Lexington: Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket With Guided Tour

Lexington’s Ashland Henry Clay Estate offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the life of a prominent Kentucky statesman. Through guided tours, guests can explore the estate’s 18-room Italianate mansion and picturesque grounds, learning about Henry Clay’s influential role in shaping the nation’s history. With a range of tour options, from the Signature Tour to the Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour, visitors can tailor their experience to their interests and gain a deeper understanding of the estate’s diverse legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a enriching cultural experience, the Ashland Henry Clay Estate promises to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Guided Tours In Lexington.

Key Points

1. The Ashland Henry Clay Estate in Lexington, Kentucky offers a variety of guided tour options, including the Signature Tour, Women’s Voices Tour, and Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour.

2. The Signature Tour is a comprehensive 1-hour exploration of the 18-room Italianate-style mansion and grounds, providing insights into Henry Clay’s legacy and the estate’s significance in American history.

3. The Women’s Voices Tour focuses on the stories of nine influential women who shaped Ashland’s history, including Henry Clay’s wife and enslaved women, offering a deeper understanding of diverse experiences.

4. The Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour uncovers the hidden stories of enslaved individuals at the estate, exploring the complex history and ethical dilemmas surrounding slavery.

5. Visitors can opt for a Combo Tour, which combines the Signature Tour with either the Women’s Voices or Traces tour, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience at the Ashland Henry Clay Estate.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

Visitors to Ashland, the historic estate of Kentucky statesman Henry Clay, can choose from a variety of tour options to explore the property.

The Signature Tour offers a 1-hour narrated walkthrough of the mansion and grounds, while the Women’s Voices Tour and Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour focus on specific themes.

An Art & Grounds Tour combines history, art, and nature, and a Combo Tour includes the Signature Tour plus either the Women’s Voices or Traces tour.

Tours generally last 50 minutes to 1 hour and are led by live guides in English.

Admission starts at $25 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Highlights

Exploring Ashland, visitors can marvel at the 18-room Italianate-style mansion and its stunning grounds. Guests will learn about Henry Clay’s legacy, American history, and the impact of slavery.

The tour features artifacts related to Clay’s life as a horse-breeder and farmer. Visitors can choose from various themed tours, including the Women’s Voices Tour, which focuses on nine influential women at Ashland, and the Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour, which explores the stories of enslaved individuals.

The Art & Grounds Tour combines history, art, and nature with a focus on agriculture. The Combo Tour offers a combination of the Signature Tour plus either the Women’s Voices or Traces tour.

Signature Tour

The Signature Tour offers a comprehensive 1-hour narrated exploration of Ashland’s 18-room Italianate-style mansion and its captivating grounds.

Visitors will learn about Henry Clay’s legacy as a prominent Kentucky statesman, delving into the history and impact of his life.

The tour provides access to various exhibits, allowing guests to marvel at artifacts related to Clay’s diverse interests, including his roles as a horse-breeder and farmer.

With a knowledgeable live guide leading the way, the Signature Tour delivers an immersive experience that illuminates Ashland’s significance in American history and showcases the estate’s architectural and natural beauty.

Women’s Voices Tour

At Ashland, the Women’s Voices Tour shines a spotlight on nine influential women whose roles and contributions shaped the estate’s rich history.

From Henry Clay’s wife, Lucretia, to the enslaved women who tended the grounds, this tour offers a unique perspective on the women who lived, worked, and thrived at Ashland.

Guests will learn about the social norms and expectations of the 19th century, and how these remarkable women navigated their world.

With a focus on their stories and legacies, the Women’s Voices Tour provides a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences that unfolded within Ashland’s walls.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour

The Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour invites guests to uncover the hidden stories of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on Henry Clay’s estate.

This in-depth exploration delves into the experiences of the enslaved, shedding light on the complex history of Ashland.

The tour features:

1. Indoor and outdoor components, providing a multifaceted perspective.
2. Detailed narratives that give voice to the enslaved, humanizing their struggles and contributions.
3. Thought-provoking discussions on the impact of slavery and its enduring legacy.
4. Opportunities to reflect on the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities surrounding this chapter of American history.

This captivating tour offers a profound and insightful experience, inviting visitors to confront the past and gain a deeper understanding of the human stories that shaped Ashland.

Art & Grounds Tour

Ashland’s Art & Grounds Tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the estate’s rich artistic heritage and picturesque natural landscapes.

This unique tour combines the history, art, and agriculture of the estate, allowing guests to enjoy the interplay between Henry Clay’s legacy and the estate’s natural beauty. Guests will marvel at the mansion’s Italianate architecture and discover fascinating artifacts related to Clay’s life as a horse-breeder and farmer.

The tour also highlights the estate’s impressive gardens and grounds, showcasing the intersection of art, nature, and agriculture.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or nature lover, the Art & Grounds Tour provides a well-rounded and engaging experience at the Ashland estate.

Combo Tour

For visitors seeking a comprehensive Ashland experience, the Combo Tour provides an exceptional opportunity. This tour combines the Signature Tour with either the Women’s Voices Tour or the Traces: Slavery at Ashland Tour, depending on the day.

The Combo Tour offers:

1. A captivating 1-hour narrated exploration of the 18-room Italianate-style mansion.
2. Immersion in the stories of influential women who shaped the estate’s history.
3. Illumination of the experiences and contributions of enslaved individuals at Ashland.
4. Access to the beautiful gardens and exhibits, providing a well-rounded understanding of this historic site.

The Combo Tour allows visitors to delve deeply into the multifaceted legacy of Ashland and Henry Clay, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking a comprehensive and enriching experience.

Visitor Information

Visitors can find Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate located at 120 Sycamore Rd, Lexington, KY 40502, which serves as the meeting point for all tour options.

Guests should present their tour voucher at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

While on the grounds, certain items aren’t permitted, including food, drinks, flash photography, video recording, and weapons.

The tour experience is designed to be informative and engaging, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the history and legacy of Henry Clay without distractions.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early and plan their visit accordingly to make the most of their time at the estate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, food and drinks are not allowed on the Ashland tour. According to the visitor information, visitors are not permitted to bring food, drinks, or other prohibited items like weapons.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The Ashland estate tours are wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the guided tours of the 18-room mansion and grounds. Advance notice is recommended to ensure the best experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers who cancel within 24 hours or don’t show up will not receive a refund.

Are There Any Discounts Available?

There are no specific discounts mentioned, but visitors can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. The standard admission starts at $25.00 per person, which may be subject to change.

How Do I Redeem My Digital Ticket?

To redeem the digital ticket, the visitor should present the voucher to the staff at the Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate 15 minutes before the scheduled tour. The staff will check them in and provide access to the tour.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating history of the Ashland Henry Clay Estate. Explore the renowned statesman’s Italianate mansion and scenic grounds through guided tours that offer insights into diverse perspectives, from the estate’s prominent figures to its complex legacy of slavery. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the rich tapestry of Lexington’s past.

You can check if your dates are available here: