Wesley Mansion, located in Eden Gardens State Park, Florida, offers a mix of history, architecture, and nature. Built in 1897, this Victorian home showcases original features like yellow heart pine siding and 95% of its original glass windows. The mansion also houses American and European antiques from the 1790s to the late 1800s. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, scenic gardens, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Admission is affordable at $4 per vehicle for park entry and $4 per adult for mansion tours. The Annual Camellia Festival on February 7, 2026, is a highlight for plant lovers. Plan your visit for a blend of history and natural beauty. You can even use a South Walton itinerary generator to organize your trip.
Planning Your Visit
Wesley Mansion Visitor Guide: Hours, Admission, and Key Information
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Location and Hours
You’ll find Wesley Mansion at 181 Eden Gardens Road, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, nestled in the beautiful 163-acre Eden Gardens State Park. The park itself is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. However, the mansion follows a more limited schedule, offering guided tours Thursday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with tours starting on the hour. Keep in mind, the mansion is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Knowing the hours is just the first step - next, check out the admission and tour details to make the most of your visit.
Admission and Tour Details
Entry to the park costs just $4 per vehicle, which covers up to eight people. Payments are made at the honor box, so having exact change is a good idea. For the mansion tour itself, tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for children under 12. Tours last about 30–45 minutes and are limited to 10 guests per session. You can purchase tickets at the Wesley House using cash, check, or credit card. However, tickets are sold strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, so there’s no option to reserve in advance - plan accordingly, especially during busier times.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
If you’re visiting between February and April, aim to arrive early to secure a spot on the tour. Wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the Garden Trail and Living Shoreline Trail. Florida’s Panhandle can get quite warm, so pack water to stay hydrated as you explore. One thing to note: photography is not allowed inside the mansion, but you’re welcome to take pictures on the porches and throughout the gardens.
With these details in mind, you’re all set to enjoy the history and beauty of Wesley Mansion and its surroundings.
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Getting There and Accessibility
Directions to Wesley Mansion
You'll find Wesley Mansion at 181 Eden Gardens Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, situated about 23 miles east of Destin along Choctawhatchee Bay. If you're coming from Destin, take US 98 heading east toward Panama City. Drive approximately 8.8 miles from the intersection of US 98 and CR 30-A, then turn left onto CR 395. After about 0.3 miles, you'll see the entrance to the park on your left. It's a simple route, and once you arrive, you'll find plenty of parking. The park offers two main parking areas, both equipped with restroom facilities, and they're conveniently located near the mansion and trails, so there's minimal walking required.
Accessibility Features
Eden Gardens State Park is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can enjoy their experience. The first floor of the Wesley House is wheelchair accessible, along with the park's picnic areas, restrooms, and pavilions. Service dogs are welcome throughout the park, while other pets can join you on the grounds as long as they're on a handheld leash no longer than 6 feet. However, pets are not permitted inside the historic mansion.
For specific mobility accommodations, it's best to contact the Eden Gardens State Park office at least 10 days in advance. This allows the staff to prepare and ensure your visit is as smooth as possible. As Florida State Parks advises:
Should you need assistance to enable your full participation, please contact the individual park office as soon as possible. Sometimes as many as ten days may be needed to schedule a particular accommodation.
This advance notice helps the park staff provide the best support for your needs.
The Gardens and Grounds
Garden Highlights
The 163-acre estate surrounding Wesley Mansion is more than just a beautiful backdrop - it’s a destination in itself. Within these grounds, you’ll find 10 acres of ornamental gardens, including a historic Rose Garden with classic brick pathways and a secluded Secret Garden adorned with statues [16, 11]. Towering over the main lawn is the "Wedding Tree", a massive Southern live oak draped in Spanish moss. This ancient tree is not only one of Florida’s largest but also among its oldest [16, 13].
Seasonal blooms bring the gardens to life: over 370 camellia plants burst into color from late fall through early spring, peaking in February. Spring visitors are treated to vibrant azaleas, while the Butterfly Garden and reflection pond remain picturesque year-round [12, 6].
