kentuck knob tour tickets

Frank Lloyd Wright's house for I.N. and Bernardine Hagan

Both dramatic and serene, Kentuck Knob is situated just below the crest of a great hill and appears part of the landscape itself. An organic floor plan, cantilevered overhangs, and imaginative expanses of glass effortlessly integrate the interior of the house with its stunning surroundings.

On a tour of Kentuck Knob, visitors will learn about the Hagan family, Frank Lloyd Wright, and the architect's vision for the house. Our experienced staff of tour guides share stories, historical information, and offer unique insights into this wonderful house.

2024 Season Hours

March 9th to November 2nd - Open daily for tours from 9:00am - 4:00pm (Wednesdays 12:00pm - 4:00pm)

November 3rd to November 30th - Open daily for tours from 10:am- 3:00pm (Wednesdays 12:00pm - 3:00pm)

December - Open for tours Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00am - 3:00pm | Open daily December 26th to December 30th from 10:00am - 3:00pm

Important Information

Kentuck Knob is a private institution, not a public park. All visitors must have a tour ticket or grounds pass to explore the property.

Photography or videography is NOT permitted inside the house. Exterior photography is permitted.

Large handbags, backpacks, camera bags, and other cumbersome items are NOT permitted inside the house. To help in preservation, please do not sit, lean, or touch anything in the house while on tour.

Children under the age of 6 are NOT permitted inside the house. Children of all ages are welcome to explore the property with a Woodland Walk Grounds Pass.

Tours of Kentuck Knob are walking tours. With advanced notice, Kentuck Knob makes every effort to accommodate visitors with mobility issues.

Tours begin at their scheduled time. Subject to timing, late arrivals may join tours in-progress, or a subsequent tour.

To preverve the house and surrounding sculptures, pets are NOT allowed on the property at Kentuck Knob. Service animals are allowed on the property.

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Kentuck Knob

Kentuck Knob, where architecture and sculpture are seamlessly integrated into the beautiful landscape. Located in the Laurel Highlands of western Pennsylvania, Kentuck Knob is an excellent illustration of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian architecture.

Isaac Newton and Bernardine Hagan

723 Kentuck Road

National Historic Landmark. National Register of Historic Places. Privately owned with tours available

kentuckknob.com

Wright nestled the crescent-shaped Usonian house into the side of the hill and oriented it to catch the best light throughout the day. Kentuck Knob’s materials—native sandstone, Tidewater Red Cypress and a copper hipped roof—further merge the structure with its surroundings. Bernardine Hagan described the Kentuck Knob experience as truly being at one with nature. In 1986, having lived in the house for over thirty years, the Hagans sold Kentuck Knob to Lord and Lady Palumbo of London. The Palumbos are deeply committed to preserving Wright’s residence and maintain an active tour program for the public.

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Fallingwater & Kentuck Knob

Mother nature provides a beautiful backdrop of warm autumn colors in southwest Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands for this trip to visit two homes designed by renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Witness the harmonious union of art and nature on your guided tour of Fallingwater and marvel at Kentuck Knob designed to blend naturally with its surroundings on your guided tour.

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Package Includes:

