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Meadow Brook Hall

350 Estate Drive, Rochester, MI

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Visit Meadow Brook Hall! Tour Michigan's Largest Historic Home (With Pictures!) + FUN Famous History of Matilda Dodge | Rochester Michigan Near Detroit

By Sherry Trautman

By: Sherry Trautman | Travel-Mi.com  | Updated: December 8, 2022

Chris and I were blown away by the incredible craftsmanship, eye for detail, breathtaking architectural details and sheer scale of this opulent Michigan mansion in Oakland County.

Keep reading to learn the fascinating history of Matilda Dodge Wilson , one of automotive aristocracy’s most remarkable women. Matilda was the widow of automobile pioneer John Dodge .

• If you are looking for Michigan historic home tours and FUN things to do in Michigan, this is it!
• We highly recommend learning more about the history of Meadow Brook Hall as it will have much more meaning during the tour. 

What is Meadow Brook Hall?

Well, first, Meadow Brook Hall is Michigan's Largest Historic Home located in Rochester (near Detroit) in Oakland County! How cool is that?

This 110 room residence is the largest and most impressive example of Tudor revival architecture in the United States. 

• There are also 37 secondary buildings, gardens and pasture land.
• There is 88,000 square feet in this home Rochester home! 
• These impressive stats earns Meadow Brook Hall the status of the   largest historic home in the Midwest! And we are lucky enough to have it here in Michigan!

This incredible Rochester Michigan mansion is now a museum, cultural center and the fourth-largest historic home in the nation!

• Meadow Brook Hall is open for tours on select days and times. It's always at the top of my list of fun things to do in Michigan. So if you are on vacation near Detroit, be sure to book a tour. 
• Meadow Brook Hall is a incredible Michigan wedding venue too. Can you just imagine your wedding day held at this luxurious location?
• You can also hold your business events at Meadowbrook Hall. 

Chris and I visited Meadow Brook Hall twice in December during the Christmas season, so many of our photos have a holiday flair!  

• In December, Meadow Brook Halls' self guided Holiday Walk and Winter Wonder Lights is absolutely breathtaking well worth your time and money.

Meadow Brook Hall is a National Historic Landmark!

This incredible historic home was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012 by the National Park Service and United States Department of the Interior. 

How is Oakland University Connected to Meadow Brook Hall?

Meadow Brook Hall (and its 1400 acre estate) was deeded to Michigan State University in 1957 by Alfred G. and Matilda Dodge Wilson. It was given to fund Oakland University.  The Hall is now a conference center and cultural center of Oakland University. 

Touring Meadow Brook Hall

Touring Meadow Brook Hall is absolutely breathtaking! You will see original family furnishings and art as you wander the 110-room mansion.  Be sure to look up to see fascinating trim and ornate plaster ceilings. In the summer you can also see their formal gardens.

There is elaborate carved wood and stone features throughout the lovely home. I particularly love the Tiffany stained glass and ornate furniture and fine art.

• One of my favorite times to visit Meadow Brook Hall is during Christmas in December ! 
• Meadow Brook Hall's self-guided Holiday Walk and Winter Wonder Lights is just breathtaking! It's a great time to appreciate the grand scale of this home and it's incredible architectural detailing. Get your admission tickets early this holiday season!

Where is Meadow Brook Hall?

Meadowbrook Hall is located in southeast Michigan.

Address:  350 Estate Dr, Rochester, MI 48309

• Distance to Detroit : 33 miles (about 40 minutes)
• Distance  to Grand Rapids : 150 miles (2 hours, 20 minutes)
• Distance to Lansing : 93 miles (1 hour, 25 minutes)
• Distance to Traverse City: 229 miles, (3 hours, 40 minutes)

Meadow Brook Hall Has a Fantastic and Famous History

This incredible mansion was the home of Alfred G. and Matilda Dodge Wilson. Matilda was a widow of John Dodge....you know, like the vehicles!

