Henry Ford Estate – Fair Lane

DEARBORN. This formidable mansion was built in 1914 by Henry and Clara Ford. Ford, a nature lover, wanted a home that blended into the pastoral setting, so designers used rough-hewn Ohio limestone to make the mansion almost melt into the landscape. Acre after acre of sculpted gardens, green spaces, riverwalks, and woodland areas flank the beautiful residence, and visitors are free to tour the grounds as they wish. Enjoy lunch in "The Pool," a bright, airy restaurant that once housed the family's swimming pool. Ford's grandson, Edsel II, led the restoration efforts to return the home to its original state. The historic nature of the property prevents it from being either air conditioned or handicapped accessible.