Hermitage Museum and Gardens
Hermitage Museum and Gardens
4.5
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens, formerly home to the Sloane family, is an early 20th century Arts-and-Crafts estate located on the shore of the Lafayette River in Norfolk, Virginia. Featuring a nationally recognized art collection spanning 5,000 years, the Hermitage is home to the arts. Contemporary exhibition galleries, a Visual Arts Studio, working artist studios, and 12 acres of gardens and grounds offer art and culture to the community, as envisioned by the Sloanes.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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4.5
149 reviews
Excellent
86
Very good
48
Average
9
Poor
4
Terrible
2
mrmachine
Raleigh, NC118 contributions
Apr 2021
We arrived at the Hermitage around 12:20 pm. When we got to the door, we saw a printed sign that the museum would be closed for an hour for a special luncheon. There was no indication of what time the one hour started. I called the phone number and asked the woman who answered, what time will the luncheon end. She said, it was about to start now so it would end around 1:30. We walked around the gardens for a bit then left to get lunch. Note: there were a dozen or so women at a picnic table in the rear of the building. When we returned, we only saw a single employee inside. The museum was nice but quite small. The grounds were in a serious state of neglect with weeds all over the place. They advertise as museum and gardens. Not so much.
Written May 2, 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.
free2venture
Virginia475 contributions
Oct 2022
Overall, it was worth a visit and we enjoyed the gardens and historic home. When we've toured similar historic homes in the area, a tour is offered. There was no tour offered here so that likely took away from fully enjoying the experience. In contrast to other historic homes, it was only somewhat set up as a home. I realize it is termed a museum, but it isn't consistent throughout. One room has a full dining table etc. and other rooms are collections. Also, on the Friday we were there, we were told the upstairs was closed, so not sure what is there. The grounds were fairly nice. The greeter at the front was pleasant.
We enjoyed it and would recommend to others if in the area, but have enjoyed the explanations from tour guides at other similar places in Norfolk and VB, such as Thoroughgood House & Hunter House Museum. As opposed to Hermitage, even without the tour guide, they seemed to tell a story and have a nice flow. Perhaps at some point Hermitage will add a tour (there were only maybe 8 guests there that day so easily done it would seem) and maybe decorate the rooms in the house to replicate how the family lived vs just a lot of artifacts. A blend of the two vs hodge podge rooms would be nice. Parking was easy. Museum sits back in a neighborhood. It was free like the other two mentioned, which is great. If you prefer art or artifact type collections to a period decorated place, this would work well for your interests.
We enjoyed it and would recommend to others if in the area, but have enjoyed the explanations from tour guides at other similar places in Norfolk and VB, such as Thoroughgood House & Hunter House Museum. As opposed to Hermitage, even without the tour guide, they seemed to tell a story and have a nice flow. Perhaps at some point Hermitage will add a tour (there were only maybe 8 guests there that day so easily done it would seem) and maybe decorate the rooms in the house to replicate how the family lived vs just a lot of artifacts. A blend of the two vs hodge podge rooms would be nice. Parking was easy. Museum sits back in a neighborhood. It was free like the other two mentioned, which is great. If you prefer art or artifact type collections to a period decorated place, this would work well for your interests.
Written October 23, 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.
TheAmazingRain
Imperial Beach, CA77 contributions
Oct 2020 • Solo
The streets surrounding the Hermitage aren’t exactly in the best shape, but a few streets lead toward the bay, to cozy woods, and then suddenly you are upon this gorgeous little estate!
It’s the collection of one woman and she certainly had a taste for curios and relics from around the world.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and it was just the nicest place I’ve ever stumbled upon in Norfolk.
Someone below mentioned being asked to pay for pictures, not sure what that’s about, no one bothered me while I walked and took photos.
It’s the collection of one woman and she certainly had a taste for curios and relics from around the world.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable and it was just the nicest place I’ve ever stumbled upon in Norfolk.
Someone below mentioned being asked to pay for pictures, not sure what that’s about, no one bothered me while I walked and took photos.
Written November 9, 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.
Jake B
Northern Virginia, VA1 contribution
Dec 2019
In town to visit some friends that live in the Ghent area. We caught a surprising warm day in the middle of December. Took a stroll down to this place. Really cool views, looks like a great place for a wedding.
Written January 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.
Chris Ruggaluffagus
Yorktown, VA298 contributions
May 2024 • Family
We had put off seeing this site for some time, we didn’t think it was worth it, but…
I was wrong. Definitely a great mix of architecture, art, garden, etc. So many interesting pieces in here, but pay attention to the woodworking. Every wall, ceiling, and corner has some interesting and beautiful work.
We plan on returning. Plan for at least 1 hour. Little kids might be bored, but teens should still enjoy it.
I was wrong. Definitely a great mix of architecture, art, garden, etc. So many interesting pieces in here, but pay attention to the woodworking. Every wall, ceiling, and corner has some interesting and beautiful work.
We plan on returning. Plan for at least 1 hour. Little kids might be bored, but teens should still enjoy it.
Written May 28, 2024
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.
