6 of the Coolest Victorian Homes in the PNW You Can Tour

Victorian Homes are homes that were built between the years of 1837-1901 and have heavy Gothic influences and elaborate woodwork. Though Victorian homes are harder to come by than in the East Coast or Midwest, the Pacific Northwest still has their fair share of Victorian homes located throughout.

Luckily, there are several Victorian homes in the Pacific Northwest that will let you tour them – so you don’t just have to wistfully drive by them and wish you could see the intricacies of the inside. Here are some of our favorite Victorian homes in the PNW you can actually tour:

Pittock Mansion – Portland, Oregon

Pittock Mansion is a blended French Renaissance/Victorian mansion situated on a scenic hilltop in the West Hills overlooking Portland. The mansion was originally constructed as a private residence for Henry and Georgiana Pittock, prominent figures in early Portland history.

Today, it stands as a testament to the city’s heritage and serves as a museum that provides visitors with a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Pittock family.

The mansion features meticulously crafted interiors adorned with exquisite woodwork, intricate detailing, and elegant period furnishings. As visitors explore the various rooms, they can marvel at the grandeur of the mansion and appreciate the fine craftsmanship and attention to detail present throughout.

The mansion’s beautifully landscaped grounds further enhance the visitor experience. With lush gardens, walking paths, and well-maintained grounds, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the breathtaking views of Portland and the surrounding natural beauty.

Henry Pittock was the owner of The Oregonian and also invested in silver mining, steamboats, railroads, banking, real estate, sheep ranching, and the paper industry.

In the self-guided tour, you can stroll through the entire mansion, as well as the gardens, walking paths, and the rest of the grounds. When you’re on-site, you’ll easily see why this is one of the most-regarded Victorian homes in the PNW!

Tour Prices
Adult: $16.50
Senior: $14.50
Youth: $12.50

www.pittockmansion.org

Flavel House – Astoria, Oregon

The Flavel House was a stunning Queen Anne-style home built in 1885 for Captain George Flavel (a Columbia River bar pilot and a businessman) as his retirement home. Designed by German architect Carl W. Leick, the Flavel house stayed in the family until the 1930s, when it was given to the city of Astoria as a gift. After receiving the Flavel House as a gift, the city of Astoria used it as offices for the Red Cross, the local Welfare Commission, and the Public Health Department through the end of World War II.

In 1951, local Astoria residents converted the Flavel House into a history museum managed by the Clatsop County Historical Society.

On your tour of the Flavel House, you’ll take a journey into the past, offering a unique opportunity to experience the elegance and architectural beauty of a bygone era. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking to connect with the rich heritage of Astoria, Oregon. Knowledgeable guides and docents are available to provide informative tours, sharing stories and anecdotes about the Flavel family, the house’s construction, and its historical significance.

In addition to the opulent interiors, the Flavel House is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and grounds. Visitors can explore the beautiful landscaped gardens, take leisurely strolls, and appreciate the tranquility of the outdoor space.

The Flavel House is not just a museum but a living piece of history. It frequently hosts special events, exhibitions, and educational programs that provide further insights into the Flavel family and the era they lived in. These events offer visitors an immersive experience, bringing the history of the house and its inhabitants to life.

Tour Prices
Adult: $7
Senior: $6
Youth: $2

Flavel House Musuem

(Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

The Settlemier House – Woodburn, Oregon

Located in Woodburn, Oregon, the Jesse H. Settlemier House is a treat for anyone who wishes to make the 30 minute drive south of Portland.

Jesse H. Settlemier is the founder of Woodburn, Oregon and built this majestic house in 1892 for his family. The home was remodeled by Jesse’s son and daughter-in-law in 1911. The interior of the house features beautiful box beam ceilings with dark stained wood and incredible glass light fixtures. The exterior of the home features that classic Victorian “witch’s hat turret” top, ornate window trim, and a beautiful round porch.

The House was made part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and is currently owned by the French Prairie Historical Society.

Tours are offered on the first Sunday of every month from 1PM – 4PM, or by appointment for large groups.

www.thesettlemierhouse.com

(Photo Credit: Andrew Parodi via Wikimedia Commons)

Meeker Mansion – Puyallup, Washington

Meeker Mansion, located in Puyallup, Washington, is a historic treasure that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Built in 1890, this stately Victorian mansion stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural beauty of the era.

The Meeker Mansion features a striking exterior characterized by its Queen Anne architectural style. The house boasts intricate detailing, ornate woodwork, and a distinctive turret that adds to its charm and grandeur. Its vibrant colors and well-preserved façade make it a standout landmark in the community.

The interiors of the Meeker Mansion have been thoughtfully restored to reflect the period’s opulence and elegance. Each room is adorned with period furnishings, exquisite woodwork, stained glass windows, and elaborate wallpapers, recreating the ambiance of a bygone era.

