Today at Ford House
Hours and Locations
Tour Information
More About Visiting Ford House
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Events & Experiences
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- Holidays
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All Events
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Grounds Pass (2024 Dates)
8 a.m. to Sunset
Stroll through the grounds and gardens, marvel at the beautiful architecture, and soak in the open spaces and wooded areas, all at your own pace.
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House + Grounds Admission (2024 Dates)
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Explore the lakeside estate of Edsel and Eleanor Ford and their four children at your own pace in this exploration of the estate.
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Nooks & Crannies | Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour (Holiday Period)
Varies, see below
This unique guided tour takes you on a behind-the-scenes exploration of Ford House. These dates fall during the peak holiday season.
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Holiday Main Residence Guided Tour
Various Dates in November - December
Enjoy festive holiday decorations and learn about Ford family traditions during a tour of their historic home.
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Blood Drive
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Once a blood donor, always a lifesaver.
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Grounds Admission
8 a.m. to Sunset
Immerse yourself in the tranquility and charm of Ford House with our Grounds Admission, offering a chance to explore the estate’s breathtaking outdoor spaces and more.
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Main Residence Guided Tour
Varies by date
Join Ford House staff for a guided tour of the Main Residence, where you'll learn about the extraordinary lives of Edsel and Eleanor Ford, along with their children
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Nooks & Crannies | Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour
Varies, see below
This unique guided tour takes you on a behind-the-scenes exploration of Ford House.
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All About Eleanor Guided Tour
1 p.m.
On this tour you'll get to know Eleanor Ford and hear all about her extraordinary life!
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Storytime: The Snow Thief
10:30 a.m.
Join us every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. for Storytime at Ford House, a free program designed to inspire young imaginations! Perfect for children aged 7 and under, this weekly event features engaging children’s books read by our education team, paired with a fun, interactive activity inspired by the story.
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Trivia Night
6 p.m.
Get ready to show off your smarts! From history’s shortest Presidential term to the towering 6-foot-tall bird, it’s time to dive into trivia that’s as fun as it is challenging.
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Lecture: Rhythms of Resilience and Change with Rod Arroyo
7 p.m.
Join us for an insightful presentation by city planner and photographer Rod Arroyo, who has dedicated his research project to documenting the historical jazz clubs and Black-owned businesses that once thrived in Detroit’s Paradise Valley and Black Bottom neighborhoods.
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💘 Head Over Heels Guided Tour
1 p.m.
Step into the story of Eleanor and Edsel Ford’s remarkable partnership with a love-themed tour of the Main Residence. Discover the elegance of their entertainment wing, pause to admire treasured photos from their honeymoon, and reflect on a legacy shaped by their enduring bond.
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Storytime: Crocodiles Need Kisses Too
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Join us every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. for Storytime at Ford House, a free program designed to inspire young imaginations! Perfect for children aged 7 and under, this weekly event features engaging children’s books read by our education team, paired with a fun, interactive activity inspired by the story.
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Drop-In Studio: Valentine's Day
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for a heartwarming program where we come together to celebrate the love we share for family and friends. Create a special craft to take home — a beautiful heart to remind you of those you hold dear.
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Ford House After Dark
7:30 p.m.
Step into the allure of Ford House after dark for an exclusive, intimate evening—limited to no more than four couples, with a maximum of eight guests per session. Begin with a private sunset dinner at The Continental, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary drink as day fades to night.
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Cabaret Over the Cove: Valentine's Dinner & Live Performance
7 p.m.
Celebrate love in style this Valentine’s Day at Ford House with an unforgettable evening of elegance, romance, and music by White Pines string quartet.
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Family Workshop: Maple Tapping
10 a.m.
Sweeten your family’s day with an unforgettable experience at Family Workshop: Maple Tapping event. Step into the magic of maple syrup making as you learn hands-on how sap transforms into the syrup that tops your favorite breakfasts.
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Maple Syrup: Tapped, Shaken, and Served
Adult Experiences , Dining, Drinks, & Teas , Education , Lectures, Talks, & Demonstrations , Nature & Outdoors , Shopping
5:30 p.m.
Join us for a cozy winter outing that blends hands-on learning with a delicious maple twist. From identifying the perfect trees to witnessing the entire syrup-making process, you’ll get an insider’s look at how sap transforms into liquid gold.
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Design Through the Decades Guided Tour
1 p.m.
Enjoy a time-traveling experience through centuries of design styles at the Ford Family’s home. Immerse yourself in centuries of captivating design styles and discover the creative choices that shaped this residence over nearly five decades.
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Storytime: Outside My Window
10:30 a.m.
Join us every Tuesday at 10 a.m. for Storytime at Ford House, a free program designed to inspire young imaginations! Perfect for children aged 7 and under, this weekly event features engaging children’s books read by our education team, paired with a fun, interactive activity inspired by the story.
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Maker Studio: Reclaimed Wood Sign
Saturday, March 8 from 1 - 3 p.m.
Get ready to unleash your creativity at Ford House! Design and create your own reclaimed wood sign in this hands-on workshop.
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New Friends of Ford House Orientation
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Get ready for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes orientation designed just for you. As a new Friend, you’re now part of a special community, and this event is your first step toward unlocking all the amazing benefits of your Friendship.
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Once Upon a Tea: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Step into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland at Ford House's Once Upon a Tea: Mad Hatter’s Tea Party! Perfect for children and families, this tea party offers a relaxed, fun-filled twist on the traditional tea experience.
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Ballroom Dance: Bachata
6:30 p.m.
Take a step back in time and join us for a lively ballroom dance class inspired by Eleanor and Edsel Ford’s love story, which began at a dance class. This time, you’ll learn the vibrant and romantic Bachata!
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Coffee with Collections
10:30 a.m.
Step into history at Ford House with Coffee with Collections, an exclusive morning designed for those who appreciate the beauty of artifacts and untold stories.
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House + Grounds Admission
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Step into the world of Eleanor and Edsel Ford, where every detail of their estate reflects a passion for art, design, and innovation. From the stunning architecture and meticulously landscaped grounds to their remarkable collection of art and antiques, Ford House offers a glimpse into a life of refined creativity and thoughtful curation.
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Storytime: The Busy Tree
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Join us every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. for Storytime at Ford House, a free program designed to inspire young imaginations! Perfect for children aged 7 and under, this weekly event features engaging children’s books read by our education team, paired with a fun, interactive activity inspired by the story.
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Community Appreciation Day
10:00 am — 7:00 pm
Celebrate the vibrant community that makes Ford House special! Join us on Saturday, April 5, for Community Appreciation Day—a day to enjoy free admission and explore the beauty and history of our estate.
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Drop-In Studio: Earth Day
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for a fun, hands-on activity that celebrates our planet and the environment. Drop in and get creative with an eco-friendly art project, learn about sustainability, and explore simple ways to care for the Earth.
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Photos with the Easter Bunny
12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Hop into the spirit of Easter with an unforgettable photo session at Ford House! Bring your little ones and your own camera to capture cherished memories. Decorate an Easter egg drawing and grab a goody bag after your child's photo.
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Easter Brunch
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Celebrate Easter in style at Ford House with our luxurious Easter Brunch! Enjoy a delightful dining experience set against the backdrop of stunning waterfront views of Ford Cove and Lake St. Clair.
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Bird Walks
Education , Families & Children , Lectures, Talks, & Demonstrations , Nature & Outdoors , Sustainability
8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
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Native Plant Talk
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Learn the secrets of gardening with native plants in our comprehensive Native Plant Talk! This enriching program is a unique learning opportunity, guiding participants through every aspect of cultivating vibrant and sustainable gardens with indigenous flora.
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Preservation Guided Tour
Adult Experiences , Behind-the-Scenes , Friends of Ford House Featured Event , Preservation , Tours & Explorations
1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
This Friends-exclusive tour, offered in honor of Preservation Month under the National Register of Historic Places, invites you to witness firsthand the dedication to conserving Ford House’s legacy.
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Cabaret Over the Cove: Ben Sharkey
7 p.m.
Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of Detroit’s premier live entertainers, Ben Sharkey, as he brings his signature blend of old-school cool, contemporary jazz, soul, and pop to Ford House.
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Drop-In Studio: Flower Pots
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for a fun, hands-on activity that celebrates our planet and the environment. Drop in and get creative with an eco-friendly art project, learn about sustainability, and explore simple ways to care for the Earth.
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Mother's Day Brunch
Seatings at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Elevate your Mother's Day celebrations with an exclusive brunch experience at Ford House, courtesy of The Continental. Picture a day filled with love, laughter, and exquisite flavors crafted by our talented chefs.
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Botany & Brews
Behind-the-Scenes , Dining, Drinks, & Teas , Friends of Ford House Featured Event , Lectures, Talks, & Demonstrations , Nature & Outdoors
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
What's better than admiring and learning about the Ford House gardens while enjoying a cold beer or hot coffee? Don't miss this event!
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Bicknell Lecture: The Centennial of Ford Aviation
7:30 p.m.
This exciting lecture, co-sponsored by Ford House in celebration of Preservation Month, features Timothy J. O'Callaghan, who will present riveting insights from his book, The Aviation Legacy of Henry & Edsel Ford.
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Native Plant Sale
May 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Add new and interesting plants to your garden, stop by our Plant Sale!
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Eleanor's Birthday Tea and Tour
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Step into the world of Eleanor Ford and celebrate her birthday in timeless elegance at Ford House. This exclusive event invites you to experience the refined lifestyle of the Ford family with an indulgent tea service, followed by an intimate exploration of their historic home.
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Paint Out 🎨
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Dive into a day of artistic bliss at Ford House's Paint Out event! Unleash your creativity amidst 87 acres of picturesque landscapes featuring serene lake views, lush forests, historic architecture, and vibrant gardens.
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Fresh Paint Party
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join us in the Lake Shore Room, where the magic continues after Paint Out, for a festive Fresh Paint Party celebrating participating artists.
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Gather in the Garden: Dinner & Music
7 p.m.
Join us for an enchanting evening at Ford House's new outdoor dining experience, Gather in the Garden. Set in the lush beauty of the Formal Garden, this intimate multi-course dinner is a feast for the senses. Surrounded by seasonal blooms, twinkling lights, and the historic charm of Ford House, guests will savor a carefully curated menu crafted by our talented culinary team.
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Cocktails with Collections
Adult Experiences , Behind-the-Scenes , Dining, Drinks, & Teas , Friends of Ford House Featured Event , Lectures, Talks, & Demonstrations , Tours & Explorations
6 p.m.
During this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour you will learn about some of Collections team's favorite pieces and the history around them.
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Once Upon a Tea: Emerald City Tea Party
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Follow the yellow brick road to Ford House’s Once Upon a Tea: Emerald City Tea Party, an immersive children’s tea set in the beautifully themed Lake Shore Room. Overlooking the picturesque Ford Cove, this special tea party transports you to the magical Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz.
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Outdoor Summer Concert: Dancing Queen - An ABBA Salute
7 p.m.
Kick off Ford House’s 2025 Outdoor Summer Concert series with a spectacular night featuring Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute! Get ready for an energetic evening as the hits of ABBA fill the air, bringing the magic of one of the world’s most beloved bands to life. From “Mamma Mia” to “Dancing Queen,” this tribute band will have you singing and dancing along under the stars.
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Lake Fest
Education , Families & Children , Lectures, Talks, & Demonstrations , Nature & Outdoors , Sustainability
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Spend the day on the shores of Lake St. Clair as you enjoy Lake Fest,
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Shakespeare Stroll with Grosse Pointe Theatre
6 p.m.
Experience the magic of Shakespeare like never before with the Shakespeare Stroll, co-produced by Grosse Pointe Theatre and Ford House.
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Story Festival
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Calling all young bookworms, Story Festival is here! Join us for a delightful outdoor reading where imagination takes flight and the joy of reading comes alive.
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Outdoor Summer Concert: The Dave Hamilton Band
7 p.m.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of soul and rhythm as the Dave Hamilton Band returns to Ford House for our 2025 Outdoor Summer Concert series!
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Harvest Day
12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Kickstarting the season is Harvest Day! Donuts, market vendors, farm animals, and more!
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🔎 Murder Mystery Dinner
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Step into a scene straight out of a noir novel in the Lake Shore Room, where the view of Ford Cove is only matched by the intrigue of our murder mystery!
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Little Goblins 🍭
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Calling all Little Goblins! Enjoy trick-or-treating stops, photo ops, and a haunt-free wagon ride.
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Big Goblins
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Collect adult treats while evading shadowy characters lurking in the darkness as you embark on a haunting journey through our eerie trail. Satisfy your cravings at our bar and concession stands, where delicious food and drinks await. Gather around the bonfire for live entertainment to keep the chills and thrills coming.
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Cabaret Over the Cove: Julie Dilworth
7 p.m.
Experience an unforgettable evening of intimate, live music at Cabaret Over the Cove. Set in the elegant Lake Shore Room on the second floor of the Visitor Center, this concert series offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere with stunning views of Ford Cove.
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Cookies with Santa
Varies by date
Santa will make his annual stop at Ford House to visit your children! This year, children will meet Santa by the fireplace in the lakeside St. Clair Room!
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Brunch with Santa
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Start your day with a touch of holiday magic! Enjoy a delicious hot breakfast buffet and watch your little ones light up with excitement as they share their holiday wishes with Santa.
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Holiday Tea and Tour
11 a.m.
Celebrate the season with a tea experience steeped in holiday magic! Indulge in a three-tiered service featuring festive finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, decadent desserts, and a curated selection of teas sure to delight your senses.
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Cabaret Over the Cove: Yule Be Singing!
7 p.m.
Get into the holiday spirit at Cabaret Over the Cove: Yule Be Singing!, an intimate Christmas cabaret experience with Vanessa Carr and band. Set against the stunning backdrop of Ford Cove, this festive event will take place in the cozy, lakeside Lake Shore Room on the second floor of the Visitor Center.
