Chester Historic Homes Tour - Saturday, May 9, 2026
The Chester Historical Society will host a walking Tour of Historic Homes on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The gracious owners of seven historically significant homes in Chester are opening their doors to a limited number of visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Whether you're a preservation enthusiast, an admirer of fine architecture, or simply curious to peek behind the doors of some of Chester’s iconic homes, this is your chance!
The tour offers a peek into three centuries of Chester history. The houses are all centrally located, within walking distance of designated free parking lots and Chester Village. For one house, a shuttle bus will run a continuous loop from the United Church of Chester parking lot. Parking is not permitted at any house.
Volunteers will be at each home to provide information. In some instances, homeowners may be on hand to answer questions about renovations and related topics. You may visit homes in any order, at your own pace.
Tickets will be limited. Advance tickets will be available online beginning March 1. They are $40 in advance. (Chester Historical Society members pay $35 in advance.) Advance ticket sales end at 9:00 p.m. on May 5.
Remaining tickets may be purchased in person at the Chester Meeting House (4 Liberty St.) on Friday, May 8, from 4 to 6 p.m., and on Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. At that time, tickets will be $50; cash or check preferred.
All ticket holders must check in at the Chester Meeting House (4 Liberty St.) on Friday afternoon (May 8) or Saturday (May 9) to receive a wristband to serve as your admission ticket to each home along with a commemorative program with details about each home and a map.
***Please note that, for the homeowners’ privacy and protection, we do not reveal the house addresses before the event.
FAQ
Where do I park for the tour? For the day of the tour, we have reserved three free parking lots with easy access to the houses. The lots are at the Chester Meeting House (4 Liberty St.), the Terris Theatre (33 North Main St.), and the United Church of Chester (29 West Main St.). A few parking spots are available at the Chester Museum at The Mill (9 West Main St.). Parking is not permitted at any house.
Is transportation provided? We are providing a shuttle bus to one house because we do not recommend anyone walks to it. We suggest comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
Is the tour handicapped accessible? Sorry, no.
What happens in case of rain? The tour goes on, rain or shine!
Are children or dogs permitted? Children ages 12 and older are welcome. No dogs are permitted.
Are public restrooms available? Yes, at the Chester Meeting House, the United Church of Chester, and the Chester Museum at The Mill.
May I take photos inside the houses? For the homeowners’ privacy and protection, no photos are permitted inside any houses.
May I wear my backpack inside the houses? No backpacks or shopping bags are permitted.
What about lunch? The houses are generally located near the center of Chester, which is renowned for its many restaurants serving lunch.
May I bring food or beverages inside the houses? Sorry, no.
Other questions? Please email chestercthistoricalsociety@gmail.com.