How to see Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's Scottsdale masterpiece, for just $5

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation will offer its biannual Discovery Day at Taliesin West in Scottsdale on Saturday, Dec. 9. Visitors can dive into the realms of art, architecture and nature while exploring Wright's winter home and studio at a discounted rate.

"Whether you're an architecture aficionado or you're just curious about the design world, Discovery Day provides visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the inspiring history and enduring legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright," Alex Freyermuth, manager of cultural programs at the Frank Llyod Wright Foundation, said in a press release.

"Since this is not a formal tour of Taliesin West, guests can explore the grounds at their own pace while fully immersing themselves in Wright's work and principles, which are just as relevant today as they were in his time."

What is Discovery Day at Taliesin West?

Discovery Day at Taliesin West is a family-friendly experience where guests can explore the site and take part in activities emphasizing its art, culture and history.

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On Dec. 9, adults can get in for $5 while children ages 12 and under get in free. Guests must make a reservation for a specific time slot at franklloydwright.org.

Things to do at Taliesin West Discovery Day

Visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of the iconic architect's work and philosophy through performances, interactive demonstrations and hands-on crafts led by Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation staff.

• The "American Icons: Wright and O'Keeffe" exhibition will provide a behind-the-scenes look at photographs, including never-before-seen images of Wright and Georgia O'Keeffe.
• A taiko drumming performance by Ken Koshio and Koshio Gumi takes listeners through a journey of an ancient Japanese style of music.
• Learn about the concrete and stone mixture that makes up the structures of Taliesin West in a desert masonry lab.
• Watch demonstrations by local artisans while gaining insight into their inspirations and what drives their creations.
• Kids of all ages can build forts at the Music Pavilion using natural materials from the surrounding environment.
• Watch archival videos depicting the rich history of Taliesin West. You'll be able to see the construction process through its completion.
• Dive into the art of block printing, a technique from China.
• Explore a selection of historic items to learn about Taliesin West, Wright's history and what inspired his work.
• Take a tai chi class on the Sunset Terrace with stunning views of the Valley.
• Participate in a nature abstraction craft station using natural elements of the Sonoran Desert.

Booths will provide information about the work being done at Taliesin West and throughout the community. The Breakfast Joynt will have food available for purchase and there will be music by Valley Sol at the Garden Squares.

What is special about Taliesin West?

According to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website, the architect's desert laboratory is a United Nations Educations, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark.

Wright established his winter home in 1937 and handcrafted it over many years. It's deeply connected to the desert, and was built almost entirely by Wright and his apprentices who studied there.

"Taliesin West is a look over the rim of the world," Wright is quoted as saying on the website.

Why is it called Taliesin?

According to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website, Wright gave his original home in Wisconsin a Welsh name that means "shining brow."

The name symbolized Wright's intention to create a home that was "of the hill" instead of on it. So, Taliesin (Tally-ESS-in) was built below the hillcrest, on its brow instead of its crown.

Wright gave his winter home the same name and added "West."

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How much does it cost to go to Taliesin West?

There are three ways to tour Taliesin West. Reservations are recommended.

• Highlights Audio Tour: A 60-minute tour inside the buildings and across the grounds with narration from Wright. $39-$44; $27-$31 for students 13-25 with a valid student ID; $19-$22 for ages 6-12.
• Guided Tour: A 90-minute tour with a guide who explains the historic core of Taliesin West. $49-$54; $35-$38 for students 13-25 with ID; $24-$27 for ages 6-12.
• Seasonal Tour: A 60-minute guided tour that includes stunning dusk views. $49; $35 for students 13-25 with ID; $24 for ages 6-12.

Make reservations at franklloydwright.org.

What is the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation?

Established in 1940 by Wright, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation preserves Taliesin and Taliesin West for future generations and inspires people to embrace architecture for better living through connection to nature, the arts and each other.

Discovery Day at Taliesin West

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9.

Where: Taliesin West, 12345 N. Taliesin Drive, Scottsdale.

Admission: $5, free for age 12 and younger.

Details: franklloydwright.org.

Meredith G. White is the entertainment reporter for The Arizona Republic |azcentral.com. You can find her on Facebook as Meredith G. White, on Instagram and Twitter as @meredithgwhite, and email her atmeredith.white@arizonarepublic.com.

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