Gore Place - Waltham, Massachusetts

happylioneatsprey

This is an exquisite example of what dedicated volunteers and generous donors can accomplish together to preserve an early country estate in Eastern Massachusetts. Gore Place was the residence of an early governor, Christopher, and his wife, Rebecca, which was fortunately saved and painstakingly restored since the 1930s.
The interior is an ongoing labor of love to transform it back to what Christopher and Rebecca would recognize. The grounds are a wonderful place to walk for free and there is a parking lot for visitors. There is a small farm in the back of the property, which brings a sense of rural life to what is now a city.
Tours are available on the weekends and last approximately 45 minutes. Our guide, Stu, was knowledgeable, personable, funny, and held our imagination with his stories during our visit. He also answered all our questions without hesitation, which made the experience more personalized. The most intriguing aspect was how progressive the Gores were when the story of Robert Roberts is shared as you stand in his former bedroom. I won't spoil the surprise because you'll learn about him on the tour, but I'm going to order a copy of his book to glean insight into this enigmatic figure.
I highly recommend visiting Gore Place for a tour, an event such as their annual Sheep Shearing Festival, or to embrace the unwavering dedication of those who contribute to its longevity.

Joe W.

A beautiful place to relax and have a picnic. Very quiet and there's plenty of parking. Although, we did need to park on the designated grass area.

Achille B.

I and two friends traveled from Maine to a Seminar on Metz and Orient Automobiles made in Waltham , Massachusetts. It was a very fun and educational event held on beautiful grounds. Very knowledgeable and friendly Docents who cheerfully and thoughtfully answered Our questions. Our Seminar was held in a beautiful restored Carriage House from the 1790s. There is a small Playground for Children on the Grounds, and a Brick Mansion that unfortunately we didn’t have the time to visit ( hopefully will someday). Another must visit is the Waltham Industrial Museum located not far from Gore Place. Very interesting local history, and well and thoughtfully displayed. A large Car Show was also held on the grounds that we unfortunately didn’t have time to attend, but certainly hope to next year!

Alex K.

Nice grounds to walk around and explore. Story walk and the stumpy play area on the north side are good kid activities. There is also a nice path that follows a creek all the way around from the north east corner (near where story walk ends) south back to the road near entrance by the farm house. Good creek for kid to throw twigs in and following them.

Ohh, and there are sheep! There used to be more animals but they are building a new barn soon. We can't wait for the chickens and pigs to return. For now we enjoy watching the building (and construction vehicles).

Stewart W.

One of our favorite place for a walk on Sunday morning. Gore Place is 50 acres of green space in the heart of the city of Waltham. A hidden treasure. It includes Governor Gore’s historic mansion/museum and working farm. The ground are also a great venue for corporate events or a wedding under the tent or in the carriage house. Support this important non-profit organization by becoming a individual or family member. Gore Place host their annual Sheep Shearing festival ever April which is a event not to be missed.

Chris K. (.

We were invited here for a wedding. The food is average, the area is ok, the service for the cocktail hour was rather slow, so much so, that when a waiter for come out with ordevres, the guests would almost look like they were attacking them so the dish was almost empty by the time the waiter moved away from the entrance. In order to get any food we had to move our party to stand near the entrance.

What is good is that it is closer than where we had our wedding on nashoba, so it was ready to get home after, but I still prefer our venue for the sights and the service.

They do have ample parking.

nancy E.

I love going to this local history spot for their various events and tours. Even when there are not events or tours scheduled it is worth to have a walk around the lovely estate grounds. There's so many wonderful happenings to attend and ways to connect with the community as well as the communities of the past.

Alexandra L.

Came here for the sheep shearing festival and it was really fun!! Lots of good artists food and family food. I would definitely recommend.