What hours is Glensheen open?
Estate Hours
Please visit our Hours of Operation for up-to-date information.
Where can I find your full calendar of events?
Our full schedule—including concerts, community and family programs, seasonal celebrations, and member-exclusive events—is available under Community Offerings. New events are added frequently, so check back often or subscribe to our newsletter.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
You do not need to reserve tickets ahead of time for the Classic Tour but we highly recommend purchasing your Full Mansion Tickets or any of our guided tours in advance. Tour tickets can be purchased online here.
If you prefer, you may purchase Classic Tour tickets in advance. Specific dates and times are not assigned when purchasing a Classic Tour. Simply arrive any day and time during our entry hours. Classic Tour tickets are valid to be redeemed up to one year from the purchase date.
During our peak seasons, (July – October, December, & holiday weekends) tours sell out fast. Be sure to purchase ahead of time to reserve your self-guided tour slot!
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. Digital tickets on your mobile device are preferred and can be scanned at the Ticket House upon arrival.
If I have a schedule timed ticket, when should I arrive?
Please arrive 10-15 minutes early for schedule timed tours to make sure you don't miss the start of your tour. Classic Mansion tours are not timed entry and you may arrive and take your tour anytime within our Hours of Operation.
Can I arrive late to my timed-entry ticket?
We do our best to accommodate late arrivals, but entries may be delayed or denied during peak periods. If you anticipate being late, we recommend calling ahead of time at (218) 726-8910.
Do you offer group tour discounts?
Yes, group tours and rates are available for groups of 10 or more guests with at least two weeks' advance reservation.
Can I exchange or refund my ticket?
- Refunds: Tickets, memberships, and other purchases are non-refundable. Glensheen will only issue refunds in the event of a closure or cancellation. Guests who have purchased a ticket or made a reservation will be contacted.
- Purchases from the Museum Shop at Glensheen may be refunded within 30 days of purchase, accompanied with proof of purchase. To return an item, it must be new, unused, and in its original packaging. All items sold as part of a special sale or promotion are non-refundable. Refunds will be issued to the original form of payment or as store credit.
- Exchanges: Ticket exchanges may be made up to 14 days before the date listed on your event ticket(s).
- To make a ticket exchange, please call (218) 726-8910 or email [email protected].
What happens if it rains or snows during my visit?
Most Glensheen experiences run rain or shine. We recommend dressing for the weather, especially for outdoor events. If we must cancel or close due to severe weather, ticketholders will be notified via email and offered a refund or rescheduling option.
How frequently do tours start?
Classic Mansion Tours do not have specific entry times and are offered during regular hours. Full Mansion Tours are available at the top of each hour and the half hour with the final time slot being 30 minutes before closing. The self-guided option is preferred by many guests because it gives folks plenty of flexibility – you can spend as much or as little time on your tour as you’d like!
Not sure which tour is right for you? Check out the guide to help you choose:
| Ticket Type | What's Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Grounds Admission | Stroll the gardens and lakefront, picnic, and explore nature trails. Includes access to the outbuildings. | Relaxing outdoor visits or a casual day out. |
| Classic Tour | Grounds access plus a self-guided visit of the first & second floors and lower level of the mansion. | A shorter and self-guided experience, suited for history lovers, family tours or those looking to explore at their own pace. |
| Full Mansion Tour | Grounds access plus a self-guided visit of all five floors of the mansion. | Those looking to get the full Glensheen experience at your own pace. |
| Guided Tour | A themed or seasonal guided experience led by our expert staff. Includes Grounds access. | Deep dives into preservation, design, or seasonal highlights. |
| Group Tour | Guided & Self-guided experiences of the mansion. Includes Grounds access. | Large groups of 10+ who wish to tour together. |
| Christmas Tours | A traditional holiday self-guided tour of the mansion. Includes Grounds access. | Cozy Christmas lights, displays, and holiday spirit. |
| Special Events & Programs | Admission to unique ticketed & community events (concerts, history happy hours, youth events). Includes Grounds access. | Seasonal fun, date nights, family-friendly adventures. |
Is information given about the murder during the tour?
