Photo: Michael Williamson
Photo: Adriana Anderson
Photo: Dustin Ebaugh
Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site
★4.8(1,026 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1 to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 8 and up. The hour-long guided tours involve standing, listening, and careful walking through historic rooms, making this ideal for school-age children and teens who can appreciate architectural details and historical context. Younger children may find the tour length and no-touch policy challenging.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Step into architectural history at this stunning Frank Lloyd Wright prairie-style mansion, featuring over 450 art glass windows and doors. The Dana-Thomas House offers guided tours that bring the early 1900s to life through original furnishings, innovative design features, and stories that captivate older children interested in art, history, or how buildings are made.
Highlights
- ✓Over 450 stunning art glass windows and doors that create colorful light patterns throughout the house
- ✓Original Frank Lloyd Wright furniture and decorative pieces still in their intended locations
- ✓The dramatic two-story gallery space that showcases Wright's prairie-style vision
- ✓Fascinating stories about Susan Lawrence Dana, the progressive woman who commissioned the home
- ✓Unique architectural details like hidden doorways and built-in furniture that kids love discovering
Pro Tips
- 1.Reserve your tour time in advance online or by phone, as group sizes are limited and tours often fill up, especially on weekends.
- 2.Visit the gift shop first where kids can pick up a free junior activity guide that helps them spot specific design elements during the tour.
- 3.Remind children before entering that this is a preserved historic home where nothing can be touched, which helps set expectations.
- 4.The tour involves stairs and walking through multiple levels, so wear comfortable shoes and consider mobility needs for all family members.
- 5.Photography is allowed in most areas, so bring a camera or phone to capture the incredible art glass windows that kids love to photograph.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM are least crowded, giving your family a more intimate tour experience. Spring and fall offer comfortable weather for walking around the exterior grounds before or after your tour.
What to Know
Admission is budget-friendly (under $10 per person, with discounts for children), and free parking is available on-site. Tours last about one hour and are guided only, so plan accordingly. No food or drinks are allowed inside, and stroller access is not available due to the historic nature of the home.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. The indoor nature of this attraction makes it perfect for hot summer days or cold winter visits. Holiday tours may be offered in December, so check ahead for special seasonal programming.
Nearby Eats
Charlie Parker's Diner (5 minutes away) offers classic American comfort food with a kids menu in a casual atmosphere. Grab lunch at Incredibly Delicious (10 minutes away) for sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts that please both kids and adults.
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