The Barker Mansion is thrilled to announce its opening for the 2025 season on April 5th, welcoming visitors back to explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Beginning in April, guests can enjoy self-guided tours Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM and guided tours at 1 PM on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

April at The Barker Mansion features an exciting lineup of events - from a festive Easter egg hunt in the historic garden, to a thought-provoking historical talk, an engaging architectural speaker series and a creative crafting workshop and yoga at The Barker Cottage.

Egg-citing Easter Fun in The Barker Mansion Garden

?? The Barker Mansion Garden
?? Saturday, April 12th
⏰ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
?? $10.00 per child

Families are invited to hop into Easter fun at The Barker Mansion Garden! Follow the Barker Bunny Trail and search for colorful eggs hidden among the mansion’s beautiful spring blooms. Enjoy a morning filled with festive activities, including the Bunny Hop Easter parade and special surprises for kids of all ages.

History Hour: Michigan City and John Barker’s Arrival

?? The Barker Mansion
?? Sunday, April 13th
⏰ 12:00 PM
?? $20.00 per person – Includes History Hour and a self-guided tour.
?? $25.00 per person – Includes History Hour and a guided tour at 1 PM.

Join us for a fascinating discussion on how John Barker’s arrival transformed Michigan City. Learn about the city’s early days, the Barker family’s influence on industry and the economy, and their lasting legacy.

Yoga at The Barker Cottage with Sacred Dunes

?? The Barker Cottage
?? Wednesday, April 16th
⏰ 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
?? $10.00 per person

Unwind with a peaceful yoga session led by Sacred Dunes Integrative Health, Michigan City’s premier holistic wellness center. Bring your yoga mat and enjoy a relaxing evening in the serene setting of The Barker Cottage.

Indiana Landmarks Presents: Architectural Styles of Indiana

?? The Barker Mansion - Lower Level
?? Saturday, April 26th
⏰ 12:00 PM
?? $20.00 per person – Includes the presentation and a self-guided tour.
?? $25.00 per person – Includes the presentation and a guided tour at 1 PM.

Join Deb Parcell, Community Preservation Specialist for Indiana Landmarks, for an insightful presentation on Indiana’s architectural evolution, from the early 19th century to Mid-Century Modern, with a special focus on Michigan City's historical structures. This is a first installment of a 3 part series.

Cottage Crafts: Mother’s Day Trinket Box & Coasters

?? The Barker Cottage
?? Wednesday, April 30th
⏰ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
?? $45.00 per person – Includes all materials.

Get creative at The Barker Cottage with Kristi from Parties on the Gogh! Design a beautiful decoupage trinket box and a set of coasters—a perfect handmade Mother’s Day gift or a treat for yourself.

The Barker Mansion is open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-4pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.barkermansion.org or call 219.873.1520

About The Barker Cottage (227 West 7th St., Michigan City, IN 46360)
Nestled within the historic Barker Mansion grounds, The Barker Cottage is not only a rental venue, it offers a variety of cultural and community events designed to inspire creativity and connection.