While many know of Hildene, the Lincoln Family Estate in Manchester, you might not know that the garden is as much of a masterpiece as the home. Along with the stately manor, popular spots here are the Pullman Cars, the goats and cheese making facility and the walking trails, but this garden is nothing short of spectacular. From the design to the history to the 1,000 peony blossoms, be sure to check this secret garden in VT out when the flowers start blooming.
Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln and his wife Mary Harlan Lincoln.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The name Hildene is from the old English words meaning hill and valley with stream.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
While Hildene is best known for the stately home, the gardens here are worth the trip alone.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The gardens were designed by Jesse Lincoln in 1907 as a gift for her mother.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The gardens are in the form of a cathedral’s stained glass windows.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The window pattern is defined by the neat hedges and filled with brightly colored flowers which provide the multicolored “stained glass” effect.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
It was designed to showcase the effect from her mother’s window on the second floor. As you can see it’s absolutely stunning!
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
In season you can find over 1,000 hibiscus peonies blooming.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
You’ll love wandering around the garden paths.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
It is the perfect place for a picnic on a sunny day!
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
Be sure to tour the house, the restored 1903 Pullman Car and the farm, too, but leave extra time to soak in the magic from the gardens.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The views from the garden are gorgeous in every season.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
And the gardens are a stunning location for a wedding.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
Or simply a day exploring all there is to find at the estate.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
The flowers will be blooming before you know it, so plan your trip today!
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
Hildene isn’t the only thing to see and do in Manchester! Check out why this one little town in Vermont just may be the most unique in the world.
Facebook/Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
