How to find heritage homes in the US, plus a preview of mansions and time capsule homes that are available for rent
By Sofia Bellafiore
Have you ever wondered how to combine your family reunion with a worthwhile stay at a historic location? Booking a historical home for your family gathering is a definite way to ensure a memorable reunion. Historic house rentals for families are available across the United States, with many opportunities to stay in residences that have been part of family legacies since the 1700s.
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Why Choose a Historic Home for a Family Reunion?
The emotional benefits of choosing a historic home for a family reunion would be the privilege of making memories in a place that has already held so much history and life. Those who decide to book historic homes can also immerse themselves in the house’s culture and the local community’s history. This can encourage historical enrichment, engaging conversations and unique group activities.
Practical benefits of a historical stay include opportunities for one-of-a-kind family photos, built-in reunion programming that offers group experiences in a cozy environment where families can relax and bond.
Bookable Heritage Homes Around the US
Booking a historical property may seem complicated, but there are companies dedicated to preserving the legacy of specific historical locations. Booking through a rental agency is the easiest way to ensure a successful trip, and the integrity of a rental agency or coordinator is crucial to trip success.
Companies such as Airbnb and local rental companies provide thorough information about check-in times, house rules, accessibility, and other important considerations. It’s essential to ensure that the rules of a rental match your personal trip goals. They also make it easy to stay in touch if your group has any questions or concerns. Stay mindful of previous guest reviews, as they are very telling of how past renters felt about their experience.
How to Pick the Right Historic House for your Group
Here are logistical factors to consider before booking for a large group:
- Know the exact number of people in your group. Depending on size, many historical properties allow no more than 10 to 12 people during a stay. Also important to note, most are not pet-friendly to preserve the delicate nature of these homes.
- Understand all mobility needs for family members with disabilities or specialized transportation needs. Does your rental property have wheelchair access? Are there narrow stairs or multiple levels to navigate? Are bathrooms handicap accessible?
- Know the kitchen capacity. Is the space large enough to host a multigenerational family meal? What restaurants or grocery stores are nearby for catering or ingredients?
- Consider the sleeping configuration. Are the kids sharing rooms? How many beds will your group need? Does the home provide bunk beds or designated kids’ bedrooms?
- Know about event permissions. Do you need consent from the homeowner or rental agency to host a large gathering or party?
- Understand the noise/curfew rules. Many rental properties mandate time restrictions on parties not to exceed late-night hours.
If you follow these tips and trust the process, you will have a successful and memorable experience. Let’s check out historic properties around the country that welcome families for unforgettable reunions.
The Derby House in Salem, MA. Credit Salem Maritime National Historical Site Facebook
Northeast – Henry Derby House in Salem, Massachusetts
The Henry Derby House, located in Salem, Massachusetts, was once home to one of Salem’s wealthiest merchants, Elias Hasket Derby and his wife, Elizabeth. Built in 1838, the property is known for paranormal activity. For those who enjoy a spooky thrill, this is the place for you! The family, including seven children and at least two enslaved people, lived in the home during most of the Revolutionary War. Today, the 18th-century property is registered as a Salem Maritime National Historic Site.
The home can accommodate up to 12 people with seven bedrooms and four bathrooms. The Henry Derby House is also within walking distance of downtown Salem, making it a perfect home base for exploring the iconic town.
Check out the Henry Derby House here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/4882071?source_impression_id=p3_1765213406_P3L7zJW4RCaL-Mii
Group Activities in Salem and Boston
The Colonial New England Region, which encompasses states in the northeastern United States, offers numerous opportunities for historical endeavors. Visit the extraordinary Salem Witch Museum in Salem for a mesmerizing local history experience. Here, groups can learn about the Salem Witch Trials through an immersive exhibition featuring life-sized characters set in authentic backdrops. At Real Pirates Salem, groups can discover the fascinating story of the richest and one of the youngest pirates of all time – “Black Sam” Bellamy and his wife Maria Hallett, the so-called “Witch of Wellfleet.”
