Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown Offers Classic and Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Visitors to Lyndhurst Mansion, an 1838 Gothic Revival mansion in Tarrytown, can take either of two tours that will allow them to explore the manor and its grounds in thorough detail. The landmark estate, which was previously occupied by former New York City Mayor William Paulding, merchant George Merritt and railroad tycoon Jay Gould, is now maintained with historical accuracy, making guests feel as though they have entered a portal into the 19th century.

In a guided “Classic Mansion” tour, first-time visitors will join an expert guide through 19 elaborately-decorated rooms, including the lavish Grand Picture Gallery, which houses a collection of European paintings, Tiffany and La Farge stained-glass windows and more. The one-hour tour discusses the estate’s previous residents, its architecture and fine art, as well as furnishings throughout the mansion. These tours, which take place on Thursdays through Mondays, are free to Tarrytown residents on Thursdays and Fridays.

For those who are already familiar with Lyndhurst, the “Backstairs” tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Mansion’s staff provided a seamless lifestyle for the estate owners. This tour starts on the 5th floor observatory, with its view of the lower Hudson Valley and Manhattan, before descending 99 stairs into the servants’ quarters. There, guests view the butler’s suite, kitchen, laundry building and more. This tour takes place on select Saturdays and Sundays.

For more info, visit lyndhurst.org.

A version of this article first appeared in the May issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.

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