If last weekend’s Holiday House Tours left you wanting more, don’t miss seeing Kip’s Castle Park in Verona. The first floor is open for free, self-guided tours every Wednesday to Sunday, from noon to 4pm, through December 30th.
Unlike some house tours, there’s no need to worry about crowds. We went last Sunday afternoon and had the place to ourselves. And wow, is it ever gorgeous. The Essex County park ranger on hand told us this is the absolute best time of the year to see the interior of the Norman-style castle, constructed in 1902 by Frederick Ellsworth Kip, a wealthy textile industrialist. Not only is it decked out in holiday finery, circa 1928, but it’s also furnished, which gives it a surprisingly cozy feel.
The Tiffany glass windows and intricate architectural details alone are worth the visit. But there’s also an enchanting little room children will love that features an old-fashioned mini town on a tabletop, and an enclosed porch decorated as an ice-skating rink for dolls. After you’ve toured the home, walk the grounds of the 11-acre estate and take in a breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline. It’s the sort of dreamy place that could even put Scrooge in the holiday mood!
Visited after Thanksgiving with my children. Just have to share: the staff was lovely and gave us a little tour and history of the place. Really nice visit.