There are many colonial house rentals near Boston, a short drive from Salem, since this area predates an independent America. For example, the Plimoth Patuxet Museum is a living history community with a makeshift 17th-century village and a replica of the Mayflower. Another endeavor is the Museum of African American History on Beacon Hill, which showcases a history of black community life.
The White House Inn, Harpers Ferry, WV. Credit Mountain Mama Vacation Homes Facebook
Mid-Atlantic – White House Inn in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
The White House Inn is marketed as the perfect place for large parties seeking to rent a historical mansion for a family reunion just steps from downtown Harpers Ferry and the Historic Hilltop House Hotel. The mansion was built in 1837 by the federal government and was originally part of the Harpers Ferry Armory Complex. In the mid-1800s, the Armory House was bought by civilian owner, Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy and U.S. Secretary of War. Then, in the 1920s, the property was converted into a bed-and-breakfast by another owner, the White family, who operated it as the White House Inn and Dining Room.
Today, the original brick Victorian mansion can be rented for vacations or reunions, boasting an authentic atmosphere with original mantels and woodwork, doors and hardware, presidential-themed décor, numerous fireplaces, and a wide front porch decorated with rocking chairs. This historic home features five bedrooms and five bathrooms, conveniently accommodating 10 people.
Group Activities in Harpers Ferry, WV
The White House Inn is readily accessible to nature, with local activities focused on Civil War history. Relax on the front porch overlooking quaint Washington Street or enjoy a family meal on the back patio and glimpse Maryland Heights through the trees. Groups have easy access to hiking along the Appalachian Trail and to bike rides on the nearby historic C&O Towpath. Walk across the Harpers Ferry Bridge for spectacular views and visit the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park for rich history and stunning scenery. Explore African American history at the John Brown Wax Museum and learn about the famous abolitionist and his role in America’s storied past. Thrill seekers can take a guided river rafting tour on the Potomac River for an adventurous experience in nature.
Check out the White House Inn here:
https://mountainmamacabins.com/property/white-house-inn-historic-home-in-harpers-ferry/
The Wilton House in Richmond, VA. Credit Wilton House Virginia Facebook
South – Wilton House in Richmond, Virginia
The Wilton House is an exceptionally preserved historic plantation home in Richmond, Virginia, available to rent for weekends or weekdays. The house was completed in 1763 and was built and owned by William Churchill, a third-generation Churchill who held a position in local and colonial government. This is one of the best-preserved 18th-century plantations in Virginia, and it boasts elegant furnishings that connect guests directly to the past.
Today, the property is available to rent for reunions or parties of up to six people, for either a week or a weekend-long stay. The house is maintained with modern technology in its heating, plumbing, and electrical systems; however, most everything else remains authentic to the period, showcasing the patina of old paint, heart-pine floors and honest brickwork of its stunning exterior.
Group Activities in Richmond, VA
The Richmond National Battlefield Park is a must-visit for groups staying in Richmond. Dive into Civil War history through immersive exhibits, authentic artifacts, audiovisual presentations, and historic sites within the park, like Fort Harrison. Explore Richmond’s outstanding cuisine with your group for a taste of the region before enjoying places like the Children’s Museum of Richmond or King’s Dominion, an amusement park featuring more than 60 rides and attractions. Leisurely group activities include a trip to the Metro Richmond Zoo or enjoying a Richmond Riverfront Canal Cruise.
Check out the Wilton House here:
https://wiltonhousevirginia.org/rent-a-piece-of-history-your-stay-at-wilton/
The Captain’s Cottage in NOLA. Photo credit: Airbnb
South – The Captain’s Cottage in New Orleans, Louisiana
The Captain’s Cottage in New Orleans, Louisiana, is steps from the iconic French Quarter, an ideal, centrally located home base for your group. Built in 1740 and fully restored in 1870, this three-bedroom, two-bath authentic Creole cottage boasts centuries-old cypress and red pine hardwood floors, a brightly painted yellow-and-green exterior, 14-foot ceilings, and tall windows overlooking the courtyard. The cottage is in the Creole architecture specific to New Orleans and represents the cultures of the French, Spanish, and the Caribbean of the South.
