The post below is sponsored by Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens. I received complimentary passes in exchange for a review.
It’s no secret that Michigan is home to some very exquisite homes thanks to automobile money. Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens in Rochester, Michigan is no exception.
My mom and I recently had a date together to visit this amazing home during Meadow Brook Hall’s Holiday Walk, and enjoyed learning and getting inspired along the way. We did the tour about 10 years ago, and this one was very different than we remembered. They decorate it differently every year, so it’s worth an annual visit for sure!
This massive 88,000 square-foot home is a sight to behold, especially during the holiday season, where decor graces every corner. Docents are available in most rooms too, and are a wealth of knowledge about the nuances of the home and the family history.
The home was once refuge from Detroit city life for Matilda Dodge Wilson {widow of John Francis Dodge} and her second husband, lumber baron, Alfred C. Wilson.
It took three years to build {1926-1929} and features Tudor revival style architecture. Currently, it’s the fourth largest historic mansion in the United States.
Although its design was inspired by a European trip, all of the building materials — including several styles of beautiful wood — were sourced in North America {with the exception of the wood in John’s study}. Just thinking of how much this home would be to build these days is mind-blowing. It truly is a national treasure!
Maltilda didn’t miss a single detail when building her home. Her presence is felt in every room, with unique carvings and one-of-a-kind door knobs, doors, and surprises in every room. {The hidden staircase in the middle of the home was especially neat to see!}
For the holiday season, event designers have come in and decorated the home, including its 64 trees, which range from traditional to themed trees.
A few of our favorites were the living poinsettia tree, which was breathtakingly beautiful with its 150 live plants!
The upside-down tree in Danny’s cottage in the woods, was definitely a fan favorite as well due to its uniqueness.
There are trees in nearly all of the 110 rooms of the home, and all are uniquely magical!
In addition to the tour, there are two cute gift shops on the premises that are worth checking out.
ENJOY if you visit!
HOLIDAY WALK INFORMATION
The holiday walk runs daily through December 23, 2019.
Holiday Walk tickets are $20 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free {though I wouldn’t recommend this for the younger crowd or those unable to walk}. On Mondays and Wednesdays, seniors age 62 and older receive $5 off admission. Tickets for the final weekend of events featuring Santa and his reindeer on Dec. 21-23 are $22.50 for adults and seniors, $10 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased onsite in the Holiday Shop. Tours are self-guided and reservations are not required.
Children can participate in “Cleo’s Ornament Adventure,” inspired by the Dodge-Wilson’s beloved pet St. Bernard, Cleo. Children can participate in a special scavenger hunt while touring the mansion, then collect a prize at Candy Cane Cottage.
The mansion is open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and until 8 p.m. on select evenings.
LOCATION
Meadow Brook Hall is located at 350 Estate Drive in Rochester.
Learn more by checking out the website for special events and more, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram.
TIP: A few restaurants ideas if you visit the area: Patti Finnegan’s Pub & Grille right near the property, or Clubhouse BFD in Rochester Hills, which is close to M-59. There are plenty of additional restaurants too!
GIVEAWAY
I’m excited to giveaway two tickets for a lucky winner to enjoy. Make sure to visit my Instagram to enter. Best of luck!
Where are your favorite places to see beautiful Christmas decor?
