Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site, Springfield Travel Guide

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Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie masterpiece, the Dana-Thomas House, a stunning architectural gem in Springfield, Illinois. Guided tours available.

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Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site

The Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois, is the best-preserved example of Frank Lloyd Wright's early Prairie School architecture. Built between 1902 and 1904 for socialite Susan Lawrence Dana, the 35-room mansion features original Wright-designed furniture and art glass.

A brief summary to Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site

301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, Old Aristocracy Hill, Illinois, 62703, US
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Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site.

Reservations are encouraged due to limited tour capacity; book in advance online.
Photography is only permitted on the exterior of the house.
Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking and navigating stairs.
Consider visiting the Sumac Shop across the street for architectural books and unique gifts.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Illinois State Museum

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Explore Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, head east on E. Madison St. Turn left onto S. 6th St, then turn right onto E. Lawrence Ave. The Dana-Thomas House will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs involved.
Public Transport

The Springfield Mass Transit District (SMTD) operates a Historic Sites route that serves the main tourist sites in Springfield, including the Dana-Thomas House. Check the SMTD website for current schedules and route information. A single ride fare is around $1 - $2.
Taxi/Ride-share

From downtown Springfield or the Amtrak station, a taxi or ride-share service to the Dana-Thomas House will typically cost between $10 and $15. The ride is approximately 2 miles.
Parking

Free parking is available in the lot at the corner of Lawrence Ave. and 4th St. An additional parking lot is located between Third Street and Second Street with entry on Cook Street. Street parking is also available.

Discover more about Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site

The Dana-Thomas House stands as an iconic representation of Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of early 20th-century American society. Susan Lawrence Dana, a progressive heiress and socialite, commissioned Wright to remodel her family's Italianate mansion into a showplace for Springfield. Given an unlimited budget, Wright created a 12,600-square-foot residence boasting 35 rooms across three levels, incorporating unique design elements and over 250 pieces of original art glass.The house exemplifies Wright's vision of organic architecture, integrating the structure with its natural surroundings. The design incorporates recurring motifs like the prairie sumac and butterfly, reflecting the flat landscape of Illinois and Japanese aesthetics. Inside, visitors can explore the barrel-vaulted dining room and gallery/ballroom, notable for their innovative design and contribution to American architectural history. The house also features a one-lane bowling alley, a billiard room, and a walk-in vault, showcasing Dana's penchant for entertainment and luxury.Guided tours provide insights into the home's history, architecture, and the lives of Susan Lawrence Dana and Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors can admire the original Wright-designed oak furniture, art glass windows and doors, and light fixtures, offering a complete and well-preserved interior. The Dana-Thomas House is not only a testament to Wright's genius but also a significant cultural landmark that reflects the social and political currents of its time.