If you’re planning a visit, the Annual Camellia Festival is a must-see. Scheduled for February 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., this event is the perfect way to experience the park’s seasonal beauty and its rich botanical heritage. A Park Manager shared this invitation:
Stop in for a picnic along Tucker Bayou, my favorite area of the park, or stroll down our nature trail and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
These gardens seamlessly blend natural beauty with the estate’s historical charm, creating a timeless experience.
Outdoor Activities
The property offers nearly a mile of trails that wind through old-growth magnolias, xeric hammocks, and floodplain swamps [11, 12]. Trails like the Tucker Bayou Trail and the Living Shoreline Trail provide easy access to both the manicured gardens and the surrounding wild landscapes. Don’t forget your binoculars - wildlife sightings might include white-tailed deer, bald eagles, ospreys, river otters, herons, egrets, and even gopher tortoises.
For those drawn to the water, Tucker Bayou offers opportunities for saltwater fishing (with a valid Florida fishing license) from the dock or seawall. There’s also a launch area for canoes and kayaks if you prefer to explore the bayou by paddle. Four shaded pavilions equipped with tables and grills provide the perfect spots for a relaxing picnic under the moss-covered oaks. While photography is not allowed inside the mansion, it’s encouraged throughout the gardens and on the mansion’s porches.
After enjoying the fresh air and scenic views, step inside the mansion to uncover its fascinating history.
Inside the Wesley Mansion
History and Restoration
Back in 1897, timber baron William Henry Wesley constructed this impressive 5,500-square-foot mansion using yellow heart pine sourced from his own Point Washington Lumber Company. For decades, the Wesley family called the mansion home. Then, in 1963, Lois Maxon purchased the property, along with 10.5 acres of land, for just $12,500. Upon seeing the estate, she famously declared:
I have found my Eden.
Over the next five years, Maxon poured approximately $1 million into transforming the Victorian home into a stunning antebellum-style masterpiece. She filled it with Louis XVI furniture and Empire antiques, creating a space that felt like stepping back in time. On Christmas Eve in 1968, she gifted the fully restored property to the Florida Park Service. Today, the mansion proudly holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Architecture and Design
The Wesley Mansion’s architectural style is a blend of Colonial Revival, French Creole, and antebellum influences. Its two-story wraparound gallery, supported by white columns, gives the exterior a striking symmetry, complemented by a steep-pitched roof. Inside, the mansion retains much of its original charm, with yellow heart pine siding, floors, and interior molding still intact. Remarkably, about 95% of the original glass pocket windows remain in place.
The interior showcases a collection of antiques dating from 1790 to the late 1800s, alongside first-edition books and period artwork. These carefully preserved elements create a rich historical atmosphere, transporting visitors to the 19th century. Guided tours highlight these details, weaving them into the mansion’s broader narrative.
Stories from the Past
The mansion’s history comes alive during guided tours, which dive into the fascinating life of William Henry Wesley and his timber empire. For 50 years, Wesley operated three mills on Tucker Bayou, until the timber industry’s decline in the 1920s. Guests hear dramatic tales of rival companies setting Wesley’s mills ablaze, as well as stories about the workers’ cottages that once surrounded the mansion. Many of these cottages were later moved to Grayton Beach, where they became summer homes.
In 1972, the mansion became the backdrop for the Hollywood horror film Frogs. The production left behind more than just memories - crew members reportedly littered the property with cigarette butts and spills. Even more bizarre, exotic South American creatures used in the film supposedly escaped into the local ecosystem. Ollie Sue Butler, a long-time tour guide and Wesley family member, shared her disdain for the film, refusing to watch it due to the disrespect shown to the mansion during filming. These anecdotes add a lively, personal touch to every tour, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the mansion’s colorful past.
What Makes the Tour Special
The tour draws visitors into the rich history of the mansion, offering features that make it a standout experience.
Antiques and Artifacts
Step into the past with a fascinating collection of Empire-style antiques, including select Louis XVI pieces. These treasures add to the mansion's timeless charm, giving visitors a glimpse into its elegant history.
