Until recently, visiting the Lyman Estate was one of the few local historical adventures Jacques and I hadn’t gone on. I had only seen the estate’s splendor in photos, and of course, admired the beauty of the mansion’s wrap-around porch and ballroom from afar, which were featured in the new Greta Gerwig adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. Alas, the estate is mainly used for private functions today, and so, I had to wait a little while for an opportunity to visit.

One day, I was scrolling through pages of historical events listed on Facebook, as one does, and lo and behold, I came upon an event called “Little Women Victorian Holiday Fair,” located at none other than the Lyman Estate. Of course, I jumped on the chance to visit, and was particularly excited about the literary connection of the event.

On the day of the fair, I donned an ever so slightly Victorian-esque dress, and Jacques and I traveled to Waltham for our adventure. As we drove by signs for Concord, Lexington, and Minuteman National Park we listened to a soft playlist (which happened to be the exact length of our drive, though I did not plan it like that) featuring Hozier and Sufjan Stevens that I aptly titled “Folky Literary” (don’t ask me why, but i’m convinced Louisa May Alcott would’ve loved Hozier’s “Like Real People Do”). As we drove up the driveway of the estate, we were already in a happy bubble of creative energy, which overflowed around us as we walked up the steps of the romantic porch and finally into the mansion.

It just so happened that we entered the stately house through the door Jo and Laurie exit from to dance on the porch in the “Little Women” film. I was in awe immediately. We were hit with the warm scents of cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla as we walked by the treat table and a glorious gingerbread house. At the event we were able to freely explore the library, various parlors, and an enchanting Georgian ballroom. There were Victorian holiday crafts, cookie decorating, ornament calligraphers, costumed historical interpreters, and even jolly old Saint Nicholas himself.

The grounds also feature a stunning carriage house as well as working greenhouses that are open year round, but were sadly not open that day. We’ll have to go back!

The Lyman Estate, also known as “The Vale,” was originally built for Theodore Lyman in 1793 by esteemed Salem architect, Samuel McIntire.

The Georgian ballroom and wood molding throughout the home are beautiful and pronounced qualities of McIntire’s work. The home was expanded in 1882, giving added Victorian charm. The library is an absolute Victorian dream. Such a contrast to the Georgian stlye ballroom at the other end of the house, the dark wood and plethora or unique decor reflects the time period when this addition was added. Although different, the two styles flow nicely to create a truly enchanting atmosphere. The grandeur of the home transcends time, transporting each visitor into a land of amazement.

Scroll down to see more pictures from our visit!