1 Boxed Lunch, Guided Tour of Fallingwater, Guided Tour of Kentuck Knob and Transportation

** ALL WOLF'S TOURS - Times and Itinerary are subject to change**

Mother Nature provides a beautiful backdrop of warm autumn colors for this trip to the scenic Laurel Highlands in southwest PA for guided tours of two homes designed by renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob. Following a short stop enroute, you arrive in Mill Run, PA for a guided tour of Fallingwater. Designed in 1935, Fallingwater is one of Wright's most widely acclaimed works that exemplifies his philosophy of organic architecture, the harmonious union of art and nature. The house was designed to rise above the waterfall over which it is built and is constructed of quarried native sandstone and other materials from the property. Witness the breathtaking surroundings as the warm autumn colors paint the area. (Please Note: Please wear comfortable shoes because there is a walk along uneven ground to the home. A small shuttle is provided for those who have mobility issues.) Following the tour, a boxed lunch is included before you depart for your next tour in Dunbar, PA at Kentuck Knob. Wright was 86 years old when he took on the job of designing Kentuck Knob, and it was one of the last homes he ever designed. The structure stands just below the crest of a hill and almost appears to be part of the mountain itself, which incorporates Wright's principle of organic architecture blending naturally with its surroundings. The home is constructed of native sandstone and red cypress from North Carolina. Just beyond the back terrace stretches a breathtaking panorama of the Youghiogheny River Gorge and the beautiful Laurel Highlands. Following your guided tour, you depart for home with a meal stop at your expense along the way, and the memories of the tranquil beauty of the Laurel Highlands and glorious works of Frank Lloyd Wright are etched in your mind.

*ALL WOLF TOURS - TIMES & ITINERARY ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE*

BL=Boxed Lunch

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200 Old US Rt. 15

York Springs, PA 17372

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Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture

One of the greatest American architects, Frank Lloyd Wright found inspiration in the landscape of Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. Four of his homes can be found in the area, each capturing the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding its architecture. Explore the Wright homes and find your Usonian (meaning affordable for the average American), organic architectural inspiration in the Laurel Highlands.

Fallingwater  - A Frank Lloyd Wright Masterpiece

In 1935, the Kaufmann family commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to design a summer home. The house was to be built along Bear Run, a favorite swimming spot of the Kaufmann family and escape from the hustle and bustle of Pittsburgh.

Completed in 1937,  Fallingwater  blends seamlessly with the landscape and waterfall, fully expressing Wright’s concept of “organic architecture.” Fallingwater seemingly suspends in mid-air above the shimmering cascade, creating the dramatically elegant home. 

Fallingwater, a National Historic Landmark and one of 24  UNESCO World Heritage sites in the U.S. and is listed along attractions including the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal, is open for the 61 st  tour season with a variety of experiences for visitors to gain insights into Wright’s organic architecture and design philosophy, and discover the beauty of Fallingwater and its natural landscape.

• Gate open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
• Closed Wednesdays
• Book online below or call 724-329-8501  

Kentuck Knob  - A Mountaintop Gem

Less than ten miles from Fallingwater sits Frank Lloyd Wright’s mountain house,  Kentuck Knob . Built in the early fifties on a bluff 2,050 feet above sea level, the home stands just below the crest of the mountain that it was named after. This one story Usonian home was designed on a hexagonal module. It blends almost seamlessly into the dramatic and serene scenery, appearing to be part of the hillside itself.

Built with only two right angles, this unique home also features an extensive art collection, including the sculpture garden on the grounds. Just beyond the home’s back terrace, visitors can take in the incredible panoramic view along of the Youghiogheny River gorge and the surrounding towering trees. 

Kentuck Knob is open for tours March through December, but hours vary depending on the time of year. Advance ticket purchase is required for all tours.

Duncan House  - A Treasure Perfect for a Wright Overnight

The  Duncan House , built in 1957 for Donald and Elizabeth Duncan, was painstakingly and lovingly disassembled in 2004, moved from its original location in Lisle, IL, to its present site at Frank Lloyd Wright at  Polymath Park in Acme, PA. The home was reopened in 2007 and has since become one of few Wright homes available for overnight rentals.  Another example of Wright's Usonian style, Duncan House is one of 60 similar designs he built in the mid-to-late fifties. Also on property at Frank Lloyd Wright at Polymath Park is Balter House and Blum House, designed by Wright’s apprentice, Peter Berndtson. In addition to tours, Polymath Park offers delicious cuisine at the Wright-inspired restaurant,  TreeTops , onsite, creating the perfect Wright experience. 

Frank Lloyd Wright at Polymath Park is open March through December (closed Wednesdays) and offers house tours, overnight stays, delicious dining and more. All Wright at Polymath Park tours are purchased through Fallingwater. Advance ticket purchase is required for all tours.

Mäntylä - Finnish for "Under the Pines"

Frank Lloyd Wright at Polymath Park and their talented crew brought new life to Frank Lloyd Wright's  Mäntylä . The Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, McKinney (Lindholm) family and Usonian Preservation Inc. worked together to accurately and effectively relocate the house from Cloquet, MN and preserve the property for future generations.

The L-shaped home with a distinct prow is now tucked away under the towering trees of Frank Lloyd Wright at  Polymath Park and is open for tours and overnight stays.

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Fallingwater®, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most widely acclaimed works, was designed in 1935 for the family of Pittsburgh department store owner Edgar…

Frank Lloyd Wright's Kentuck Knob

• 723 Kentuck Road

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Kentuck Knob

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Kentuck Knob - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Fallingwater & Kentuck Knob

Travel to two of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's masterful homes in western Pennsylvania.

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, Dunbar, PA - On a guided tour of Kentuck Knob, visitors will learn about the design and construction of the home, the Hagan family, Frank Lloyd Wright, and the architect's vision for the house. Experienced staff tour guides share stories, historical information and offer unique insights into this wonderful house. Experience the magnificient view of the Youghiogheny River Gorge from the grounds.

- Guided tour and time to explore this retreat built over a waterfall and into the rocks for the Kaufmann family in the 1930s.

• This tour has lots of walking and stairs

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Kentuck Knob

Top ways to experience Kentuck Knob and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Kentuck Knob - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Kentuck Knob: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hidden Masterpiece

Located deep in the woods of the Laurel Highlands is one of Pennsylvania’s best Frank Lloyd Wright homes: Kentuck Knob.

Kentuck Knob sits on the outskirts of Ohiopyle State Park , less than four miles as a bird flies from Wright’s most famous creation, Fallingwater , and less than an hours drive from more of his homes at Polymath Park .

Somewhat surprisingly, I’ve heard people state over and over again that of all of the Frank Lloyd Wright homes in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands , their favorite to tour is Kentuck Knob.

Kentuck Knob was built into the hillside near the summit of a mountain between 1953 and 1956. Also known as the Hagan House after the home’s original owners, I.N. and Bernardine Hagan, the home was designed, like Fallingwater, to feel seamless with the surrounding nature.

This home was one of the last drawn up by Frank Lloyd Wright, and he only visited the site once during construction. This lack of oversight allowed for a few modifications to be made to the home that would not have been approved by Wright had he had more control over the process.

The Hagans lived in the home for 30 years before selling the home to Lord Peter Palumbo. Starting in 1996, Palumbo opened the house for tours while still using the home as a vacation property.

Today, Kentuck Knob is open for tours throughout the year (except for January and February when the home is closed). Most visitors opt for the standard 45-minute house tour, which is what I had the opportunity to take.

Tours start from a visitor center at the bottom of the hill. Visitors are then loaded onto a bus for a short trip up the hill to the home’s entrance near the crest of the hillside.

Starting from the driveway outside the home, visitors are given a great overview of the history of the home and its architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Even if you aren’t overly interested in architecture, the guides do a great job pointing out some of the unique highlights of the home’s design and show how it was well ahead of its time.

I must admit that while touring the home, I wouldn’t have been surprised if someone had told me that it had been built 15-20 years later than it was because much of its design is what I associate with the late 1960s and 1970s design.

The standard tour of the home takes you into each of the rooms of this one-story home while pointing out unique design elements and how the home was designed to look like it was growing out of the hillside.

Those wanting to learn more about the home and its design can take the 90-minute in-depth tour which really delves into the home’s design.

After tours are done, visitors have two options. You can take the bus back down to the visitor center or you can hike the half-mile Woodland Walk trail back down the hill.

If you are able, I highly recommend taking this hike as it allows you to see the 30 works of art accumulated on the property by Lord Palumbo and his family, including a piece of the Berlin Wall. A map and guide to the art are provided when you purchase a ticket for a tour.

