Los Angeles Home

Noel Pittman's home , a 1920's architectural beauty, is located in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Pittman took inspiration from Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean design, which is evident in the home's terra cotta tile, antique Spanish lebrillos, and original ironwork staircase. Layers of custom upholstery, antiques, art, and textiles make the home feel extra personal and inviting.

Summer Thornton's Enchanting Chicago Townhome

This stunning living room from Summer Thornton's Chicago townhome earned the coveted spot on our May-June 2022 cover for good reason. The room's warm apricot paint color was inspired by a sunlit building Thornton had seen in Venice during her travels, while hand-marbled paper crowns the ceiling. We love how whimsical the room feels, thanks to mixed patterns, layers of texture and color, and an extra-fun tasseled couch.

John Saladino's Timeless Montecito Home

John Saladino's California home , which was the cover star of our March-April 2017 issue, is a love letter to beautiful architecture, decorating, gardens, and furniture design. Many of his idyllic rooms look like still-life paintings and feature incredible antiques, sculptures, and global textiles. When designing this pool and outdoor space, Saladino said he was inspired by ancient Greek and Roman nymphaea—natural grottoes said to be homes of nymphs. Magical, indeed!

A Hudson Valley Home by Louise Copeland

This nearly 200-year-old home in the Hudson Valley is the ultimate retreat for a young family. Though the layout of the house has been brought into the 21st century, there's still plenty of vintage charm to go around. 19th-century antiques, natural light, and lush gardens make this a bucolic escape that still manages to feel quite livable and contemporary.

A Historic London Apartment Designed by Philip Vergeylen

This London apartment designed by Philip Vergeylen is the epitome of modern glamor and daring decoration. Bold patterns, rich colors, globally sourced antiques, and an impressive art collection make this a truly one-of-a-kind space with tons of visual interest.

Jaime Milan (she/her) is the deputy digital editor for VERANDA, where she writes about design, architecture, gardens, jewelry, fashion, travel, wine, news and trends. In her spare time, she can be found shopping at the antique store, cooking, gardening, or teaching her mini Australian Shepherd, Gumbo, new tricks. Follow her on Instagram at @jaimemmilan. 

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Reader favorites: 10 best historic home tours for the holidays

December 17, 2022 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors December 17, 2022

Ever wondered how George Washington spent his holidays or how Elvis "decked the halls?" These historic houses – selected as the 10 best by our readers – pull out all the stops for their holiday tours. 

No. 10: Crane House and Historic YWCA - Montclair, New Jersey

Israel Crane built Crane House for his wife in 1796. After a century as the Crane family home, the estate was purchased and transformed into headquarters for the African American YWCA. Visitors can experience the period decorations (designed by the Garden Club of Montclair) and learn about the holidays from the 1700s to the 20th century during a candlelight tour. Visitors can also register for a private tour.

No. 9: Preservation Resource Center Holiday Home Tour - New Orleans, Louisiana

The Preservation Resource Center’s Holiday Home Tour allows participants to tour six stunning properties in New Orleans' Garden District. The festivities include live music, book signings, talks with designers and a boutique featuring local artisans. Those looking to upgrade their tour can purchase tickets for the Enhanced Architectural Experience. 

No. 8: Brucemore - Cedar Rapids, Iowa

During the holiday season, Brucemore in Cedar Rapids, Iowa gets decked with 13 trees, thousand of lights and numerous garlands spread across its four floors. Holiday Mansion Tours take visitors through the historic home to see it as it would have looked for Christmas, including a feast laid out in the dining room, mantle arrangements and other seasonal cheer.

No. 7: Filoli Historic House and Garden - Woodside, California

Filoli was built for prominent San Franciscan William Bowers Bourn and his wife in Woodside, California in 1917. The unusual name was created by combining the first two letters from the keywords of Bourn's credo: “Fight for a just cause; Love your fellow man; Live a good life.” The iconic mansion houses 17th and 18th century English antiques in a rich setting.

During Holidays at Filoli, visitors can stroll the illuminated grounds by night or see the decorated home by day. Snap a photo with Santa on weekends in December.

No. 6: Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum - Norwalk, Connecticut

The historic Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum opens this holiday season with an exhibit featuring a festive holiday dinner party, elegant gowns and historic-era trees. 

No. 5: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens - Akron, Ohio

Stan Hywet Hall, Akron, Ohio's first and largest National Historic Landmark, is the nation's sixth largest historic home open to the public. The Tudor mansion was built by Goodyear Tire & Rubber co-founder F.A. Seiberling between 1912 and 1915. In 1957, the Seiberling children gifted Stan Hywet to Akron.

On select days throughout the holiday season, Deck the Hall showcases the first floor of the manor house and grounds adorned with nostalgic decorations and more than a million holiday lights.

No. 4: Wildwood Manor House - Toledo, Ohio

This historic Georgian Colonial home, once owned by Toledo philanthropist R.A. Stranahan, is now part of a public park in Toledo. A team of volunteers decorate the 30,000-square-foot estate during Holidays in the Manor House. On select dates, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the home and enjoy a model train exhibit at Metroparks Hall.

No. 3: Meadow Brook Hall - Rochester, Michigan

A National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook was built by Matilda Dodge Wilson, widow of auto pioneer John Dodge. Constructed in Rochester, Michigan between 1926 and 1929, the 110-room Tudor mansion houses original family art and furnishings. By day, guests can take a self-guided tour of the festively decorated historic grounds or visit at night for Winter Wonder Lights, when the estate transforms into a breathtaking light show featuring music, seasonal treats and holiday magic.

No. 2: The Stetson Mansion - Deland, Florida

One of Florida’s grandest estates, Stetson Mansion was built in 1886 for American hat maker John B. Stetson as his winter retreat. The High Victorian mansion is known for its parquet wood floors and original leaded glass windows. Each holiday season, the mansion is decorated with different trappings sourced from around the world.

No. 1: Graceland - Memphis, Tennessee

"You don’t have to love Elvis to spend an afternoon in his grand house," says 10Best contributor Melanie Reffes. Every year, more than 600,000 people go to Elvis Presley’s former estate in Memphis. The Christmas season at Graceland kicks off with a lighting ceremony mid-November, after which visitors can tour the home decorated for the season with traditional lights, a life-size nativity scene and Santa. Presley family Christmas artifacts are on display during this special time of year.

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The Experts

Deborah fallows.

Deborah Fallows is a writer and a linguist. She is...   Read More

Deborah Fallows is a writer and a linguist. She is the co-author with her husband, James Fallows, of the national best-selling book, Our Towns: A 100,000-Mile Journey into the Heart of America , published in May, 2018. Our Towns , the HBO documentary based on the book was released in April, 2021. They recently launched the Our Towns Civic Foundation to support renewal efforts of communities across America. Deb has written extensively on language, culture, travel, and China for The Atlantic , National Geographic , Slate , The New York Times  and The Washington Monthly . Her previous book, Dreaming in Chinese: Mandarin Lessons in Life, Love, and Language , is based on her 3-year experience living and working in China.

NikkyJ is a theme park super fan, Author of The...   Read More

NikkyJ is a theme park super fan, Author of The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide, the founder and owner of ThemeParkHipster.com , a wishful Food Critic, coffee enthusiast, and a lover of life! She currently resides in Orlando, Florida where she enjoys spending time with her husband and two little girls while discovering the beautiful attractions of Florida. You can watch her on  YouTube  or listen to her podcast.

Robert Niles

Robert Niles is the founder and editor of Read More

Robert Niles is the founder and editor of ThemeParkInsider.com , an online consumers' guide to the world's leading theme and amusement parks, read by more than 400,000 people each month. It has been named the top theme park site on the Internet by Forbes and Travel + Leisure magazines and was a Webby Award finalist and winner of the Online Journalism Award, presented by the Online News Association and the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. Robert is a former Walt Disney World cast member and has worked as a reporter, editorial writer, columnist and website editor for several newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times and the Orange County Register.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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America’s Most Historic Holiday Home Tours

By Colleen Egan

The Breakers, Newport, Rhode Island

Fabulous Gilded Age estates are on display during the Christmas at the Newport Mansions tour in Newport, Rhode Island, where visitors can tour the Breakers, the Elms, and Marble House, all National Historic Landmarks.

Marble House, Newport, Rhode Island

This year, nine local garden clubs will design and install mantelpiece decorations on the second-floor fireplaces at Marble House as part of a new competition.

The Elms, Newport, Rhode Island

The ballroom at the Elms will feature a Victorian streetscape this year, with sleighs, topiary horses, and decorated trees and lampposts.

The Manor House, Toledo, Ohio

The former estate of spark plug mogul Robert Stranahan, the 30,000-square-foot Manor House and its surrounding property now belong to the city of Toledo, and during the holidays, local groups volunteer to decorate various rooms for a holiday tour.

By Sarah Archer

By David Nash

By Stefanie Waldek

Garden District, New Orleans

Now in its 40th year, the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans’s Holiday Home Tour features eight Garden District residences with entertainment provided by area musicians. A holiday boutique offering locally made goods and regional cuisine is held at Trinity Episcopal Church, the tour’s headquarters.

Monument Avenue, Richmond, Virginia

Holiday Glitter: Monument Avenue After Dark is a guided walking tour of grand homes along this National Historic Landmark street.

Crane House, Montclair, New Jersey

Built in 1796, the Israel Crane House is a Federal-style mansion that is decorated for the holidays by the Garden Club of Montclair. Some tour dates include demonstrations by a hearth cook, stories, and family activities.

Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum, Wethersfield, Connecticut

The museum’s annual Three Centuries of Christmas tours look at how the American holiday season has evolved since the 1770s, when New Year’s Day—not Christmas—was the main event, due to lingering Puritanical customs. The tours include the 1752 Joseph Webb House, the 1770 Silas Deane House, and the 1788 Isaac Stevens House.

Fairmount Park Historic Houses, Philadelphia

The historic Philadelphia homes featured in the Charms of Fairmount Park are festooned by local interior designers and garden clubs with decorations inspired by “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

Piney Grove at Southall’s Plantation, Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg’s James River Plantation Progressive Christmas Candlelight Tour includes visits to the Piney Grove (1790), Ashland (1835), and Ladysmith (1857) plantations, whose holiday decorations include greenery from the properties.

By David Foxley

By Chelsea Hodson

By Kristi Kellogg

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Watch: handmade home tours.

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The Grandest Historic Mansions to Visit Across the United States

Roxanna is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

All open to the public, you can tour the interior of these luxury establishments to admire their size and number of rooms. From state to state, these are as beautiful as they are significant in U.S. history.

Time travel may not be possible, but we can experience the next best thing by visiting historic mansions. These living museums preserve history by keeping the way of life from the era in which the former residents lived on display.

Simple curiosity is the main reason for the popularity of historic house tours. It's human nature to be curious, even nosy, about the people who live beyond those wrought iron gates, those tall white pillars, that mass of fragrant wisteria. House tours provide a healthy—and legal—outlet for our inquisitiveness while benefiting the organizations that work to keep history alive. Kitty Robinson of the Historic Charleston Foundation explains, "I think people love to see what other families have done with these historic homes to make them livable. Toddlers really do live in eighteenth century living rooms." Tours also offer rare opportunities for amateur and professional collectors , gardeners, designers, and history buffs to see what might not be found in books, magazines, or museums. "People go for inspiration," says Sandra Soule, the editor of America's Wonderful Little Hotels and Inns guidebook series.

Many of these properties had to temporarily close their doors to the public at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that some of the restrictions have eased and states are reopening to tourists, historic mansions have also begun allowing the public to visit their sites again. And these house tours can be found all over the country this summer, from Providence, Rhode Island, to Pasadena, California. Cicero once asked, "What is more agreeable than one's home?" For a vacation, maybe someone else's.

Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York

This historic mansion is also a luxury hotel, which means you enjoy a royal European experience right in New York. Oheka Castle was built in 1919 as a summer home for Otto Hermann Kahn.

Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut

See where Mark Twain lived. The house is open for tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays but tickets should be purchased in advance. If you're not ready to travel just yet, know that it's also possible to go on a virtual tour.

George Washington's Mount Vernon in Mount Vernon, Virginia

George Washington lived in this home that was 10 times the size of most other homes in West Virginia. Currently, only the first floor is open again for tours and tickets need to be purchased ahead of time.

Fairlawn Mansion in Superior, Wisconsin

Tours are limited to 12 people per tour, but if you're able to get inside, the Fairlawn Mansion is worth a visit. A gorgeous Victorian house that was first occupied by private residents from 1890 to 1920, the property went on to become a Children's Home for 42 years. Today, it's the perfect place to learn about this region's history.

The Ringling Mansion in Sarasota, Florida

Behold the home of the famous circus leader: the mansion called Ca' d'Zan . Once the winter home of circus impresario John Ringling (the name means "John's House" in Venetian dialect), this 1920s Venetian-Gothic-style villa was the romantically crumbling backdrop for the 1998 film Great Expectations . Today, fully restored, it's a museum and a scene-stealing home, where you can stand on the bay-front terrace.

Highlands Ranch Mansion in Highlands Ranch, Colorado

See a working ranch with history in action at the Highlands Ranch Mansion . Featuring historic barns, ranch houses and more on the property, it's like walking into a Weatern fairy tale.

Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright in Mill Run, Pennsylvania

Built in 1935 by Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater served as a weekend home for the couple that owned Kaufmann's Department Store. The architecture is beautiful and a sight to behold.

Bingham-Hanna Mansion and the Hay-McKinney Mansion in Cleveland, Ohio

These two mansions are part of the Cleveland History Center and are works of art. Artifacts from the early 1900s, when the homes were built, give visitors a glimpse into the past.

Prospect Place in Trinway, Ohio

This historic mansion was a stop along the Underground Railroad. George Adams lived there with his wife, and abolitionists would meet in his parlor.

Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina

In addition to a gorgeous mansion, the Biltmore Estate features 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. George Vanderbilt's former home, the property has a whopping 250 rooms and was completed in 1895.

The Breakers in Newport, Rhode Island

The Italian Renaissance–style villa was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his family and the grandest of the Gilded Age summer homes in Newport. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt to replace an existing wood structure, the 70-room, four-story home was decorated by Ogden Codman, Jr. and completed in 1895. Today, the Breakers is owned by the Preservation Society of Newport County, which offers access to a number of historic homes in the area, including another Hunt design, Marble House, which was built for Vanderbilt's brother.

The Mount in Lenox, Massachusetts

Author Edith Wharton took inspiration from Belton House in England, as well as French and Italian influences, when designing the house and grounds at the Mount , which was built with architects Ogden Codman, Jr., her coauthor of the book The Decoration of Houses, and Francis L.V. Hoppin. Wharton lived and worked there for 10 years before she and her husband, Teddy, sold the property in 1911. The Mount was declared a National Historic landmark in 1971 and is now a cultural center dedicated to Wharton's life and work.

Bayou Bend Collection and Garden in Houston, Texas

Philanthropist Ima Hogg and her brothers built the mansion in the River Oaks area of Houston between 1927 and 1928. Texas architect John F. Staub designed the house, taking inspiration from 18th-century Georgian and Spanish Creole architecture. The home's 14 acres of gardens mix formal landscape design with natural woodlands. Hogg donated the property to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and it is now a house museum showcasing American paintings and decorative arts.

Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee

They didn't call him "The King" for nothing. More than 40 years after his death, both fans and those curious about this pop culture phenom are still flocking to Elvis Presley's Graceland home. Yes, the Jungle Room always draws a crowd, but there's more to what is now deemed Elvis Presley's Memphis at Graceland than his former living quarters. After touring the Graceland mansion, guests can also visit several adjacent museums, including those housing celebrity memorabilia from his career, favorite automobiles he owned and even his private jets named the "Lisa Marie" and "Hound Dog II." Guest quarters are also a part of the complex for those wanting an overnight experience.

Vizcaya in Miami, Florida

Built between 1914 and 1922, Vizcaya was the winter residence of industrial executive James Deering. The Miami home boasts a design meant to look like a time-worn Italianate villa complete with grottos and bridges. The surrounding gardens are based on Italian and French examples incorporating flora suited for a subtropical setting. Unlike many other historic mansions converted to museums, Vizcaya still has most of its original decor. Visitors enjoy perusing 34 decorated rooms showcasing more than 2,500 art objects collected by Deering, and furnishings that have been in the home for more than 100 years.

International Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

The 17 Most Famous American Historic Homes to Visit

The U.S. is blessed with some incredible mansion houses that have been transformed into museums and luxury hotels. Put these stunning American historic homes on your bucket list!

Iconic Historic Homes in the U.S.

From the birthplaces of former Presidents to the country retreats of industry tycoons, these historic houses are very diverse in style. What these old homes have in common is striking architecture and a well-thought out visitor experience.

Why not take a road trip and visit a few of these historic properties in one go. The unique features of these old houses are an important part of American history.

17. Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, Hyde Park, New York

The Vanderbilt Mansion is considered one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States. The mansion was built in 1898 as a country home for Frederick William Vanderbilt , a member of the Vanderbilt family who made their fortune in railroads and other industries.

The 54-room mansion was designed by the architectural firm McKim, Mead & White. The estate covers over 200 acres and includes formal gardens and greenhouses.

In 1940, the Vanderbilt family donated the mansion and surrounding land to the National Park Service , establishing it as the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. These days, visitors can tour the mansion’s lavishly furnished rooms and experience the elegance of the Gilded Age.

16. Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee

Pabst Mansion is a popular tourist attraction in Milwaukee and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It provides a window into the luxurious lifestyle of one of Milwaukee’s most prominent families in the late 19th century.

The luxurious mansion was built in 1890 as the home of Captain Frederick Pabst, the founder of the Pabst Brewing Company. The mansion was designed by architect George Bowman Ferry in the Flemish Renaissance Revival architectural style.

Considered one of the finest examples of Victorian-era architecture in the United States, it features intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and lavish interiors. After the Pabst family moved out, the mansion went through various owners and uses.

Today, the Pabst Mansion is open to the public as a museum, offering guided tours that allow visitors to see the opulent living spaces and learn about the Pabst family’s history.

15. Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Springfield

The home of former president Abraham Lincoln and family from 1844 to 1861, this is one of the top attractions in Springfield, Illinois . Abraham and Mary Lincoln bought the Greek Revival style house for $1,200.

The only home that Lincoln ever owned, it has twelve rooms spread over 2 floors. It’s actually free to visit Lincoln’s home, although donations are encouraged.

You should arrive as early as possible at the Visitor Center front desk and groups of 15 or more should book 6 months in advance.

We were fortunate to visit this historic house museum before and loved the four block neighborhood, which is also part of the site. There are sometimes costumed volunteers playing traditional games here, and it’s fun to join in with them.

Address: 413 S 8th St, Springfield, IL 62701

14. Fallingwater, Mill Run

One of the most famous houses designed by the architect Frank Lloyd Wright , Fallingwater is located in Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania. Built as a vacation home for the Kaufmann family who were department store owners, Fallingwater is a perfect fusion of architecture and nature.

The house stands over a waterfall and the architect created the house to resemble a diving board. Floor to ceiling glass windows bring the outside in.

Local sandstone was used in the construction, which was completed in 1939. This historic gem is one of the rare Frank Lloyd Wright designs in the public domain with its original furnishings, artworks and setting all intact.

Donated to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy by Edgar Kaufmann Jr. , Fallingwater is now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since public tours began in 1964, over 6 million visitors have come to admire the house and grounds. There are 5,100 acres surrounding the house, known as the Bear Run Nature Reserve.

You can see another fine Frank Lloyd Wright designed home in Springfield Illinois : Dana-Thomas House.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Rd, Mill Run, PA 15464

13. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West

The former home of American writer Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s is a Spanish Colonial style house in the Florida Keys, built in 1851. When the writer and his then wife Pauline purchased the home in 1931, it was in a bad state.

They renovated the property and lived there until 1939, and it is now a National Historic Landmark. Hemingway wrote the novel To Have and To Hold here, as well as The Snows of Kilimanjaro , a selection of short stories.

Now the most popular tourist attraction in Key West, Hemingway House is famous for its six-toed cats . There are around 60 of them living on the grounds – descendants of Hemingway’s own polydactyl cat, named Snow White.

Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040

12. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Miami

Situated on Biscayne Bay in what is now the Coconut Grove area of Miami, Villa Vizcaya was the home of James Deering . The Deering family made their fortune in agricultural machinery, and James was the Vice President of International Harvester Company.

The Deering Estate in South Dade was owned by James’s brother Charles and is another interesting Florida visitor attraction. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a National Historic Landmark built between 1914 and 1922.

James Deering’s friend, the designer Paul Chalfin was actively involved in the project. Inspired by the country estates of the Veneto region of Italy , Vizcaya features many Mediterranean architectural elements. It is one of the most beautiful historical homes in Florida.

The house had quite a few design innovations, being built of reinforced concrete. A modern water filtration system was integrated, as well as a central vacuum system and an automated telephone switch board. In the grounds you’ll find a Secret Garden, maze, Fountain Garden, mangrove shore and iconic gondola dock.

Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

11. The Breakers, Newport, Rhode Island

With an unbeatable location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this is one of the most spectacular mansions in Newport, Rhode Island. The Breakers was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994.

Commissioned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1893, the house was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt. Built in an Italian Renaissance style at a cost of 7 million dollars, it was one of the most expensive buildings in the world. This Vanderbilt mansion was inspired by the 16th century palaces of Genoa and Turin.

Inside the 70 room palazzo, visitors will be amazed by the Morning Room with its platinum-leaf walls and ceiling. Originally thought to be silver-leaf, it was found after analysis by the Winterthur Museum laboratory in Delaware to be platinum. This explains why the surface never tarnished.

Address: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840

10. Ca’ d’Zan, Sarasota

One of the highlights of The Ringling in Sarasota , Ca’ d’Zan is a Venetian Gothic style residence. Completed in 1926 as the home of John and Mable Ringling, it’s now a popular Florida tourist attraction.

Ca’ d’Zan means the House of John in Venetian dialect. The well-known circus owner and his wife spent Winter seasons here.

Highlights of the property include the glazed exterior tiles, the Mable Ringling Rose Garden , the 82 foot high Belvedere tower and an Aeolian organ with 2,289 pipes.

Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

9. Monticello, Charlottesville

The former home of President Thomas Jefferson, Monticello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Located close to Jefferson’s birthplace, on land that he inherited when he was 26, Monticello was designed and rebuilt over more than 40 years.

This Albemarle County landmark was also a 5,000 acre plantation where more than 400 enslaved individuals worked. Among them was Sally Hemings , with whom it is thought that Jefferson had several children.

Jefferson called Monticello his essay in architecture. The name Monticello means little mountain in Italian and the house is built on top of a mound. The views of the Blue Mountains from the house are spectacular.

Guided tours of Monticello are available daily throughout the year. Tours of the outdoor gardens are offered from April to October.

Address: 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902

8. Nemours Estate, Wilmington

The 300 acre estate of Alfred I. duPont , Nemours has a distinctly French appearance. This neoclassical mansion in Wilmington has 105 rooms spread over 5 floors.

Intended as a gift for Alfred’s second wife, Alicia, the estate was completed in 1907. It is named after the French town that Alfred’s great-great-grandfather represented in the French Estates General.

The interior of the Nemours Mansion is impressive, and includes many of Alfred’s inventions. The Chauffeur’s Garage with its collection of vintage cars is another highlight, and the grounds are thought to be the largest formal French garden in North America.

The Long Walk features two impressive elk sculptures and a fountain with 157 jets of water. The mansion and gardens are open to the public. Visitors must pre-book their ticket.

Address: 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803

7. Longwood Mansion, Natchez

Not to be confused with Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, the Longwood Estate in Mississippi is a unique octagonal shaped house topped with an onion dome. Also known as Nutt’s Folly , the mansion is a National Historic Landmark.

Designed by the architect Samuel Sloan in 1859 for Dr. Haller Nutt and and his wife Julia, the home’s upper levels were unfinished. Work stopped during the Civil War and Dr. Nutt passed with pneumonia in 1864.

The contrast between the completed basement level and the unfinished upper floors is striking. Daily tours are available via Natchez Pilgrimage Tours.

Address: 140 Lower Woodville Rd, Natchez, MS 39120

6. Oheka Castle, Huntington

This luxurious hotel in the Hamptons was originally the home of banker and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn. The name Oheka comes from the first letters of his names, O-He-Ka.

Built in 1919 on top of an artificial hill, the French style chateau has 127 rooms and ornate formal gardens. In fact, Oheka Castle was the second-largest private residence in the United States.

The building appeared as Xanadu in the opening sequence of the movie  Citizen Kane  with Orson Welles. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Oheka Castle is a member of Historic Hotels of America®. This is one of the most popular Long Island wedding venues.

Address: 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743

5. George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Virginia

The former estate of George Washington, first President of the United States and his wife Martha, Mount Vernon is located in Fairfax County, Virginia. Washington and Martha are buried in the family vault here.

The most visited historic estate in America, Mount Vernon is located on the banks of the river Potomac. As well as the 18th century house, there are over a dozen historic outbuildings including a blacksmith and stables.

George Washington personally oversaw the garden landscaping. He favored a naturalistic English style.

Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121

4. Graceland, Memphis

The former home of Elvis Presley in Tennessee, Graceland is an elegant mansion in the Classic Revival style. Set in 13 acres of grounds, Graceland Mansion is now owned by Elvis’ daughter Lisa Marie Presley.

Discover Elvis’ living quarters, the Jungle Room tiki bar, Trophy Building, Racquetball Building and Meditation Garden on an interactive iPad tour. Separate exhibits include Elvis’ custom jets and the Memphis Entertainment Complex.

There are several places to eat in Graceland, such as Vernon’s Smokehouse and Gladys’ Diner. And if you can’t tear yourself away, stay at The Guest House at Graceland .

Address: Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116

3. Oak Alley Plantation, Vacherie

This former plantation in Louisiana takes its name from the canopied path of oak trees planted in the early 18th century, before the house was built. Enslaved labor constructed the property, which was owned by Jacques Roman.

One of these slaves was Antoine , a skilled gardener who mastered grafting techniques. He created an award-winning type of pecan that you could crack open with your hands, named Paper Shell.

Oak Alley Plantation was designed in the Greek Revival style, featuring 28 Doric columns. These correspond to the 28 oak trees in front of the house.

Address: 3645 LA-18, Vacherie, LA 70090

2. Hearst Castle (La Cuesta Encantada), San Simeon

One of the most iconic American historic homes, Hearst Castle is the former home of publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. This National Historic Landmark is also known as La Cuesta Encantada (The Enchanted Hill).

One of the finest examples of Mediterranean Revival architecture, Hearst Castle overlooks the Pacific Coast in San Simeon, California. Designed by architect Julia Morgan, this historic American mansion was built between 1919 and 1947.

The indoor Roman Pool and exterior Neptune Pool are two highlights of this American stately home. In the Stanley Kubrick movie Spartacus, the Neptune Pool is used as the entrance of Crassus’ villa.

Temporarily closed to the public, Hearst Castle will require advance reservations to visit when it reopens.

Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452

1. Biltmore Estate, Asheville

The largest home in America, the Biltmore Estate is now a popular North Carolina museum. Spread over 178,926 square feet, this Gilded Age mansion is still owned by the descendants of George Vanderbilt.

George commissioned the renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape artist Frederick Law Olmsted to build the house in 1889. Completed in 1895, Biltmore House is a French Renaissance   chateau with 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces.

Set in 8,000 acres, the grounds include 75 acres of formal and informal gardens. Daytime visitors to the Biltmore Estate receive a complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore Winery. George Vanderbilt’s grandson, William A.V. Cecil, planted vines in the 1970s and the winery itself was established in 1985.

There are several places to stay in Biltmore Village, including The Residences at Biltmore . This all-suite aparthotel features an outdoor pool, hot tub and fitness center just 900 yards from the Biltmore Estate.

Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

To recap, these are some of the most famous American historic homes:

• Biltmore Estate
• Hearst Castle
• Mount Vernon
• Oheka Castle
• Longwood Mansion
• Nemours Estate
• Ca’ d’Zan
• The Breakers
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
• Fallingwater
• Lincoln Home National Historic Site
• Pabst Mansion
• Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site

Final Thoughts on The Best American Historic Homes

These are a few of the many incredible historic homes in America that are definitely worth taking the time to visit. If you’re interested in learning more about American history and culture, be sure to check out our other articles about the United States. From theme parks to natural wonders, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this great country!

You might also enjoy:

• Best Fall Vacations in the US
• Best Luxury American Car Manufacturers
• Best Natural Hot Springs Pools in the US
• Most Beautiful Gardens in the World
• Most Expensive Cities in the USA
• Most Famous Artists in the World
• Most Luxurious Department Stores in the World
• The Best Churches in the World
• The Best Restaurants in Sarasota Florida
• The Biggest Mansion in the World
• What to See in Florida Apart from Theme Parks

Like these American historic homes? Pin for later or share with friends.

Looking for more travel hacks and tips? From hidden gems to unique experiences, we’ve got you covered. Join us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  and  Twitter .

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Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

United States Tours & Vacations

With coastlines, forests, deserts and mountains, the United States is an explorer's paradise.

Magical moments are waiting around every corner in The States. From the rugged wilderness and glacial fjords in Alaska to the winding coastal highways in California , the wide array of national parks to the musical streets of New Orleans , this country is simply sprawling. So whether you're hiking, biking, toe-tapping or road-tripping, you can't go wrong exploring the USA the Intrepid way.

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United States tour reviews

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Western USA Family Holiday

Hiking in Sedona and the Grand Canyon

Western USA National Parks Loop

The 7 best places to go on a hot air balloon ride  

Yellowstone vs Yosemite: Which national park to visit?

California or Florida? Which US state should you travel to?

Make a paw-sitive impact at Utah’s Best Friends Animal Sanctuary  

This astronomer is chasing his 21st solar eclipse in 2024 (and bringing some lucky Intrepid travellers with him)

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

10 awesome places to go for your 21st birthday

Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to?

United States departures by month

Browse usa trips by region, browse usa trips by state, browse usa national park tours, united states at a glance, capital city.

Washington DC (population, 712,816)

331.9 million

English, Spanish (although the US has no official languages)

(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about United States

Best time to visit united states.

Being such a large country, the weather in the US is different depending on which area you are in. Summer (June to August) is the peak travel season due to school holidays, but it can be uncomfortably hot in the desert areas and the south.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally considered to be the best times to visit, but the weather is still highly variable and these may be the wettest times in some parts of the country (such as the Pacific Northwest ). Winter can be cold in the northern states, but quiet in other areas, which can make it a pleasant time to visit.

