Architected by a Post cereal heiress, a date at Hillwood Estate’s unmatched Russian art, lush gardens, and captivating history is a perfect romantic escape.
The Background
The 25-acre Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens holds a stunning and extravagant art collection carefully curated by Marjorie Merriweather Post. The daughter of Post cereal empire founder Charles Post, Marjorie made her own legacy as one of America’s most successful businesswomen.
She was renowned for her style and place in high society, befriending actors, presidents, and dignitaries alike. Her estate reflects her extraordinary life. For example, the grounds boast the world’s most comprehensive collection of Russian Imperial art outside of Moscow, which includes several rare Fabergé eggs. Her French collection is similarly awe-inspiring.
Hillwood’s nearly 20,000 artifacts drip with gold and opulence from all over the world. Step outside to see yet more elegance in her 13 acres of formal gardens. Consider dining in the European-inspired cafe or strolling the Japanese-style lawn. Out of all the museums in DC, you simply cannot miss this hidden 4.8-star gem.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is worth getting caught:
- Straight Up Stunning – This place is gorgeous, ya’ll. Be awe-struck together by the dazzling rooms and gardens. The result is a memorable date that makes you stand out from the crowd.
- Peaceful Vibe: You’ll feel calm here, whether you’re strolling through Hillwood’s many gardens, sipping a beverage at their cafe, or wandering its many halls bursting with treasures. The calm setting is ripe for having a more intimate bond.
- Delights the Mind: Marjorie was an exceptionally fascinating woman. Learning about art, history, and more through the lens of her life will excite you. When you’re engaged, you’ll enjoy the date more and be a better version of yourself. Plus, you can discover or strengthen your intellectual connection.
- Lots to Discuss: Not sure what to say? The estate’s extensive collection provides endless talking points. What does your date think about this painting or that statue? Which garden is their favorite? The easier it is to chat, the closer you two can get.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Garden Strolls
As we drive through Hillwood’s iron gates, my date and I become surrounded by meticulously maintained flowers. After parking, we swing open the glass French doors of the Visitor’s Center and step inside. Buying tickets is quick and easy. Then, we’re ushered into a theater to watch a brief history of Marjorie and her estate. What a lady, let me tell you.
On our way to the main house, we meander through her spectacular gardens. First, I stumble upon the large Lunar Lawn housing an over 200-year-old lion statue and lounge chairs for casual conversation. Then, we pass through a small hedge opening into the perfectly manicured European courtyard. In another turn, we’re at the tranquil Japanese Garden, listening to the gentle sounds of the flowing water features. There is even a golf putting green!
Once the film ends, I ascend the stairs by the entrance. I’m still reeling from her impressive achievements when I reach the top. From there, all I see are luscious greens, striking yellows, and deep purples. Indeed, the grounds are bursting with plant life. Using our map, we discover charming exhibits at the end of intimately narrow paths. My favorite is her nautical-themed collection, which includes a pair of seashell-encrusted heels.
Date Main Event - The Treasure Trove
The outdoor sites were delightful appetizers, but the house is the main course. When I enter the mansion, I’m hit by its extravagance. Vibrant colors and chandeliers are everywhere. Marjorie has unquestionable style and an even more intriguing backstory.
In the 1930s, Marjorie’s husband became the U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union. As a result, she lived there for 18 months during the large-scale “Stalin sales”. The USSR was selling off priceless treasures or melting their precious metals to keep its economy afloat. In response, Marjorie bought many historically significant pieces. Ultimately, she preserved them for the masses to enjoy.
With this in mind, I spot the Fabergé eggs. In 1885, Russian Emperor Alexander III commissioned the first as an Easter gift for his wife. The 50-egg series ended in 1916 with the Romanov family’s death. These eggs are as intricate as they are rare. I’m in awe to examine one up close. Notably, Hillwood has two of the 13 Fabergé eggs in the U.S. The history nerd in me is thrilled.
