Today serving as an intriguing museum, the President Benjamin Harrison Home is a majestic redbrick mansion built in 1875. It is the home where its namesake president lived and went about his pioneering Front Porch Campaign, drawing crowds to listen to his speeches. Admire the Italianate façade of the building, surrounded by elegant terraces and balconies.
Start your visit in the Welcome Center of the red barn at the back of the house. Take the 75-minute tour of the interior to appreciate the Victorian period décor of the rooms, fitted as they were during the president’s time in the house. Chat with a docent about the former president as you explore the three floors of his house.
Check out the many artifacts that belonged to Harrison. The collection of his personal items includes paintings, old furniture and hundreds of books. Study the various archives and notes of the politician, who served as president of the United States from 1889 to 1893 and remains the country’s only top leader from Indiana.
Attend a play performed by the Candlelight Theatre in different spots in and around the house. Explore the gardens for their colorful floral displays, shrubs and perennials. Purchase souvenirs in the gift shop.
Note that Benjamin Harrison died in his second-story bedroom in this late 19th-century house. Electricity and the notable front porch were added later.
The site is open to the public daily from morning until late afternoon, starting a little later on Sundays. Tours have a fee, with discounts available for military personnel, veterans, seniors, kids and students. Bring your toddlers for free.
The President Benjamin Harrison Home is in the heart of the Old Northside district, in the northern part of Indianapolis. Walk north from the center of the Mile Square zone for less than half an hour to reach the house.
While in this part of the city, visit nearby sights, including the Harrison Center for the Arts and the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral.
