Established during the Civil War, and occupied even during the Great Depression, the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion has seen much of America’s history. Built by renowned railroad tycoon LeGrand Lockwood, the mansion was constructed over the course of four years, making it America’s first chateau. Its 62 rooms and stenciled walls, inlaid woodwork and other fine details from the Gilded Age have made it a National Historic Landmark. Of course, it’s not just the sheer opulence of the mansion that makes it impressive; it was considered a technological wonder of its time, for its indoor hot and cold plumbing, central heating system and ventilation were so advanced that even the White House of the time did not have such features.

The mansion was eventually converted to a museum, which hosts an annual antique show, among many other activities such as Scavenger Hunts and even hosts Halloween Tours! Drop by for some Victorian Tea, or delight in the music box collection of the Music Box Society International on the second floor. The marvelous architecture itself is something to look out for, including the dramatic sky lit rotunda. Both versions of “Stepford Wives” used the mansion as filming location, which comes as no surprise given the grandeur of the mansion. What are you waiting for? Put on your hats and tighten your boots, it’s time to visit the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum.