Old Westbury Gardens is a historic estate located in Old Westbury, New York. It features a 20th-century mansion set on 200 acres of formal gardens, landscaped grounds, and lakes. The estate was originally built in 1906 by John Shaffer Phipps, a member of the prominent Phipps family, and was designed by the famous architectural firm of Carrère and Hastings.
The mansion at Old Westbury Gardens is a masterpiece of Beaux Arts architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of this style in the country. It features intricate stone carvings, elegant marble staircases, and intricate plaster moldings. The interior of the mansion is just as impressive as the exterior, with ornate fireplaces, grand chandeliers, and beautiful hand-painted murals.
The formal gardens at Old Westbury Gardens are a highlight of the estate, featuring a variety of ornamental plants, fountains, and statuary. The Italian Garden, for example, is a symmetrical garden with a central fountain, while the English Garden features winding paths, a pergola, and a variety of flowers and shrubs.
In addition to the mansion and gardens, Old Westbury Gardens also offers several educational programs, including tours, workshops, and classes. Visitors can also enjoy picnics and other outdoor activities on the estate's grounds.