Tours at the historic Glensheen estate strive to focus on life in the early 20th century, the era during which the estate was constructed. The unfortunate 1977 event is but a tiny slice of the rich history of the Congdon family and their beloved Duluth home. Visit our Remember & Honor page to learn more.
How do I purchase tour tickets for Limited Mobility, Museums for All, or Active Duty Military?
These options are heavily discounted rates for those who may need accommodations, financial assistance, or are currently serving in the military. Tickets at these rates can be purchased in-person at the Ticket House upon arrival. These are not available for online advanced purchasing, however, if you are looking to reserve a specific timeslot for Full Mansion or Specialty Tours for Museums for All or Active Duty Military, please call us at (218) 726-8910 to reserve.
Where can I read your complete expectations & policies?
You can find Glensheen’s complete guest guidelines — including policies on photography, accessibility, food and drink, conduct, and more — on our Rules & Policies page.
We encourage all guests to review these in advance to help ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Is the property wheelchair accessible?
Many areas of the Glensheen Estate are wheelchair accessible. However, due to the estate’s historic nature and varied terrain, some outdoor paths include gravel, grass, or flagstone surfaces, as well as some floors that are only accessible by stairs in the mansion. If you have specific accessibility needs, feel free to contact us in advance so we can help ensure a comfortable visit.
Do you offer discounted tours for individuals with limited mobility?
Yes, we do offer a Limited Mobility Classic self-guided tour option for those who are unable to visit floors of the mansion only accessible by stairs. Wheelchair accessible floors include the lower level and and first floor. Limited Mobility Tours are $5 and provide you with a slideshow presentation of the second floor rooms. Limited Mobility Tours are self-guided and can be taken anytime during our Hours of Operation. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the Ticket House upon arrival. If there are any other accommodations that are needed during your visit, our staff is always happy to assist.
Do you have wheelchairs and mobility assistance onsite?
Two wheelchairs are available on a first-come first-serve basis. Please inquire at the Ticket House upon arrival. Glensheen will make every effort to meet accommodation requests made in advance. To inquire about accommodations, contact us at (218) 726-8910 or at [email protected].
Is there onsite parking?
Glensheen does have an onsite parking lot, which provides free parking for tour or event visitors. Six accessible parking spaces are available near the Ticket House in the southeast corner of the lot, each with an adjacent accessible aisle. During our peak tour season, or during popular events, the lot can fill up quickly. When this happens, visitors are encouraged to find a legal space to park within the nearby city streets.
Where can I learn more about accessibility services?
Glensheen is committed to creating a welcoming experience for all guests. To learn more about accessibility services, including mobility assistance, sensory accommodations, and accessible routes, please visit our Visitor Accessibility page.
Are pets allowed?
Glensheen does not allow pets or emotional support animals on the property. We do welcome service dogs! For additional accessibility information, please refer to our accessibility page here.
Is there food available for purchase?
Glensheen’s Museum Shop offers an assortment of beverages, snacks, and ice cream available for purchase. We encourage visitors to bring and enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds before or after their tour.
Can we bring our own food?
Glensheen encourages visitors to bring a picnic lunch or have food delivered to enjoy outside on the grounds before or after tours during our regular Hours of Operation; however, bringing in outside food or drink (other than water) during hosted events—including Beer Garden and Concerts on the Pier—is prohibited. Please see our full food & drink rules for Beer Garden here or Concerts on the Pier here.
To keep the estate safe for all of our employees and visitors, alcohol and glass are prohibited. Food is restricted to outdoor areas, and only water is permitted inside the mansion.
Is Glensheen a good place for young kids?
Absolutely! Many of our events and programs are designed with families in mind. Look for experiences like our seasonal i-spy hunts, visits with Santa, seasonal Children's Days, Community Days, and more.