1060WestAddison
Washington DC, DC153 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
Beautiful gardens and grounds! We visited here for a wedding at the site. We didn’t get too see much of the inside of the house, but what we did see was lovely. Don’t expect a serene view of the water m, though - you’re still in Norfolk, so the view is Navy vessels and ship loaders across the water.
Written April 17, 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.
Debbi B
Norfolk, VA509 contributions
Aug 2020
As a Norfolk resident, I have visited the Museum and Gardens on numerous occasions. NEVER have I ever been approached about taking a photo, or seen a sign stating photography required a fee. After a lot of research on your website, I found your policy. I took some friends who share photography as a hobby whom had never been there before. They were told upon entering that there was a $50 fee to take photographs. A staff member actually hunted some of us down to collect $50. One guest was asked to delete her photos. We are in no way professional photographers, nor commercial photographers. We were taking pictures of flowers, birds, and woods. We were made to feel like criminals. Any photos taken were most likely deleted anyway because we are novices. Once I got home and found your policy on your website, it clearly states that there is no charge for recreational photos. Which is all we were doing. We were tourist! I WILL NEVER GO BACK nor will any of the people with me today. Your staff needs to be educated in recreational photography is as well as customer service. I do not, nor want, a reply from anyone. But you can be sure I will share my experience with everyone.
Written August 9, 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.
Nathan C
Great Bridge, Virginia, United States111 contributions
Mar 2015 • Couples
This is a very beautiful old home located in the back of a very nice neighborhood in the Larchmont section of Norfolk not too far from Naval Station Norfolk. The home dates from the early 1900s and once housed a wealthy family. The lady of the house was a big patron of the arts and collected a lot of art during her life which is now on display at the home. One of the best collections of Asian art on the East Coast. Personally more so than the art I found the the house itself and the story of its former residents to be the best part of the museum. You can do a "self tour" by brochure but I would recommend attending one of the two guided tours they give daily. The museum is closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.
To be honest, if you don't have much appreciation for architecture, history or the more subtle things in life...this museum may not be for you. I can't imagine most children would find it very interesting. Although they do have special nights where they show movies outside during the warmer months that children would enjoy.
The grounds are beautiful right on the water, and the volunteers there seem to really have a passion for what they do with lots of knowledge of the property.
In short: History buffs and those who appreciate art and architecture, you will spend an enjoyable hour or two (two may be pushing it) here. If art and history isn't your thing or you have small children...you may want to skip it. The Chrysler Museum is much larger and free to the public (unlike here). This is a great companion to those who have already done the Chrysler though and would like to see something different.
To be honest, if you don't have much appreciation for architecture, history or the more subtle things in life...this museum may not be for you. I can't imagine most children would find it very interesting. Although they do have special nights where they show movies outside during the warmer months that children would enjoy.
The grounds are beautiful right on the water, and the volunteers there seem to really have a passion for what they do with lots of knowledge of the property.
In short: History buffs and those who appreciate art and architecture, you will spend an enjoyable hour or two (two may be pushing it) here. If art and history isn't your thing or you have small children...you may want to skip it. The Chrysler Museum is much larger and free to the public (unlike here). This is a great companion to those who have already done the Chrysler though and would like to see something different.
Written April 1, 2015
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.
MrMatt4Food
Newport News, VA95 contributions
Jan 2018 • Couples
We had a fantastic time, beautiful grounds and trails. The house itself has been turned into a great collection of art and really captures the life and time of the family. Our tour guide Josh was amazing and was not only knowledgeable but fun too. Great place to visit for art, history and natural beauty.
Written January 21, 2018
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.
CLTluv2travel
Charlotte, NC46 contributions
Mar 2016 • Family
So our plan for a day of outdoor activities was interrupted by poor weather predictions. I found this museum through a tourist pamphlet and google search. We ended up arriving in time for the house tour which ended up being just us and one other couple. It was wonderful. The house is spectacular and has a really interesting history. The collection is very well displayed and unique. While this isn't a huge museum, it was well worth the trip....I am just sorry the weather precluded us from touring the gardens.
The docent was also knowledgeable and did a great job of directing her comments to my younger kids.
The docent was also knowledgeable and did a great job of directing her comments to my younger kids.
Written April 4, 2016
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.
A Tripadvisor member
Hooksett, New Hampshire
Yes! The outdoor part is great, and the inside is just like a regular museum.
Written December 29, 2018
The website should give those details. Basically, you pay to go into the building - both downstairs and up. The grounds are for you to enjoy except during times like the Munro Exhibit(Lights). If there is no set-up for entry at the entry gate to the museum, then you are free to roam the grounds. Right now, that is where the Burning Man pieces are. They are illuminated every other Thursday, and then there is a fee. They will also be illuminated next Saturday during the evening at which time there will also be a lighted bicycle parade. Be sure to call them to check that my data is correct, but I would think that next week will be an event not to be missed.
Written August 12, 2017
is there parking, especially handicapped?
Written July 1, 2017
Yes! Parking in the middle of the gardens. For some of their events parking fills quickly but most day visits there is plenty of parking.
Written July 4, 2017
Jennifer M
Norfolk, Virginia
$12 for adults, $8 for children 5-12 and free for members, active duty and children under 5.
Written April 17, 2016
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