If you’re looking for some festive fun in Ohio this year and are near Akron, consider Deck The Hall at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. This historic mansion is open for tours year round but is decorated to the hilt for a special Christmas event that runs through December.

I went for the first time last year and enjoyed it immensely. 

The home was built by F. A. Seiberling, co-founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. He and his wife Gertrude built the home which was completed in 1915. The Tudor revival manor house is 64,500 square feet and has 65 rooms. The estate has five historic buildings and ten restored historic gardens across seventy acres. It is massive and gorgeous. 

I arrived well before dusk so I could tour the manor house before it got too busy. The self guided tour at that point was already well populated so I was glad I didn’t wait. In fact, there were places where it felt like guests were expected to just keep moving in an endless line rather than stop and study the surroundings. I would like to redo that house tour on a less busy day.

All the same, I enjoyed the experience with the gorgeous decorations and Christmas music to set the mood. 

Outside, Christmas lights of all colors glowed bright against the dark December sky. There’s a conservatory to explore as well as a good gift shop and places to enjoy snacks. I had a cup of hot chocolate and a delicious cookie that night as I walked the property and stopped here and there to enjoy some of the more unusual displays. Santa visited with children and there were other holiday things to see and do that night. 

This event does sell out so it’s important to get your tickets in advance. One more thing. It was impressive to see how ready Stan Hywet was for the crowd. Every employee and volunteer seemed extremely well trained, courteous, friendly and excited for every guest to have a good experience. In a world where customer service is lacking in some areas, it was delightful to experience such good service. I think it’s important to give credit to these folks for a job well done. 

Want to go? Click here to visit their website. Also, visit Make the Journey Fun on Facebook for more pictures!