Ingresso Deering Estate

This would be a two-star review except that we saw live manatees about 4 feet away from us in the harbor area. That made the price of admission worth it. Otherwise, I agree with the other reviewer who said you're paying full price to see the whole estate, but you don't get to see the whole estate. The main piece of the estate is off-limits. They told us at the gate that the stone house is off-limits, so we figured a literal small stone house, maybe that's a tiny house like guest quarters somewhere else on the grounds. We did not know that the mansion IS the stone house! They don't tell you that part. We went there to see the mansion or main house and paid full price for that, thinking this would be like other grand estates we've seen such as the Vanderbilt property on the East Coast. If we had known the stone house is the centerpiece attraction and it was closed, we would not have gone in. They should charge you for what you actually get, in my opinion. But the boardwalk through the mangrove swamp was pretty and like I said, the manatees were a great surprise. So I'm bumping the rating up one star, but I suggest that you skip this attraction until they either charge what's fair or you get to go into the main house. And even then, I'm guessing from what we saw on the outside, it's nothing like the Biltmore. Definitely do your research into this place before you go.

+9

One of the most authentic and tranquil places we have ever visited. We had the most relaxing times just wandering around taking in the beauty and serenity. I would definitely recommend visiting.

Beautiful grounds, small house tour was interesting and educational. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, lots of property to see

Wow... beautiful place and gardens. We enjoyed having our own picnic lunch on the grounds and visiting the home and pump house. This is truly one of the hidden gems and very quiet. The only disappointment we had is that the "visitors center" is pretty much closed and more of a classroom building with washrooms. Just go directly to the gate entrance to pay your admission.

Deering Estate is a beautiful property which is well worth the visit. We enjoyed the history of the place and both the Richmond Cottage and the Stone House are nicely preserved. We were lucky to have a guided tour by the knowledgeable Tori. We later explored the grounds - the carriage house, the pump and electricity building, the mangrove boardwalk, the art installations, but the biggest wow is the view of the key lock shaped dock or boat turning basin flanked by majestic palms. A very peaceful setting and we stayed from the opening to closing time and I enjoyed every minute of it. I was wise to bring along some sandwiches which we enjoyed on sturdy benches bordering the dock while watching a pod of manatees, two big snook fishes, and birds with large outstretched wings soaring the skies. We were lucky to also see a few pelicans at the end of the mangrove boardwalk making huge splashes as they dive for fishes. Worth the visit.

This morning, we had a fantastic experience at Deering Estates! Their representative Jessica's knowledge of the grounds and passion for the place really made a difference. It's wonderful to see someone so dedicated to supporting our group and hobby. Deering Estates is a great spot for family visits and community support. Thank you Jessica !!!!!!!