At Oldfields Lilly Mansion
At Oldfields Lilly Mansion
At Oldfields Lilly Mansion
View of Oldfields Lilly Mansion
At Oldfields Lilly Mansion
Den at Oldfields Lilly Mansion
Library
Dining Room at Oldfields Lilly Mansion
Living Room at Oldfields Lilly Mansion
View of Oldfields Lilly Mansion
Kitchen at Oldfields Lilly Mansion
Les R.
May 21, 2023
Oldfields - Lilly House & Gardens at Newfields. The gardens, 26-acre grounds, and the mansion are breathtaking! I recommend watching the history movie in the theater in the basement as it will take you through the history and then tour the house. Definitely a must see when in the area and at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.All the names are kind of confusing. Oldfields is the Lilly House and Gardens that is at Newfields which houses the estate, The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, the Beer Garden, and the Indianapolis Museum of Art all worth checking out and make for such a wonderful experience.
Read MoreRichard P.
Dec 26, 2022
The Oldfields Estate and Lilly House is one of the most popular features of what is now known as Newfields. It's also a frequent attraction for Newfields special events including, of course, Winterlights. The Lilly House was founded by the Landon family in 1907. The Lilly family purchased the estate in 1932 and over the next few decades also acquired neighboring properties. They eventually donated the 56 acres to the Art Association of Indianapolis for the specific purpose of establishing an art museum. This, of course, would become Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA). A few years ago, IMA re-branded as Newfields. The first floor is intentionally decorated in a 1930's style, though there are some contemporary updates that make this estate surprisingly accessible. The majority of the furnishings in the home, including decorative arts objects, were actually owned by the Lilly family. The upper level hosts a variety of events and offers a sublime view of the Oldfields Estate (HINT: Lilly House, Oldfields Estate). The lower level offers more experiential activities around the Oldfields Estate. A lower level visit is not complete without going to the garage where you can experience a car on loan from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum (for those unaware, Barney Oldfield was an early icon of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and auto racing in general. As I recall, he won the race in 1909). This grand house is surprisingly accessible. Quite often, I find myself disappointed in the lack of access within estates. I understand it, especially when it's a historic landmark, but as a lover of historic buildings I always kind of rejoice when some effort has been made for access. That's definitely the case here. There are accessible restrooms on the lower level and service animals are welcome. Wheelchairs are available for free (first come, first serve) for both the garden and house. Portions of the gardens include accessible pathways (though not all - staff are great about assisting with directions). You can, of course, bring your own wheelchair or mobility scooter. There is an elevator car that can get someone from the 1st to 2nd floor. It's very small (it dates to the 1930s) and staff will escort. The surfaces do change throughout the Lilly House and there are some subtle shifts in elevation. It's not extreme at all. There is a circular staircase with 16 steps (8" rise). Children are welcome at Lilly House, though it's worth noting that strollers are not. They do have designated places to park strollers. For the record, there's also a "tour" on the Newfields website that is available. I prefer visiting Lilly House and the Oldfields Estate during special events as it's always great to see the area really decked out for holidays. While I generally find both areas remarkably accessible, due to some limitations I would likely recommend that those who need some physical assistance with wheeling make sure to have a companion along. The gardens, in particular, can be a little bit tricky the first time you wheel through them. However, this is certainly a "must see" attraction in Indy in terms of both beauty and history.
Read MoreJayne H.
Jul 22, 2023
Absolutely stunning - the Lilly House and surrounding grounds are a wonderful walk. So many things in bloom, the house is truly amazing, and the greenhouse has so many orchids, I couldn't believe it. A wedding took place the day I visited and I offered to take a photo of the wedding party. It was so joyful and well worth it.
Read MoreTim C.
Jul 11, 2024
Went here last Christmas and had a great time along with some hot chocolate just was a little bummed that they didn't include any Christian decorations, but I understand why
Read MoreWanda M.
Jun 1, 2013
The Oldfields-Lilly House is one of the first places I bring friends and out of town guests. It has free parking and admission to this National Historic Landmark with so much history surrounding one of the most prominent families in Indianapolis. Whether you have a picnic on the lawn or your wedding photos taken in front of the home, you'll be mesmerized by her beauty.The Oldfields-Lilly Home offers a fantastic free film covering the history of the Oldfields and Lilly's home and life. The film includes the conception of the gardens and a must see to appreciate the master mind behind these spectacular gardens and mansion. After seeing the film the gardens and sculptures will have true meaning.You are allowed to tour the eight main floor rooms and the second floor exhibit areas. Flash is NOT allowed when taking pictures indoors. Be sure to visit Lilly House at Christmas time. The house is decorated for Christmas as if it was 1930 including beautiful live Christmas trees and harp music to transcend you back.
Read MorePatience B.
May 7, 2013
This house is outstanding! The audio tour is free, as is parking. The house itself is unique and you have the bonus of the gardens nearby - easy walking distance for a beautiful day.
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