Heritage Museums and Gardens

Sandwich, Massachusetts, United States

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Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich, Massachusetts, spans 100 acres and combines beautifully landscaped gardens with diverse museums showcasing American art, history, and culture.

The site was originally settled in 1677 by the Wing family and later became the estate of Charles Dexter, a famed rhododendron hybridizer who planted thousands of rhododendron varieties here. In 1967, the property was acquired by Josiah K. Lilly III, who founded the museum complex to display his family's extensive collections, including antique American automobiles, folk art, military artifacts, and a working 1908 carousel.

The gardens feature nationally significant collections of rhododendrons, daylilies, and hostas, alongside walking trails, a notable water flume, and a nature-inspired children's playground called Hidden Hollow with a unique treehouse. The site blends horticultural excellence, historical preservation, and engaging family experiences, making it a cultural landmark and popular destination on Cape Cod.