Magnolia Manor - Cairo, Illinois

Sheri B.

This historic mansion built in 1872 was the home of Charles Galigher. Beautiful paintings, old photographs and graceful sculptures adorn the home. The entryway doors contain stunning stained glass panels. The say we visited, we were the only visitors there. Check hours before stopping by.

Collin M.

As of 4/7/24, this property is not open for touring unless you contact them through their Facebook page and are able to schedule a time in advance. You can also tour the home on May 3/4 during their “Magnolia Festival”.

With that being said, my girlfriend and I were given the privilege of touring this impressive home, and we enjoyed it. It is definitely a stately structure to behold. Cairo (pronounced Care-oh) has a rich but consistently troubling history, so for this property to still remain standing is impressive in and of itself. The standouts from this tour are the unique “skylight”, the foyer, the basement kitchen, and the mostly original furnishings.

They only accept cash payments for donations, which is their only stream of income, I believe.

Bruce I.

I'm sad that I was here on a Sunday afternoon and did not have a chance to properly tour the interior of this beautiful home. It's clear that this is a leftover from better days in Cairo, a city that has fallen into deep disrepair like a shopping mall with no tenants.

The outside is stunning with well kept grounds including the small gazebo and the brick paths. Even if it's closed for the day, it's still well worth a good walk around.

Susan M.

Beautiful mansion and estate but closed for tours despite the sign. No one on site 10:30 AM weekday.

cindy H.

Gorgeous historical home with beautiful grounds! The tour was amazing - go at your own pace and let the deep beauty and historical value sink in. Highly recommend it!

Sandy K.

From some of the latest reviews, it appears that it is not open for tours. We were in the area for some other sight seeing and I saw a sign for Magnolia Manor historic home tours and called the number. I got a message that the voicemail has not been set up; however, no other information. We were close enough to drive into Cairo just to check it out. I walked up the front steps only to find a sign tucked in a corner on the porch that they are temporarily closed. Don’t know why that can’t be put on the sign in front of the house where the days and hours of operation are Regardless, the outside of the house is spectacular. Obviously the grounds and landscaping are being taken care of. The house looks to be in good shape as well and I would have loved to have been able to see the inside and furnishings. It would also be nice if they would set up a recording on the business phone number that they are temporarily closed. Would I drive to Cairo just to see the outside of the house and the grounds if I wasn’t already close…probably not.

Anastasiya P.

My family stopped here while passing through to see some of American history. The once beautiful city of Cairo is now simply fading into oblivion.

Jenny B.

Great historic tour. I sincerely hope they don't have to close. The craftsmanship and antiques are beautiful. Truly hope this town has a rebirth.