Tours
Please allow an hour and a half for your visit. The complete tour includes a 12-minute introductory film, a 30-minute guest-driven, sensory-rich tour of the historic house museum, and time spent experiencing the Studio’s four gallery spaces.
Guests can explore the restored gardens and grounds on their own.
Tours run continuously throughout the day. The last house tour is 3:30 pm on weekdays and 4:30 pm on the weekend.
Group Visits
Whether your interest is art, antiques, history, gardens or just a day’s outing, our site appeals to many people. Our group tours are led by trained, knowledgeable docents. Tours include visits to Gari Melchers’ studio, three galleries of artwork, and the historic house museum.
Groups should allow 2 hours for their visit. This gives time to organize your group, visit the restroom facilities and view True and Clear, a short introductory film about Gari Melchers and his career. This also includes time to browse our museum shop after your tour. Your group will be divided into smaller groups, so all can enjoy their visit.
Scheduling
- Minimum of 10 people, not including the tour leader and bus driver (special arrangements can be made for groups larger than 50)
- 21 day advance registration required, with confirmation of date and final number due 7 days in advance
Cost
$12 per person (minimum 10); Tour leader and bus driver free
Note: Membership passes, free passes or other discount coupons are not valid for group tours.
Add-On Activities
GARDEN TOUR: This special tour of the restored gardens and grounds is $5 extra per person. Please allow an additional 45 minutes for this outdoor walking tour.
LUNCH: Group tours can enjoy lunch onsite. The Studio Pavilion can accommodate 15-120 people, with beautiful garden views. Dining selections include a Family Style Tea Party, a Healthy and Light served option, a Soup and Sandwich Buffet, or a Boxed Lunch for $16-$30 per person. Minimum 15. We cannot guarantee lunch availability until 30 days before your tour.
To book your next group tour, please contact Buffy Knappenberger at 540/654-1843. Youth field trips are also available.