"With its unparalleled views of the Long Island Sound, architectural splendor, and "Great Gatsby" vibes, this park is a popular destination for picnicking, flying kites, birding, fishing, and photography. The park's crown jewel, Eolia, was the elegant summer mansion of Edward and Mary Harkness, beneficiaries of the oil fortune Edward's father amassed as a silent partner to John D. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Corporation.

The 42-room Renaissance Revival structure is surrounded by 230 seaside acres of sweeping lawns, stately trees, magical gardens, and a sandy beach. Of the park's 60 different structures, 15 are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Though the Harknesses were wealthy members of high society, the mansion wasn't the site of lavish parties. They were more private, preferring to host intimate gatherings with the J.P. Morgans, J.D. Rockefellers, and the likes. More philanthropist than socialite, they bequeathed over $200 million - $2 billion in today's dollars-to a wide range of charitable, cultural, health, and community organizations including the State of Connecticut. Upon her death in 1950, Mary left the estate to the State of Connecticut for the well-being of its citizens."

Registry