Trip Planner: USA / Illinois / Springfield / Dana-Thomas House

Dana-Thomas House, Springfield

4.8

#2 of 11 in Historic Sites in Springfield

Must see · Historic Site · Tourist Spot

Create an itinerary including Dana-Thomas House

Designed in 1902 for wealthy Illinois widow Susan Lawrence Dana , Dana-Thomas House serves as an excellent preserved example of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright's "Prairie Style" houses. The dwelling reflects both Dana's passion for organic architecture and Wright's ability to seamlessly blend the inside and outside of a house into one. The 3,658 sq m (12,000 sq ft) home includes 35 rooms, 16 varying levels, three main floors, and approximately 450 individually designed glass windows. Take a guided tour of the home to learn more about its history. Tours involve taking many steps and do not provide a chance to sit down, so it is not recommended for those with limited mobility. Photos are not allowed inside, but you can purchase a photo book at the gift shop. Plan your Dana-Thomas House visit and explore what else you can see and do in Springfield using our Springfield attractions site.

Improve this listing »

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Dana-Thomas House reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,168 reviews

Google

4.7

By 2doglady

We have visited several Frank Lloyd Wright houses in our travels and I think this is my favorite so far. The guide did a great job telling us about the house and its history. The story of the owner..... more

We have visited several Frank Lloyd Wright houses in our travels and I think this is my favorite so far. The guide did a great job telling us about the house and its history. The story of the owner..... more »
By Jerry W

If you are into historic buildings or Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, then this is a must see stop on a visit to Springfield, Illinois. This is a truly unique building filled with original...

If you are into historic buildings or Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, then this is a must see stop on a visit to Springfield, Illinois. This is a truly unique building filled with original... more »
By Carie501

If you are interested in Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, you will find this house interesting. He was commissioned to built it with an unlimited budget. The house has many unusual features, but it...

If you are interested in Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, you will find this house interesting. He was commissioned to built it with an unlimited budget. The house has many unusual features, but it... more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Mark Temple

FANTASTIC HOUSE!!!! 98% original Frank Lloyd Wright house only blocks from the Illinois State capital building. Sooooo much art glass and almost all original furniture. Only drawback is that you can't take photos in the house but totally understand that and would highly recommend anyone to go visit if you are in Springfield. You need to make reservations online because they only have a few guided tours a day but the website is easy to use.

more less
By Dave Cameron

95+% original Frank Lloyd Wright house only blocks from the Illinois State capital building. The state-landmark house is a living museum of the socialite Mrs. Dana. She paid Wright a lot for the design a little over 100 years ago. The home is filled with original furniture design by Mr. Wright that takes you back to his original concept. Lots of art glass as well. You need to make reservations online because they only have a few guided tours a day - takes about an hour. Our tour guide was great!

more less
By Mike & Violet

Words can't do justice to FLW's vision with this home. Photographs don't come close to actually experiencing the design, room transitions, and use of light. We can't emphasize enough that you take time out from Lincoln sightseeing to visit this gem. Make your reservation s online to ensure you can take the tour. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and he really brought things to life. Photos are not permitted inside the home. You will not regret this experience.

more less
By Sarah Shaffer

My first Frank Lloyd home tour. Tour guide was very informative on the history of its owner along with her philanthropist activities. The interior architectural design was extraordinary and futuristic for its time of construction. The tour is free, donations are welcome, no reason not to take advantage of learning and seeing history first hand.

more less
By Vanessa Kenworthy

I have loved Frank Lloyd Wright houses for a long time and though there is one in the next city over where I live, it doesn't compare to this place. It's 12000 sq ft of lavishness with its windows and furniture and little extras all created specifically for design as well as function. It was interesting learning the history behind the house and its previous owners as well as its use as a publishing company. No interior photos allowed so you definitely want to take the tour.

more less