The Hillforest, Aurora

The mansion’s mustard-yellow walls are outlined by crisp white trim, as well as slender columns where the stately edifice sits overlooking the Ohio River. Built in the mid-19th century for Thomas Gaff, the Italian Renaissance-inspired estate is full of antebellum charm. Now a National Historic Landmark, its ornately carved brackets and sweeping balconies constantly remind visitors of the era when it was built, when each of these details was crafted painstakingly by hand. Tour guides lead visitors through the mansion’s fully restored halls, which occasionally house tea parties and luncheons for lucky groups. The estate also hosts intimate wedding parties to engage in festivities or get inspiration in the Century of Brides exhibit that showcases century-old gowns.