Huntington’s Oheka Castle is perhaps one of the best-preserved lavish estates that put Long Island on the map, to begin with. It still remains the second-largest private residence to exist in the United States. Additionally, it has made numerous appearances in famous films, such as “Citizen Kane,” and it is rumored to be an inspiration for Gatsby’s mansion in “The Great Gatsby.”
In the late 90s, it was converted into a hotel which it still stands as today. Weddings are popular at the estate, including those of many celebrities. Also in New York: Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt from 1885 to 1919. It is also known as “The Summer White House.”
Massachusetts - The House of the Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables is one of America’s oldest homes still in existence today - it was built in 1668! But that is not the only thing that makes this house so special. It is also the place where Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote some of his famous novels, which were inspired by the historic setting.
This black-and-red home looks like it's straight out of a horror film. But, hey, the tourists love it. Also in Massachusetts: The Mount, located in Massachusetts, is Edith Wharton’s 1902 country home, and it is an example of the principles written in her book "The Decoration of Houses."
Connecticut - Mark Twain House
Originally known as The Hartford Home, Mark Twain’s adult home was built in 1874 and has now become the Mark Twain House and Museum. During his time in this home, he wrote the classic "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer." This home still holds the elegant and well-crafted interior and exterior that encompasses the Gothic Revival style.
The residence today hosts weddings and tours, as well as holds events primarily centered on books. Also in Connecticut: The Glass House was built in 1948 through 1949. It was designed to be a residence for and by Philip Johnson, and now it has evolved into a house museum.
Maryland - The Star-Spangled Flag House
Though the outside of this building might look like any other, it certainly holds much more. This building was the workplace of Mary Pickersgill, better known as the woman who sewed the American Flag. Also, the house served as a museum to commemorate the War of 1812, specifically the Battle of Baltimore.
Built in 1793, the building is now a museum dedicated to portraying and celebrating the life of Mary Pickersgill. Do you know what's also in Maryland? Sotterly is an example of a historic tidewater plantation, and it is actually the only one in Maryland that is open to the public.
Delaware - Nemours
The DuPont family is a fundamental piece of history for the state of Delaware, and their legacy lives on in the Nemours house, located in Wilmington, Delaware. Alfred and Alicia DuPont got their home constructed by the New York firm of Carrère & Hastings, also the architects of the New York Public Library. You can currently visit the 300 acres of land that Nemour sits on.
The 77-room mansion now hosts tours, garden parties, and events all year long. Also in Delaware: The Winterthur home is Henry Francis DuPont’s childhood home, but it has now become a museum for American decorative arts.