• As a side note, (because I was interested), John Dodge (co-founder of Dodge Brothers Motor Car Company) passed away January 14, 1920 of pneumonia in New York where he and Horace Dodge were attending an Auto Show. Per the Detroit Historical Society's article on Meadow Brook Hall,  John Dodge was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 1997 and buried in the Dodge mausoleum at Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit . To learn more about Meadow Brook Hall and the Dodge Motor Company, see PBS' video !

In 1925, Matilda and Anna Dodge, widow of Horace Dodge, sold their holdings in the Dodge Motor Car Company for a whopping $146 million.  Matilda was now one of the world’s wealthiest women. She supported many Detroit charities and organizations, and founded Oakland University. Matilda also had a lifelong involvement with the Salvation Army and the Presbyterian Church.

Speaking of the Presbyterian Church, this was where Matilda met fellow parishioner and lumber broker, Alfred Wilson.  They fell in love while singing hymns (that's my theory, anyway) and in June of 1925, the two were married.  

Alfred and Matilda's vast home was built in 1926-1929 in Rochester.   William E. Kapp of Smith, Hinchman and Grylls designed the lovely hall.  It was a nice 43rd birthday for Matilda in 1926!

The building cost nearly $4 million!

The Hall was built using ONLY American materials and craftsman. I find this very impressive and noble.  Between the years of 1915 - 1947, the estate became one of the most elaborate in the United States and we can see why!

This famous couple had four children, Frances and Danny Dodge, and Richard and Barbara Wilson.

It is one of the best and finest examples of Tudo-revival style architecture in America!!

The Hall was opened to the public in 1971.

How Did Matilda Meet John Dodge?

In 1902, Matilda began working as a secretary to John and Horace Dodge at their automotive parts company. Sparks few and five years later, Matilda married widower John Dodge.

Who Was Alfred G. Wilson?

Alfred was in the lumber business and in 1919 he moved to Detroit where he and his brother Donald formed the Wilson Lumber Company.  Alfred was the son of a minister and was active in the same Presbyterian Church as widow, Matilda Dodge. The two enjoyed music, reading and religion, They fell in love and married on June 29, 1925!

How Long Did Matilda and Her Family Live in Meadow Brook Hall?

For the most part, Matilda lived in Meadow Brook Hall from 1929 until she died at 84 years old in 1967.  The home was closed for a few years during the Depression due to the high costs to maintain the home. 

The Wilsons lived in the home 38 years and loved hosting events and gathering with friends.  So get this, their daughter, Frances Dodge was married at the home in 1938 and this lucky girl had Frank Sinatra and the  Tommy Dorsey band played at her 25th birthday party in 1939!

After Matilda Wilson’s death, many of Meadow Brook’s fine art pieces were sold or bequeathed.

Related Stories

• Tour Meadow Brook Hall During Christmas!
• Best Museums and Things to Do in Nearby Detroit!
• Best Christmas Towns to Visit This Holiday Season!

Alfred and Matilda's Honeymoon Inspiration!

Alfred and Matilda toured several stunning homes in England while on their honeymoon.  They fell in love with the style of these upscale homes and no doubt took lots of notes!  Inspired, the newly married couple quickly went to work designing their new home from their honeymoon influence!

Matilda Dodge Wilson Loved Home Design!

Oh, and Matilda didn't just sit back, she was involved in every detail including choosing everything from the switch plate covers to the types of wood she preferred.  Matilda loved art and design, so she was actively involved in decorating her home. 

Meadow Brook Hall Architecture and Interior Details

While touring Meadow Brook Hall, you will see why it is famous for fine craftsmanship, incredible architectural detailing and massive size!  The exterior of the Hall utilizes American materials of brick, sandstone, wood timbers and a roof of clay shingle tile.

• Did you know Meadow Brook has 39 uniquely designed brick chimneys? 

You will be surprised to know the home provided the Wilson family with every modern amenity available in the late 1920s.  Their home was fully electric with a central heating system, two elevators, three kitchens and a home theatre! 

