Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum
680 Adams Ave., Memphis, TN, 38105
Part of what was once Memphis’ Millionaire Row, the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum lies on Adams Avenue, and its inside is even more impressive than its brick-layered French Victorian exterior, complete with high windows. The 5-story mansion was restored to its glory in 1962 with red-carpeted staircases, extravagantly crafted chandeliers, intricate wood carvings, and antique period pieces that make a self-guided visit well worth it.
The basics
The Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum offers travelers a look at the heyday of well-off American families that started in the carriage-making and cotton industries in the late 1800s and early 1900s. An excellent pick for history buffs, many travelers explore the French Victorian mansion at their own pace by pre-booking their admission tickets or booking a Memphis history tour. Another popular way to explore the house and its past is by going on a Memphis ghost tour.
Things to know before you go
There’s free parking available at the corner of Washington Avenue and Orleans Street in Memphis, but make sure to leave before 4pm as that’s when the gate is locked.
The Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum has three floors open for the self-guided tour, but only the first floor is handicap-accessible.
Sometimes, this attraction is closed for private events such as weddings—make sure to check the dates it will be closed to the public on its website before your visit.
Families with small children might want to skip this attraction as it’s not well suited for kids under five years of age.
Children’s and seniors' admission tickets are discounted to save you a little money on entry to the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum.
History fans won’t want to miss the Aretha Franklin Birthplace and the Piggly Wiggly Historic Marker in Memphis—both easily accessible by car. Graceland is also only about a 15-minute drive away.
How to get there
If you’re staying in Downtown Memphis, the walk to the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum is about 30 minutes, so driving or grabbing a cab is easier. You can take US-51 North and get off at Washington Avenue, with parking right at the corner of Washington Avenue and Orleans Street. You can also take the bus and get off at Adams Avenue.
When to get there
The Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12pm to 4pm. It’s best to visit on a Wednesday or Thursday, if possible, as those days are usually less crowded. Also, even though the attraction lets visitors go on the last self-guided tour at 3:30pm, that isn’t enough time to take in all the sights and history before closing, so coming earlier is recommended.
Make a day out of it
If you’re visiting the Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum on a Friday or Saturday, head to the Mallory-Neely House after your visit—it’s just a 4-minute walk down the street. This historic mansion on Adams Avenue has its original historic interiors, furniture, and artifacts on display, making it all the more remarkable. If you don’t want to leave the area after a full day, try booking a room at the James Lee House.
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