Read more about the best time to visit the United States

Culture and customs

With immigration playing a major part in the development of America, today the country is made up of many different cultures. It’s no wonder modern America is rich with a variety of cultural traditions, cuisines, religions and festivals. Because of this, a large diversity of holidays are celebrated in America. Annual holidays like  Independence Day  and Thanksgiving are usually celebrated by all regardless of religion or political persuasion, and give people a chance to reconnect with family and friends around the dinner table or grill.

From sports to soul music, popular culture to philosophy, and fine art to folk art, the tastes and desires of Americans vary around the country. A love of sport unifies the nation - it doesn’t matter if you live in a city loft or out in the country, sports like ice hockey, basketball, baseball and football all attract a strong following.

Many Native Americans live on reservations and fight to retain their traditions and preserve their heritage, although when visiting reservations don’t be surprised to see Native Americans wearing modern clothing. With much of the language and many of the customs lost over the years, Native Americans strive to live a life of deep spirituality and in connection with the earth, as their ancestors did for centuries.

Check out our range of  experiences in the United States that amplify BIPOC cultures .

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring cheap eats or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

With a variety of international influences, try Creole cuisine in New Orleans, traditional Jewish fare like bagels and pastrami sandwiches in New York, and barbecue in Texas. America’s got everything, from burger joints to taco shacks, organic cafes to refined Michelin-starred restaurants.

Learn more about food in the USA

Geography and environment

From the lush everglades of Florida, through the red-hot deserts of Nevada and on to the urban jungles of New York and Philadelphia, the United States has many different environments and ecosystems within its boundaries. Sharing borders with Canada in the north and Mexico in the south, the United States has deserts, glaciers, freshwater lakes, rapid-filled rivers, mountain ranges, sprawling plains, forested national parks , beaches and bays.

The major national parks of America – Yellowstone, Zion, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Denali and Joshua Tree offer a glimpse into what much of America looked like before development. Lush vegetation, majestic mountains and sparkling lakes give deer, moose, bears, bison and many other species of wildlife a fertile home to live in. 

When traveling, you’re likely to see modern cities filled with traffic, skyscrapers and high-density housing, as well as sleepy towns, trailer parks and Native American reservations. A complex network of highways connect the major cities, making overland travel a popular choice with visitors and locals alike. The great American road trip is still alive and well.

History and government

As one of the world’s most influential nations, major moments and events in American history ripple throughout the rest of the world. The American people are known for their resilience and irrepressible nature, and it is this spirit that allows them to continue to contribute to the world economically, scientifically and creatively.

In recent history, America has enjoyed the historic highs of the moon landings and the devastating lows of Hurricane Katrina. The world has seen American companies like Apple, Facebook, Microsoft and Starbucks change the face of the world. And people like Steven Spielberg, Lance Armstrong, Maya Angelou and Sidney Poitier create masterpieces, break records and win countless awards.

Top 10 must-see cities in the US

1. new york.

You can be anyone you want to be in NYC. Indulge your artistic side at MoMA, mingle with the Gordon Geckos on Wall Street, cheer like a pro at a Yankees game or kick back at a bar with a Manhattan and a new pair of Jimmy Choos.

2. San Francisco

San Francisco is made of sunshine, seafood and a whole lot of hills. This is the place to embrace your inner (or outer) bohemian. But it's not all 'flowers in your hair' and free thinking, be sure to take a ferry to Alcatraz and scoff down a clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf.

3. New Orleans

The Caribbean meets France and Africa in New Orleans. Music is everywhere, and so are the friendly faces. The city comes to life after dark so have an afternoon nap, get some comfortable shoes on and get ready to bar hop the night away.

4. Las Vegas

Hello Lady Luck! Days somehow disappear in the hedonistic blitz of color, light, showgirls, casinos and offers too good to refuse. Try to escape the endless buffets to catch a real Las Vegas show; there's everything from death-defying acrobats to Elvis on offer.

The financial and political powerhouse of Chicago has been the home of two of the most influential people in the world - President Obama and Oprah. Famed for its distinctive architecture, booming performing arts scene and sports-mad locals, the 'Windy City' shouldn't be missed.

The air is warmer, the clothes smaller and the colors are somehow brighter in Miami. Jewish, Latin and Caribbean cultures blend to make a heady mix of great food, even better music and a nightlife filled with the spirit of fiesta. Hang out on perfect beaches, spot classic cars and gaze at the beautiful people as they strut their stuff.

7. Los Angeles

Search beyond the stardust of Hollywood and the excessive price tags of Rodeo Drive, to find the true essence of Los Angeles. Home to a melting pot of cultures, uber-cool restaurants, a hip art scene and the eclectic vibe of Venice Beach, LA is so hot right now!

The birthplace of grunge music and iconic super-companies like Microsoft, Boeing and Starbucks, Seattle offers so much more than great coffee. Markets packed with fresh produce, a harbor perfect for boating, vibrant public art and a thriving live music scene combine to make Seattle a must-see city.

History comes alive in the heritage-filled streets of Memphis. Whether it's at Elvis Presley's Graceland, the lively blues clubs and restaurants of Beale Street or the moving Civil Rights Movement Museum, it could be said that the soul of America lives in Memphis.

One of America's oldest cities, Boston is evolving. Working class neighborhoods are being gentrified, the industry is giving way to tech start-ups and modern architectural treasures sit alongside brown-stone buildings. Despite the change, get chatting to locals about the Red Sox and you'll soon find you're definitely in Boston.

It’s no wonder many people choose to do their clothes shopping in the United States. With iconic department stores offering a wide range of labels, and vintage/charity stores stocking American fashion classics like distressed denim jeans and leather cowboy boots, shopping in America is fun. Known for having great sales and even better customer service, it’s well worth leaving room in your backpack for a few extras. Please note that unlike in many other countries, tax isn’t included in the ticketed price.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Festivals and events

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, marks the end of the Carnival season in New Orleans. Witness a chaotic collision of lively music, colorful costumes, masquerade masks, soul food and joyful 'krewes' at the parades, parties and masquerade balls in late February every year.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is an annual festival celebrated on 5 May to mark the day when an army of 4,000 Mexican soldiers defeated the French Empire in the Battle of Puebla in  Mexico .

Learn more about festivals in the USA

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips, and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from all major cities in the United States. The options below may be of interest:

Tours from Los Angeles to San Francisco  

Tours from New York to New Orleans

New Orleans to Atlanta Tours

Tours from Los Angeles

Tours from Las Vegas

Thinking about traveling to California or Florida but need help deciding?

California or Florida?

Top USA travel highlights

1. venture to the wilds of alaska.

Alaska  may be part of the USA, but it feels like another world. With stunning mountain ranges, eclectic wildlife, immense glaciers and an interesting history, this off-track destination is well worth the journey north. Whether you want to go hiking in  Denali , snowshoe across Matanuska Glacier, kayak in  Kenai Fjords  or see the northern lights, adventure awaits.

Explore the Last Frontier on our  10 day Best of Alaska tour.

2. See San Francisco through local eyes

With vibrant, multi-cultural neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a city you could spend weeks exploring. But to really get a feel for the place, you need to explore with a local. Sample the freshest seafood in Fisherman's Wharf, discover the North Beach and Little Italy districts, and dine at some of the locals' favourite spots for dinner.

Roam around Northern California and beyond on our  9 day San Francisco to Seattle trip.