As was popular during the 1920's if you were wealthy, couples had their own bedrooms and dressing rooms.  You will see this is true in their home too.  

Call the Doctor!

During the 1920's medical doctors frequently visited the homes of weathy sick patients. Meadow Brook Hall has a separate medical room just for this purpose!

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About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

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Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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Step Back in Time at Meadow Brook Hall

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Meadow Brook Hall is an impressive house in Rochester Michigan that showcases the wealthy lifestyle of car industry leaders in the early 20th century. When you visit this historic site at Oakland University, you’ll see what the rich lived like during America’s Gilded Age.

If you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for something different to do, Meadow Brook Hall has plenty to offer. Take a guided tour to learn about the details of the house and its interior design, and check out the special exhibits to find out more about the people who lived there.

When you visit Meadow Brook, it’s like traveling back in time to experience the luxury of the past!

History of Meadow Brook Hall

Meadow Brook Hall is a mix of history, luxury, and cultural importance. Exploring this place teaches you about one of the largest historic home museums in the United States. Also, you’ll get insight into the life and legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson and how she played a big part in creating this remarkable estate.

Matilda Dodge Wilson

Visiting Meadow Brook brings you closer to understanding the powerful influence that Matilda Dodge Wilson had during her life.

She was the rich widow of car pioneer John F. Dodge and used her money and power to turn the estate into a symbol of elegance and generosity. Her second marriage to Alfred G. Wilson led to a time of wealth and big ideas, which resulted in the estate growing and later becoming a center for culture and education.

Additionally, Matilda was heavily involved in the Salvation Army and the Boys and Girls Club, and she was even the first female Lieutenant Governor of Michigan. Perhaps most notably, though, Matilda is the co-founder of Oakland University.

Estate Construction

When the then-farmland was originally purchased by John Dodge, it was a full 320 acres (which he acquired for the whopping price of $50,000). Unfortunately, John would not live to see the now famed home built. Due to complications from an illness contracted while traveling, both John and his brother passed in 1920.

After John’s passing, Matilda and the couple’s three children left Michigan to spend the next few years in France. Tragedy befell the family once again when the youngest of the Dodge children, Anna Margaret, passed away from measles upon the return trip. A heartbroken Matilda sought refuge in the Presbyterian church and soon found love with a deacon there — lumber baron Alfred Wilson.

The two wed quickly in 1925 and would come back from their honeymoon and quickly embark on the construction of Meadow Brook Hall, which lasted from 1926 to 1929.

The house is massive at 88,000 square feet (making it the third-largest historic home in the nation) and has 110 rooms. It was more than just a home. It was a display of incredible craftsmanship and design from the era.

“I got so turned around simply trying to find the entrance that the (wonderfully courteous) woman manning the front desk came out into the courtyard to find me and put me on the right path. Though my sense of direction is, admittedly, worse than others, I can imagine I am not the first visitor to lose their way.” Hayley Serr, Awesome Mitten contributor

Design Features

If you’re interested in architecture, you’ll love the Tudor Revival style of the mansion, which was designed by Detroit firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls. The couple had very specific notions regarding the character and style of the estate and even had an architect accompany them on their honeymoon throughout Europe to take note of their favorite stylistic elements.

For this reason, the immense home has a very personal feel. One of the most notable features is the intricate wood carvings. Though ornate and lavish, the carvings are extremely unique.

In the game room, there are images of cards, billiards, and dice carved into the wall above the entrance. In Alfred’s study, the panels around the room depict stages in his life — from his childhood to college to his marriage to Matilda — all with a playful nature.

In the library, each wall features carvings of writers, artists, musicians, or philosophers that the family enjoyed. Plus, the nursery featured tiles depicting different nursery rhymes.

