Anyone with a passion for architecture can’t pass on the chance to tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home of Taliesin West in Scottsdale. One of Wright’s more personal creations, Taliesin West today is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. As one of the most famous Scottsdale attractions, a visit to Taliesin West can’t be missed!
Who Was Frank Lloyd Wright?
Frank Lloyd Wright may be the most well-known American architect today, all due to his pioneering work in the field of architecture. Wright pushed back against the idea that American buildings must reflect European styles and brought his idea of American harmony to his architectural creations.
Tours
Taliesin West is only open to the public through guided tours, which can last from one to three hours. Do note that many tours are not intended for young children.
The Insights tour is Taliesin West’s main tour, taking visitors to Wright’s quarters and living room, the “Garden Room,” the Drafting Studio, the Music Pavilion, the Cabaret, and other places. The Insights tour is held every day from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and lasts 90 minutes.
Then there is the three-hour Behind the Scenes tour, which visits all the same places as the Insight tour with some added extras. Or the two-hour Details tour, which also visits all the places on the Insights tour but takes time to linger and go into more, well, detail.
And if you want to see the magic of Taliesin West at night, then go on the Night Lights tour. With the starry skies and a view of Taliesin West’s fire-breathing dragon, this two-hour tour makes for a perfect couple’s activity.
Reservations are required for all tours except for the Insights tour, but it is still recommended that you reserve your tickets for that one as tours fill up fast. You can call (888)-516-0811 to reserve your tour tickets. General admission tickets run between $35 to $75, depending on the tour and day you go.
Location and Hours
Taliesin West stands at 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard. Exact hours vary by the time of year, but roughly speaking from September to May it is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with Friday’s hours sometimes extended to 9:00 or 9:30 p.m. Hours in June to August run from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.