Near the home, there is also a fantastic view of the Youghiogheny River Valley and the woods of Ohiopyle State Park. Without a doubt, this is one of the best vistas in the region and shouldn’t be missed.

Before leaving, make sure to sample some of the Hagan Ice Cream that is sold in the gift shop. This ice cream is made for Kentuck Knob utilizing the owner’s original recipes, and it’s a great way to end any visit to the property.

Having toured all of the Frank Lloyd Wright homes in the Laurel Highlands, I must admit that Kentuck Knob seems to be the most liveable of them all. And, while I highly recommend touring Fallingwater while in the region, also touring Kentuck Knob offers a great look at how Wright’s design sensibilities changed over his career.

So, the next time you are visiting the Laurel Highlands in Southwestern PA, don’t miss the chance to tour Kentuck Knob.

Notes about Touring Kentuck Knob

There are a few notes worth mentioning about touring Kentuck Knob.

First off, sadly no interior photography is allowed. However, there is plenty of time for exterior photography. While the home might not be quite as striking from the exterior as Fallingwater, it’s still worthwhile to take the time to get some photos.

Secondly, children under the age of six are not allowed on any of the house tours (this includes handheld babies). This is similar to the policy at Fallingwater but is worth noting if you are traveling with younger children.

Lastly, should you not want to do a house tour, grounds passes are available for $12. These will allow you to do the Woodland Walk, see the great vista, and see the exterior of the home.

Note: My visit to Kentuck Knob was hosted by the site. However, the opinions expressed are my own.

Looking for more things to do nearby? Check out Cucumber Falls , Laurel Caverns , explore Nemacolin Woodlands , or see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Office at the Hagen History Center in Erie .

Kentuck Knob

See map below for other area attractions., great places to stay in fayette county.

• Nemacolin Woodlands Resort - One of the top hotels in Pennsylvania.
• Connellsville Bed and Breakfast - Rated the best Bed and Breakfast in Connellsville on Trip Advisor.
• Histoic Summit Inn - A historic hotel with modern ammenities.
• Hampton Inn - Rated the best value hotels in the county on Trip Advisor.
• Find more great places to stay on Airbnb!

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More nearby places worth exploring

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Pennsylvania Waterfalls: How to Get to Robinson Falls in Connellsville

Find more things to do in the laurel highlands.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

10 thoughts on “Kentuck Knob: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hidden Masterpiece”

I am enjoying reading about great p,aces to visit in PA. Thank you for all the information you provide.

Thank you for sharing your experiences! I really appreciate your informative reports about these beautiful places in our great state of Pennsylvania that I would otherwise never have known about.

Another great article about place’s in Pa. Only knew about Fallingwater, not the other homes.

Having grown up in Madison Wisconsin’s Shorewood Hills area where Wright’s wonderful Unitarian Church is located I enjoy this information of Kentucky Knob. Wright was a genius. One of my brother’s owns the farm adjacent to Taliesin in Spring Green, Wis. Now I will put Kentucky Knob on my bucket list.

My sister and I visited both Kentucky Knob and FallingWaters. Both were beautiful homes. Enjoyed touring through them. Would go back again.

It would be interesting to know who oversaw the construction and incorporated the changes you mention. Was it the same guy that led the construction of Fallingwater?

When we started the Southwestern PA Group of the Sierra Club (in the earky 1970’s, the Hagans came to our first meeting. they were interested in preserving some of our natural areas. Kentuck Knob is livable. Fallingwater is not. Never was.

Wondering, why it is not livable?

Kentuck Knob was a Wright wonderland. The two days in which I saw that and Fallingwater were unforgettable, and I think of them as two of my “happy places.”

It is notable that there are two Andy Goldworthy stone sculptures on the grounds.

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Wright in the Laurel Highlands

Experience Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture at multiple sites in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands.

Immerse Yourself in Wright in the Laurel Highlands

About 90 minutes east of downtown pittsburgh in the allegheny mountains sits a magnificent 3,000-square-mile expanse of ridges and valleys called the laurel highlands. rich in natural heritage, history and beauty, the region attracts millions of visitors each year to enjoy its many offerings of outdoor recreation, parks, resorts, arts and cultural amenities..

About 90 minutes east of downtown Pittsburgh in the Allegheny Mountains sits a magnificent 3,000-square-mile expanse of ridges and valleys called the Laurel Highlands. Rich in natural heritage, history and beauty, the region attracts millions of visitors each year to enjoy its many offerings of outdoor recreation, parks, resorts, arts and cultural amenities. Among the cultural amenities are three separate locations – Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob and Polymath Park – that display Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic architecture in four unique houses. To fully appreciate Wright’s visionary designs and understand the true artistic and cultural importance of his legacy, you’re encouraged to experience all three locations over two or more days.

Among the cultural amenities are three separate locations – Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob and Polymath Park – that display Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic architecture in four unique houses. To fully appreciate Wright’s visionary designs and understand the true artistic and cultural importance of his legacy, you’re encouraged to experience all three locations over two or more days. Each location is open to the public for tours that explore Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture, which promotes harmony between people and nature through design. The immersive and authentic experience of touring these places allows you to explore the fascinating stories of the families that once lived in these remarkable houses while also learning how Wright revolutionized architecture by taking inspiration from nature.

Fallingwater

Fallingwater is open to the public as a museum operated by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, the nonprofit organization to which Edgar Kaufmann jr. donated the property in 1963. To tour Fallingwater, advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged due to space limitations. Website: Fallingwater.org Address: 1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, PA 15464 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 724-329-8501

Fallingwater, one of the world’s best-known private residences, was designed by Wright in 1935 for the family of Pittsburgh department store owner Edgar J. Kaufmann. Recognized for its astonishing architecture and natural setting Fallingwater was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019, along with seven other Wright-designed buildings across the U.S. A series of three horizontal cantilevered floors, stacked one upon the other, appear to soar with no support, outward over a 30-foot waterfall below. Fallingwater masterfully integrates reinforced concrete, steel and glass – along with the natural materials of wood and native stone – to create a unique building with daring cantilevered construction which stretched the limits of design and technology of the period. Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture is exemplified in Fallingwater, which promotes harmony between people and nature through design. Visitors can shop, dine and learn more at the on site Visitors Center. Fallingwater is now open to the public as a museum operated by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, the nonprofit organization to which Edgar Kaufmann jr. donated the property in 1963. To tour Fallingwater, advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged due to space limitations.

Website: Fallingwater.org Address: 1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, PA 15464 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 724-329-8501

Polymath Park is located in Acme, Pa., which is approximately 22 miles from Fallingwater. With its peaceful integration into nature, Polymath Park’s immersive experience awaits you with its Wright Overnight lodging and cozy fine dining in the award-winning Tree Tops Restaurant. To book tours, lodging and dining reservations, or for more information, visit the website. Website: Polymathpark.com Address: 187 Evergreen Lane, Acme, Pa., 15610 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 877-833-7829

Wright at Polymath Park is a collection of two Wright-designed houses and two houses from Peter Berndtson, a Wright apprentice. The Wright-designed houses, Mäntylä and the Duncan House, were saved from demolition and relocated to the property from other states. These homes provide examples of Wright’s Usonian-style architecture and design techniques. Polymath Park is located in Acme, Pa., which is approximately 22 miles from Fallingwater. With its peaceful integration into nature, Polymath Park’s immersive experience awaits you with its Wright Overnight lodging and cozy fine dining in the award-winning Tree Tops Restaurant. To book tours, lodging and dining reservations, or for more information, visit the website.