Group Activities in New Orleans, LA
With a prime location on Esplanade Avenue, between the French Quarter and artsy Faubourg Marigny, this cottage sets groups up for a walkable adventure in NOLA. There are plenty of exciting, family-friendly things to do in New Orleans, including authentic Cajun cuisine, Voodoo workshops, cooking classes, Mardi Gras World, and so much more.
Rivertown provides outdoor lovers with numerous activities. Take to the water on kayaks for a peaceful paddle in Bayou St. John or join a Kayak Swamp Tour around Honey Island for scenic adventures. Mississippi Riverboat Cruises and waterfront picnics offer a leisurely experience for those who want to relax and take in the picturesque riverfront.
Check out The Captain’s Cottage here: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20086933?irclid=xeBXaBVgjxycR5RyCLy3cRtwUkpT5iSXIVbMX40&irgwc=1&afsrc=1&ircid=4273&sharedid=grand-historic-homes-you-can-book-on-airbnb&af=&iratid=9627&c=.pi73.pk4273_1305159&irparam1=&source_impression_id=p3_1765296884_P3b_fRtnn9IvKRNT
Midwest – Maxwell Mansion in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
The Maxwell Mansion in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, was built in the mid-1800s and was owned by Dr. Phillip Maxwell, a Chicago field surgeon in the US Army and a prominent figure in Chicago’s early development, and his wife, Jerusha. Past visitors to the mansion include Ulysses S. Grant and Nancy Davis, later Nancy Reagan. This mansion/bed-and-breakfast features manicured gardens, a heated pool, original stables, a bar, and a speakeasy that used to be Dr. Maxwell’s surgical room. The mansion itself is known to be haunted and is an environment of fascinating history. In fact, it’s the location of one of America’s most haunted bars, with countless reports of paranormal activity from guests.
Important to note, the Maxwell House has a guest policy of 18 years and older. For those traveling with pets, book by calling them directly rather than online (262-248-9711).
Maxwell Mansion, Lake Geneva, WI. Photo credit: Maxwell Mansion – Lake Geneva Facebook
Group Activities in Lake Geneva, WI
The house sits in the heart of Lake Geneva, a historic city, making it a centrally located base ideal for exploring the area. There are many old buildings, bed-and-breakfasts and haunted locations surrounding Maxwell Mansion that lend to the ethereal atmosphere and the town’s mysterious history.
For a family-friendly three-day group itinerary in Lake Geneva, check out Lake Geneva: A Timeless Resort Town with Year-Round Charm.
Lake Geneva provides myriad opportunities for families to reunite and bond through shared experiences. From outdoor adventures like Safari Lake Geneva and hot air balloon rides to an indoor water park, axe-throwing opportunities, and the Geneva Lake Children’s Museum, this region is rich with history and exciting group experiences.
For more family-oriented experiences in Lake Geneva, visit https://www.visitlakegeneva.com/things-to-do/family-fun/.
Check out the Maxwell Mansion here: https://www.visitlakegeneva.com/listing/maxwell-mansion/1761/
Where to Find Additional Programming
Museums and libraries are great ways to find inexpensive history to enrich yourself and your family during your vacation stay in a heritage home. Some cities offer local tour guides for a reasonable price that provide historical tours, art tours, scavenger hunts, and ghost tours. Opportunities for tours are typically found on a city’s official website.
These are only a handful of the many historical homes available for rent in the United States. Booking a historical home for your family reunion at an affordable price is doable, as there is a wide range of options, from mansions to quaint cottages, most of which offer nearby activities in beautiful locations. The search process for the perfect rental comes down to a combination of personal considerations, research, and contacting tour guides. It’s helpful to consider a rental agency, as they can provide adequate information about the home itself and the surrounding area.
Staying in a heritage home is extremely rewarding for its one-of-a-kind experience and for creating long-lasting memories that your family can cherish forever. Start planning today with Destination Reunions.
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