This holiday season, the Sharon Historical Society and Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa invite you to experience the Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours: Christmas Edition.
Starting in late November and running through early January, these guided tours offer guests the chance to explore one of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful historic landmarks, transformed for the holidays with festive décor.
Completed in 1896, the Buhl Mansion stands as one of only a few true castles in America. With its turrets, stained-glass windows, and ornate design, it is a lasting symbol of the Gilded Age, when elegance and craftsmanship thrived. During these hour-long tours, guests can learn about the mansion’s fascinating past and the life of its original owner, Frank H. Buhl, known as the “Father of the Industrial Shenango Valley.”
Frank Buhl played a significant role in shaping the local economy through his work in the steel industry, and his mansion remains a testament to that legacy.
For the Christmas season, Buhl Mansion is transformed into a stunning holiday showcase. Each room is decorated with sparkling lights, evergreen garlands, and festive accents that highlight the building’s rich character.
When you first walk through the mansion, you’ll be greeted by the grand staircase, decorated in elegant greenery and garlands that perfectly capture the spirit of the season, the holidays. The library, softly lit by twinkle lights, feels warm and inviting —a place made for a cozy winter evening. In the parlor, a grand Christmas tree is the centerpiece, adorned with shimmering ornaments that reflect the flicker of nearby fireplaces.
Slow down and enjoy the scent of fresh pine, blending with the soft glow of antique lighting to create an atmosphere that is both timeless and nostalgic.
Each tour is led by author and historian Taylor Galaska, whose passion for local history helps guests see Buhl Mansion from a new perspective. The experience begins in the Carriage House, where groups are welcomed before embarking on a tour of the estate.
From there, you’ll tour the Victorian greenhouse, an architectural gem in its own right, and continue through the first, second, and third floors of the mansion. Along the way, Galaska points out intricate details of the building’s construction and design, sharing stories about the people who lived and worked there more than a century ago.
The tour also includes insights into the exterior features that make the mansion so unique — from its limestone façade and turrets to its ornate window designs. With every stop, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and history that make Buhl Mansion such a cherished landmark in Sharon.
The Buhl Mansion Christmas Guided Tours will take place on select Thursdays and Sundays throughout the 2025 holiday season.
Thursday tours are scheduled for November 20, December 4, 11, and 18, 2025, and January 8, 2026, with start times at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday tours will be held on November 23, December 7, 14, and 21, 2025, and January 4, 2026, beginning at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
All tours start in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, located at 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146.
Tickets are $20 per person and must be purchased in advance online through the Sharon Historical Society website. Please note that in-person ticket sales are not available, as space is limited. This ensures that each group enjoys a comfortable and personalized experience.
Whether you’re a lifelong history lover, a family looking for a new holiday tradition, or simply someone who appreciates festive beauty, the Buhl Mansion Christmas Guided Tours offer something for a rare glimpse into a past era.
Just 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, Erie, and Cleveland, the mansion makes for a perfect day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can pair their tour with local dining or shopping in downtown Sharon for a full day of holiday enjoyment.
Gather your loved ones, dress in your holiday best, and make memories at the Buhl Mansion Christmas Guided Tours!
