Among the most famous residences in the United States, Taliesin is the name of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Spring Green, Wisconsin home where he lived for nearly 50 years. The name means “shining brow” in Welsh, in honor of Wright’s Welsh heritage and is built on the “brow” of the hill in Wisconsin’s Driftless region.
The buildings on the 800-acre Taliesin property reflect Wright’s vision and commitment to community living, shaped by the landscapes of the Driftless area. Constructed of natural materials and designed to be a part of the surrounding area, these buildings are the most personal of Wright’s masterpieces. Inspired by nature, Wright’s ideas are apparent in the experimental architecture present in the buildings. From the courtyards and gardens to the living room, loggia and birdwalk (a long balcony that stands out from the building to walk among the birds), Taliesin offers a majestic view of the valley, settled by Wright’s Welsh ancestors.
This area so enchanted Wright, that he wrote this in an essay: “More dramatic elsewhere, perhaps more strange, more thrilling, more grand, too, but nothing that picks you up in its arms and so gently, almost lovingly, cradles you as do these southwestern Wisconsin hills.”
Taliesin Preservation is a nonprofit organization established in 1993 that offers tours and cultural programs to experience Wright’s genius ideas and nature-inspired architecture. Groups looking to explore a one-of-a-kind experience at Taliesin can visit: taliesinpreservation.org/tours/groups/
Frank Lloyd Wright Trail
Taliesin, along with a host of other Wright-designed projects, can be found on the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail in Wisconsin. This 200-mile trail through southern Wisconsin features nine sites that display the genius of America’s most famous architect.
Wright’s designs on the trail include the SC Johnson Administration Building, Research Tower, Wingspread, Burnham Block, Monona Terrace, Unitarian Meeting House, Wyoming Valley School, A.D. German Warehouse and the buildings that comprise the Taliesin property, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center at Riverview Terrace. Along the trail, groups can enjoy a variety of dining, hiking, arts and cultural offerings in Madison, Milwaukee, Racine, Richland Center and Spring Green. For more information, visit: franklloydwrighttrail.org
For more travel ideas and tips, be sure to Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel for FREE
Taliesin Scenic Tours
Taliesin is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was Frank Lloyd Wright’s private home for nearly 50 years. It was called a “Living Laboratory” where Wright and his apprentices practiced innovative building techniques. If you’ve been to a Wright site before, you will see elements of it here where many of his thoughts, ideas, and building methods originated. Wright’s stunning home, studio, school, and 800-acre estate will astound and amaze guests as they get an up close and personal glimpse of the life of America’s most iconic architect.
- Introductory House Tour: Groups can experience an overview of Wright’s life and architectural principles on this tour. Enjoy the views of the interiors of his private residence and personal studio. Key features are the famed living room and art collection. This tour is perfect for groups short on time that still wish to experience Taliesin.
- In-Depth House Tour: An in-depth look at the history of Taliesin and the key architectural features that exemplify Wright’s philosophies, this tour allows the group to view the exteriors, courtyards and gardens along with the interior spaces of the home. This experience is ideal for groups looking to take their time and fully immerse themselves in Wright’s home, Taliesin.
- Highlights Tour: Experience the beautiful interiors of two significant Wright-designed buildings – Hillside and Taliesin. Like the Estate Tour, this tour is perfect for both novice and seasoned enthusiasts of Wright’s work. The Hillside Theater recently re-opened after a five-year, $1.1 million restoration project. In its heyday, this theater became a playhouse dedicated to entertainment and on Sundays, Wright played movies for the public. Also included in the tour is a scenic drive through the Taliesin estate past the former farming complex, Midway Barn. The barn represents a holistic integration of human, animal and natural life: an integration that was honed over time and diverted to suit changing needs. It also includes a tour of Taliesin – Wright’s home.
- Estate Tour: Take an in-depth look at the history of Taliesin and the major architectural features that depict Wright’s philosophies. This tour, which includes a 1.5-mile walk across the estate, allows groups to view the exteriors, courtyards and gardens as well as the interior spaces of the home. Experience the iconic Hillside school, Hillside Theater, the home Wright built for his sister called Tan-y-Deri, and a detailed house tour of the interior and exterior of Taliesin itself. This tour provides the most complete picture of Wright’s life on the Taliesin property.
Relax and Break for Lunch
Enjoy a delicious buffet-style lunch with your group overlooking the Wisconsin River at the lovely Riverview Terrace Cafe at the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center. The café supports local farmers and artisanal producers for an expertly crafted regional menu that showcases the flavor of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area.
Curated Gift Shop
Before you end your trip to Taliesin, stop by the carefully curated gift shop that features plenty of exclusive mid-century modern type décor and other souvenirs to commemorate your experience. An online shop is available 24/7 at shop.taliesinpreservation.org/
Click here to learn more about Taliesin Preservation and book a group or private tour today. Call directly for details: 877-588-7900 Ext 231.
For more travel ideas and tips, be sure to Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel for FREE