Lavish Features

The Wilsons threw lavish parties often, including a surprise 21st birthday party for Frances at which Frank Sinatra performed. And, it was not just the parties that displayed the luxury of the Wilson home. Matilda’s office was done in completely flawless pine, sets of sheets were woven through with 14-karat gold thread, and all guest rooms had circular silver safes.

Hidden Features

On special tours, you can see some of the hidden features throughout the mansion. For instance, Alfred, a notably shy man, had a secret staircase put in so that he would be able to sneak off from the hustle and bustle of the parties thrown by Matilda.

Likewise, Frances Dodge had a staircase to a private playroom above her bedroom, while Daniel Dodge had a ladder to his private playroom. Matilda and Alfred also adopted two children of their own — Richard and Barbara — though they didn’t benefit from being old enough to have private playrooms.

Things to Do at Meadow Brook Hall

The main thing to do at Meadow Brook Hall is tour the mansion and gardens. However, the property hosts numerous festivities and private events throughout the year.

Guided Tour Experiences

A tour of this estate will show you the elaborate design and history of one of the grandest homes in the nation. But there’s more to see than just the mansion.

The estate has 37 other buildings, beautiful gardens, and vast pastures that all tell the story of the Dodge and Wilson families. Practically every part of the estate is open for tours.

Starting with the House Tour, you will walk through the three main living levels of this National Historic Landmark. The architectural magnificence of each room tells part of the Dodge-Wilson family’s story.

The adjoining gardens are just as impressive, with well-manicured landscapes and hidden pathways that were once used by some of America’s most influential families.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour

If you want to see parts of the house that aren’t usually open to visitors, the Behind-the-Scenes Tour is for you. This special tour takes you to the servants’ quarters and other rarely seen areas, giving you a different view of the estate. You even get to see the China Vault, which houses vintage liquor from Prohibition.

Revealed Tour

For an even deeper experience, book the two-hour Revealed Tour — a combination of the House and Behind-the-Scenes tours. You get to see hidden spaces, including secret staircases, and much more on all four floors of the mansion.

Tours & Dining Packages

For a truly unique visit, consider booking one of the aforementioned tours with a catered meal. There’s no better setting in which to have a gourmet meal in Rochester Michigan!

Seasonal Events & Programs

Meadow Brook Hall hosts a variety of themed events throughout the year to show off the estate’s beauty in every season. Whether you’re interested in the blooming gardens of spring or the festive holiday decorations of winter, you’ll find special events designed to celebrate each season.

Meadow Brook in Bloom

In the spring, the gardens are full of color for the Meadow Brook in Bloom event. It usually happens in June and is a great chance to see the gardens at their best. The garden tours focus on the history and flowers of the gardens.

Winter Wonder Lights

During the holiday season, the property becomes a dazzling wonderland of lights. It’s a striking experience that allows you to engage in the beauty of winter.

Holiday Walk

From late November until almost Christmas, you can immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the annual Holiday Walk. It lets you see over 50 beautifully decorated trees, including a big Poinsettia tree made from 150 live plants. Each room is turned into a holiday scene for a magical experience.

On top of the holiday lights and decorations, guests can hear carols played over the famed Aeolian organ — the largest player organ in a residence, which boasts 4,600 pipes running throughout the house — and even visit with Santa Claus.

Meadow Brook Hall has been named one of the best holiday historic home tours in the USA.

OU Day & Nights

A longstanding holiday tradition, OU Night is an event where the Oakland University community can experience the estate for a special rate (upon showing university ID, of course). The Holiday Walk and Winter Wonder Lights events are open to the university students and staff, as well as their guests.

Museum Shop

Before you leave, consider taking a little bit of the estate with you. The museum store is open all year to purchase snacks and drinks, garden items, postcards, books, toys and games, apparel, and souvenirs and gifts. Discounts are available during the holidays.

Weddings & Private Events

Meadow Brook Hall offers a historic and fancy backdrop for weddings and private events. With a variety of elegant indoor and outdoor venues, you can choose the perfect setting that matches the scale and style of your celebration.

