Enjoy a day of sun, picnicing, flying kites, or just walking through the fabulous gardens of Harkness Memorial State Park in Southeastern Connecticut. Relax and take in the panoramic views of Long Island Sound. Harkness Memorial State Park is the magnificent summer estate of the late Edward S. Harkness family. Explore the magnificent summer mansion set on over 230 seaside acres of sweeping lawns, with stately trees and spectacular gardens.
Over three acres of formal gardens were designed in the early twentieth century by famed landscape architect Beatrix Jones Farrand and have recently been restored to the point of being deemed "The Best Formal Public Garden in New England" by the editors of Yankee Magazine.
Over three acres of formal gardens were designed in the early twentieth century by famed landscape architect Beatrix Jones Farrand and have recently been restored to the point of being deemed "The Best Formal Public Garden in New England" by the editors of Yankee Magazine.
Whether you go during the peak season or off-season, Harkness Park has a great deal to offer. There are horse and carriage rides and an antique car display. Visitors can enjoy tours of the mansion in-season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) on Saturdays and Sundays between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The gift shop is also open in-season on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The park truly offers something for everyone with excellent saltwater fishing, picnicking opportunities amid the breathtaking scenery, and a variety of events and activities such as art shows, car shows and kite festivals.
The 200+ acres were a working farm and the mansion served as the Harkness’ summer home. The Roman Renaissance Classical Revival-style mansion has 42 rooms and includes a pergola (tearoom) and carriage house (support complex). Lush gardens flank the mansion on both the east and west lawns, and an Alpine Rock Garden adds to the beauty and splendor of the seaside panorama.Harkness Park is also a favorite spot of the ConnectiKITERS Kite Club. Subtle rolling hills and shoreline winds make it an ideal spot to launch a kite. Your children will be able to see kites of all shapes and sizes and can even join the fun by bringing along a kite of their own.
Mansion Hours:
The mansion is open for tours weekends and holidays from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day. The first tour of the day starts at 10:00 a.m. and the last at 2:15 p.m.
Rental Information:
The Harkness Mansion is available for weddings, private parties, seminars, conferences, luncheons and teas from March 1 to December 23.
The Harkness Mansion is available for weddings, private parties, seminars, conferences, luncheons and teas from March 1 to December 23.
There are separate weekend/holiday and weekday parking fees (in effect daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day from 8:00 a.m to 6:30 p.m.) at Harkness Memorial State Park.
Located at 275 Great Neck Road in Waterford, Connecticut, the park is open from 8:00 a.m. to Sunset. Call (860) 443-5725 for more information or visit the Harkness State Park website.