Are strollers allowed inside the mansion?
Strollers are not permitted inside the mansion due to space and preservation needs, but strollers are allowed while navigating the property outdoors and in the Carriage House.
Do children need tickets?
Children age 4 & under are always free admission. When purchasing tickets, please note any children under 4 that will be in attendance during the purchasing process for capacity reasons.
Are there changing tables available?
Yes, changing tables are located in our mansion restrooms.
How do I become a member?
Glensheen memberships offer year-round admission, exclusive experiences, and discounts.
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Free Classic Tours plus over 60% off Full Mansion Tour tickets
Unlimited Estate Access
Discounted Specialty Tours
10% Museum Shop Discount
Event Advantages, like early access, special discounts, and invites to member-exclusive events
Reciprocal Admissions to nearly 400 gardens nationwide
Complimentary Treasure Books, Glensheen’s exclusive activity and i-spy book
How does the audio work on the app?
- Download the Glensheen App before your visit or when you get here.
- Bring your own headphones. Or like many of our guests, simply play the audio out loud from a mobile device.
- Use the app by selecting your tour or explore via the map and points of interest.
Need help? Ask a friendly Glensheen staff member for some assistance.
Do you offer group tours for adults or senior groups?
Yes! In addition to school tours, we welcome adult and senior groups for self-guided and guided experiences tailored to your group’s interests. Group rates are available for 10 or more guests with advance reservation.
Do you offer school group tours?
Yes! We do offer school group field trip experiences at Glensheen for groups of 10 or more students grades K-12.
How big is the mansion and how much is it worth?
The mansion at Glensheen is approximately 32,000 square feet, five floors, and 39 rooms, with an estimated value worth $30 million today. It boasts of wealth and artistry, while also feeling intimate as a family home.
When was Glensheen built?
Glensheen was constructed between 1905 and 1908. The Congdons moved in shortly after and used it as their primary residence until Elisabeth's passing in 1977. In 1969, the estate was donated to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and opened as a historic house museum in 1979.
How many floors does the mansion have?
There are a total of 5 floors in the mansion, including the lower level, first floor, second floor, third floor, and attic. All floors can be viewed by booking a self-guided Full Mansion Tour.
Who was the architect for Glensheen?
Clarence H. Johnston, Sr., a prominent Minnesota architect designed the 39-room Jacobean Revival-style home. Other key contributors included the interior designer William A. French and landscape architect Charles Wellford Leavitt, Jr.
Can I walk through the mansion on my own?
Most of our year-round tours are self-paced, while others are guided. Please refer to your ticket type or check the tour listing on the website for details.
Book your self-guided Classic or Full Mansion Tour to enjoy the grounds, gardens, and the main residence.
Book a specialty or guided tour to experience Glensheen with an expert guide.
Are the gardens open year-round?
During the winter months, the formal garden and vegetable gardens are closed for safety reasons, however the rest of the pathed grounds are free to roam throughout the year.
Can I bring a stroller or bag into the mansion?
Strollers are allowed throughout the grounds, however they are not permitted inside the house due to narrow walkways and preservation efforts. Large bags should be left in your vehicle when possible.
Can I bring food or drink into the mansion or other historic buildings?
For the preservation of Glensheen's historic interiors, collections, and furnishings, food and beverages are not permitted inside the mansion or any other historic buildings. This policy helps protect delicate materials from spills, stains, and pests, ensuring these spaces can be enjoyed for generations to come.
What is Historic Preservation?
Historic preservation is the practice of protecting, maintaining, and repairing historic structures to ensure they remain safe, stable, and true to their original character. At Glensheen, this includes visible features like masonry, roofing, and architectural finishes — as well as the behind-the-scenes systems that guests rarely see, such as plumbing, drainage, heating, and electrical infrastructure.
It’s not just about keeping things beautiful — it’s about maintaining key structures so this historic site can be enjoyed for generations to come.