The sophisticated Ballroom is ideal for lavish receptions, catering to a large number of guests. If you prefer an intimate setting, smaller rooms — like the Garden Room or the Conservatory — are great choices for family gatherings and private dinners.

The estate’s grounds offer stunning outdoor venues that fuse historical grandeur with natural beauty. The Rock Garden and Garden Tent are ideal for large weddings and receptions because they can accommodate extensive guest lists. And, the manicured gardens are beautiful for dinners and unique cocktail hours.

Educational Programs

At Meadow Brook Hall, your curiosity about history and architecture can find a nurturing ground through educational outreach programs specifically designed to engage different age groups and learning interests.

The enriching youth programs immerse kids in hands-on historical experiences. They cater to various age levels and align with educational standards to create fun and informative outings.

The adult workshops focus on the estate’s history, architecture, and cultural trends of the eras that the estate has witnessed. These workshops can expand your understanding of local heritage and historical preservation.

More Tips About Visiting Meadow Brook Hall

Meadow Brook Hall welcomes you throughout the year with varying opening hours depending on the season, so we recommend double-checking those hours before your visit. You can purchase tickets for individual tours or opt for a membership for added benefits.

Accessibility

The mansion and grounds are committed to being accessible to all visitors. Ramps and elevators are available for those who need them, and you’re encouraged to contact the staff ahead of your visit if you have specific needs.

Volunteering Opportunities

At the core of Meadow Brook Hall are the volunteers who have generously given hundreds of thousands of hours of service to keep the estate open to the public. Gardeners, tour guides, and event workers are always welcome to get involved.

All volunteers get educational and training opportunities, a magazine subscription, community event discounts, and museum shop discounts.

FAQs About Meadow Brook Hall

What types of tours are available at meadow brook hall.

Meadow Brook Hall offers self-guided tours and group tours, as well as special event tours all year.

Can visitors take photographs while touring Meadow Brook Hall?

Yes, you can take photos at Meadow Brook Hall for personal use. Also, you can book a professional photo session on the grounds and in the gardens.

What are the options for hosting events at Meadow Brook Hall?

Meadow Brook Hall serves as a stunning venue for various events — from weddings to baby showers to corporate gatherings.

What is the historical significance of Meadow Brook Hall?

This hall is not only a National Historic Landmark but also the former residence of Matilda Dodge Wilson, an influential figure in the automobile industry. Its construction between 1926 and 1929 is a testament to the luxury of the early 20th century.

How many rooms does Meadow Brook Hall have and are they accessible during the tour?

Meadow Brook Hall boasts an impressive 110 rooms, and you have the chance to experience the luxuriousness of this estate, with many rooms accessible to visitors.

Create a Remarkable Memory at Meadow Brook Hall

When planning a visit to Rochester Michigan, Meadow Brook Hall offers a memorable experience steeped in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Tours provide insight into the automotive aristocracy and Tudor Revival architecture that make the estate stand out as one of the finest examples of America’s past.

Whether you’re immersing yourself in the richness of the property’s history or enjoying the stunning grounds and gardens, your visit to Meadow Brook Hall will be a highlight of your time in Rochester.

Thank you to Hayley Serr for her contributions to this article.

Tiffany Betts is a staff writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and playing board and video games — often combining the two.

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April 12 2014 | 10:00am to 12:00pm

Meadow Brook Hall was built during the country place era, a time when wealthy American industrialists pursued rural life in settings of great beauty. It represents one of the finest examples of Tudor-revival architecture in America and is especially renowned for its superb craftsmanship, architectural detailing and grand scale of 88,000 square feet. Inspired by the country manor homes in England, it was designed and built by the Detroit architectural firm of Smith, Hinchman and Grylls between 1926 and1929, at a cost of nearly $4 million.  Carefully preserved with original family furnishings and art, the 110-room mansion is elaborately detailed with carved wood and stone, ornate plaster ceilings, Tiffany stained glass, custom made hardware, and filled with fine and decorative art.

