Frank Lloyd Wright Campus Florida Southern College
Explore the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in the world on this stunning Florida campus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Frank Lloyd Wright Campus Florida Southern College
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in the world on this stunning Florida campus.
"It's hard in central Florida to find such history in architecture."
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours sell out! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot and see interiors.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive campus.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Annie Pfeiffer Chapel
Center of Campus
Wright's iconic chapel, a masterpiece of stained glass and geometric design, is a must-see.
Watson-Goodwin Library
Central Campus
Admire the unique Usonian-inspired design and its integration with the surrounding landscape.
The Water Dome
Near the Chapel
A stunning example of Wright's innovative use of water features and concrete.
Thad E. Buck Chapel
East Campus
Another significant Wright design, showcasing his distinctive architectural style.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding Campus Access and Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours sell out! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot and see interiors.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive campus.
Check for Special Exhibits
Look out for exhibitions like 'Frank Lloyd Wright & The College of Tomorrow'.
Respect Campus Rules
Remember it's a working university; be mindful of students and ongoing activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours Early
Tours sell out! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot and see interiors.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the expansive campus.
Check for Special Exhibits
Look out for exhibitions like 'Frank Lloyd Wright & The College of Tomorrow'.
Respect Campus Rules
Remember it's a working university; be mindful of students and ongoing activities.
Capture the Details
Don't just photograph the buildings; zoom in on the unique architectural details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the architectural significance and the sheer volume of Frank Lloyd Wright's work on campus, calling it a 'treasure trove.' However, some reviews note that certain buildings are in a state of disrepair, requiring significant maintenance. Despite this, many find the tours informative and the campus scenery beautiful and historic.
"I came to this campus to see the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings. Although they looked great from afar, the condition of the buildings was disgraceful. The buildings are crumbling apart and look like they might just come down on top of you. I would think they would try to keep these buildings from rotting and crumbling away but everywhere you turn, there is damage and mold. It is so sad to see. They need a ton of money to be poured into constant maintenance of these buildings 365 days of the year. I would not send my children to this school for fear the roof will collapse upon them while attending class."
Katy Fisk
"Went today to visit Florida Southern College to go on a basic tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright designed building. It was $35 per person for a 60-90 minute tour. We had a very knowledgeable tour guide that showed us inside 3 separate buildings on property, along with walking us through the property explaining the design history behind the campus. Overall it was very amazing to see this historic property still being maintained and properly preserved to this day. It’s hard in central Florida to find such history in architecture."
Jacob Adamczak
"One of my favorite Frank Lloyd Wright designs. Features the largest collection of his buildings. Had an opportunity to tour this campus in the Fall of 2019! I was amazed by the scenery and really enjoyed walking around the campus! I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for something to do while in the area."
Nick Schwartz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Frank Lloyd Wright Campus is located at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with major highways nearby. If flying, the closest major airports are Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), both about an hour's drive away.
Yes, visitor parking is generally available on campus. It's advisable to check the Florida Southern College website for the most current parking regulations and any potential fees, especially if you plan to attend a specific event or tour.
Public transportation options to the campus might be limited. While some local bus routes may serve the Lakeland area, it's often more convenient to drive or use ride-sharing services.
Florida Southern College strives to be accessible. Most of the main pathways are paved, but some historic buildings may have limitations. It's recommended to contact the campus visitor services in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs.
The campus is quite walkable, and a self-guided walking tour is a popular way to see the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings. Maps are often available at the visitor center or online.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can walk around the exterior of many buildings, a guided tour is highly recommended to see the interiors and learn about the architecture. Tickets for these tours are required and can be purchased online or at the visitor center.
Tour prices can vary, but expect to pay around $35 per person for a guided tour that lasts 60-90 minutes. It's best to check the official Florida Southern College website for the most up-to-date pricing.
The campus is a working university, so access might be restricted on holidays or during special events. While you might be able to walk around the grounds on certain holidays, the visitor center and tours may be closed.
You can book tours online through the Florida Southern College website or by contacting their visitor services. Booking in advance is strongly advised, especially for popular times.
You can explore the exterior of the buildings and walk the campus grounds for free. However, to gain access to the interiors and learn the detailed history, a paid guided tour is necessary.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, Watson-Goodwin Library, the Water Dome, and the Thad E. Buck Chapel. The campus boasts the largest collection of Wright-designed buildings for a single client. 
A guided tour typically lasts 60-90 minutes. If you plan to explore the campus at your own pace and take photos, you could easily spend 2-3 hours or more.
While efforts are made to preserve the historic buildings, some reviews mention areas needing significant maintenance and repair. The college is actively working on preservation.
Pay attention to Wright's signature use of geometric patterns, natural materials, integration with the landscape, and innovative structural elements like the stained-glass windows in the chapel.
This exhibition at the Ashley Gibson Museum of Art explores Wright's vision for the campus, including buildings that were designed but never built, offering a deeper look into his plans.
📸 📸 Photography
The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel with its stained glass, the Water Dome, and the overall campus landscape offer stunning photographic opportunities. Look for unique angles and architectural details.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be respectful of the campus environment and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the architecture, providing softer shadows and beautiful illumination. The stained glass in the chapel is particularly striking when lit from within.
Photography inside buildings is usually permitted during guided tours, but it's always best to ask your tour guide for specific permissions. Some areas might have restrictions.
Operating drones on college campuses is typically prohibited due to safety and privacy concerns. It's essential to check the college's official policy on drone usage before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour that is family-friendly, or focus on a self-guided walk highlighting the most visually impressive structures like the Water Dome. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a good amount of walking. The campus also features beautiful rose gardens, which can be a pleasant diversion for kids.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the iconic buildings, delve into the details: the innovative use of materials, the integration with the Florida landscape, and the philosophical underpinnings of his designs. Look for exhibitions that explore Wright's unbuilt projects for the campus, offering a glimpse into his broader conceptualizations.
🎓 Students & Academics
The college offers a four-year graduation guarantee and provides amenities like shuttles and a gaming stadium, contributing to a supportive student experience. The presence of Wright's masterpieces provides a rich context for architectural studies, fostering a deep appreciation for design history and practice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Frank Lloyd Wright's Vision for Florida Southern College
+1Wright's philosophy of organic architecture is evident throughout the campus. Buildings are designed to feel like extensions of the natural environment, with flowing lines, geometric patterns, and an emphasis on light and space. The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, with its breathtaking stained-glass dome, and the Usonian-inspired Watson-Goodwin Library are prime examples of his genius. Even the campus's water features, like the iconic Water Dome, were conceived as integral parts of the architectural experience.
Despite the ambitious scope, not all of Wright's designs were realized during his lifetime. However, the existing structures stand as a testament to his enduring legacy. The college continues to be a living museum of Wright's work, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience his architectural principles firsthand. Ongoing preservation efforts ensure that this architectural treasure remains for future generations.
+1Navigating the Campus and Its Architecture
When exploring, take time to notice the smaller details that make Wright's designs so remarkable. Look for the intricate patterns in the stained glass, the unique concrete block formations, and how the buildings interact with the surrounding gardens and water features. The Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, in particular, is a highlight, with its stunning dome that casts colorful light throughout the interior.
+1For a deeper understanding, guided tours are highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides can provide historical context, architectural insights, and stories behind the creation of the campus. These tours often grant access to the interiors of several key buildings, offering a more complete appreciation of Wright's vision. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.
Social
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