Website: Polymathpark.com Address: 187 Evergreen Lane, Acme, Pa., 15610 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 877-833-7829

Kentuck Knob

Kentuck Knob’s construction materials of native sandstone and tidewater red cypress blend naturally with the surroundings. A must-see sculpture garden featuring more than 35 major works enhances the visitor’s experience, and a former greenhouse now serves as the visitor center with a gift shop and a café. Website: KentuckKnob.com Address: 723 Kentuck Road, Chalk Hill, Pa., 15421 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 724-329-1901

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the last decade of his career, Kentuck Knob is nestled high in the western Pennsylvania mountains 7 miles south of Fallingwater. The hexagonal Usonian home is constructed of native sandstone, tidewater cypress and copper, blending naturally with its surroundings in true Wrightian harmony. Kentuck Knob’s construction materials of native sandstone and tidewater red cypress blend naturally with the surroundings. A must-see sculpture garden featuring more than 35 major works enhances the visitor’s experience, and a former greenhouse now serves as the visitor center with a gift shop and a café.

Website: KentuckKnob.com Address: 723 Kentuck Road, Chalk Hill, Pa., 15421 Customer Service/Main Phone Number: 724-329-1901

• Purchase Fallingwater Tickets
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Exploring Frank Lloyd Wright: Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob, and Polymath Park

In-person program, multi-day tour, select your tickets.

• COVID Guidance for In-Person Tours

Fallingwater (Photo: Risa Ryan)

Please Note: The tour departs by motorcoach from downtown Washington, DC with a designated secondary pick-up outside the city. Content delivered by the study leader on the way to the destination, after the secondary pick-up, is an integral part of the study tour experience. Meeting the group once the tour is en route is discouraged.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for participation on all tours; additionally, current CDC and Smithsonian COVID-19 guidelines (at the time of the tour) will be followed, including but not limited to masks on the bus and indoors.

One of America's most innovative architects, Frank Lloyd Wright experimented with new ways to design homes and integrate them into nature. Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob, and the houses at Polymath Park offer prime examples of this organic architecture. Visit all three locations on an overnight tour to the scenic Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania led by Bill Keene , a writer and lecturer on architecture, urban history, and city planning who has a special interest in Wright.

Perhaps the architect’s most iconic structure, Fallingwater was designed in 1936 as a mountain retreat for the Kaufmann family of Pittsburgh. Cantilevered over a waterfall, it is one of the most dramatic and frequently photographed works of architecture. It is also the only remaining major Wright house with its setting, original furnishings, and artworks intact.

Constructed entirely of Tidewater red cypress and native fieldstone, the house on Kentuck Knob appears almost a part of the mountain on which it is built. Designed by Wright in 1953 for the I.N. Hagan family, Kentuck Knob now houses furnishings and art of the current owners, Lord and Lady Palumbo.

At historic Polymath Park Resort near Fallingwater, privately tour the Usonian-style Mantyla House, the newest to the property, which was recently relocated from Minnesota. Complete your visit with lunch at Tree Tops Restaurant in Polymath Park.

Note: Not all areas of Fallingwater are accessible for visitors with disabilities.

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit*

General Information

• Accommodations are at the Comfort Inn Connellsville; all admissions, tours, lodging, meals (two lunches and one breakfast and dinner), and gratuities are included.
• Tour meets and departs by bus from the Mayflower Hotel, Connecticut Ave. and DeSales St., NW, with a pickup stop at I-270 Exit 26 Urbana carpool lot at approximately 8:10 a.m.
• Single-room supplement $60 ( factored into the Single Room Member and Single Room Non-Member pricing ).
• Singles registering at the double-room rate are paired (on a nonsmoking basis) if possible, but must pay the single-room supplement otherwise.
• Detailed information is emailed to registrants about four weeks prior to departure.
• Registrants may want to consider purchasing trip insurance.
• For additional tour information:
• Study Tour Policies
• Refund/Cancellation Policy

*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1/2 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here .

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Experience Fallingwater

Attention Visitors: Preservation activities this spring will focus on the Guest House at Fallingwater. Experience preservation in action during your visit! Guided tours and grounds access will not be affected. Repairs will result in some visual impacts to the exterior of the Guest House. Learn more

Fallingwater, a National Historic Landmark and a site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is open for the 61 st  tour season with a variety of experiences for visitors to gain insights into Wright’s organic architecture and design philosophy, and discover the beauty of Fallingwater and its natural landscape.