Tickets available to members only until March 21.

Detroit Historical Society member benefits include priority registration for all tours and programs. For information on becoming a member please call Alanna Shahly at 313.833.0158. Call Rebecca McDonald at 313.833.1801for more information.

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Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk 2024

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Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk 2024 info, review and pics. Enjoy a tour of Meadow Brook Mansion during the Christmas and Holiday season.

The annual holiday extravaganza begins on November 29 and runs through Friday, December 23, 2024. Listed below is dates, time and admission info for the walk in addition to info on Santa Claus visits and special events associated with the walk.

Experience the wonder of our more than 50 magnificent trees—including a 10-foot tall Poinsettia tree created by 150 live plants, dazzling trimmings, and lights galore.

The Meadow Brook Hall annual Holiday Walk explores the Dodge and Wilson families’ winter traditions and activities they enjoyed while living on the Meadow Brook Estate. Often referred to as one of America’s “castles”, the 110-room, 88,000-square-foot mansion is currently the fourth largest historic house museum in the United States.

OAKLAND COUNTY MOMS SANTA CLAUS FINDER BEST METRO DETROIT CHRISTMAS EVENTS METRO DETROIT HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAYS HOLIDAY ICE SKATING RINKS IN METRO DETROIT SANTA CLAUS MAILBOXES CHRISTMAS BREAK FUN NEW YEAR’S EVE FAMILY FUN EVENTS DOWNTOWN DETROIT HOLIDAY EVENTS & SHOWS

Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk Pics

Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk 2024 Hours & Admission Info

• Dates are from November 29, 2024 through December 23, 2024. These tours are self-guided and the hours from 11a-4p (until 8p on select nights)
• Admission is $21 for Adults, $8.50 for kids 3-12, FREE for OU students, $16 for active military and veterans. Purchase Tickets Here .
• KIDS CANDY ADVENTURE – TBA for 2024  – Throughout the Holiday Walk, kids of all ages can tour The Hall while looking for hidden sweets and treats along the way then collect their prize at the Candy Cane Cottage
• LETTERS TO SANTA – TBA for 2024  A mailbox to the North Pole will be set up in Danny’s Cabin throughout the Holiday Walk so kids can write their wish lists to Santa.

2024 Special Events / Santa Claus Visits – (reservations required) (subject to change)

• Meadow Brook Hall Santa Saturdays December 7, 14, & 21 from 10a-4p. $23.50 for adults and seniors, $11 for children ages 3-12, children age 5 and under are free. Visits to Santa, live reindeer visits, and a self-guided Hall tour are included in all ticket prices. Purchase Tickets Here
• Starlight Stroll on December 4, 2024 from 7-10p. Reservations required. Cost is $135 per person. Includes full bar, dancing, live entertainment, chef-attended food stations, self-guided tour, and valet parking. Call 248-364-6263 for more info. Purchase Tickets Here
• Holiday High Tea on December – 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19 from 12:30p-3:30p. enjoy traditional teas, savories and sweets served in the magnificent Christopher Wren Dining Room. Please call 248-364-6252 for more information. $80 per person. Call 248-364-6252 to be placed on a wait list if sold out. Purchase Tickets Here .
• Winter Wonder Lights – December 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19 with sessions beginning at 5:30p Daily. Adults $23 / Kids 3-12 are $13. Purchase Tickets Here .

Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk Pics / Video

Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk 2024 features

• The Fountain Room
• The China Vault
• Dining Room & Breakfast Room
• Alfred’s Study
• Morning Room
• Living Room
• Upper Great Hall
• Danny Dodge Wing – Bedroom and West Guest Room
• Frances Dodge Wing – Bedroom & Blue Guest Room
• French Room
• Adams Room – Barbara Wilson’s Bedroom
• Alfred Wilson’s Bedroom
• Italian Room
• Matilda Wilson’s Bedroom
• Matilda Wilson’s Dressing Room
• English Room
• Danny’s CabinKnole Cottage

