Recognized in 1991 as one of the ten most significant structures of the 20th Century, the Frederick C. Robie House was designed by famous Chicago architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. The Robie House, a U.S. National History Landmark, was completed in 1910 and is a perfect expression of the architect’s introduction to the Prairie School style. Each element of the house was conceived as a whole, including the interior and exterior, site and structure, ornaments and furniture, within this uniquely American style of design.
Visitors to Robie House will experience more than 13,000 square feet of unique and awe-inspiring details. From the bands of brick and limestone that anchor the building to the earth, to the dramatic cantilevered roof lines, guests are struck by unique design elements even before entering. Inside, the open plan is filled with light, unique color, leaded glass, balconies, terraces, and seasonally blooming planters.
Not to Miss at the Robie House
- One of the most fascinating design features of Robie House are the detailed leaded glass windows that incorporate function and beauty. Ribbons of these art-glass windows incorporated in the house seamlessly connect the interior of the house to the exterior.
- On the tour, take note of the overhanging eaves, and flat rooms with striking horizonal lines. These are some of what makes the Prairie Style unique and separates it as a distinctly American expression of architecture.
- In a time when designers were keen on putting up many walls to divide rooms, the great room in the main living area uses only a single fireplace to divide up the massive living area.
Robie House Amenities
Conveniences, services and accommodations provided at Robie House include:
Robie House Museum Shop
Find gifts and souvenirs related to Frank Lloyd Wright and Robie House.
- T-shirts, key rings, wine glasses and coasters are some of the standard memorabilia.
- Unique, architecturally related items include stained glass windows, light boxes and wooden panels created as replicas in the style of the windows and other design features in Robie House.
- Take a home a photographic reminder in the form the Robie House book.
Accommodations
Because of the era in which the Robie House was built, only the exterior and ground floor are accessible to guests in wheelchairs. The trust does make one standard wheelchair available to guests (first-come, first-served). Some walkers with built-in seats are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walkers are allowed to be brought in, but they will be inspected to avoid damaging the floors.
Robie House Nearby Attractions
Visitors won’t have cause to spend all day at Robie House, which means they’ll have plenty of time to take in some other activities or sights nearby. Robie House’s location near the University of Chicago means that several museums and other interesting attractions are in close proximity (within walking distance), including:
- Oriental Institute Museum
- Dusable Museum of African American History
- SMART Museum of Art
- Museum of Science and Industry
- University of Chicago’s Botany Pond
Getting to the Robie House
5757 Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago IL 60637
Located near the University of Chicago, Robie House is easily accessed by car, bicycle, or public transportation.
Driving
From downtown Chicago, Lake Shore Drive provides easy access to the museum. The 1-90/94 Expressway runs very near the Robie House.
Street parking is the best option, although spots are likely to be difficult to find during normal campus hours.
Public Transportation
Robie House can be accessed using CTA on various buses and train lines, including:
- #2, #6, #X28 Buses
- Metra’s University Park Line to 55th-56th-57th Street Stop
Biking
In nicer weather, getting to Robie House on a bike is a great option and saves on parking headaches. Bike racks are conveniently located throughout the University Campus. For Divvy, Chicago’s bike sharing system, a docking station can be found at Ellis Avenue & 58th Street, just a 6-minute walk from Robie House.
When to Go to the Robie House
Open Thurs-Mon 10am-3pm; Closed to the public Tuesday and Wednesday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Even, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Robie House Insider Tips
Purchase tickets in advance and then check in at the Museum Shop no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour or event time. Late arrivals will join their group in progress and may miss out on important parts of the tour.
Plan to eat before or after your tour as space is not necessarily allotted for a meal or picnic lunch.
If you are planning on visiting several tourist attractions during your visit to Chicago, check out the Go Chicago Pass or Explorer Pass, both of them include a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home is about 30 minutes by car in Oak Park. Tours are conducted daily.