• Gate open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
• Closed Wednesdays
• Book online below or call 724-329-8501

Available Tours

2024 Guided Architectural Tour House interior and full grounds access

$36 per person, availability.

• Mar 16 - Dec 1
• Daily, except Wednesdays, Easter Morning and Thanksgiving
• 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• December 7 - Dec 31
• December 7, 8, 14, 15 ,21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ticket Details

• Children younger than 6 not permitted.

View full tour details

2024 Guided Grounds Walking Tour Grounds and exterior access, house interior not included.

$26 per person.

• Apr 15 - Oct 31
• Daily, except Wednesdays
• 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3 p.m.
• Free for children younger than 6.

2024 In-Depth Guided Tour Extended house interior and full grounds access; personal photography permitted

$88 per person.

• 8:30 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.
• Apr 15 – Oct 27
• December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31

2024 Grounds Pass Grounds and exterior access, house interior not included

$16 per person.

• Daily, except Wednesdays and Easter morning
• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Dec 2 - Dec 31
• Daily, except Wednesdays and December 24 & 25
• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2024 Family Field Trip Exterior-only private learning experience, particularly for family groups with children under 6

$28 per person, two person minimum.

• Mar 16 - Oct 31
• Tuesdays and Thursdays
• 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Maximum group size of twelve.
• Call 724-329-8501 to reserve.

Call to Reserve

2024 Forest to Table Dinner After-hours interior access and seasonal culinary experience

$450 per person.

• Apr 26 - Oct 6
• April 26 and 27, July 12 and 13, October 5 and 6
• Maximum group size of twelve ; limit of four people per reservation.
• Cancelation policy is one month in advance; no refunds.
• Under 21 not permitted.

2024 Focus Tour Exclusive access to the house interior and grounds with meal on the Pottery Terrace

$2,200 private tour.

• May 13 - Sep 30
• Mondays and Fridays
• 4 p.m. Mondays and 11:30 a.m. Fridays subject to availability
• Up to four people; each additional person is $550 with a maximum group size of six.
• List price includes tour and meal for up to four people. Each additional person is $550 with maximum group size of six. Cancelation policy is one month in advance.
• Children younger than 6 are not permitted.

Wright at Polymath Park is a collection of two Wright-designed houses, Mäntylä and the Duncan House, and two houses by Peter Berndtson, a Wright apprentice. Mäntylä and the Duncan House were saved from demolition and relocated to the site. Polymath Park is a separate property that is independently owned and operated, and located approximately 23 miles, from Fallingwater. We invite you to explore individual tour options.

Book Polymath Park Tours

Enhance Your Visit

Along with your exploration of the house and landscape, consider an additional experience to further enjoy your time at Fallingwater. Please place your order five days prior to your planned visit so that we have time to prepare it for you.

Fallingwater Essentials (Available at Checkout)

Enjoy Fallingwater all year long with our souvenir booklet, magnet, pen and two postcards. Our best-selling keepsakes in one package.

Fallingwater Household (Available at Checkout)

Whether you’re a family of four or a small group of friends this keepsake package offers a little something for everyone. Includes our souvenir booklet, puzzle, four postcards and four pencils.

Fallingwater Deluxe (Available at Checkout)

A collection of Fallingwater items to be enjoyed and treasured for years to come. The deluxe package features our puzzle, bookmark, magnet, and best-selling book.

Important Ticket and Visitor Information

We’re pleased to welcome you to Fallingwater where you’ll discover the beauty of the landscape that was a respite for the Kaufmann family and explore the house’s intimate relationship with nature. With your help, we look forward to providing an enjoyable and safe experience.

