Frank Lloyd Wright’s 150th Anniversary Events This Summer
June 8 marks the 150th birthday of Frank Lloyd Wright. And whether you simply fondly recall discovering his work on a childhood field trip or you plan vacations around venturing to his masterpieces, we all have a soft spot for America’s most beloved architect. Here are a few unique ways to celebrate, from his home state in Wisconsin to Northern Virginia.
Fallingwater Events and Lecture Series in Mill Run, Pennsylvania
Secluded icon Fallingwater will host a series of special lectures and an exhibition called “Wright for Wright,” spotlighting the homes Wright built for himself, as well as his design philosophy and his inspiration, to commemorate his 150th. The Fallingwater Café will also dole out treats created from some of Wright’s favorite recipes, including one for his birthday cake, a delight composed with walnuts, chocolate, and a swirl of strawberries. Lectures will take place every Thursday afternoon through October. And when it comes time to rest, may we suggest the Duncan House in nearby Acme, a FLW marvel that functions as a bed-and-breakfast?
150th Birthday Picnic and Party Fundraiser in Alexandria, Virginia
Design lovers will stand in awe of the 1940s Pope-Leighey House, one of the first types of affordable housing in the country (it was actually created after a couple with a modest budget sought out Wright to bring their dream home to life). Picnics are held here throughout the summer , and on his birthday evening a soirée will spotlight highlights from some of the area’s best food and cocktail vendors, along with live music and a special auction.
Pedal Oak Park Guided Bicycle Tours in Oak Park, Illinois
If you prefer your culture with a dose of adrenaline, enjoy these charming tours winding through town with stops at 21 buildings designed by the Prairie School maestro. Standouts include Wright’s Home and Studio (pictured here) and the lovely brick Cheney House. Tours run June through August on Fridays and weekends.
Strawberry Moon Evening in Independence, Iowa
Iowa may not be the first state that comes to mind when you consider FLW, but you’d be remiss in overlooking the incredible design at his Lowell and Agnes Walter Residence. On Saturday, June 10 , have a chance to tour the locale after-hours and take a peek in the typically closed Maid's Quarters and recently renovated River Pavilion.
Frank Lloyd Wright Celebration in Columbus, Ohio
There’s good reason we’ve included this historic tower on our list of the world’s most beautiful Art Deco buildings . And the Hotel LeVeque 's 2017 opening infuses new life into the storied space, along with a special offering to commemorate the 20th-century talent. The birthday package includes accommodations, a guided architecture tour of the tower, “The Wright Stuff” cocktails, and more. Fun fact: The LeVeque Tower is the masterpiece of Charles Howard Crane, a contemporary of FLW, who, like Wright, believed that juxtaposing humble materials like terra-cotta with cast concrete yielded architectural thrills.
Tours and Events at Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona
This desert oasis was FLW’s winter home (as well as school), and the marvelous organic architecture style shines decades after its opening in 1937. This week, the museum will provide $1.50 tours on June 8, and a “red tie” gala in November, to toast his birthday. There’s that excuse you needed to book that luxe getaway in the arid lands of Arizona.
150 Hours of Frank Lloyd Wright at Darwin Martin House and Graycliff in Buffalo, New York
The 150 Hours of Frank Lloyd Wright in Buffalo program is gearing up for the, well, 150 hours surrounding Wright’s birth on June 8. Beginning on the evening of June 5 and ending June 11, extended hours and new activities will be offered on-site, along with evening events and outdoor activities. Not to be missed: the Barrel Chair and Japanese Print exhibit at Martin House on the afternoon of June 7, followed by a craft cocktail with the Dapper Goose in the early evening.
Wisconsin's Frank Lloyd Wright Trail and Anniversary Package at the Edgewater Hotel in Madison
The Badger State has a plethora of impressive offerings to honor one of its most famous residents. You’d be hard-pressed to find a lovelier option, though, than the Edgewater's wonderfully curated two-night package , from June 23 to 25, where you will enjoy walking tours, a docent-guided experience at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin Home in Spring Green, and cocktails and dinner at the Statehouse, the property’s handsome restaurant overlooking the shores of Lake Mendota. P.S.: Did you know Wisconsin has an entire FLW trail to explore? More on that here .