Glensheen - The Historic Congdon Estate
Glensheen - The Historic Congdon Estate
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Finished in 1908, this Lake Superior 39-room mansion enjoys a rare, intact collection of original furnishings and art. Because of that, it closely resembles the days when the Congdon family first occupied it. Truly, it is Duluth's answer to Downton Abbey. Situated on a wooded lot, the home boasts spectacular views of Lake Superior as well as multiple gardens including formal, flower, and vegetable. Guests are also encouraged to explore the carriage house, boat house, stone bridge, and pier. Children enjoy the pebbled beach for hours of rock skipping while parents take a sit in one of Adirondack chairs. Be sure to check out Glensheen as part of your must-do Duluth bucket list.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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See what travelers are saying
- Teacher91 ❤Temple, Texas48,785 contributionsAn Unexpected TreatThe Mr is currently working in Plymouth, so I came up for the weekend to visit. We decided to drive to Duluth so I could put my eyes on Lake Superior. While driving along the North Shore, I spotted a sign that read, ‘Take A Tour’. I adore house tours so you didn’t have to ask me twice. There were two tours, but we opted for the full house tour at $30 per person. We started by roaming the beautiful grounds. I’m a history nerd so I appreciated all the informational placards around the property. We encountered a mother goose with several babies near the water’s edge. I could tell she was nervous because her head was on a constant swivel and she hissed at the Mr. as he walked past. I gave her a wide respectful berth. After that, we toured all 3 floors of the mansion. We had just missed the last guided tour, which kind of bummed me out, but every room had great signage, so I think we got the full experience. Each room offered unique architectural details and I could go on and on but I’ll just post a few pics instead. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 8, 2024
- kimberlyCarmel, Indiana13 contributionsWorld class mansionVery beautiful home with gardens, gardeners cottage, barn and boat house. Self guided tours, but a lot of university students around that were happy to answer questions. Art deco and mission style furniture, decorations and fireplaces. The carving and details in the house are exceptional. Restoration going on in a lot of places, so it will only get better with time.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 13, 2024
- GeetaBGreen Bay, Wisconsin112 contributionsMusic on WednesdaysWe enjoyed the classic tour, as many others have recommended. The gardens are beautiful. On Wednesdays in the summer, they have free concerts on the grounds, right by the lake. Boaters, paddle boarders, and other crafts come on over to enjoy as well. The gates open to visitors at 5 and cars fill up the streets and people take free shuttles. We planned ahead and visited the house at 3:30. That allowed us to park in the parking lot and leave our chairs and drinks in the car till we were ready for them. Since we had paid tickets and were in the grounds, we were able to set up our chairs before the crowds came in at 5. They had various food trucks, with great looking food, but the lines were very long. We enjoyed a beautiful evening and easily got to our car and drove away when we were done (did not stay till the end). Would recommend this to anyone who does not want to walk too far.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 24, 2024
- Sherry C485 contributionsBeautiful estate and grounds.This estate is amazing. I like that the tour was self-guided, but there was information in each room, and there were employees there to answer any questions. We could stay as long as we wanted, both in the estate and on the grounds. We took the whole house tour, which I would suggest if you want to get a better glimpse into their lives. And, the fact that this estate is right on Lake Superior had to be wonderful living there. I highly suggest taking this tour if you have the time to do so; you won't be disappointed.Visited April 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 28, 2024
- Nan DPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania352 contributionsA must seeI have toured many mansions and homes in my day, and Glensheen really stands out. The self-guided house tour includes many interesting details about the architecture and decor. Everything was done in fine detail, but it also looked like a livable, functioning home. I really enjoyed marveling over the fine details. The gardens are also quite lovely. Well worth the visit.Visited August 2024Traveled with friendsWritten August 3, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Popular mentions
4.5
1,302 reviews
Excellent
867
Very good
329
Average
67
Poor
28
Terrible
11
Robin B
Phoenix, AZ1,474 contributions
Oct 2021
We purchased the full mansion, self-guided tour, which was fantastic. I would suggest splurging for that because it includes the third-floor bedrooms and attic. They had docents to answer questions on every floor and they also directed traffic so that there were never too many people in an area. The mansion itself is beautiful and contains original furnishings, light fixtures, personal belongings and design elements. The formal gardens are under extensive renovation, so that wasn’t available, but we were able to walk to the boat house. Free parking is on-site and masks are required inside the mansion.
Written October 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ArtsyGalBaltimore
Maryland847 contributions
May 2021
Enjoyed a leisurely visit on Saturday in May to this historic 39 room mansion on Lake Superior. Took the self-guided classic tour (senior $16.00) There are docents to answer questions and plenty to appreciate. The mansion is well preserved as the Congdons lived, making it easy to imagine their life style. Well stocked gift shop. The day we visited a wedding was to be celebrated in the night. No mention on the tour about the murder of Elizabeth Congdon and all of the follow-on trails and tribulations. Found Joe Kimball's book a good read. Recommend reading or video viewing so that you can fully appreciate the mansion.
Written May 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kekenkel
Mitchell, SD134 contributions
Jun 2022
Our adult daughters joined us in visiting the Glensheen Mansion. After paying the $30 per adult entry fee for the full tour we spent an enjoyable morning exploring the grounds and home. I recommend downloading the free app for more information about the home and family. Visitors get a glimpse into the privileged life from over a century ago. The mansion is furnished with actual pieces owned by the Congdon family, rather than period pieces. This makes the tour more interesting and meaningful.
Written June 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimberly K
Kansas City, MO38 contributions
Sep 2020
A must see while in Duluth! The interior design is beautiful but the technology incorporated into the home is mind-blowing. Take time to walk around the gardens for the best view of Lake Superior. Since all tours are self-guided right now, I recommend downloading their app for more incite and history of each room.
Written September 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard S
Abilene, TX556 contributions
Oct 2020
Glensheen is an excellent example of early 20th century for the wealthy. The property has been well maintained over the years and is furnished with period furniture. During the self guide tour, you will learn about the family who lived and grew up here. It is well worth the time and expense to visit this home.
Because of Covid, there is a limited number of people allowed on the tour at any given time.
Because of Covid, there is a limited number of people allowed on the tour at any given time.
Written October 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tiffany P
Mason City, IA65 contributions
Sep 2020
We arrived at Glensheen before opening because we wanted to get a "full tour" and it was NOT available for purchase online. Although people were supposed to be "social distancing" most were not doing so in the line. When we finally were able to get to the ticket purchasing we were told the full tour tickets were gone. The parts of the mansion we saw were beautiful but didn't really like that it was self guided. Later on we found out there was something you could download on your cell phone that would tell the history but NO ONE told us that! They have done a great job with the restoration and it is worth seeing. We still don't understand WHY they don't sell tickets for the full tour online at a specific time. We saw people coming down from the upper tour and asked if we could see it then pay after and they told us no. We would have had to go stand in line again and then see if there were any new available tickets. We did like that masks were required and the staff was constantly cleaning and hand sanitizer was provided throughout the mansion.
Written September 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eisme77
Janesville, WI1,844 contributions
Mar 2021 • Friends
My son's girlfriend and I decided to go visit when we found out the mansion was still doing Christmas in March. The mansion and estate were beyond words better than I had imagined. It is steeped in history since it was always lived in by the same family. The home has exquisite details that tell of a time and age of true wealth even though the family were generous benefactors of many different local causes. Do yourself a favor and fork over the $30 for the full mansion tour. Wear your comfy shoes, take your phone/camera, and use the strategically placed chairs throughout to sit and observe the multitude of details. You will not regret it! Our favorite spots were the Breakfast Room, the boys' rooms, and the bedrooms overlooking the lake. Each room has a story to tell. And don't forget the beach!
Written April 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Madogfechan
Bishopton, UK295 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
We visited from Scotland in late December, in the dark and in the snow and we loved it! We hadn’t booked ahead so were only able to do the basic tour and didn’t get to see the upper floors. That was enough for us though as we also wanted time to walk round the grounds to view the Christmas lights. We found the visit interesting and informative but not particularly Christmassy indoors. The dining table was only partly set and could perhaps have been better presented. Our guide spoke clearly to our large group and answered all questions knowledgeably and there was plenty time to see details. We particularly enjoyed the outdoor lights, very festive and with some amusing features like a little fox and a little dog.
Written January 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan M
Ames, IA43 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
Even our teen sons enjoyed this self guided house tour. It was built by a family that made its wealth in the Gilded Age. Like an American Downton Abbey, you get an impression of wealth and privilege that also yearns toward more progressive elements (like a car that didn’t REQUiRE a chauffeur)! Definitely download the free app before touring as it offers great audio and detail on the art and exhibits. We did the Full Mansion tour but the Classic Tour offers an economical option without missing anything essential. In warmer weather I would have loved to have explored the grounds more. They did offer free snowshoes but we opted to head out to lunch instead.
