Main Residence Guided Tour (August)
Main Residence Guided Tour
August 2025
The Main Residence Guided Tour at Ford House invites you into the heart of the Ford family’s historic 1928 estate. This one-hour guided experience takes you through Eleanor and Edsel Ford’s lakeside home — a warm and welcoming retreat designed in the storybook English Cotswold style.
The Main Residence offers an elegant blend of comfort, craftsmanship, and creativity, built as a private sanctuary for Edsel, Eleanor, and their four children. Every room reflects the couple’s refined taste, love of the arts, and dedication to thoughtful design. With its intricate details and original furnishings, the home has remained nearly unchanged since the family moved in.
What You’ll Experience
On the Main Residence Guided Tour, your tour guide will lead you through beautifully preserved rooms filled with the Ford family’s personal touches. Highlights include:
The Library, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and rich wood paneling
The Drawing Room, where the Fords hosted intimate gatherings
Bedrooms and private spaces that reveal a more personal side of the family’s life
You’ll hear stories of Edsel, Eleanor, and their children — Henry II, Benson, Josephine, and William — as you explore their home. From curated artwork to custom furnishings, every object reflects the cultural and historical influence of one of America’s most iconic families.
Know Before You Go
The Main Residence Guided Tour lasts approximately 50 minutes and includes multiple staircases and narrow corridors. Due to the home’s historic nature, this tour may not be accessible for guests with limited mobility. If you need assistance or have questions about accessibility, please contact us in advance — we’re happy to help plan your visit.
Advance reservations are strongly encouraged, as tours often sell out. Walk-in availability is not guaranteed.
Enhance Your Visit
Your ticket also includes access to Ford House’s beautiful estate grounds and auxiliary buildings. After your tour, we invite you to continue exploring:
The gardens, waterfront paths, and natural landscapes
Historic outbuildings like the Playhouse and Garage
Three exhibitions in the Visitor Center
Dining at The Continental or The Speedster
Unique gifts and keepsakes at The Shop at Ford House
Every visit to Ford House offers something new — whether it’s your first time or a return trip.
Why Take This Tour?
The Main Residence Guided Tour isn’t just a look at a beautiful home — it’s a journey through personal history, timeless design, and an American legacy. With insights from knowledgeable tour guides and the opportunity to see rooms untouched by time, this tour is one of the most memorable ways to experience the spirit of the Ford family.
Book your tour today and discover the stories behind one of Michigan’s most beloved historic homes.
ADMISSIONS
- Friend Adult: $10
- Friend Child (age 3-17): $5
- Public Adult: $20
- Public Child (age 3-17): $10
- Child (age 0-2): Free
- Museums for All: $5
- Military: $10
- Friend Adult: $10
- Friend Child (age 3-12): $5
- Public Adult: $20
- Public Child (age 3-12): $10
- Child (age 0-2): Free
- Museums for All: $5
- Military: $10
Refund Policy
All ticket sales, memberships, and other purchases are non-refundable. Refunds will only be issued if Ford House closes or cancels an event. In such cases, guests with tickets or reservations will be notified.
Accessibility
At Ford House, we are committed to ensuring all guests can enjoy our events. If you have any questions or need additional information about accessibility before booking your tickets, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at info@fordhouse.org or call 313-884-4222, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Enhance your visit!
Enhance your experience by becoming a Friend of Ford House where you’ll enjoy exclusive perks like discounts on tickets, dining, and shopping, all while supporting this historic estate. Or reserve a table at The Continental for a perfect lunch or dinner before the event. And review Ford House rules and policies to make the most of your visit.