3. Explore phenomenal national parks

From larger-than-life Yosemite to the great gaping chasms of the Grand Canyon , national parks in the States are big, bold and beautiful. Escape the hustle of everyday life and uncover the natural beauty, diverse wildlife and Native American history in the likes of Bryce Canyon, Zion and Yellowstone. Whether you want to hike or cycle, stay in comfy lodges or camp in the wilderness , US national parks offer something for all kinds of adventurers.

4. Track wolves in Yellowstone National Park

The world’s first national park positively brims with more hot springs, mud pots and geysers than you can possibly see in one trip. But one of the most memorable things you can do is rise before dawn to join a  wolf-tracking excursion  with a local guide. As well as learning about one of nature's most intriguing animals, if you're lucky, you may see multiple wolves playing together, eating, or looking after young cubs.

Try your hand at wolf tracking on our  6 day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Adventure  or our  Yellowstone and Grand Teton Family Holiday .

5. Visit the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis

Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins… what legend hasn’t recorded here? Sun Studio in Memphis is one of the pinnacles for music lovers traveling in the States. It’s where rock and roll was born, and where soul music hit the big time via Stax Records. After checking out the studio, head to Beale Street to grab a drink and have a boogie in traditional blues clubs.

Scoot your boots on our  6 day Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans tour.

6. Take a Navajo jeep tour of Monument Valley

Learn about the cultural heritage and sacredness of Monument Valley from those who know it best. After a jeep adventure with a local Navajo guide, join the locals for an authentic Navajo dinner around a campfire and listen to traditional songs and stories passed down through the generations.

Discover the American West's most iconic landscapes on our  5 day Western USA National Parks Loop tour.

Further reading

United states travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to United States?

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorization before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in the US?

Internet access is excellent in the US, and internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in the US?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in most parts of the US although coverage may be patchy in remote, mountainous areas like national parks and canyons. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in the US?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in the US.

What will it cost for a…?

Prices can vary between states, but on average, here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Cup of coffee = USD $2-5.00 for a regular cup, up to $8.00 for a specialty coffee
• Hotdog from street cart = USD $4.00
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = USD $20-40 per person
• NYC one-way subway ticket = USD $3.00

Can I drink the water in the US?

Drinking water from taps in the US is considered safe unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the US?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in the US. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in the US?

ATMs are common in the US, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What kind of transport will I use in the United States?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. 

Depending on which trip you're on while in the US, you may find yourself traveling by:

Be amazed by enormous glaciers and stunning, icy landscapes while traveling on a ferry in Alaska.

Use pedal power to see the best of Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Cycling is a great way to see the sights and be active at the same time.

Take in the sights while enjoying a ride on one of San Francisco’s icons – the streetcar.

What sort of accommodation will I stay in while traveling in the United States?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible. 

When traveling with us in the US you may find yourself staying in a:

Spend a night sleeping in a hogan – a traditional Navajo structure made of logs, mud and stone and built with an open roof to view the sparkling night sky.

Reconnect with nature and enjoy staying in quaint log cabins throughout the country's beautiful national parks. Fall asleep to the rustling of trees and wake up to the sounds of birds.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip to the United States support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to the United States directly support our foundation partners, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) and the Grand Canyon Conservancy.

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA)

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) create inclusive, equitable opportunities for small Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses in the USA. Donations help CHEA provide access to industry-specific technical assistance, capacity building, and industry networks for small BIPOC travel and tourism businesses through their Diversity Tourism Academy (DTA). Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Find out more or make a donation

The Grand Canyon Conservancy

The Grand Canyon Conservancy is on a mission to protect the Grand Canyon National Park for future generations. With almost 6 million visitors to the park annually, the Grand Canyon Conservancy runs educational programs and immersive experiences that teach people about the park's cultural and environmental significance. Donations support trail restoration and maintenance, conservation and preservation of native vegetation and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What public holidays are celebrated in the US?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 16 Jan: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday
• Last Monday in May: Memorial Day
• 4 Jul: Independence Day
• First Monday in Sep: Labor Day
• 2nd Monday in Oct: Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 11 Nov: Veterans Day
• Fourth Thursday in Nov: Thanksgiving Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day

Please note: United States public holidays may vary.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in USA

Find the right fully guided tour for you in USA. There are 999 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 29 days. The month with the most departures is September, making it the most popular time to visit USA.

250+ Fully Guided tour packages in USA with 18,930 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Hike Alaska: Glaciers and Denali

Exceeded expectations, everything was smooth. Great guide.

• Mountain Hikes

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

A great 7 day trip to see the canyons with a fantastic guide Adriann who we had on our trip. Highly recommended!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Wild Western USA

The tour guide Chris was amazing.

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

• Christmas & New Year

Magnificent West – 8 days

The tour was great. I saw a lot of different things and enjoeyed every bit of it. Since we started out with a small group, our first tour guide Jacob showed is some extra stops on the way to make our trip as enjoyable as possible. And the last guide Lorenzo and bus driver Tom were a great couple giving a lot of information, fitting music and discussion topics, making the tour a real experience. Lorenzo was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions and gave us the time we needed and information at the various locations. Thank you all! :)

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Excellent tour of the Mighty 5 in Utah. Our guide Robin was knowledgeable and accommodating throughout the tour. Just enough time was allocated for hiking the trails, viewing the sites in the distance and even visiting the Visitor Centers in each park. Hotel/motel accommodations were good and chosen for access to restaurants. Lunch stops with corresponding places to eat were well planned and the food and service was good. We thoroughly enjoyed our time.

Private Tour -7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

National Parks Tour 3 Days Small Group Tour from Las Vegas

This was the best experience I could have asked for! Jonathan was a wonderful guide and made sure we were well looked after and aware of the history / knowledge of the national parks that we visited. He also taught us what settings to put our phone camera at so we could take a photo of the Milky Way! We made friends with all the other people on the tour, as everyone was lovely! My partner and I are British so we asked everyone for food recommendations for the rest of our trip. The food options and packed lunches were delicious and nutritious, and the campsites were cozy and equipped with bathrooms and charging points. I would recommend going to Antelope Canyon as the optional extra, as it was our favourite spot we visited on this trip! I am already looking to plan another trip with Bindlestiff Tours in 2024!

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Wynn was a wonderful guide. Hotels were very nice. No complaints about anything. This is an amazing adventure and the entire trip was flawless.

Yellowstone & Rocky Mountain Explorer

Yellowstone/Grand Teton Camping Tour Amazing trip to National Parks (Yellowstone & Grand Teton) in Montana/Wyoming! Each day, the guide made it possible to explore tens of incredible places in addition to the standard touristic spots, not forgetting to enjoy untouched flora and fauna and to spot wild animals. Camping was comfortable, a large variety of fresh food was proposed for breakfast/launch/dinner, sleeping bags kept warm even on relatively cold nights, driving was not exhausting due to many stops and the transport was suited well for a group of 12.

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

The tour is very good. We saw a lot of animals and went to a lot of places in the park that people don’t go to and should. But we had a lot of problems communicating with the tour operators to get information about our tour. I would suggest that you check out the other tour companies to see what they offer.

Private Tour- 7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

• Coach / Bus

American Parks Trail (Classic, End Denver, 9 Days)

The Tour Director and driver were first class, keeping us both very amused, and very safe. Some of the downsides were due to the weather, at times, which nothing could be done about, so we got on with it. Some of the main downs were due to my naivety, in thinking some facilities (like cash paying taxis from SLC airport; I persuaded a friendly Uber driver to accept cash!) were what I was used to, and that I wouldn't have to re-enter security when changing planes from LHR to SLC, at PHX, even though I was on a connecting, booked, flight, and my baggage had already been labelled for both airports appropriately, at LHR. Altogether, a very good, and memorable holiday, where I visited some parts of the Parks that I visited before, but saw many more, and different sights in them.