As visitors explore the various rooms, they can learn about the Meeker family, particularly Ezra Meeker, who was a prominent figure in the history of Puyallup. Ezra Meeker was a pioneer, entrepreneur, and advocate for the Oregon Trail. The mansion serves as a tribute to his contributions and showcases the family’s affluent lifestyle and societal influence.

The Meeker Mansion also hosts events, exhibits, and educational programs throughout the year. These events offer visitors a chance to delve deeper into the history of the mansion and the local community. From special exhibitions to holiday-themed celebrations, there is always something engaging happening at the Meeker Mansion.

Tour Prices
Adult: $10
Senior: $9
Student: $9
Youth: $8

www.meekermansion.org

(Photo Credit: Ben Cody via Wikimedia Commons)

Bush House Museum – Salem, Oregon

The Bush House Museum, built in 1878, this elegant Victorian mansion was built by prominent newspaper publisher, banker, and community leader Asahel Bush.

The Bush House Museum’s exterior showcases the classic Italianate architectural style, featuring ornate detailing. The interiors of the Bush House Museum have been meticulously preserved and restored to their original glory, providing an authentic representation of the family’s affluent lifestyle. The rooms are adorned with period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and elegant decor, creating an atmosphere of refined elegance.

Beyond the mansion itself, the Bush House Museum offers beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. Visitors can wander through the meticulously maintained gardens, appreciating the serene atmosphere and the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The Bush House Museum also hosts various events, exhibits, and educational programs throughout the year. From special exhibitions to cultural events, these offerings provide visitors with a deeper appreciation of the history and heritage of the Bush family and Salem, Oregon.

A visit to the Bush House Museum is an opportunity to step back in time and experience the elegance and grandeur of Victorian-era living. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, lovers of Victorian homes, and anyone seeking to connect with the rich heritage of Salem and the state of Oregon.

Tour Prices
Adult: FREE – available at the Bush Barn Art Center
Senior: FREE – available at the Bush Barn Art Center
Student: FREE – available at the Bush Barn Art Center
Youth: FREE – available at the Bush Barn Art Center

www.bushhousemuseum.org

Shelton McMurphey Johnson House – Eugene, Oregon

The Shelton McMurphey Johnson House was built in 1888 by Salem, Oregon architect Walter D. Pugh. Several of Pugh’s projects have landed on the National Register, and the Shelton McMurphey Johnson house is no exception. The Shelton McMurphey Johnson House was built for T.W. Shelton, a highly-esteemed doctor and druggist who worked in Eugene.

The Shelton McMurphey Johnson House boasts a striking Queen Anne-style exterior. It is often known as “The Castle on the Hill” due to the fact that there are panoramic views of Eugene and the surrounding hills from the mansion. The house’s vibrant green color and its prominent circular tower make it a standout landmark in the community.

The interior of the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House is just as exquisite. The 7,000 square foot house welcomes over 3,800 visitors annually. There are three furnished floors, sixteen rooms, and four original bedrooms.

Tour Prices
Adult: $6
Senior: $5
Student: $5
Youth: $5

www.smjhouse.org

(Photo Credit: Rick Obst via Wikimedia Commons)

The Starrett House – Port Townsend, Washington

The Starrett House, located in Port Townsend, Washington, is a historic treasure that invites visitors to experience the charm and elegance of the Victorian era. Built in 1889, this beautifully preserved mansion stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural beauty of the time.

The Starrett House boasts a striking Queen Anne-style exterior, characterized by its intricate detailing, ornate woodwork, and a prominent tower that adds to its grandeur. The house’s vibrant colors and well-maintained facade make it a standout landmark in the community.

Upon entering the mansion, visitors will undoubtedly notice the free-floating grand spiral staircase in the center of the house. At the top of the staircase, visitors will notice a stunning fresco painting on the seventy foot tower’s ceiling. There are more original fresco paintings on the ceilings of the first floor rooms, as well as some of the Starrett Family’s personal possessions.

As visitors explore the various rooms, they can learn about the history of the house and its former occupants. The Starrett family, who commissioned the mansion, were prominent figures in Port Townsend’s history. Their influence is deeply intertwined with the development of the region. The house provides insights into their daily lives, social status, and contributions to the community.

A visit to the Starrett House in Port Townsend is a journey back in time, offering a unique opportunity to experience the elegance and architectural beauty of the Victorian era. It is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, lovers of Victorian homes, and anyone seeking to connect with the rich heritage of Port Townsend, Washington.

The Starrett House is available to tour if you book a stay on Airbnb.

www.starretthouse.com

So, there you have it! 6 of the coolest Victorian homes in the PNW that you can actually visit. Which one will you visit first?