Late summer, early fall is hands-down the most wonderful time of year in Blithewold’s gardens! Plan your visit to stroll the grounds, enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of Blithewold. And, don’t forget to find all the Big Beautiful Bamboo Birds! 

Blithewold Manor • Gardens • Arboretum - An American Garden Treasure

Blithewold is a 33-acre summer estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay and is nationally significant in American history as one of the most fully developed and authentic examples of the Country Place Era. The property features a 45-room mansion filled with family heirlooms, and is framed by a series of lovely gardens that range in character from mysterious to exotic and from poetic to practical. An exceptional collection of rare and unusual plants, specimen trees, an accessible greenhouse, and whimsical stonework project a character that is romantic, fresh, and inspiring – and unique to Blithewold.

Our Mission is to preserve New England’s finest garden estate through excellence in horticulture and historic preservation, and by our example to teach and inspire others. Come and experience Blithewold today.

…Come and be inspired.

Programs & Events

Early Bird Sensory Walks

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 to Tuesday, September 30, 2025 | 6:30 AM - 8 AM

A Brush with Trees at Blithewold: Artists’ Reception

Sunday, September 7, 2025 | 1 - 3 PM

Chair Caning with Steve Emma

Tuesday, October 7, 2025 to Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 9 AM - 12 PM

A place for family and friends to gather and celebrate.

The Van Wickle family hosted many parties and celebrations at Blithewold. One of the most notable celebrations was Marjorie Van Wickle and George Lyon’s wedding, which took place on June 1, 1914, in an elegant outdoor ceremony in Blithewold’s Enclosed Garden.

Come and visit Blithewold today!

101 Ferry Road (Rt. 114)
Bristol, Rhode Island, 02809