Written March 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael H
Elk River, MN1,875 contributions
Dec 2021 • Family
I would definitely recommend this place for your tourist destination, especially the Christmas tour. The mansion was beautifully decorated with over 25-Christmas trees and it got our family in the holiday mood. We came early on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds and got a personalized self tour taking our time.
Glensheen also has a huge amount of local history and the staff is very knowledgable about all things Glensheen I would also recommend going during daylight hours, as the natural sunlight helps to see all the details throughout the mansion. Family friendly, but don't touch anything inside.
Our son was an active military member so admission was free for all of us.
Glensheen also has a huge amount of local history and the staff is very knowledgable about all things Glensheen I would also recommend going during daylight hours, as the natural sunlight helps to see all the details throughout the mansion. Family friendly, but don't touch anything inside.
Our son was an active military member so admission was free for all of us.
Written December 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Jane, Great question.
Due to the historic nature of the building, there are no elevators. The second floor, third floor and attic are only accessible by stairs. However, the lower level and first floors are wheelchair and scooter accessible. .
We do offer a limited mobility tour that includes the grounds, the lower level, and the first floor, as while as tour videos covering the second and third floors.
You can learn more about Glensheen's accessibility at
glensheen. org
Written August 19, 2021
Leon C
Rochester, Minnesota
My wife has difficulty walking....can the home accommodate a 3 wheel scooter or a wheelchair?
Written June 3, 2021
Hello Leon, our apologies for the delayed response.
Yes. The lower level and first floor are wheelchair and scooter accessible. Due to the historic nature of the building, the second and third floor are only accessible by stairs.
That being said we do offer a limited mobility tour that includes the grounds, the lower level, and the first floor, as while as tour videos covering the second and third floors.
You can learn more about Glensheen's accessibility at
glensheen. org
Written August 11, 2021
ruen0007
Eden Prairie, Minnesota
Is there an u of MN alumni discount on tours?
Written October 27, 2020
What is the cost? Can I pay ahead of time?
Written June 29, 2019
We rented snow shoes for $5 and spent about 1 hour touring the grounds. We could have easily spent more time but the wind was nasty that day. Would do it again if we are in Duluth in the winter time!
Written July 1, 2019
No, there is no restaurant at Glensheen. They do have a gift shop but I don't know if they sell snacks. The mansion is very close to Duluth, which has many options to dine. My favorite place is The Duluth Grill, they have a huge menu with loads of healthy (and splurgy) options. Enjoy your time there!
Written June 3, 2019
Hi will there be Interpreters be available for the hearing impaired? If so, need to be notified in advance or always available upon arrival? If not, any scripts provided? Thank you
Written July 5, 2017
MikkFun - I don't remember what's available for the hearing impaired.
When we went on our tour it was a very small group. Just my husband, me and another couple, then the tour guide.
I would call them and ask to make sure. 218-726-8910
Hope this helps.
Written July 5, 2017
How long does the classic tour last? How long does the full house tour last? Thanks, N.
Written November 23, 2016
Hello!
The guided Classic Tour typically lasts about an hour. The guided Full-Mansion Tour typically last about an hour and a half.
Thank you,
Glensheen Marketing Manager
Written November 23, 2016
Is the mansion handicap accessible?
Written May 22, 2016
The main floor and lower level of the mansion are actually handicap accessible! We also provide videos of the second and third floor that are not handicap accessible so all can see what these non-accessible floors look like. We recommend touring during the weekdays to allow for best ease of movement throughout the mansion.
However, as many have already mentioned, there are quite a few stairs if you take the complete full-mansion tour. We do have a handful of locations where guests can sit and rest while on tour to help.
Written June 3, 2016
Katy
North Oaks, Minnesota
My husband and I are interested in doing the Full Mansion tour when we visit Duluth in a couple of weeks. I know that the tour involves a lot of walking, but are there a lot of stairs as well?
Thanks!
Written March 21, 2016
Yes there are stairs to the second floor where the bedrooms are located. Not a lot in my opinion and you have the option of not going upstairs. The downstairs has most of the interesting architecture anyway.
Written March 23, 2016
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