The visitor center is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM from May to October. From November to April, it is open only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM.
There is no entrance fee to visit the James A. Garfield National Historic Site. Entry and parking are free.
From Cleveland, take I-90 East to OH-306 East, then Mentor Avenue to 8095 Mentor Avenue, a historic estate steeped in presidential history and charm.
Parking is free, located behind the Visitor Center, with two accessible spaces. No overnight parking. No specific RV or motorcycle restrictions mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of Mentor, Ohio, the James A. Garfield National Historic Site stands as a testament to the life and legacy of the 20th President of the United States. This historic estate, known as Lawnfield, is set on 4.9 acres of meticulously maintained grounds that evoke the charm of a bygone era.
The 20-room farmhouse, where Garfield lived with his wife and five children, is a central attraction. Tours of the house reveal the intricate details of late 19th-century living, from the ornate furnishings to the expansive library wing added by Mrs. Garfield after her husband’s assassination. This library, one of the first presidential libraries in the United States, is a poignant reminder of Garfield’s short but impactful presidency.
The grounds themselves are a serene escape, with lush gardens and historic outbuildings such as the carriage house and horse barn, now converted into a visitor center. The site is also notable for its role in Garfield’s 1880 presidential campaign, during which he famously used his front porch to greet thousands of supporters.
While the site does not border a lake, its serene atmosphere and rich history make it a compelling destination. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which includes nearby artisan towns and local outfitters. Special events, such as guided tours and historical reenactments, bring the site to life, especially during the summer months.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the past, the James A. Garfield National Historic Site offers a unique and enriching experience. The careful restoration of the estate to its original grandeur between 1880 and 1904 ensures that every detail, from the architecture to the furnishings, is a genuine reflection of the Garfield family’s life. This historic site is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history and the elegant simplicity of a bygone age.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 36 553
- Established year
- 1936
Top 3 Facts about James A. Garfield National Historic Site
During the 1880 presidential campaign, approximately 20,000 people visited Garfield’s home, where he conducted the nation’s first successful front porch campaign, greeting well-wishers from his porch. This innovative approach helped him win the presidency.
This historic estate, once the home of a U.S. president, hosts a diverse array of wildlife and flora. The grounds are home to various bird species, while the surrounding areas support habitats for local bats and other wildlife. The site is also part of initiatives to track and protect milkweeds, crucial for pollinators. Visitors can observe the natural beauty of the 8-acre grounds, which include walking paths and a variety of native plants, making it a serene and educational destination for nature enthusiasts.
Surrounded by a historic orchard and clustered with large trees such as sugar maples, black locust, and white birch, this estate’s landscape is characterized by its original 160 acres, now reduced to 7.8 acres, featuring an orchard in the northwest corner that echoes the past. The property’s agrarian structures and main residence are set amidst a backdrop of natural beauty, with the orchard and historic trees adding a serene and timeless ambiance.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Scouting Partnerships
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in summer for the Front Porch Campaign reenactment. Allow 2.5 hours to explore the house, visitor center, and grounds. Park behind the Carriage House, and plan for rest breaks and meals off-site. Wear comfortable shoes for paved paths.
Pack Appropriately
Pack essentials like a map, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Bring water, snacks, and layers for changing weather. For longer stays, include camping gear and a rain jacket. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals, and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Respect the environment by staying on designated trails.【Condé Nast Traveller】
Stay Informed
Stay on designated trails, watch for weather changes, and keep a safe distance from water and ledges. Check park alerts and follow signs. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
In spring, when temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, visit this historic site for the Easter Monday Egg Roll event. Stroll through blooming gardens and immerse yourself in presidential history amid mild weather.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and free outdoor concerts like the Hillcrest Concert Band in May. Enjoy live music on the lawn, picnic baskets welcome, amidst historic charm. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.
Visit in fall for crisp temperatures (50s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage. Enjoy the Behind the Scenes Tour in October, offering a unique glimpse into the historic home and grounds. Ideal for a serene, culturally rich autumn experience. Picnic on the lawn as the leaves change colors.
Visit from November to April, when crisp temperatures (30s-40s°F) and occasional snowfall envelop the historic farmhouse in a serene winter landscape. Guided tours, though less frequent, offer an intimate glimpse into the past on Fridays through Sundays. A tranquil and less crowded winter escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what James A. Garfield National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the James A. Garfield National Historic Site is Mentor, Ohio, which is located in Lake County. Mentor is where the Lawnfield estate, Garfield’s home, is situated at 8095 Mentor Avenue.
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Dogs are allowed on the grounds as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Visitors can also participate in the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program with their dogs.
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Parking is free, and there are accessible parking spaces available. The parking lot is located behind the Visitor Center. There is no specific information on RV sizes or types.
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The site is associated with James A. Garfield’s 1880 presidential campaign, during which he conducted the first successful front porch campaign from his home, Lawnfield. In 1881, Garfield was inaugurated as president on March 4 and served until his assassination on September 19. After his death, his widow Lucretia Garfield and their family added the Memorial Library wing in 1885, setting the precedent for presidential libraries.