• In-depth Cultural

Nature's Best: Alaska

Our Tour guide, Wayne, was fantastic! He went above and beyond; to make sure we were comfortable on the bus and on the tours! He also got us as close as he could when there were animal sightings! Lane, our driver, was also an excellent driver; and he kept us safe on the narrow and winding Mountain roads! Hats off to these two!

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in USA

It was one of the best tours that I even had. We visited many beautiful places and the tour has the best camping side at the View. I cannot thanks enough for our guide, Hogan. He is very professional, knowledgeable, patient, responsible and kind. I highly recommend this tour!

Regions in USA

• Western USA (641)
• Southwest USA (342)
• Sun Belt (342)
• Rocky Mountains (234)
• Four Corners (186)
• Eastern USA (176)
• East Coast USA (133)
• West Coast USA (133)
• California (115)
• Alaska (115)
• Pacific Coast USA (91)
• Southern USA (84)
• Northeast USA (80)
• Southeast USA (75)
• Grand Canyon (69)
• Northern California (67)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• Best time to visit East Coast USA (Low & High Season)
• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
• Best USA Vacation Spots for Couples: Parks, Cities and more
• 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours
• Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Exclusive: Retta of ‘Ugliest House in America’ Reveals the Homely Features She Actually Adores

While beautiful houses are certainly easy on the eyes, ugly houses have their own allure, too. And the HGTV show “ Ugliest House in America ” is back to prove it on Season 5.

On the show’s latest season, which premieres April 22, comedian Retta travels across the country to visit homes that have been deemed particularly unsightly by their owners. At the end of the season, one house is named the homelist of all and receives a $150,000 renovation.

While these unattractive houses are certainly a sight to see, Retta’s hilarious reactions keep fan laughing—instead of just horrified.

Curious to learn more, we spoke with Retta about the worst (and best) features she saw this season, plus what buyers might want to consider before purchasing an ugly house themselves.

Is there anything different about Season 5 of “Ugliest House” that fan should look forward to?

The houses are weirder. I mean, there’s one home that’s like covered— covered in mirrors. There’s some parts of these homes that people are so afraid of that they literally won’t explore that part of the house.

And I’m like, “How have you lived here? You don’t know what’s like back there?” But I think, you can’t be scared of your home. You can’t. You can’t have spaces you’ve never encountered because you’re scared to get somebody to go in there.

One house had a door—not a full door. It’s a small door. But there’s a space behind it. And they’re like, “Yeah, we’re not going.” It’s surprising how many people won’t go into a part of their house.

What is the weirdest or grossest thing that you’ve seen in these houses so far?

Well, I talk about it all the time, but I’m always stunned about carpeting in bathrooms. There was carpeting in one particular bathroom that actually went all the way up to the edge of the tub. Which, I mean, I was like, “There’s mold in here right? There’s no way there’s not mold here because there’s no way you got out of this tub without wetting the carpet at the edge of the tub and down the steps to the floor and all throughout.”

Also, I believe it was the first season where I was in a house where they talked about how a snake fell from the ceiling, and I was like, “Hard pass, hard pass.” Other people have had bats in their attic; that’s another thing I’m not interested in participating in.

Have you seen any features you actually liked?

Yes! Sometimes I see really ornate fixtures, like a faucet or something like that. It’s something that was probably hot in the ’70s, but it’s kitschy now, and I think would look cool in a modern space.

There was also one house with this gorgeous red tub. The previous owner dedicated each room to a color and this bathroom had red carpeting, of course, but it also had this red tub with gold feet that were gorgeous.

That same home actually had a room that looked like a ’70s diner, which was probably their game room. I thought the room was really cool. And, you know, it was an old look, but if they they fixed up the space and redid the wallpaper, it would be gorgeous.

Has anything gone unexpectedly wrong during your home tours?

Sometimes these houses are old, and they can be unsafe. And we had a point, I think it was in Season 3, where one of our cameramen was shooting and the railing behind him fell and crashed to the first floor.

It was the most stunning, scary moment. And luckily, no one was standing under the railing and the cameraman wasn’t far enough back to actually fall down, so we were like, “Wow, somebody’s watching over us.” But it was one of those times where I was like, “This is the house you live in. The railings just fell down!”

Have you ever lived in an ugly house?

Oh yeah, I lived in a studio apartment that had those old cabinets, and you could see the peeling wallpaper on the inside. That apartment wasn’t cute, but I made it work!

The market is competitive these days, and I bet lots of people are thinking of buying an ugly home and renovating it. Do you have any advice for them?

Some people who are buying an ugly home think they’re going to be able to renovate it themselves, and my advice is: Think about it. Make a budget. You have to have an idea of what it’s going to cost and what you’re capable of. Not everybody can run electricity for a house. Stop trying to be a hero—you’re gonna have to contract that out.

So have a plan before you buy. You’ve got to think about it and at least consult with a professional. And even then, you might have to do the renovation slowly. I’ve seen people do it where they just demo everything. And then they can’t finish and you’re like, “Well, did you not know what this was gonna take?” You need a plan.

Jillian Pretzel is a Southern California writer who covers lifestyle, relationships, home, and money management.

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HGTV’s ‘Ugliest House in America’ has some thoughts on WA homes

Comedian Retta (“Parks and Recreation”) has learned a thing or two about disappointing domiciles, but she discovers there are always additional ways to mar a home’s aesthetics in her visits to three Washington residences in “Ugliest House in America” (9 p.m. April 29, HGTV), now in its fifth season.

“I often had to go up steps to get to the house,” Retta recalled of the homes in the Washington episode in a phone interview earlier this month. “I gotta work to get into the house and then there were steps inside the house. Enough with the steps!”

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The Seattle home’s owners, Brittany and Mehmet, welcomed Retta into their hall-of-mirrors house. The homeowners explain the house, built in 1965 with a view of Mount Rainier, was previously owned by an artist who attached mirrors to every imaginable surface in the home, including mirror mosaics on the walls and potentially hazardous 3D mirror art in the dining room. In one spot a mirror is even framed by a mirror.

“I think you have all of the mirrors in the Pacific Northwest,” Retta says in the episode.

Except perhaps for in one room: a bathroom, where one would be most likely to find a large mirror, has only a small mirror.

“Of all the mirrors in all the land, there were no more mirrors in Seattle. That’s all they could get,” Retta says in the episode. “The glue people and the mirror people in this town were thrilled.”

(A publicist for the series said the Seattle homeowners did not respond to requests for an interview, what part of Seattle they live in or for permission to use their last names.)

Retta also visits a 10,000-square-foot octagon-shaped house in Sultan, Snohomish County, where she says “every room is shaped like a slice of pie. … And a lot of the square footage is hallway.”

In the Sultan house, Retta also found more mirrors, echoing her Seattle finds.

“I don’t understand why everybody thought mirrors were décor,” she says. “Not everybody wants to look at themselves!”

And she found more steps, not only to get to the home’s entrance but also once inside. One bathroom has five levels.

“When I’m rushing to pee, I don’t want to go up steps!” she says.

Retta’s final stop is a home in West Richland, Benton County, that features two intersecting staircases and a bomb shelter with a curtain instead of a door. A helpful on-screen notation says, “Radiation can pass through fabric.”

At the end of each episode, Retta announces which of the three homes featured will be in the running for a $150,000 renovation by HGTV designer Alison Victoria that will be featured as the season finale episode. But it’s not Retta doing the picking.

“They go through all of that,” Retta said of the show’s producers. “It’s because of the cost, because there is a budget, but also they’re looking for the potential for the best before-and-after. You want to see the change, you don’t just want it to be structural. And a lot of it is the availability of contractors and what kind of speed they can work at because we’re on a schedule.”

Retta says despite all the weird, ugly homes she’s visited, she continues to be amazed.

“It’s simple things, like, why is this an entryway you have to duck every time you go through it? Or when you go into the bathroom you have to walk in sideways because the door doesn’t open more than a foot,” she says. “Why did you agree to this and why haven’t you fixed it?”

