Old Westbury Gardens
Tucked away in the heart of Nassau County on Long Island’s Gold Coast, Old Westbury Gardens stands as one of the region’s most treasured cultural and horticultural landmarks. A breathtaking blend of architecture, history, and nature, the estate offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Long Island’s early 20th-century aristocracy.
Originally the private home of financier John Shaffer Phipps, Old Westbury Gardens was constructed in the early 1900s during the height of Long Island’s “Gold Coast” era, when wealthy American families built palatial estates inspired by European traditions. The magnificent Charles II–style mansion, known as Westbury House, anchors the 200-acre estate and is surrounded by formal gardens, woodlands, lakes, and meadows – all meticulously maintained and open to the public.
From the moment you enter the tree-lined drive and catch your first glimpse of the stately brick manor rising above the landscaped grounds, you’ll understand why Old Westbury Gardens continues to enchant history lovers, garden enthusiasts, artists, and filmmakers alike. The estate’s interiors are filled with original period furnishings, artwork, and antiques that reflect the refined tastes of the Phipps family, while the surrounding gardens showcase everything from walled rose gardens and sculpted hedges to lily ponds and seasonal wildflower displays.
But Old Westbury Gardens is far more than a historical house museum. It’s also a vibrant cultural venue that hosts seasonal events, concerts, tours, art exhibits, family programs, and wellness activities throughout the year. Whether you’re exploring the grounds on a sunny spring afternoon, enjoying a twilight jazz concert in the gardens, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat just a short drive from New York City, this iconic Long Island destination offers an experience that’s both relaxing and inspiring.
Recognized nationally for its preservation and beauty, Old Westbury Gardens is a living showcase of early American opulence and the enduring power of great landscape design. For locals and tourists alike, it remains one of the most picturesque and historically significant places to visit on Long Island.
Estate History & Origins
Old Westbury Gardens was commissioned by John Shaffer Phipps, heir to the U.S. Steel fortune, as a gift to his English-born fiancée. The home was completed in 1906, inspired by the great manor houses of England, and designed in the Charles II/Carolean Revival style. English artist and designer George A. Crawley partnered with American architect Grosvenor Atterbury to bring the vision to life.
The estate served as the Phipps family’s country home and features period furnishings, fine art, and heirlooms that remain intact. In 1959, John’s daughter, Margaret Phipps Boegner, converted the family estate into a nonprofit historic site to preserve its legacy and make it accessible to the public.
The Gardens and Grounds
The property encompasses approximately 200 acres, with over 70 acres of formal gardens inspired by English landscaping traditions. Highlights include:
- The Walled Garden, with seasonal blooms and sculpted hedges.
- The Rose Garden, planted with heirloom and hybrid varieties.
- The Lilac Walk, offering vibrant purples and fragrances each spring.
- Woodland trails, ponds, and sweeping lawns perfect for strolling or picnicking.
Visitors can wander through interconnected garden rooms, each with its own theme, color palette, and mood.
The Westbury House
The 23-room Westbury House is filled with European and American antiques, fine art, and tapestries. Highlights include:
- The oak-paneled library, filled with original books and family portraits.
- The drawing room and dining room, showcasing 18th-century English furniture.
- A portrait by John Singer Sargent, a centerpiece of the home’s interior collection.
Tours of the house provide insight into the Gilded Age lifestyle of Long Island’s elite.
A Star on Screen
Old Westbury Gardens has served as a filming location for several iconic productions, including:
- North by Northwest (1959)
- Love Story (1970)
- Cruel Intentions (1999)
- The Age of Innocence (1993)
- American Gangster (2007)
- Hitch (2005)
- Gossip Girl and Royal Pains
It is often selected for its timeless elegance and meticulously preserved settings.
Seasonal Events and Activities
The gardens are home to a variety of public events and family-friendly activities, including:
- Dog Days – seasonal weekends where leashed pets are welcome.
- Storybook Strolls – guided children’s readings in the gardens.
- Outdoor concerts and twilight tours in summer.
- Yoga in the Gardens, gardening workshops, and artist exhibitions.
- Annual festivals and traveling exhibitions, like Nature Connects® by artist Sean Kenney (returning in 2026).
Hours, Admission & Planning Your Visit
Season: Mid-April to late October
General Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (gardens), with select twilight evenings until 8:00 PM in summer
Closed: Tuesdays, January through mid-April
Tickets:
Admission includes access to both the gardens and Westbury House. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and children. Memberships offer year-round access and exclusive after-hours entry.
Visitor Tips:
- The Westbury House interior tours begin after 1:30 PM each day.
- Last ticket entry is around 5:00 PM.
- The Café in the Woods offers refreshments during operating hours.
- Photography is permitted for personal use; commercial shoots require permits.
Location & Directions
Address:
Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Road
Old Westbury, NY 11568
Getting There:
- Just off the Long Island Expressway (I-495) at Exit 39.
- About 30 miles from Midtown Manhattan.
- Free on-site parking is available.
Landmark Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Built | 1903–1906 |
| Style | Charles II / Carolean Revival |
| Size | ~200 acres |
| Gardens | Formal, themed, and seasonal gardens |
| Tours | Self-guided and seasonal house access |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and Fall bloom seasons |
| Event Types | Concerts, family events, garden tours, pet days |
| Fun Fact | Featured in films like Cruel Intentions and Love Story |
| Website | www.oldwestburygardens.org |