Meadow Brook Hall 350 Estate Drive Rochester, Michigan 48309-4401 248-364-6200

Meadow Brook Hall is the historic home built by one of the automotive aristocracy’s most remarkable women, Matilda Dodge Wilson, widow of auto pioneer John Dodge, and her second husband, Alfred Wilson. Constructed between 1926 and 1929, Meadow Brook Hall represents one of the finest examples of Tudor-revival architecture in America, and is especially renowned for its superb craftsmanship, architectural detailing and grand scale of 88,000 square-feet. It was the center of a country estate that included 1,500 acres, numerous farm buildings, recreational facilities, several residences and formal gardens. For more info, see the official Meadow Brook Hall and Gardens website .

This Meadow Brook Hall Christmas Events page is intended to be used as a guide. Oakland County Moms does not endorse these events. Oakland County Moms is not responsible for changes to event descriptions, event times or details being altered without notice or cancellations.

See our  Events / Things To Do tab  for more events, activities and things to do in Oakland County and Metro Detroit Michigan.

November 30 and runs through December 23, 2024 Rochester Christmas Events –  Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk   Meadow Brook Hall and Gardens (480 South Adams Rd, Rochester, MI 48309) The  Meadow Brook Hall annual Holiday Walk is a self-guided tour that explores the Dodge and Wilson family’s winter traditions and activities they enjoyed while living on the Meadow Brook Estate. Hosted by  meadowbrookhall.org . Purchase Tickets Here . MORE INFO – PICS .

Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk is in its 53rd year.

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Let your lifetime of love begin here.

As a nationally recognized museum and cultural destination, Meadow Brook Hall was built for entertainment … and our lavish gardens, elegant architecture and dramatic two-story Gothic-inspired ballroom make it a stunning and unforgettable wedding venue. With versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, inspired cuisine and world-class service, we offer the perfect setting for ceremonies and receptions – of any size or style – throughout the year. So, whether you’re envisioning a fairy tale wedding, an enchanting garden celebration, or a glamorous ballroom reception, our full-service venue can seamlessly transition your dream to reality.

Learn more about Meadow Brook Hall weddings.

Custom Packages for Each Celebration

Choose from a variety of packages and spaces for each special moment. Our most popular options include:

Exclusive Evening Receptions Daytime Ceremonies Rehearsal Lunches and Dinners Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch Receptions Bridal Showers Vow Renewals Anniversary Parties

Wedding Features

Delight in the many noteworthy features of Meadow Brook Hall weddings and our award-winning service. Features include:

• Complimentary event coordinator and consultation services
• Three ceremony locations with a one-hour ceremony rehearsal
• Ceremony chairs
• Linen napkins, mid-length tablecloths, elegant China, flatware, glass stemware, and tables for the food and beverage service
• Setup and breakdown of all Meadow Brook equipment.

Elevated Cuisine

From the moment you take your first sip to the final bite, our in-house catering offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you enjoy timeless classics expertly prepared or innovative takes on current food trends, our inspired cuisine will elevate your event and make every meal memorable.

Evening Exclusive Wedding Features

Our exclusive rental guarantees privacy and intimacy, along with the complete focus of our staff. Evening exclusive rental includes the above items, as well as the following:

• Exclusive use of the grounds and estate with a guarantee of being the only event on the property
• Five-hour rental, beginning with your cocktail hour
• Complimentary tours of the historic mansion during cocktail hour for your guests
• Climate-controlled garden tent
• The ability to add on valet services
• The opportunity to attend the group wedding tasting
• A dressing area for the wedding party
• Microphone and speaker
• One hour photography session on the grounds with your photographer

Wedding Blog

Entertaining Spaces: The English Walled Garden & Rock Garden

Read More >

Now Booking Holiday Parties at Meadow Brook Hall

New Garden Tent a Modern, Elegant Setting for Weddings

350 Estate Drive Rochester, Michigan 48309-4481

(248) 364-6200

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