Evergreen Museum & Library

Frommer's Review

What started as a relatively modest Italianate mansion in the mid-1800s became a 48-room marvel of the Gilded Age, with a 23-karat gold-plated bathroom, a theater painted by noted Ballet Russe designer Leon Bakst, and room after room of art, books, and objets. Bought in 1878 by the president of the B&O railroad, John W. Garrett, the home grew over the years and became ever more lavish and more famous. Its last owners, John and Alice Garrett, turned it into a glittering salon, where they entertained statesmen, authors, artists, and musicians.

From the moment visitors arrive at the entrance, a porte-cochere topped by a Tiffany glass awning, they are treated to a multitude of beautiful rooms, fine arts, and decorative items that reflect the Garretts' travels and interests: a red Asian room displaying Japanese and Chinese items; paintings by Picasso, Modigliani, and Degas; glass by Tiffany; a 30,000-book library; and Dutch marquetry furniture. Tours, offered on the hour, last about an hour. The beautiful formal gardens should be visited as well.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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