How do you decide what to restore or repair?
Preservation work is guided by historic documentation, expert consultation, and national preservation standards. The goal is to maintain authenticity while ensuring long-term stewardship of the estate. Projects are carefully prioritized based on need, significance, and available resources.
Has the house changed since the Congdons lived here?
While some updates have been made to support guest access and preservation efforts, the house remains largely intact and contains all original interiors as the family once had. After project completion in 1908, Glensheen was featured in national archtectural magazines and pamphlets, which provided detailed photographs that helped the museum later stage the rooms as they were originally set up. Wherever possible, original materials and layouts have been preserved or restored.
Can I take pictures and videos? What about using a drone on the property?
For more about photography & videography at Glensheen, please see our full policy page for details.
I'm with the media — how can I request or take photos at Glensheen?
Members of the press are welcome to request photos or schedule photography on-site for editorial coverage. All media inquiries should be directed to Glensheen's Marketing & Communications Specialist, Kendall Lotto, for approval and coordination.
Please reach out via our Media Resources.
Do you host luncheons or dinners?
Yes! For information about hosting your event at Glensheen, please visit our Venue Rentals page.
Questions? Please contact our event staff at [email protected] for more information about hosting an event.
Can I rent Glensheen for a meeting or private event?
Yes. Glensheen offers a selection of rental spaces for corporate meetings, nonprofit gatherings, and private events such as showers, anniversary parties, micro-weddings and memorials.
Learn more about Venue Rentals
Can I host a birthday party, shower, or celebration at Glensheen?
Yes! Glensheen offers several indoor and outdoor spaces for private celebrations such as birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, and memorials. To learn more about available venues and rental policies, visit our Private Events page.
Do you offer venue rentals for weddings?
Glensheen currently hosts micro-weddings of 60 guests or less! Glensheen specializes in intimate and formal Ceremonies and Dinners catered to your vision. We offer numerous venue spaces both indoors and outdoors on the 12 acre Glensheen estate! For a larger Glensheen guest experiences, we offer rental spaces for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and more. To inquire about weddings and related events, visit our private events page, or contact us at [email protected]
Do I need a ticket to visit the Museum Shop at Glensheen?
No. You’re welcome to visit the Museum Shop without a ticket during our regular operating hours. It’s located in the Carriage House at the beginning of the regular tour route. Ask our staff at the ticket house for shop-only access upon arrival.
What kind of items do you sell?
Our Museum Shop at Glensheen features a carefully curated collection of gifts, books, home décor, children’s items, accessories, and exclusive Glensheen-branded merchandise.
We proudly celebrate local artisans by offering many items that are handcrafted by Minnesotan and neighboring state makers — from small-batch candles and ceramics to letterpress prints and jewelry. Whether you’re picking up a keepsake from your visit or searching for a thoughtful gift, you’ll find something special, meaningful, and beautifully made.
Packaged snacks and canned beverages are also available for purchase, as well as locally made Love Creamery ice cream during the warmer months.
Do you accept credit cards or contactless pay?
Yes. We accept all major credit cards as well as contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Can I purchase items from the shop online?
Currently, we only offer merchandise for purchase in-person, but we do accept orders over the phone and can ship to you if needed.
Are discounts available for the Museum Shop?
Yes! Throughout the year, Glensheen often has select seasonal sales. Check our Museum Shop page for updates on current sales and savings. When you become a member, you gain access to a 10% discount on most items in the Museum Shop. Just present your membership card at checkout to receive your savings. It’s one of the many perks of supporting Glensheen — and a great reason to join if you haven’t already.
I'm a local artisan. Can I sell items in the Museum Shop?
Yes! We are always excited to partner with new local artisans to support our local businesses and update our product offerings. If you are interested in working with us, reach out to our Guest Services Coordinator, Amy Haack, at [email protected] or by phone at (218) 726-8919.