Photography Opportunities
Although photography is not allowed inside Wesley House, the sprawling 163-acre estate provides plenty of breathtaking spots for memorable photos. One of the most iconic is the 600-year-old moss-draped oak tree, a favorite backdrop for wedding photography. The reflection pool, home to colorful Koi, creates stunning images as it mirrors the surrounding trees. Ornamental gardens, featuring butterfly, camellia, and rose varieties, are at their most vibrant between February and April, making this the perfect time for garden photography. Wildlife enthusiasts can also enjoy photographing Bald Eagles, Woodpeckers, and Brown Pelicans. Trails like the Garden Trail and Living Shoreline Trail offer picturesque settings, including maritime hammocks and serene views of Tucker Bayou. Whether you're capturing the scenery or the wildlife, the estate is a photographer's dream.
Learning Opportunities
The tour goes beyond the visual, offering a deep dive into the region's history. Visitors learn about Point Washington's lumber industry and the Wesley family's lasting influence. The mansion's architectural journey is a highlight, from its original Florida Cracker-style with Victorian details to its current Colonial Revival design, inspired by Antebellum plantation homes like Mississippi's Dunleith Plantation. Guides also shed light on the preservation efforts that have maintained the mansion's original materials, as well as the thoughtful design of the grounds by Greene-Hill Planners. These guided tours provide a rich historical narrative, connecting visitors to the mansion's evolution and the care taken to preserve its legacy.
Conclusion
Wesley Mansion offers a rare mix of preserved history, stunning architecture, and serene natural surroundings. Nestled on a sprawling 163-acre estate, it provides a tranquil retreat framed by ancient oaks and colorful gardens. At just $4 per adult, the tour is an affordable way to dive into regional history or simply enjoy a picturesque escape from the beach.
The estate encourages visitors to take their time. You can wander scenic trails, snap photos of the remarkable 600-year-old wedding tree, or relax with a picnic under the shade of majestic oaks. The mansion itself, built in 1897 and meticulously restored by Lois Maxon in the 1960s, tells a story deeply tied to Point Washington's timber industry roots. It's more than just a house tour - it’s a window into old Florida's charm and legacy.
This unique historical experience pairs beautifully with the modern appeal of South Walton, offering visitors a chance to enjoy both heritage and relaxation. Whether you're drawn by the history, the art, or the natural beauty, Wesley Mansion is a must-see destination in South Walton. With guided tours, outdoor activities, and endless photo opportunities, it’s perfect for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and families. For even more ways to explore 30A neighborhoods and South Walton, check out sowal.co for travel tips and local insights to make the most of your visit.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Wesley Mansion to see the gardens in bloom?
The prime time to explore the gardens of Wesley Mansion is from November to April, when the camellias are in full bloom. With over 370 bushes bursting with color, the gardens transform into a breathtaking scene that’s perfect for visitors. These cooler months also make wandering through the lush greenery and ornamental plants even more enjoyable.
Although weather conditions can sometimes shift the blooming schedule, late fall through early spring reliably showcases the gardens at their most vibrant. Visiting during this period ensures you’ll experience the beauty of the grounds at their peak, adding an unforgettable touch to your tour of Wesley Mansion.
Does Wesley Mansion host any special events or seasonal celebrations?
Yes, Wesley Mansion hosts a range of special events and seasonal celebrations throughout the year. During the holiday season, the mansion transforms with a Victorian Christmas theme, featuring stunning decorations from mid-November through early January. Visitors can take part in festive tours and enjoy events like the Christmas Candlelight Open House, typically held in early December.
Beyond the holidays, Eden Gardens State Park, home to Wesley Mansion, offers activities throughout the year. From outdoor movie nights in October to seasonal gatherings, the park provides plenty of opportunities to appreciate the mansion and its breathtaking gardens. It's a perfect spot for history buffs and anyone eager to soak in the welcoming community vibe.
What accessibility options are available at the Wesley Mansion for visitors with mobility needs?
The Wesley Mansion, nestled within Eden Gardens State Park, showcases many of its original historic details. While these features add to its charm, they may pose challenges for accessibility in certain interior spaces. On the other hand, the surrounding gardens, including the picturesque Sarah’s Garden, are mostly wheelchair accessible and thoughtfully designed to welcome visitors with mobility needs.
If you have specific questions or require accommodations, it’s a good idea to reach out to Eden Gardens State Park directly before your visit. This can help ensure your time there is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
