Morris Jumel Mansion

Morris-Jumel Mansion: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Highlights in New York City

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Set in the heart of Washington Heights, the Morris-Jumel Mansion is New York City’s oldest surviving residence and a vibrant museum that encapsulates centuries of American history. Built in 1765, this Palladian-style mansion is not just an architectural gem—it also played a critical role during the American Revolution, served as a social hub in the 19th century, and continues today as a center for cultural and community programming. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or a curious traveler, the Morris-Jumel Mansion offers a compelling journey into New York’s past. This guide details everything you need to know about visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, key historical highlights, and ways to enhance your experience at this landmark site (Morris-Jumel Mansion Official Site).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Architectural Features
Visitor Experience: Tours, Photography, and Nearby Attractions
Community and Cultural Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Recommendations
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Ownership (1765–1775)

The Morris-Jumel Mansion was constructed in 1765 by British Colonel Roger Morris as a country estate for himself and his wife, Mary Philipse Morris. The property originally spanned over fifty city blocks and featured design innovations, including a unique octagonal drawing room—the first of its kind in America. The mansion’s Palladian architecture and grand interiors reflected the status and aspirations of colonial elites. The Morrises lived here until 1775, when their Loyalist sympathies forced them to flee at the outbreak of the American Revolution.

Revolutionary War Headquarters (1776–1783)

The mansion’s elevated location made it a strategic site during the Revolutionary War. General George Washington used it as his temporary headquarters during the Battle of Harlem Heights in September 1776. The house later served as quarters for British and Hessian officers, making it a rare example of a residence with both American and British military history. After the war, the property was confiscated and passed through several hands (nps.gov).

In 1810, wealthy French merchant Stephen Jumel and his American wife, Eliza Bowen Jumel, purchased and renovated the mansion. The interiors were adorned with French Empire furniture, some reportedly from Napoleon’s court. The mansion became a prominent social venue, welcoming distinguished guests like Lafayette and Joseph Bonaparte. After Stephen’s death, Eliza married Aaron Burr, former Vice President of the United States. Their marriage ended in scandal and divorce, further cementing the mansion’s place in New York lore. Eliza remained until her death in 1865, accompanied by family and staff, including Anne Northup, wife of Solomon Northup, author of “Twelve Years a Slave” (seymore.ccohs.ca).

Transition to Museum (1865–Present)

Following Eliza’s death, the mansion changed ownership until it was acquired by New York City in 1903 and opened as a museum in 1907. Restoration efforts have preserved its unique blend of Georgian, Federal, and Empire styles. Today, nine period rooms, original architectural details, and a thoughtfully landscaped garden invite visitors to step back in time (Wikipedia: Morris–Jumel Mansion).

Visiting Information

Hours and Ticketing

Regular Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays and major holidays
Admission: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, free for children under 12 and NYC residents
Tickets: Purchase at the entrance or online to avoid wait times (Morris-Jumel Mansion Official Site)
Special Admission: Free or discounted days may be available; check the website for current offers

Visiting hours and ticket policies may vary seasonally or for special events. Always confirm before your visit.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: The first floor is accessible via a ramp at the rear entrance
Additional Services: Assistive listening devices and tours tailored for visitors with mobility, sensory, or cognitive needs
Planned Improvements: Barrier-free access to the first floor is expected by 2025 (Morris-Jumel Mansion Accessibility)
Contact: Reach out to the museum for specific accommodations in advance

Directions and Travel Tips

Address: 65 Jumel Terrace, New York, NY 10033
Subway: A train to 190th Street or 175th Street; C train to 163rd Street–Amsterdam Avenue; 1 train to 181st Street
Bus: M4, M100, and M101
Parking: Limited street parking; public transportation is recommended
Nearby: Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters, Hamilton Grange National Memorial

Architectural Features

The mansion is a prime example of Palladian and Georgian architecture. Key features include:

Symmetrical two-story façade with a grand portico supported by Ionic columns
Octagonal rear drawing room—an American architectural innovation
Federal and French Empire interior furnishings from the Jumel era
Wide central hall, grand staircase, and decorative plasterwork
Landscaped gardens with formal pathways, mature trees, and views of the Harlem River (6tocelebrate.org)

Restoration efforts ensure the mansion’s historic integrity, using period-appropriate materials and methods.

Visitor Experience: Tours, Photography, and Nearby Attractions

Guided Tours: Available hourly and included with admission. Led by expert docents, these tours delve into the mansion’s history, architecture, and notable residents.
Self-Guided Visits: Informative brochures and virtual resources are provided for independent exploration.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; professional shoots require advance approval.
Special Events: Revolutionary War reenactments, seasonal celebrations, lectures, art exhibitions, and family programs are held throughout the year (Morris-Jumel Mansion Programs & Events).
Nearby Attractions: Fort Tryon Park, the Cloisters Museum, and the Morris Heights Historic District offer additional historical and cultural experiences.

Community and Cultural Significance

The Morris-Jumel Mansion is more than a museum—it’s a community anchor and cultural hub:

Education: Offers K-12 and teacher programs, connecting students with American history and architecture (Morris-Jumel Mansion Visit).
Arts and Culture: Hosts exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and public events; fosters multicultural engagement and celebrates the contributions of diverse community groups (Eventbrite: Morris-Jumel Mansion).
Community Outreach: Supported by city and state arts organizations, the mansion offers free or low-cost programs and serves as a neighborhood gathering space (Morris-Jumel Mansion News).
Volunteerism: Local volunteers contribute to tours, events, and preservation initiatives (From Inwood Out: Morris-Jumel Mansion).
Digital Engagement: Virtual tours and online exhibitions expand access beyond the physical site (Morris-Jumel Mansion Programs & Events).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Morris-Jumel Mansion visiting hours?
A: Typically Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM; closed Mondays and major holidays. Confirm on the official website.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, free for children under 12 and NYC residents.

Q: Is the mansion accessible for wheelchairs?
A: The first floor is accessible. Contact the museum for specific accommodations.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, hourly guided tours are included with admission.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography for personal use is allowed; inquire for professional use.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Street parking is limited; public transportation is recommended.

Q: Are there special events or educational programs?
A: Yes. The mansion hosts regular public events, lectures, and school programs. Check the programs & events page for details.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

The Morris-Jumel Mansion offers one of New York City’s richest historical experiences, blending architectural splendor, Revolutionary War heritage, and vibrant community programming. As a National Historic Landmark and centerpiece of Washington Heights, the mansion tells the layered story of New York—from colonial times through the Harlem Renaissance to today.
Visitors can enjoy well-curated guided or self-guided tours, special events, and beautiful gardens, with accessibility and educational outreach as priorities. Nearby attractions like Fort Tryon Park and the Cloisters Museum make the mansion an ideal starting point for a day of historical exploration. For the latest updates, ticketing options, and resources, consult the official website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for audio tours and insider tips.