Yep! We were able to walk the grounds whenever we got there, but took the tour at our scheduled time.

There is no kennel facility at this destination. If pets are found left in vehicles, they are likely to be reported to security or the local sheriff's office. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are permitted on the property but not inside the house. Guests with dogs walk the trail from the Visitor Center up to the mountaintop to visit outside the house and walk the gardens. If you have more than one person in your party, it is suggested you purchase, and you'd both like to visit inside the house, purchase separate tour times; while one person is in the house, the other can be with the dog, then swap places.

When there is lightning detected on or near the property, guided outdoor tours are suspended. House tours continue for those guests already on the mountaintop. If guests are at the visitor center, they will not be transported to the mountaintop until the weather has cleared (aka no lightning). In the event bad weather is forecast, dress appropriately.

If its raining how is the tour conducted?

yes but you have to go to get the discount

Please check the website. Thank you

There are some benches outside the house. I don't think there is anywhere you are allowed to sit down inside the house.

Wes spent about 3 hours doing true self guided tour and the gist shop. We did not do the house tour. There is a small shop to get a drink or ice cream at the grounds, so it could take longer. We also walked back down and spent time taking rests

Do not know but doubt it

Yes you can arrive before your shuttle time, you can watch a movie, check out the store or look at the museum. I think you can walk up to the house on your own, we walked back from the house to the parking area. I think it’s about a quarter mile I don’t remember for sure.