Retta seems to get a kick out of the homes and especially the opportunity to use her stand-up comic background to riff on their idiosyncrasies. She says filming “Ugliest House” is a bigger challenge than working on scripted series such as “Good Girls” or “Parks and Recreation.”

“We have to work around logistics,” she says. “In scripted [shows], you’re in one place and you’ve got a transportation team and a set decorator team, whereas there’s just a few of us traveling around and we’ve got to make stuff work.”

That’s included finishing her hair and makeup in a gas station bathroom. Retta says she’s been shooting “Ugliest House” seasons back-to-back. She’s currently midway through filming a sixth season that started in March and will finish in July. Then she’ll be ready to get back to acting.

“I really want to do another [scripted] series. That’s my favorite,” she says. “I like having someplace to wake up and go to work. I enjoy doing films, too. I like doing shows at home and films on location.”

The episode featuring three Washington homes will premiere at 9 p.m. April 29 on HGTV.

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Mayor Duggan touts NFL draft, public safety boost, junk removal plan at State of the City

Mayor Mike Duggan did not shy away from touting the NFL draft yet again as he kicked off his 11th annual State of the City on Wednesday evening at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church on Detroit's northwest side.

Duggan anticipates similar crowds to past NFL drafts, which drew in roughly 300,000 visitors. The mayor encourages them to visit redeveloped sites shown across the nation during Detroit's bankruptcy 10 years ago, such as the Michigan Central Depot, from which he delivered his State of the City last year, and witness how much the city has changed.

"We have a chance to introduce ourselves to America," Duggan said. "The last time we were in the national spotlight on MSNBC, it was about bankruptcy and a lot of people ... when they get here, you're going to see a very different city."

The mayor dived into a long list of recreational and major developments, including: GM Factory Zero and Stellantis assembly plants; State Fairgrounds development into a transit and Amazon fulfillment center; the $3 billion Henry Ford "Future of Health" development; Hudson's site, which GM recently announced plans to move its headquarters into the city's newest skyscraper, and the Water Square residences and hotel at the former Joe Louis Arena site.

Duggan added that when he first ran for office in 2013 and met with hundreds of residents, "it hurt" to realize much of them felt the city and country forgot about Detroit.

They said "our neighborhood has been forgotten ... there's illegal dumping, nobody's picked it up. There's open abandoned houses, nobody cares. You dial 911, the police don’t show up. The ambulance doesn’t show up," Duggan said. "What they were really saying is our city has been forgotten."

Duggan praised a number of the city's accomplishments, including eliminating blight, plans to remove abandoned vehicles, demolishing and restoring abandoned homes and boosting several of the city's parks, recreation centers and public spaces in an effort to beautify Detroit.

Here are a some key takeaways:

No more 'ruin porn'

More than 10 years ago, visitors would take "ruin porn" tours in Detroit to capture some of the city's blight, including the iconic Michigan Central Depot, which was initially up for demolition in 2009.

But this year, Duggan declared those tours "canceled."

Several sites are developing, including Lear's seating plant replacing the 40-year abandoned Hudson's Motor plant; the updated and lavish Book Tower housing residences and restaurants; United Artists Theatre building converting into apartments; the Eddystone renovated into apartments; GM parts facility replacing the long abandoned AMC Headquarters; the Fisher Body Plant being restored into apartments, and one of the biggest eyesores, the Packard Plant, which is coming down this year.

Instead of blight tours, Duggan pointed to the city's upgraded amenities, including the RiverWalk, Riverside Park, Beacon Park and more.

Land Value Tax

Prior to diving into the mayor's proposed Land Value Tax plan , which would raise property taxes on vacant land, Duggan touted the city's credit rating upgrade to reaching investment grade. Higher ratings mean governments pay lower costs to borrow money for investments across the city.

As he pushes the property tax plan through the Michigan Legislature, Duggan, once again, reminded Detroiters that it would cut homeowners' property taxes by 17% and raise the tax on vacant land, including parking lots and scrapyards. However, not everybody is on board with the plan.

"I have this fight in Lansing for the Land Value Tax ... which every national economist said would be a great thing in Detroit."

Duggan was referencing a poll of economists who agreed that it would boost Detroit's economy.

Public safety improvement

Detroit, once known nationally as the "carjack city," Duggan said, saw 782 carjackings in 2013, leading Detroit officers to leave the city in "record numbers." In 2024, Detroit has been averaging two per week, he said. Duggan pointed out that former Detroit Police Chief James Craig in 2013 was a victim of carjacking. The city in the meantime provided pay increases as an incentive to stay. Detroit's homicide rate dropped from 386 in 2013 to 252 in 2023.

The city also started Project Green Light , which uses cameras installed at various businesses, aimed at deterring crime and providing video evidence when it happens near a Green Light site.

"Ten years later, Detroit is a national leader in reducing carjackings," Duggan said.

Detroit also launched a number of community violence intervention initiatives, including gunshot detection systems to prevent gun crime. Six activist groups received federal grants to research ways to prevent crime and curb gun violence. Duggan plans to request that City Council extends their contracts through 2025 after seeing gun violence dip by 44% in areas where four of the groups focused on personal interaction to deescalate situations.

Duggan also touted the city's 911 response time reaching an average of 7 minutes and 30 seconds, which is less than the national standard. The city is dispatching 42 ambulances a day, compared with 20-22 last year.

Solar energy

Duggan touted multiple solar efforts underway, including 127 municipal buildings converting from fossil-based to solar energy. The city also launched an initiative to convert 250 acres of land into solar farms . The intention would be to convert blight into a more productive use. The city would select eight neighborhoods, two of which will power streetlights.

Homeowners living within the area will receive $15,000 in energy-efficiency home upgrades. Duggan will send the first three winning neighborhoods to City Council next month for approval.

Eliminating junk vehicles

In an effort to remove abandoned vehicles, 20 of the city's municipal parking officers are ticketing inoperable or unlicensed vehicles on the street. The citation will give owners 48 hours to move the vehicle.

"2024 is the year we finally rid Detroit of the abandoned illegal vehicles," Duggan said, adding that a resident complained to him about junk vehicles in her neighborhood, suggesting it's not a common sight in the suburbs.

Owners of multiple vehicles on private property lawns will have two weeks to move them, including commercial vehicles. Owners cannot store them on lawns, even if they build a fence around it, Duggan added.

"You can't store your commercial vehicles in our neighborhoods," Duggan said.

The city ticketed 5,208 vehicles so far this year. It towed 769, he said, and 85% were moved by the owners. Residents can report abandoned vehicles on the "Improve Detroit' app.

Rising home values

Detroit home values grew by $3.9 billion since the city's bankruptcy. Black homeowners' housing wealth grew by $2.8 billion, according to a study conducted by the University of Michigan.

"That's for the people who stay. The whole city in nine years grew," Duggan said, adding in response to those who say downtown and Midtown are the only areas seeing growth, "you tell them the University of Michigan study has 4 billion reasons why that's not true."

The study indicated that since the bankruptcy, demolitions of blighted and abandoned properties, and sales by the Detroit Land Bank Authority led to a "transformation" of the city's housing stock, leading to the market recovery as home sales prices increased.

Dexter Elmhurst Recreation Center

The city is renovating the center on the west side with plans to create a recreation center. In a surprise to a longtime community activist Helen Moore , Duggan plans to name it after her.

"Tomorrow morning, Councilman Fred Durhal is putting forward the resolution, and next year, the brand new facility will be the Helen Moore Community Center," Duggan said. "There is one person who has been the champion. For the last 25 years of my life, my No. 1 critic has been Helen Moore. Every time, she brings me something, she's right."

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: [email protected]. Follow her:  @DanaAfana .