Room after room displays more grand pieces. We marvel at her extensive assortment of jade trinkets and diamond-studded crowns. Next, we admire her emerald sunroom and photos with countless world leaders. Along the way, I ask him which chalice or dining set he likes the most. His answers give me a sense of his personal aesthetic and spur lively conversation.
Date Wrap Up - Surprise Picnic
Upon leaving the house, we decide to grab a coffee at the estate’s Merriweather Cafe. While sipping our drinks, we learn the restaurant offers free picnic blankets. Right away, we request one and take it to the Lunar Lawn. There, we lay out in the warm sun and talk late into the afternoon.
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ First date ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs year-round |
| Typical Hours | Closed Mondays, most national holidays, and several weeks at the end of January. Open Tues-Sun: 10am - 5pm. |
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Cost | If you buy there, suggested donations are $18 for adults, $10 for college students, and $15 for seniors. Adults and seniors save $3 for weekday visits and $1 for weekend visits if reserving online. Free admission for active military and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Just mention their Blue Star Museum program - no advanced reservation needed. |
| Booking | Advanced reservations are not necessary, but are recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). Book online here. There are several tour options. For a self-guided tour, consider downloading the Hillwood's mobile app for their mobile audio tour. Guided mansion and garden tours are on a first come-first serve basis. Ask about them when checking in on the day of your visit. |
| Website | |
| Address | 4155 Linnean Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008 |
| Transportation | Limited parking is available. If the lot is full, you'll be directed to nearby offsite parking. If you're driving, please follow these directions since some GPS systems will direct you to the wrong place. As parking isn't guaranteed, we recommend ride share, metro, bus, or biking on busy days (in spring and fall). There are bike racks at the visitor center. The closest metro is the Van Ness/UDC station. Take the L1 or L2 buss to Connecticut Ave and Tilden St. Detailed bus directions can be found here. |
| Attire | Wear comfortable shoes |
| To Bring | Military or student IDs for entrance tickets if applicable. Consider bringing bug spray for the gardens, especially in the summer. |
| Contact Info | (202) 686-5807 |
| Special Features | Hillwood hosts a range of intriguing events including evening outdoor movies and afternoon teas. Check out their upcoming events here. |
| Special Considerations | Selfie sticks are prohibited. |
| Cancellation Policy | You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need assistive listening devices, braille information guides, or large print brochures, please ask at the information desk. |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
If you want to keep the date going, we have a cheat sheet to guide you to your next destination. You can visit these places before your date, too. Make this list your own. The map shows the estate (purple), as well as bonus options (green) in one place. Before you go, though, always check times in case something’s changed.
- Dolan Uyghur Restaurant (4 min drive, 24 min walk): It is a rare treat indeed to savor the distinctively divine cuisine of the Uyghur people. This mostly Muslim, Turkic-speaking Chinese ethnic group artfully combines Central Asian flavors into something completely new. Don’t miss this unique experience or their traditional tea. All the food is Halal. Open daily 8-11am for coffee and 11:30am – 10pm for dining. Note the kitchen closes at 9:30pm.
- Bread Furst (5 min drive, 24 min walk): Bread Furst is exactly what comes to mind when you think of a charming neighborhood bakery where old friends meet for coffee. What a pleasure. Open daily from 8am – 6pm.
- Captain Cookie & the Milk Man (5 min drive): Partnering with local creameries gives their ice cream, milkshakes, and milk a flavorful edge. Craft a custom ice cream sandwich, sip on an ice cream float, or sink your teeth into their array of soft cookies. Open Mon-Fri: 10am – 10pm, Sat-Sun: 11am – 10pm.
- Rosemary Bistro Cafe (7 min drive): This cozy French spot is as delightful as the name suggests. Freshly prepared daily, you’ll love their playful menu, flower-filled patio, and local feel. Open Mon: 4:30 – 9pm, Tues-Thurs: 11:30am – 3pm, 4:30 – 9pm, Fri: 11:30am – 3pm, 4:30 – 10pm, Sat: 10:30am – 3pm, 4:30 – 10pm, Sun: 10:30am – 3pm, 4:30 – 8:30pm