Abraham Lincoln visited his wife's childhood home on multiple occasions between 1847 and 1850.
The house originally functioned as a popular inn called 'The Sign of the Green Tree' in the early 19th century.
Mary Todd lived in this home until her marriage to Abraham Lincoln in 1842.
The site was restored and opened as a museum in 1977.
The interior contains a portrait of Mary Todd Lincoln as a young woman, which is a rare artifact of her early life.
The home reflects the affluent lifestyle of the Todd family, who were prominent Lexington socialites and slaveholders.
The property features a private garden that demonstrates common landscaping styles of the mid-1800s in Lexington.
The Mary Todd Lincoln House is the childhood residence of the former First Lady of the United States, Mary Todd. Constructed around 1803 as a tavern and inn, it later became the Todd family residence from 1832 to 1849. The structure serves as the first site in the United States restored and opened to the public specifically to honor a First Lady. Visitors tour the residence to view 19th-century furnishings and personal artifacts belonging to the Todd and Lincoln families. The site highlights the complex historical intersection of a prominent Kentucky family and the political life of the Civil War era. The home retains its original Federal-style architecture, showcasing a brick exterior and a distinct period-appropriate interior layout.
The front facade from the sidewalk provides the best view of the historic brick architecture.
Book guided tour tickets online in advance, as group sizes are strictly limited.
Check the official website for specific seasonal operation changes before arriving.
Photography is generally restricted inside the house, so be prepared to capture exterior shots.
Do not attempt to walk in without a reservation; tours are guided and capacity-restricted.
Closed on Sundays and Mondays; generally closed during the winter months of January and February.
Maintain a quiet demeanor; do not touch the historic furniture or artifacts.
