Ticket Policies
Refund and Exchange Policy
Ticket sales are non-refundable. A request to transfer the value of unused tickets into a tax-deductible contribution in support of Brucemore’s mission may be made up to 24 hours prior to the program or to exchange the value of the tickets to a different date or time of the same program, subject to availability. Other policies may vary.
Inclement Weather Policy
Tours and events may be canceled if weather or other conditions could jeopardize the safety of anyone involved. Outdoor programs may be held in a light rain or be delayed to allow inclement weather to pass. News related to canceled programs will be posted on the website.
If Brucemore cancels the program before it begins or before intermission (as applicable), guests may have options to exchange tickets for another offering of the same event (pending availability). Tickets are non-refundable, however, the ticket value may be credited as a tax-deductible contribution to Brucemore within seven days. Policies may vary with partner events.
Photo Policy
Visitors to Brucemore are welcome to take candid photographs of the grounds and buildings for their souvenir purposes. During tours, tripods, selfie-sticks, and other photography equipment are not permitted. Personal photography should not interfere with other visitors’ experience.
Professional photography is not permitted on the estate or in the buildings. As such, the following are considered violations of the photography policy:
- Professional photography for private use: weddings, portraits, senior pictures, or any other personal use.
- Professional photography resulting in images of Brucemore for sale.
- Professional photography when the fee is waived or the service provided is “pro bono” for a client.
- Non-professional photography resulting in publication of photos in yearbooks, newspapers, websites, or any other form of print or electronic media.
Visitor FAQs
Do I need to make an appointment to tour the mansion?
You must have a ticket to a tour or program inside the mansion. Walk-up tickets may be purchased at the front entrance of the mansion, subject to availability. Many tours do sell out in advance; purchase online or by calling 319-362-7375 in advance of your visit to guarantee your spot. See the schedule here.
Is the mansion wheelchair accessible?
The mansion is not wheelchair accessible. There are several stairs to access the first floor, and several flights of stairs to see the other floors. Most of the outdoor areas of the site are accessible. See our full accessibility information and contact us with additional questions regarding your visit.
Can I walk on the property?
Yes, the grounds and gardens are open daily most of the year. Several self-guided interpretive panels are available. See hours here.
What is Brucemore’s ticket policy?
Tickets are non-refundable, but may be rescheduled for comparable programs as space allows. Learn more.
I’m attending a large event at Brucemore. Where do I park?
Large events may require you to park offsite. Please read the event details on the calendar for specific information for each event.
Are weapons allowed at Brucemore?
We prohibit weapons on the property and at programs to ensure the safety and security of all employees and people visiting Brucemore.
Tour FAQs
General
Do I need to pay to enter the estate and walk on the grounds?
No. Visiting the Brucemore estate during grounds hours is free. Tickets are only required for scheduled tours and events, and they can be purchased in advance online.
Is a reservation needed to visit Brucemore?
You do not need a reservation to visit the grounds on your own. You do need a ticket to go inside the mansion. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance online or by calling 319-362-7375 for any of our mansion tours or other scheduled special themed tours due to limited capacity. Please visit our calendar to see upcoming opportunities and to purchase your tickets.
Touring the Mansion
Can I take pictures inside the mansion?
Yes. Photography is allowed during tours for personal, non-professional use. Tripods, selfie-sticks, or other photography equipment will not be permitted. Photographs should not distract from others’ enjoyment.
How large is the mansion?
Brucemore is approximately 15,000 square feet.
How many fireplaces, rooms, and floors does Brucemore have?
There are 21 “main” rooms, 14 fireplaces and four floors plus an attic.
Is all of the furniture original to the house and families?
Much of the furniture you will see on display belonged to the second or third families to live at Brucemore; however, some pieces had to be replaced with replicas or similar antiques.
Is the mansion handicap accessible?
The Brucemore mansion includes multiple floors and several staircases. Because of the historic architecture, some spaces are not accessible. Due to preservation work, the wheelchair lift that offers accessibility to the first floor is not available at this time. An elevator is not available from the first floor to the other floors at any time. Learn more about accessibility at Brucemore.
Group and School Tours
Is there an age requirement for students visiting Brucemore?
You do not have to be a certain age to visit or attend a program at Brucemore. Different programs are best suited for different ages. Tours of the mansion are recommended for 4th grade students and older.
Where do we park?
Parking is available on site a short walk from the mansion or carriage house. Buses must follow special instructions. Large events may not be able to accommodate on-site parking; please see the event calendar information for exceptions.
Is bus parking available?
Yes. Bus parking is available near the carriage house. Buses must arrive via special directions as they are unable to fit in our historic gates.
Is there a lunch area at Brucemore?
There are a couple of small picnic tables in the orchard and Adirondack chairs in pairs across the property to utilize during the warmer months. You are also welcome to bring your own blanket or chair to picnic on the grounds. Please carry out any trash to help our small staff keep the grounds beautiful.
Does my group have to arrive together?
Your group does not have to arrive together, however, parking on site is limited.
What is your payment policy?
Brucemore admission for group tours is often requested to be paid prior to the visit and a deposit may be required. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card and should be paid in one sum.