David Davis Mansion
David Davis Mansion things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Plan your stay
&promo_pic=/one-page/coolest.jpg)
Posts
Judge David Davis made his money by land speculation; buying when Bloomington just got it's start and selling when Bloomington boomed in population in the 1800s. The house he and his wife had built - when he was nearly 60 - both was ornate and practical. Tours start right after the hour. You get a 20-minute video at 9:10, 10:10, 11:10 in a small visitors center by the property entrance. Then, an hour-long guided tour from someone well versed on Davis and the property of a dozen rooms in the house - everything on the main floor, second floor - including the servant's quarters - and the laundry area in the basement. Gives a sense for how the rich lived in the late 1800s - a time when quality workmanship was huge. They even had a brick outbuilding that would have been wood for nearly everyone else - to keep up appearances! The property stayed in the family for 80 years; so fortunately wasn't torn down or subdivided like most mansions of that time. We were the only ones on our tour - had every question answered - and our guide was willing to stay as long as needed.
Dave CameronDave Cameron
00
Review Date: May 23rd, 2012 One of the first places I visited when I created my travel list. Sadly, my visit was over 4 years ago so I don’t remember too much about this place. Nor do I have any photos aside from the one on Facebook, for some reason. Those usually bring back memories from my visit. What I do remember is that this mansion was really nice and really huge. Everything always seems bigger on the inside and this is one of those cases. I remember being approached by someone after arriving and wandering around aimlessly. She gave my friend and I a grand tour and it was great! I think David Davis was a Judge? Overall, a beautiful mansion and a great tour. If you are in the Bloomington area and love history, check out the David Davis mansion. You’ll want to move in, I guarantee it.
Joshua DailyJoshua Daily
00
The David Davis mansion is honestly the most movie haunted house place I’ve ever seen that was actually a real house someone lived in. This thing is surreal to see and honestly in the whole time I was there(for a car show at the time) I never got over how strange the place looks; it’s so tall and yet tiny, the proportions just seem wrong and somehow it’s a real historic mansion David Davis stayed at, definitely worth stopping by, especially if they’re having an event on the outside of the mansion. You’ll never get over the feeling your on a set for a ghost movie either😂
Cameron MindCameron Mind
40
I had a lovely time walking through this well-preserved mansion. The decor was recreated so nicely, as if the original owner merely stepped out for the day. I felt as though I had time traveled back to the early 19th century. Truly a sight to behold! My volunteer guide was wonderful at relaying information about this location as well. It’s currently free to walk the grounds although a donation is always appreciated. I had a spectacular time envisioning an era long since passed, thank you.
Love Notes for TLCLove Notes for TLC
00
I really loved the history of it! Judge Davis had influence and helped president Lincoln! I also learned different information culturally about Christmas decorations and why the Teddy bear was called Teddy bear. It felt warm and nice. Usually mansions feel stuffy and museum like but this was not the case! They took good care of it and I really loved being there! The people that worked there went above and beyond with the tours and information!
Aimee J.Aimee J.
10
No pictures allowed inside unfortunately, so you'll just have to go see for yourself. Really beautiful house, and I'm so glad it's being preserved. Go see the oldest bidet in Bloomington! I visited during a Christmas program and there were way too many people. I look forward to returning and actually being able to talk with the docents. There is a nice gift shop in the basement.
Erica TaylorErica Taylor
00
Nearby Attractions Of David Davis Mansion
Vrooman Mansion
Franklin Park
Old House Society
Franzetti's Pantry Plus
Vrooman Mansion
4.9
(250)Click for details
Franklin Park
4.5
(112)Click for details
Old House Society
4.6
(49)Click for details
Franzetti's Pantry Plus
3.6
(9)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of David Davis Mansion
Schooners
Annie's Eats Carry-Out And Catering
Keg Grove Brewing Company
Grove Street Bakery
BEER NUTS Brand Snacks
Pour Bros. Craft Taproom
Schooners
4.4
(686)Click for details
Annie's Eats Carry-Out And Catering
4.7
(232)Click for details
Keg Grove Brewing Company
4.8
(149)Click for details
Grove Street Bakery
4.8
(144)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
1000 Monroe Dr, Bloomington, IL 61701
Map
Phone
(309) 828-1084
Call
Website
daviddavismansion.org
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(179 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
The David Davis Mansion, also known as Clover Lawn, is a Gilded Age home in Bloomington, Illinois that was the residence of David Davis, Supreme Court justice and Senator from Illinois. The mansion has been a state museum since 1960.
attractions: Vrooman Mansion, Franklin Park, Old House Society, Franzetti's Pantry Plus, restaurants: Schooners, Annie's Eats Carry-Out And Catering, Keg Grove Brewing Company, Grove Street Bakery, BEER NUTS Brand Snacks, Pour Bros. Craft Taproom
- Please manually select your location for better experience