About Ford House
About Ford House
Ford House is the historic lakeside estate of Eleanor and Edsel Ford, located in Grosse Pointe Shores along the shores of Lake St. Clair. Built in 1928, this National Historic Landmark was designed to be a place of family, creativity, community, and connection. It served as the beloved home where Eleanor and Edsel Ford raised their children — Henry II, Benson, Josephine, and William Clay — hosted artists and innovators, and nurtured their shared love of design, nature, and culture.
After Eleanor Ford’s passing, she ensured the estate would be preserved and shared with the public. Today, Ford House invites visitors from across Michigan and around the world to experience the beauty of this historic estate and uncover a distinctive chapter in the American automotive story.
The 87-acre estate includes the ivy-covered Main Residence, historic outbuildings, sweeping gardens, and a modern Visitor Center featuring exhibitions, dining, shopping, and spaces for special events. Open year-round, Ford House offers guided tours, seasonal events, educational programs, private rentals, and scenic grounds walks, welcoming guests of all ages to explore, learn, and be inspired.
Our Mission
Honoring Eleanor Ford’s wish that her home benefit the public, we steward the family’s
estate and open it as a place to experience history, culture, and connection.
Our Core Values
Ford House is guided by four values that reflect Eleanor and Edsel Ford’s way of life and continue to shape our work today:
Love
Ford House was a family home filled with love, joy, and stories. Telling those stories is the core of what we do. Whether a visitor’s love is nature, art, history, or design, there's a place for them here.
Equity
Ford House is a place where everyone should feel a sense of belonging. We are intentional in prioritizing equity in the stories we tell, the audiences we serve, and the partnerships we build.
Joy
Though a woman of great influence, Eleanor was lots of fun. Even as Ford House talks about important subjects, we refuse to take ourselves too seriously. This estate bears witness to generations of joy and play. Visitors should laugh here. Our team should laugh here.
COMMUNITY
As an extension of the Fords’ philanthropic efforts at the local and national levels, Ford House has spent many years supporting and serving the community on various levels. We invite others to do the same in support of the estate.
Our Commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility
Guided by Eleanor’s and Edsel’s shared love of Detroit and its people, art, culture, and the greater good, Ford House is committed to serving the public. Everyone is welcome. We believe that inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility are essential to honoring that legacy and ensuring Ford House remains a place where all people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Visitor Questions
We want your experience at Ford House to be easy, memorable, and meaningful. Here are answers to some of the most common questions prospective guests ask:
What can I do when I visit Ford House?
Guests can explore the beautifully preserved Main Residence, stroll the lush gardens and lakeside grounds, enjoy exhibits in the Visitor Center, dine at The Continental, shop at our museum store, or attend one of our many seasonal and signature events.
How do I buy tickets or become a Friend of Ford House?
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Visitor Center. Friends of Ford House enjoy early access to ticket sales, discounts, and exclusive member events.
Is Ford House family-friendly?
Yes! We offer programming for all ages—from storytime for toddlers and STEAM-focused learning for kids to walking tours, concerts, teas, and trivia nights. Children are welcome at most events unless otherwise noted.
Is the estate accessible?
We strive to make Ford House welcoming to all. The Visitor Center and many paths are wheelchair accessible, and we offer limited mobility parking and rest areas. For specific accommodations, please visit our Accessibility page or contact Guest Services.
Why does the Ford family matter today?
Eleanor and Edsel Ford shaped the culture of Detroit, not just through industry, but through their deep support for the arts, design, and community wellbeing. Their legacy continues through the estate’s mission of connection, creativity, and care.
Explore our FAQs or reach out with any questions you may have!
A Brief History of Gaukler Pointe
Ford House recognizes the indigenous people who once made this land home.
Awards & Recognition
Ford House is incredibly proud of the awards and recognition we’ve received over the last several years.
Contact
Have a question. Reach out to our staff.
Employment
Join our team!
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility
In honoring the directives Eleanor Ford provided in her will while working to meet the needs of contemporary audiences, Ford House upholds and inspires the institutional values of equity, playfulness, and philanthropy.
Material Culture
At Ford House, Material Culture preserves and maintains the tangible history of the estate. Focused on the artifacts and art within the house and other buildings, Material Culture undertakes a range of responsibilities to ensure the ongoing care of the family’s collections and historic spaces.
Moss the Goose Dog
Get to know Moss. On any given day, you’ll see Moss chasing away the Canada geese, ensuring our grounds are pristine for visitors.
Sustainability
Ford House actively works to ensure the environment is protected and operates using sustainable efforts. Learn more!
Friends of Ford House
Joining Has Its Perks!
An annual Friends of Ford House membership is a great way to enjoy all that Ford House has to offer! Enjoy discounted tickets, pre-sale access, exclusive events, discounts on dining and shopping, and more.
