parkwood national historic site

I visited this estate as a guest at a convention held on the grounds in 1994 and toured the house, vowing I would return and bring my wife to see it. I could hear her eyes roll every time I brought up going; she not being 'into' things older than herself!Well, it finally happened! ... and My Lady was awe-struck! She couldn't believe the splendor and questions to our docent tumbled from her in a steady stream! (see title of this review!)We made a spring-break day-trip down from Burlington, stopping first at the Cdn Automotive Museum downtown and then on to Parkwood. The facility is breathtaking in its concept and adornment at the hands of the man who headed General Motors Canada for so many years, living there until he passed away at 101 in 1972. The decor and finishing details of the house are stunning for the time and the technology buried in the walls showed Sam McL. was ahead of his time and very forward-thinking. We will return in the summer months when the gardens will be in bloom, cared for by Durham College students. This is a must-see. Unfortunately, pictures are now allowed inside. Though no admission fees are posted on their site, we gladly paid the requested $20/couple for our guided tour, led by a volunteer docent. Give yourself a good hour or more here. It's 55 rooms and only about half the house is on view, the rest closed or in use as office space. You won't be disappointed.

I have visited parkwood on 4 occasions over the years and have been amazed at this home every time. Seeing how people lived so many years ago in this very elegant home is an experience everyone should have. I have fun watching movies and knowing that Parkwood was used for some of the scenes, even Xmen lol.

I've been to Parkwood numerous times and as I enjoy history it was a wonderful time. I am looking forward to the Tea House re-opening this (2015) spring /summer. I am sure it will just enhance "the experience".

History is preserved here, General Motors purchased this man company, today the Buick car is one of the finest automobiles made in north America, very popular in places like China today,We live 4 blocks from its location and very proud of it,Today is run by volunteers,Enjoy,P.E. Mercado, C.E.T.

I love going through the house and seeing the bowling alley, barbershop, bowling alley and indoor pool. The house iis a step back in time with many beautiful things to look at. On the summer weekends there are many wedding parties getting pictures taken around the gardens. If you like old estates and local history..worth a visit.

Parkwood Estate showcases life in its' historic setting. The gardens are truly magnificent, and the house tour is eye opening. No charge for the grounds

Park wood is a historic mansion with the most beautiful grounds and gardens arounds. Great place for wedding pics!!

I live in Oshawa & have had the pleasure of touring Parkwood a few times. In the spring & summer the grounds offer a lovely place to walk & relax. Having tea in the outside garden is a real treat. I did that with a friend & our mothers for Mothers Day. Mr. McLaughlin was way ahead of his time when you learn of all the "gadgets" his manor has too offer. The things he did for his community are to be commended.

Very pretty grounds and also very nice building. Get the tour if you have the time, it's very interesting to take a walkthrough.

We're glad you enjoyed Parkwood through the lens! You're quite right, the Dupont estates Winterthur, Nemours and Longwood are sensational (even a little mind-boggling). We are jealous of their huge budgets and staff!Just one small correction if we may: there is no charge for anyone to stroll Parkwood's gardens whether resident or visitor. We ask only that you spread the word - as you did. Thanks!

We love to walk around the grounds and it is nice that it is free. The tour of the building is also nice, but you can just spend a good hour strolling the estate. The tea house is a bit expensive for what it is, but it is nice ambiance. It is also fun watching all the bridal parties when they are there taking photos.

Just love touring this place. I have been MANY times. Always see something I missed the time before. The grounds are gorgeous! Lots of info too! Great local attraction.

Tour, suitable for older kids with family - Historical - enjoyed! On another occasion, my son and his wife had their wedding photos taken there. Grounds impeccably kept!

Great historical Estate with very impressive gardens. Great for wedding Photography. Many movies have been filmed here. Highly recommend

Very interesting. Who do you know that had their own barber shop and bowling alley. Lots of things from a era long gone. The gardens are also interesting to see.