From 1889 to 1909, Frank Lloyd Wright resided and worked in the Home and Studio, which served as the birthplace of America’s Prairie Style architecture. This location in the Chicago area allowed Wright to develop his skills, experiment with design concepts, and showcase his creative genius and future potential as a designer.
Over the course of 20 years, Wright made numerous alterations and revisions to the house, using it as a platform to refine his ideas. The interior and exterior of the home bear testimony to his desire to “liberate space” and integrate nature into his work. Originally situated in a semi-rural area outside the city, Oak Park has since developed, with many of the early homes in the neighborhood also designed by Wright.
Exploring the Home and Studio
When you visit the Home and Studio, you will be guided through the premises at a designated time with the assistance of an interpreter. As you explore the buildings, you will receive information and insights into both the family and career aspects of Wright’s life. Inside and outside, you will have the opportunity to view objects of interest related to his work.
Highlights at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Due to the small size of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio and the guided nature of the tours, it is easy to ensure that you don’t miss anything. Basic admission allows you to experience the home and studio, but if you wish to delve deeper, consider the afternoon tour, which includes visits to other Wright-designed homes in the neighborhood:
Wright Around Oak Park Guided Tour: This 3-hour tour offers a more intimate look at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and its surroundings. You will enjoy an expanded tour of the studio, including access to the Studio Balcony. Exclusive photography opportunities and a smaller group size enhance the experience. The walking tour takes you to various homes in the area, all designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Tours typically commence at noon daily, so it is advisable to plan ahead due to their popularity.
Amenities at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Since the location is not very large, services and amenities are minimal. However, you will find the following at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio:
Museum Gift Shop
The museum shop is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, allowing you time to explore unique gifts and souvenirs inspired by Wright’s drawings and work. The shop also offers a selection of art pieces, home items, calendars, games, stationery, and more.
Accessibility
Unfortunately, the Home is not wheelchair accessible, as all entries have stairs. However, the Studio, which includes the drafting room, Wright’s office, octagonal library, and reception area, is accessible to standard wheelchairs. A wheelchair is available for guest use. Visitors in wheelchairs can request the FLW Home and Studio DVD, which provides views of rooms that may not be accessible during their visit.
Exploring the Vicinity of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Oak Park, located separately from downtown Chicago, offers a quieter and less bustling atmosphere. You will find several interesting sights nearby, primarily other homes or buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright:
- Arthur Huertley House (FLW designed)
- Walter Gale House (FLW designed)
- Frank W. Thomas House (FLW designed)
- Walter Gerts House (FLW designed)
- Nathan G. Moore House (FLW designed)
- Harry S. Adams House (FLW designed)
- Unity Temple
If you are willing to travel for 30 minutes, you can also take a tour of one of Wright’s favorite homes, the Robie House. Additionally, the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum (and Boyhood Home) is another attraction in the vicinity.
Getting to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Oak Park is situated approximately 12 miles west of downtown Chicago, making driving or public transportation the most convenient options for reaching the area.
Driving
You can easily reach Oak Park from downtown Chicago by taking I-290 to Harlem Avenue. Free parking is available along the street.
Public Transportation
From downtown Chicago, you can use the westbound Green Line ‘L’ Train and disembark at the Oak Park stop. Alternatively, you can take the Union Pacific West Line train (Metra) and exit at the Oak Park stop. Expect a 15-minute walk from the train stops to reach the Home and Studio.
Best Time to Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
The Home is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, and you can arrive an hour early to explore the gift shop. Note that the Home is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Insider Tips for the Frank Lloyd Wright Home
To ensure your visit, it is necessary to purchase tickets in advance and adhere to the designated tour time. Failure to follow the tour schedule may result in missing out on a portion of the experience. Feel free to share your photography on social media using the hashtag #FLWTrust.
If you plan to visit several tourist attractions during your stay in Chicago, consider checking out the Go Chicago Pass or Explorer Pass, both of which offer tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.
Frank Lloyd Wright Home Details
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
951 Chicago Ave
Oak Park, IL 60302
Phone Number: (312) 994-4000
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
Official Website: https://flwright.org/visit/homeandstudio
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I have always been passionate about travel and exploring new destinations. From a young age, I developed a deep curiosity for different cultures, landmarks, and experiences the world offers. This passion led me to create this website, Chicago City Travel, as a platform to share my knowledge and insights about the captivating city of Chicago.