Weir Farm National Historical Park: Discover Connecticut’s Great Good Place

Nestled in southwestern Connecticut, just a short distance from the border with New York, the rural farm and legacy of artist Julian Alden Weir is preserved at Weir Farm National Historical Park. Considered one of America’s most influential Impressionist painters, J. Alden Weir was a member of the Cos Cob Art Colony. In 1882, he purchased the 153-acre farm that he nicknamed “The Great Good Place,” and spent much of his lifetime painting the landscapes around his home and studio. Today, the property, located in both Ridgefield and Wilton is a unique national park site that offers visitors the chance to create, learn, relax, and recreate.

Things to Do

• Start your visit at the Burlingham House Visitor Center, the former home of J. Alden Weir’s youngest daughter, Cora Weir Burlingham. The center is normally open from May through October; however, new exhibits are being installed during 2021. Until the renovation is complete, a temporary welcoming and information station is located near the barn behind the Burlingham House.
• Take a tour of the Weir Home. It has been enlarged and renovated since it was built in 1780 for the original owners. Have a seat on the spacious porch “piazza” that was a favorite spot of the family to entertain friends. A few of the other artists that probably spent time here are Childe Hassam, Albert Pinkham Ryder, John Singer Sargent, and John Twachtman. While in the home, learn about the family and see examples of the Impressionist’s work.
• Two of the special places on the property are the studios of J. Alden Weir (built in 1885) and accomplished sculptor Mahonri Mackintosh Young (built in 1932). The famous “This Is the Place” monument” located in Salt Lake City was sculpted by Young, Weir’s son-in-law, in this studio between 1939 and 1947.
• During the open season, there’s always something happening at the farm. Check out the free outdoor programs, including informal art instruction, painting workshops, and wellness activities, to name a few. Arrive a few hours early and take a self-guided tour of the historical park, wander around the grounds and gardens, and peek into the outbuildings.
• Participate in the fun and unique “Take Part in Art” program. Bring your own art supplies or borrow them from the visitor center and create your own masterpiece.
• Hike in the 110-acre Weir Preserve— the trailhead is a short walk from the National Historical Site and managed by the Weir Farm Art Center. Another trail originates behind the visitor center and leads to a loop trail around Weir Pond.

Travel Tip: The park is open year-round, but access to the historic buildings as well as programs and tours are seasonal (May to October). During the 2021 open season, a majority of the building are closed or only allow a “peek” inside. The staff continues to offer insightful and fun tours around the grounds while covering many of the topics that would be discussed under normal operating conditions. Check the programming schedule to learn about the artists, agriculture, stone walls, and the beautiful landscapes that influenced many of the American Impressionist painters.