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 Trained interpreters welcome group tours and tell the story of the Van Wickle/McKee family, the creators of this beautiful seaside garden estate. Visitors experience breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and see the mansion decorated with original furnishings just as it was when the family lived here. The narrated tour continues through the grounds where magnificent trees and a variety of exquisite gardens demonstrate Blithewold’s prominence in horticulture. GROUP TOUR HOURS & RATES Reservations may be made for group visits daily from mid-April thru mid-October from 9 am to 3 pm. Holiday tours may be booked in November and December. Reservations are subject to availability. Two hours will allow ample time for the tour and a visit to the Gift Shop. Advance reservations and a minimum of 15 people are required to qualify for the group rate of $7 per person. Groups of less than 15 may pay a minimum of $105 for the guided tour. Complimentary admission is extended to one group leader or tour director and the motor coach driver. Discounts and memberships do not apply for group tours. PAYMENT A non-refundable deposit of $35 is due 30 days prior to the tour date. The balance may be paid in advance or upon the group’s arrival. Cash, check, Visa or MasterCard are accepted. Please be prepared to make one payment on behalf of the group. PARKING There is onsite parking for cars and motor coaches.  GIFT SHOP The Gift Shop is located next to the parking lot at the Visitor Center. It offers a variety of souvenirs, unique gifts, books and garden related items. POPULAR OPTIONS Complement your tour with gourmet box lunches, a buffet lunch or tea on the porch overlooking the gardens and scenic bay. Lunch can also be served in the Mansion on a limited basis. Menus and prices are available upon request. Workshops and lectures are available for 15 to 40 people during limited times. ACCESSIBILITY The first floor of the mansion is accessible to the physically disabled. Gravel pathways lead to the mansion and through the gardens. Benches are located at various places on the grounds. For additional information on accessibility call 401-253-2707 x 24.  TIPS FOR AN ENJOYABLE VISIT Comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate attire is highly recommended to fully enjoy the gardens and grounds. Also note that the house is not air-conditioned but on warm days the breeze off the bay keeps the mansion quite comfortable. The guided house and garden tour averages about 1 hour and 30 minutes and can be adjusted to accommodate your schedule. You may want to allow additional time to enjoy the gardens and grounds after the guided tour. For additional information or to make a reservation, please contact: Kathy Humm Tour Coordinator (401) 253-2707 ext. 24 Fax: (401) 253-0412 email: |
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