Culture · Phoenix

Taliesin West

Taliesin West was Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home, studio and architecture school, built by hand into the desert foothills on the northeast edge of the Valley beginning in 1937. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a masterclass in Wright's idea of 'organic architecture' — buildings that grow out of, rather than sit on, their landscape.

The low stone-and-canvas structures, framed views of the McDowell range and ingenious use of desert light reward an unhurried look. You'll want to book a guided tour in advance; the docents bring the place to life, and there are several tour lengths depending on how deep you want to go. Evening and twilight tours are especially atmospheric in the cooler months.

It's an easy drive from most of our Phoenix and Scottsdale rentals. Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven desert paths and give yourself time to linger — this is one of Arizona's true architectural pilgrimages.