Explore upstairs and downstairs life in St. Paul’s largest house
Built for railroad titan James J. Hill, this 36,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion was once the largest private residence in the state. With 13 bathrooms, 22 fireplaces, 16 chandeliers, a reception hall nearly 100 feet long, sophisticated technical systems, and a two-story, skylit art gallery, the house was a symbol of success, personal taste, and family life.
Admission
Adults: $15
Seniors (65+), Veterans, Active military, College students: $12
Children ages 5-17: $8
Children age 4 and under: Free
MNHS members: Free
Blue Star Families (Armed Forces Day–Labor Day): Free (On-site only)
Museums for All (Free Admission)
Museums on Us
Getting here
240 Summit Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
hillhouse@mnhs.org
651-297-2555
Free parking is available on Summit Avenue and adjacent streets.
Guided house tours
Thursday–Sunday, January–November
(No tours Monday through Wednesday)
Learn about James J. Hill’s influence on the region and about his network of family members, servants, workers, and guests. Marvel at the impressive house details such as chandeliers, stained glass, and hand-carved woodwork sprawled throughout the home. Admission includes self-guided access to the first floor of the mansion and a 60-minute guided tour of the entire house. Last tour is at 3:30 pm.
Holidays on the Hill
December
For the 2024 season, member presale starts Nov 1 and sales open to the general public on Nov 8.
Experience Christmas in 1910—both upstairs and downstairs—in the sumptuous Gilded Age mansion of railroad titan James J. Hill.
Admission includes self-guided access to holiday-themed exhibits and a 60-minute guided tour highlighting holiday stories and memories from both the Hill family and their staff.
Tours start every half hour based on availability throughout the season. The last tour begins at 3:30 pm.
Upcoming events
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-Experience Christmas, 1910—both upstairs and downstairs—in the sumptuous Gilded Age mansion of railroad titan James J. Hill. -
Please check the seasonal hours for each site at mnhs.org/visit.
Free Admission Days are great opportunities to visit historic sites and museums at no cost to you.