**Title:** A Stroll Through History: Jay Estate Garden Tours Unveiled
**Synopsis:** Discover the rich history and stunning beauty of the Jay Estate by embarking on a free garden tour. Experience the serene landscapes that once held significance for Native Americans and early American leaders alike, all while learning about the estate’s commitment to social and environmental justice.
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**Explore the Jay Estate Gardens!**
Join us for free tours of the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (excluding holidays). These picturesque gardens, recognized by *New York Cottages and Gardens* magazine as one of the “Home-Grown Beauties,” blend history, ecology, and education in one breathtaking location.
With no reservations required, visitors can take self-guided strolls or attend docent-led tours to delve deeper into the estate’s storied past. Donations are welcome to support the ongoing restoration efforts spearheaded by the nonprofit Jay Heritage Center (JHC).
**An Estate with a Story**
Overlooking Long Island Sound, the 23-acre estate originally belonged to the Wecquaesgeek people before becoming the residence of John Jay—one of the nation’s Founding Fathers who played a pivotal role in abolishing slavery in New York. Today, the estate serves as a hub for civil dialogue and social activism, housing lessons in history and environmental conservation.
Following a decade-long revitalization project assisted by substantial funding, the gardens have transformed into an educational landscape. Highlights include a parterre garden, outdoor classrooms, a reflecting pool, and pollinator pathways, all designed to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change.
The design, led by the renowned landscape architecture firm Nelson Byrd Woltz (NBW), emphasizes the importance of both natural and cultural heritage, helping to illuminate the lives of the estate’s varied inhabitants throughout history.
**Join Us!**
Whether you are a garden enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Jay Estate Gardens offer an enriching experience. Sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay updated on events and volunteer opportunities, and immerse yourself in a truly unique outdoor adventure.
**Note:** Gardens are ADA accessible, and tours are weather dependent.