Background

Taliesin West: Wright's Desert Masterpiece

Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and architectural masterpiece nestled in the Arizona desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.7

Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and architectural school in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a stunning example of organic architecture. Nestled in the McDowell Mountains, this National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Wright's innovative use of desert materials and his vision of harmony between the built environment and the natural world.

A brief summary to Taliesin West

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as tickets are limited and reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as all tours involve walking on gravel and concrete pathways with uneven surfaces.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as tours are primarily outdoors and the Arizona sun can be intense.
  • Consider a guided tour for a more in-depth experience and access to areas not available on the audio tour.
  • Check the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website for seasonal and specialized tours, such as the Shelters in the Desert tour.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Taliesin West is located at 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259. From downtown Phoenix, take the AZ-202 Loop E and AZ-101 Loop N to Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. Free on-site parking is available. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak hours, so arrive no earlier than 20 minutes before your scheduled tour. Consider ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as an alternative. Expect a 30-minute drive from Phoenix.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Metro offers bus services from Phoenix to Scottsdale. Take the line 514 bus to the Mustang Transit Center, then transfer to another bus that will drop you off at Altadena Av & Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. From there, it's a 35-minute walk to Taliesin West. The total journey takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes and costs around $2. Check the Valley Metro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.

Unlock the Best of Taliesin West

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Taliesin West

Taliesin West, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, is more than just a building; it's a living testament to Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural genius and his deep connection to the American landscape. Established in 1937, it served as Wright's winter home, studio, and architectural campus until his death in 1959. Today, it stands as a National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. Wright's philosophy of organic architecture is vividly displayed in Taliesin West's design. The buildings are constructed from local materials, primarily desert masonry – rocks and sand sourced directly from the site – seamlessly blending with the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The structures are intentionally low-slung, reflecting the expansive desert landscape and the nearby McDowell Mountains. Taliesin West evolved organically over decades, with Wright and his apprentices continuously adding and modifying the complex. The layout follows a 45-degree grid, connecting various structures through walkways, terraces, and gardens. These include Wright's office, drafting studios, living quarters, a dining hall, three theaters, and apprentice residences. Canvas roofs, originally used to provide diffused light, and redwood beams, often painted in Wright's signature Cherokee red, add to the unique aesthetic. A visit to Taliesin West offers a glimpse into Wright's creative process and the daily life of his Taliesin Fellowship. Tours explore the drafting studio where Wright designed some of his most iconic works, the living spaces that reflect his personal style, and the surrounding desert landscape that inspired his vision. The site also hosts cultural and educational programs, keeping Wright's legacy alive for future generations.

Popular Experiences near Taliesin West

Popular Hotels near Taliesin West

Select Currency