
Roycroft Campus East Aurora
Birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement, offering historic buildings, artisan studios, and a glimpse into a unique cultural legacy.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Art shows and festivals abound!

Roycroft Campus East Aurora
Best Time
Art shows and festivals abound!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement, offering historic buildings, artisan studios, and a glimpse into a unique cultural legacy.
"A beautiful place that looks like a castle! It has entertaining events inside the building as well as in the courtyard."

🎯 Check Event Calendars
Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals . Plan around these for a vibrant experience!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings & Architecture
Throughout the Campus
Marvel at the unique architecture, a testament to the Arts & Crafts movement. A must-see for history and design enthusiasts.

Artisan Shops & Galleries
Various Studios and Shops
Discover handcrafted jewelry, pottery, prints, and more from talented artists. Perfect for unique souvenirs.

The Roycroft Inn
On Campus
Experience historic charm and hospitality. Even if not staying, admire its architecture and consider a meal.

Rare Book Room
Roycroft Chapel
Explore significant publications from the early 1900s, showcasing the Roycroft's literary contributions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arts & Crafts Legacy
Check Event Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Calendars
Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals.
Plan around these for a vibrant experience!👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Architecture
The buildings are stunning! Don't forget your camera for unique shots. :camerawithflash:
🛍️ Shop for Unique Art
Discover handcrafted treasures from local artists. Perfect for gifts or souvenirs. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Calendars
Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals.
Plan around these for a vibrant experience!👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Architecture
The buildings are stunning! Don't forget your camera for unique shots. :camerawithflash:
🛍️ Shop for Unique Art
Discover handcrafted treasures from local artists. Perfect for gifts or souvenirs. :gift:
📜 Consider a Guided Tour
Learn the rich history and stories behind the campus. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Roycroft Campus for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant artisan community. Many enjoy exploring the historic buildings and browsing the unique handcrafted items available in the shops. While some note that specific tours or exhibits might have fees, the overall experience is considered inspiring and worthwhile, especially during the frequent art festivals and events.
"I had never been here and I live not super far from it. It is really cool and a nice place to walk around and check out with a lot of cool history. It was worth going through and seeing the buildings and reading the history. There is a tour. We just did not make it LOL."
Kristin Haines
"Attended a two day workshop for making a stained glass panel-- loved it! Beautifully maintained historic building & grounds. The gift shop is a destination in itself; garden/sculptures/paper/print art/glass/pottery/jewlery-- a little of everything!"
N 2019
"Beautiful place that looks like a castle! It has entertaining events inside the building as well as in the courtyard. The shade from the trees makes it pleasant to be outside even on a hot day."
Shaliza Szuba
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Roycroft Campus is located in East Aurora, NY, just outside Buffalo. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is generally available near the campus grounds. Many visitors find it a charming day trip from Buffalo or Niagara Falls.
Public transportation options to East Aurora might be limited. It's often easiest to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from Buffalo.
The campus is walkable, with historic buildings and grounds to explore. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
East Aurora itself is a charming town with shops and eateries. You can also combine a visit with other day trips in the Western New York region.
Absolutely! The Roycroft Campus is a popular day trip destination for those visiting Buffalo, offering a dose of history and arts and crafts culture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the campus grounds and many of the artisan shops is free. However, specific tours, workshops, or museum exhibits may require tickets or admission fees. It's best to check the official Roycroft Campus website for current information.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and specific buildings or shops. Many artisan shops are open on weekends, especially during art shows.
The Roycroft Inn has its own hours for dining and accommodation.Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended to learn about the rich history and significance of the Roycroft movement. Check the campus website for tour schedules and booking information.
The Roycroft Campus frequently offers a variety of workshops, from stained glass to painting.
These are popular and often require advance registration.Wandering the grounds and browsing many of the shops is typically free. However, specific events, tours, or museum access may incur a fee. Always check the official Roycroft Campus website for the most up-to-date details on admission.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic buildings, browse artisan shops and galleries featuring handcrafted goods,
visit the Roycroft Inn, and learn about the Arts & Crafts movement. Special events and workshops are also common.The shops feature a diverse range of handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery, prints, paper goods, glass art, and furniture, reflecting the Arts & Crafts ethos.
Yes, the campus can be family-friendly, especially during events with activities for children.
The open grounds offer space to explore, and the history can be engaging for older children.It was a leading center of the American Arts & Crafts movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, founded by Elbert Hubbard, promoting craftsmanship and artistic ideals.
The Roycroft Inn offers dining options. East Aurora also has several charming restaurants and cafes nearby for a wider selection.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture, the Roycroft Inn, and the various artisan studios offer picturesque backdrops. The grounds themselves are also beautiful, especially during different seasons.
Photography policies can vary by building and exhibit. It's generally permitted in public areas and shops, but always check for specific restrictions, especially in galleries or during tours.
Look for architectural details, the 'face in the stone' on a roof peak mentioned by visitors, and the overall aesthetic that embodies the Arts & Crafts style.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for architectural and landscape shots. Weekends during events offer more dynamic scenes.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Elbert Hubbard and the Roycroft
Hubbard's philosophy, often summarized as 'Work is Love Made Visible,' permeated the campus. Artisans, known as 'Roycrofters,' excelled in various crafts, including printing, bookbinding, furniture making, metalworking, and pottery. The Roycroft Press produced iconic books and the magazine 'The Fra,' known for their distinctive typography and design. Visitors today can still feel the spirit of this era by exploring the historic buildings, many of which still house active artisan studios and galleries.
Understanding the historical context of the Roycroft is key to appreciating its enduring impact. It championed the idea that art and craft should be integrated into everyday life, influencing design and aesthetics across America. The campus serves as a living museum, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal period in American cultural history. Many visitors are struck by the architectural beauty and the palpable sense of history that permeates the grounds.
Experiencing the Roycroft Campus Today
Beyond the studios, the Roycroft Inn stands as a beautifully restored historic hotel, offering a place to stay, dine, or simply admire its architecture. The campus grounds are also a pleasure to explore, providing a serene atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for special events, such as art festivals, antique shows, and workshops, which are frequently held throughout the year and draw visitors from far and wide. These events are a fantastic way to experience the vibrant community that continues to thrive on the campus.
For those seeking a deeper dive, guided tours are available to illuminate the rich history and the lives of the Roycrofters. Visitors often remark on the campus's unique charm and the palpable sense of history. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque and inspiring outing, the Roycroft Campus offers a memorable experience that connects the past with the present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit