Gracie Mansion stands in Carl Schurz Park at 181 East End Avenue, overlooking the East River. Built in 1799 for Scottish shipping merchant Archibald Gracie, it has been New York City’s mayoral residence since 1942. A booked tour takes you through the ground floor, where painted wallpaper and historic portraits sit alongside works by Norman Rockwell and a signed portrait of Robert Moses. The grounds and river views add to the stop, though access inside depends on tour availability or a special event.
A country house on the East River
Archibald Gracie, a Scottish shipping merchant, acquired the property in 1798 and built the mansion the following year. It was designed in the Federal style, with a three-sided porch and trellis railings running around its upper levels. At the time, the East River shore had a number of country houses belonging to New York’s wealthy residents. Gracie Mansion is the last of those houses still standing there.
The City of New York acquired the property in 1896. Since 1942, it has served as the official residence of the city’s mayors. The house overlooks the Hell Gate channel of the East River and sits within Carl Schurz Park, at East End Avenue and 88th Street in Manhattan’s Yorkville neighborhood.
What you can see inside
Public tours cover the ground floor. Inside, painted wallpaper is among the details to look for, along with historic portraits and other artwork. The collection includes works by Norman Rockwell and a signed portrait of Robert Moses.
The building remains a working official residence, so access is limited. A tour or invitation to an event is the way to see the interior; walking through the park does not bring you close to the house. Tour availability can change, so check the mansion’s website before planning around a visit.
Tours and events
A standard tour lasts one hour and focuses on the ground floor. Online sign-up is available, and checking ahead helps you find out whether a tour fits your plans. Special events, including heritage celebrations and International Women’s Day gatherings, provide another occasion to visit when they are scheduled.
Carl Schurz Park surrounds the mansion, with East River views and space to continue your walk after the visit. The park is a useful addition if you cannot secure access indoors, but it does not replace a mansion tour for seeing the rooms and artwork.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you tour Gracie Mansion?
Yes. Online sign-up is available for a one-hour tour of the ground floor. Check the website for current availability.
How long does a Gracie Mansion tour take?
The ground-floor tour takes about one hour.
What can you see inside Gracie Mansion?
The ground floor includes painted wallpaper, historic portraits and artwork, including works by Norman Rockwell and a signed portrait of Robert Moses.
Where is Gracie Mansion?
It is in Carl Schurz Park at 181 East End Avenue, near 88th Street in Manhattan’s Yorkville neighborhood.
