Hildene: Robert Lincoln's Historic 412-Acre Estate in Vermont
Hildene, the ancestral home of Robert and Mary Lincoln—son of President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln—is a 412-acre working farm, museum, and gallery nestled between New York's Taconic Mountains and Vermont's Green Mountains.
Discover this expansive estate by strolling through the Georgian Revival mansion, exploring 14 historic outbuildings, and wandering the lush gardens and scenic walking paths.
What Does Hildene Mean?
The name Hildene combines two Old English words: "hill" (from 'hil') meaning hill, and "dene" meaning valley with a stream. It embodies Abraham Lincoln's core values of integrity, perseverance, and civic responsibility.
Hildene promotes these ideals through land conservation, historic preservation, sustainability, and fostering civil discourse, inspiring every visitor.
A Brief History of Hildene
Built by Robert Lincoln as a summer home at the turn of the 20th century, Hildene remained in the family until 1975. After the last Lincoln descendant passed away, a nonprofit acquired the property, preserving it from development.
Touring Hildene
Begin at the Welcome Center with a self-guided tour of Robert and Mary's home. Listen for the 1,000-pipe Aeolian organ's melodies, then visit the Formal Garden famed for its peonies, the vibrant Cutting and Kitchen Gardens, and more.
Explore the restored Pullman car Sunbeam and Robert's Observatory. Venture onto 12 miles of walking trails, and visit the goat dairy and cheese-making facility at Hildene Farm.
Hildene's Exhibits
Included with admission are exhibits like The American Ideal, Abraham Lincoln and the Second Inaugural, Many Voices, and new additions this year.
Year-round guided tours and educational programs cover gardens, farm life, peonies, and pond ecosystems, leaving guests with a profound sense of possibility.
Best Time to Visit Hildene
Open year-round, Hildene shines in summer with trails and gardens. In winter, rent cross-country skis or snowshoes at the Pavilion for ungroomed trail adventures.
Things to Do Near Hildene
In nearby Manchester, Vermont—a quintessential New England town—browse shops, cafés, and restaurants. Visit the American Museum of Fly Fishing or Southern Vermont Arts Center.
Hike Mount Equinox, bike at Stratton Resort's lift-serve park, or ski its slopes in winter. Dine at Al Ducci's Italian market or SoHo's Mediterranean sharing plates from NYC transplants.
