It includes public art galleries and botanic gardens on 3 acres (1.2 ha), and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1925, upon the recommendation of Mary K. Shirk (Jessie's sister), the Paines commissioned Bryant Fleming, an architect from Ithaca, New York to design the estate.

From the beginning, the Paines wanted to design an estate that would showcase exceptional architecture, furnishings, art and natural beauty, which would be open to the public for educational and cultural purposes.

The Paine estate features a historic house museum with art gallery, and is surrounded by extensive gardens.

The Paine Center hosts changing exhibitions and offers educational programs related to historic architecture, art, and to nature.