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Much of the Park’s historic distinction is attributed to Eolia, the grand former summer home of philanthropists Edward and Mary Harkness, and its surrounding gardens and greenhouse. This Gatsby-era mansion is among the best remaining examples of the grand seaside estates that once occupied the Sound’s shoreline at the beginning of the twentieth century. The Park’s meticulously maintained grounds feature spectacular formal gardens, expansive lawns, and picnic areas, a rock filled sandy beach and panoramic views of the Sound.

Situated on Goshen Point, Harkness Memorial State Park is amongst the most spectacular sites on the East Coast, with lengthy coastline and panoramic sea views. The property boasts bucolic colonial-era fields, stone walls, and buildings associated with the ancestors of the Park’s donor, Mary Stillman Harkness. The park includes 237 acres of gardens, groves, beaches and tidal marshes, with some 60 buildings, 15 of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From its vast lawns, Fishers Island, Great Gull, Little Gull, Plum Island and the North Fork of Long Island can be seen.

Eolia Tours: Friends of Harkness volunteer docents lead guided tours on weekends and holidays between Memorial Day and Labor Day on Saturdays & Sundays from 10am – 1:30pm. Sign up at the Mansion on the day of the tour. Donations for tours are welcome and most appreciated, but space is limited. Mansion & Garden Tours are also available by appointment through the Friends of Harkness.

Address: 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford, CT 06385
Distance from City Pier Water Taxi Landing: 5 miles
Phone Number: 860-443-5725
Hours: Open Daily, 8am-Sunset | Fees apply Memorial Day through Labor Day
Admission: Free for In-State Registered Vehicles | $10-$15 for Out-of-State Vehicles