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The Gold Pyramid House: A roadside marvel

A shimmering, six-story pyramid in Illinois, inspired by ancient Egypt and plated in gold.

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The Gold Pyramid House in Wadsworth, Illinois, is a unique roadside attraction. Built in the late 1970s as a private residence, this 55-foot-high replica of the Great Pyramid of Cheops is plated in 24-karat gold and surrounded by Egyptian-themed statuary.

A brief summary to Gold Pyramid

Local tips

  • Check the Gold Pyramid's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours and tour availability, as they can vary.
  • Visit during the annual summer charity car show for a unique event combining automotive culture with the pyramid's Egyptian theme.
  • Consider visiting at sunset for a stunning view of the pyramid illuminated by the golden light.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Gold Pyramid House is located at 37921 N Dilleys Rd, Wadsworth, IL 60083, between Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 41. From I-94, exit onto Route 173 (Rosecrans Road) and head east. Turn north onto Dilleys Road. The pyramid will be on your left. Parking is available on-site and is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If you're coming from Gurnee, Illinois, a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. The trip is approximately 5 miles and typically takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for the ride. Uber offers upfront pricing, so you'll know the cost before you book.

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Discover more about Gold Pyramid

The Gold Pyramid House, located in Wadsworth, Illinois, is a striking and unusual landmark that draws visitors with its sheer novelty. Constructed in 1977 by Jim and Linda Onan, the six-story structure is a replica of the Great Pyramid of Cheops, plated in gold. The Onans, inspired by theories of pyramid power, originally built it as their private residence. The pyramid is surrounded by a moat and features a 50-foot statue of King Tut, a metal palm tree, and garages topped with smaller pyramids. Inside, the 17,000-square-foot structure once housed Egyptian furnishings, artifacts, and paintings, including a reproduction of King Tutankhamen's throne. In 2018, a fire caused substantial damage to the Gold Pyramid House. While renovations are ongoing, parts of the grounds are open to the public. Visitors can explore the exterior, view the statuary, and learn about the history of this unique architectural curiosity. The family plans to fully restore the property and reopen it to the public.

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