Barker Mansion — Attraction in Michigan City

This mansion is stunning, both inside and out. The Architecture is gorgeous, and I kept finding new things to draw my eye the more I looked around the building. The house is a masterpiece. The thing that truly makes it special though is that so many of the furnishings are original! Walking around the house and grounds really is like stepping back in time.

The guided tour starts with a short video about the Barkers and their influence on Michigan City (the video is in the basement). Then you walk back up to the main floor, and up the beautifully carved wood staircase to the next floor (there is quite a bit of walking up and down stairs and the main entrance is not wheelchair accessible, so keep that in mind when planning a visit here).

Our guide was very informative. He expanded upon the Barkers' history that we had learned in the video while pointing out items of particular interest as we walked along. It was interesting to learn who had occupied the rooms and see some of their personal effects. I also enjoyed seeing photos of how the rooms looked when the Barkers lived in the house and then looking around to see the same furnishings in front of me looking as they did in the pictures. I wish I could have taken some of my own photos inside, but they have a policy against that.

After the tour, be sure to step out the back door and look around the landscaped gardens. There is a fountain, statues, and places to sit. The tour guide was very patient about waiting to lock up until we had finished exploring the grounds and taken copious amounts of photos. He also was very kind to answer some of our questions about the house and the family before we left. We had a wonderful time, and I hope we can return some day for another tour!

Additional Notes: There is street parking around the mansion. We parked on the street between the mansion and the Top Dog restaurant (which is a good place to grab a quick bite before the tour). I recommend calling the museum ahead of time to be sure that they are open and doing tours on the day you want to visit. Also, I tried to use Google Maps to navigate to the museum from Beverly Shores and it kept having me drive in a big square a couple blocks from the museum. I can't remember if it finally directed us there, or if we found it ourselves. It might be a good idea to look at a map before you leave, just in case this...

After undergoing extensive renovations, Barker Mansion has reopened its doors, and I recently had the pleasure of visiting during Michigan City's Uptown First Fridays event. This event provided free admission for Michigan City residents, making it an excellent opportunity to explore this historic gem.

Barker Mansion is a stunning example of Gilded Age elegance and architecture. As you walk through the mansion, you are transported back in time, thanks to the meticulous preservation of original furnishings and fixtures. Each room tells a story, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants and offering a tangible connection to the past.

One of the highlights of my visit was the basement exhibit, which focuses on the Haskell-Barker Car Company. This display provides insightful historical context about the family's business and its impact on the region, adding depth to the overall experience of the mansion.

The restoration efforts are evident throughout the mansion, with each area carefully returned to its original state, as it would have appeared when the Barker family resided there. This attention to detail in the restoration allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of the mansion.

Furthermore, the staff at Barker Mansion deserves special mention. They were incredibly insightful and friendly, readily available to answer any questions we had. Their deep knowledge and enthusiasm for the mansion's history significantly enhanced our visit, making the experience not only educational but also genuinely engaging.

Additionally, the property features a beautifully maintained walled garden complex. This serene setting hosts tea-time events, which I find to be a charming way to engage with the property while enjoying a bit of leisure and luxury in a picturesque environment.

I highly recommend a visit to Barker Mansion for anyone interested in the history of Michigan City or those simply seeking to experience the splendor of a bygone era. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler, the mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent Gilded Age and the rich history of the Barker family. The knowledgeable staff, captivating exhibits, and beautiful grounds make it a must-visit...

Wow, I was absolutely blown away by the stunning beauty of this place! As a huge fan of the Gilded Age, I was thrilled when my husband and I decided to stop by and explore the Mansion. We’re from Atlanta, and I had never heard of the Baker family before this visit, so it was a delightful surprise.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by Craig, who was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. He answered all of our questions with enthusiasm and made us feel right at home. In the basement, Jack took over, and his passion for the exhibit was palpable. He pointed out hidden gems and offered insights that we might have otherwise missed, showcasing his genuine interest in his role.

Upstairs, although I didn’t catch her name, the young lady was equally impressive. She guided us through with ease and answered our queries with a smile. Every member of the staff contributed to an exceptional experience, and we were thoroughly impressed by their dedication.

The Mansion itself was a treasure trove of beauty and history, with every corner offering a new photo opportunity. We loved our self-guided tour and can’t wait to return during the Christmas season to see the holiday decorations. If you’re passionate about historical places and rich history, this is definitely an A+ destination. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone...