A Guide to the 7 Top Mansions on Long Island, NY
Whether you are looking for the most stunning mansions to visit or planning a scenic Long Island trip, Long Island has the perfect estates to explore. From Old Westbury Gardens with its formal gardens, ponds, and self-guided tours, to Mill Neck Manor, a historic Tudor Revival mansion offering docent-guided tours, there’s something for every family to explore. You can wander the expansive greenhouses and woodland paths of Planting Fields Arboretum, climb, play, and discover at Sands Point Preserve, or explore the unique exhibits of Vanderbilt Museum’s Eagle’s Nest.
Long Island is home to some of the most extravagant properties in the country. While there are gorgeous museums in the city, there are also incredible spots to visit in our backyard.
Check out our list of historic mansions open to the public for your family to explore. You and your family will be delighted away by these homes’ beauty.
Psst… Here are the best ice cream shops in New York City!
Too Long, Didn’t Read:
- Top Mansions: Old Westbury Gardens, Mill Neck Manor, Vanderbilt Museum.
- Best Outdoor Walks: Planting Fields Arboretum, Sands Point Preserve.
- Best Indoor Tours: Old Westbury Gardens, Mill Neck Manor, Vanderbilt Museum.
- Best for Kids: Sands Point Preserve playgrounds, Muttontown Preserve picnic areas.
- Easy Access Spots: Old Westbury Gardens paved paths, Planting Fields stroller-friendly routes.
- Planning Basics: Check tickets online, look for seasonal events, and arrive early for calm crowds.
Now that you know why Long Island mansions are so special, let’s see the best ones to visit! Each mansion has its own fun things to explore, like pretty gardens, big houses, and even playgrounds for kids. We’ve put together a list so you can find the perfect spot for your family adventure and plan a day full of flowers, history, and fun.
Old Westbury Gardens: A Beautiful Mansion on Long Island with Stunning Gardens and Lakes
71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568
(516) 333-0048
Old Westbury is home to formal gardens, woodlands, ponds, lakes and a beautiful mansion! The Westbury House is open for self-guided tours included with Old Westbury Gardens general admission.
In addition to there being self-guided tours available, there is also a free online tour worth checking out with your kids at home!
Mill Neck Manor: Historic Mansion on Long Island with Docent Guided Tours
40 Frost Mill Road, Mill Neck, NY 11765
(516) 922-4100
Overlooking Long Island Sound, Mill Neck Manor is an impressive example of Tudor Revival architecture. Since 1949, Mill Neck Manor has been used to serve deaf and hard of hearing children and adults, as well as the community at large.
Call the number above to inquire about the manor’s docent-guided tours available!
Planting Fields Arboretum: A Historic Mansion on Long Island with Planting Fields
1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
(516) 922 -9210
This is one of those mansions in Long Island where every corner tells a story, and you can spend hours just walking around, admiring the house and the gardens. Listed under the National Register of Historic Places, Planting Fields Arboretum is a place you won’t want to miss!
In addition to 409 acres of greenhouses, rolling lawns, formal gardens and woodland paths, Planting Fields Arboretum features a lavish home with original ironwork and murals throughout it.
Sands Point Preserve: Mansion on Long Island Featuring Woodland Playground
127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, NY 11050
(516) 571-7901
Sands Point Preserve Conservancy holds not just one, but four magnificent mansions! You can take a guided tour of The Hempstead House or Falaise during your visit.
After you’re done touring, take your kids to the Woodland Playground for some extra fun. Just be mindful that the playground closes a half an hour before the rest of the park does!
Vanderbilt Museum: A Mansion on Long Island with Unique Exhibits
180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, NY 11721
(631) 854-5579
You can take a public or private tour of Vanderbilt Museum’s mansion, also known as Eagle’s Nest. This estate is unique in that it offers four different exhibits throughout the house.
While exploring, you’ll have to check out the Memorial Wing, Habitat Wing, Nursery Wing and Hall of Fishes!
Muttontown Preserve: A Peaceful Long Island Mansion with Estate Grounds
34 Muttontown Lane, East Norwich, NY 11732
(516) 571-8500
Chelsea Mansion inside the Muttontown Preserve is a priceless mansion in Long Island that families love to explore, because it feels both peaceful and full of history at the same time. Come on out to the largest nature preserve in Nassau! Muttontown Preserve has over 500 acres of woodlands, ponds and estate grounds.
Maps and brochures are available for self-guided tours, which you can take up to the northern end of the park in order to see the breathtaking Chelsea Mansion!
Tips for Self-Guided Tours at Each Mansion on Long Island
Taking a self-guided tour at a Long Island mansion is a fun way for families to explore at their own pace. Using maps, signs, and online resources helps you discover hidden corners and learn interesting stories about the houses, the people who lived there, and the beautiful grounds.
To make the most of your visit, it helps to know what each mansion has to offer before you go. Below, we’ve put together a handy list of the top mansions, their highlights, and tips so your family can have the best day exploring Long Island’s amazing estates.
- Pick Up Maps and Brochures: Most mansions provide maps or brochures at the entrance. These help you plan your route and make sure you don’t miss any highlights.
- Start Early in the Day: Visiting in the morning often means fewer crowds. You and your family can enjoy quieter gardens and more space to explore freely.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many mansions have large grounds, woodland paths, or rolling lawns. Comfortable shoes make it easier to walk around and enjoy everything.
- Plan Breaks for Kids: Stop at benches, picnic areas, or playgrounds along the way. Short breaks help little ones stay happy and energized throughout the tour.
- Take Photos, But Respect Rules: Capture family memories while keeping in mind areas where photography may be restricted. Encourage kids to notice details like murals, fountains, and garden designs.
- Follow the Signs: Self-guided tours usually have signs pointing out important rooms, gardens, or features. Following them ensures you see everything without missing hidden gems.
Wrapping Up
Visiting these beautiful Long Island mansions is a wonderful way to spend time together as a family because each place gives you a mix of fresh air, pretty gardens, and fun things to explore at your own pace, and it all feels calm and special. Whether your family loves walking under tall trees, learning little bits of history, or just enjoying a quiet picnic on the grass, these estates make it easy to slow down and enjoy the day.
FAQs
What is the most expensive mansion in New York City?
The most expensive mansion in New York City is often considered to be the penthouse at 220 Central Park South, which has sold for hundreds of millions of dollars. While these luxury homes are rare, they showcase the city’s incredible architecture and design.
Are there any mansions in New York City?
Yes, there are a few historic and modern mansions in New York City, mostly in areas like the Upper East Side and Greenwich Village. Many of these homes are private, but some are occasionally open for tours or events.
Can families visit mansions near New York City?
Absolutely! While most mansions in NYC are private, families can visit beautiful estates on Long Island and nearby areas. These locations offer gardens, playgrounds, and guided or self-guided tours that make for a fun day trip.
What is the difference between New York City mansions and Long Island mansions?
New York City mansions are usually smaller and more private, often tucked between city streets. Long Island mansions, on the other hand, are larger, surrounded by gardens, woodlands, and open spaces, making them perfect for family visits and outdoor exploration.