Planning Your Visit

• Book reservations online or call 724-329-8501.
• All tickets are subject to an additional 6% processing fee which is nonrefundable.
• All purchases are subject to a 48-hour cancellation and exchange policy. Tour tickets may be cancelled or exchanged up to 48 hours prior to the date of the tour. The 6% processing fee is not refundable. You will be subject to a cancellation fee if you choose to call to cancel your reservation. Tickets are non-refundable or exchangeable within 48 hours of the date of the tour.  
• Please plan your visit a minimum of 4-6 weeks in advance if you’d like to visit during our peak seasons in July, August or October.
• Allow at least 15 additional minutes for travel.  The roads around Fallingwater are rural, two-lane roads. Some of these roads are currently under construction.  Please review these maps and directions to Fallingwater .
• Families with children younger than 6  are encouraged to experience Fallingwater through  Family Field Trips , Guided Grounds Walking Tours  and  Grounds Passes .
• Download our visitor guide in advance  to help with wayfinding throughout the site.
• Because Fallingwater is located in a rural area, there is  no public transportation to Fallingwater . You will need a car to travel to Fallingwater from your point of arrival or destination. Ride sharing services, such as  Uber and Lyft, are currently not available in the area surrounding Fallingwater .
• In planning your entire visit, please allow approximately two hours on site to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
• Expect considerable walking on all guided tours. We recommend visitors wear closed toed shoes with a rubber non-slip sole that provides both comfort and support. There is a ¼ mile walk from the Visitor Center to the house on uneven gravel surfaces. We offer a shuttle service to and from the house for visitors with mobility challenges.
• Allow sufficient time ahead of your scheduled tour for check-in, parking and arrival at the Visitor Center. We recommend up to 20 minutes to complete arrival and check-in. To create the best experience possible for you and the other visitors on your tour, group sizes are limited and tours begin at regularly spaced intervals. The actual start of your tour may vary past the time you booked to accommodate tour spacing. Multiple groups will be started during each time slot and upon arrival you will be placed in the first available tour group for the time slot you booked.
• Please inquire in advance about accessibility options.  Fallingwater’s site includes more than a mile of sloping gravel paths, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility limitations. Some exterior parts of the house are only accessible by stairs. Certain models of wheelchairs and strollers may have difficulty moving on gravel.  An all-terrain wheelchair is available by advance reservation.
• In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Fallingwater welcomes trained service animals.  Please review our service animal guidelines  before visiting Fallingwater.
• Please be aware of  our hours of operation.
• No weapons, firearms or hazardous materials are permitted on Fallingwater property.
• Fallingwater is a smoke-free environment.

Fallingwater Visitor Guide

Download a copy of our visitor guide in advance of your visit. The guide includes a site map and information about available amenities.

Download the Guide

Photography and Videography

Fallingwater visitors are welcome — and encouraged! — to take personal-use photos and video to remember and share their visit. For the safety of the sensitive landscape, staff, and visitors, the following guidelines must be observed.

Visitors may:

• Take photos and video for private, noncommercial use  outside on the grounds .
• Take photos without a flash at the direction of the tour guide for private, noncommercial use inside the house.
• Use handheld cameras, smartphones, and tablets.
• Use stabilization devices (tripods, monopods) or selfie sticks when outside.
• Post images and video from their visit on personal social media sites. (Tag @VisitFallingwater for a chance to be featured on Fallingwater’s social media channels!)
• Book a wedding at the Barn at Fallingwater and have a couple’s photo session on the Fallingwater site.  

Visitors may NOT:

• Bring bulky camera bags or equipment. All photography equipment must adhere to Fallingwater’s bag (not exceeding 10x10x3 inches or 25x25x8cm) policy.
• Use stabilization devices (tripods, monopods) or selfie sticks inside the house or indoor exhibits.
• Sell or publish the images.
• Use images of Fallingwater to promote any product or service.
• Enter restricted areas cordoned off with stanchions or other barriers.
• Disrupt other visitors or block walkways when taking photographs.
• Use Fallingwater as a setting or backdrop for formal photography sessions, including but not limited to engagement and graduation photos. Commercial photographers may not photograph clients at Fallingwater.
• Use drones on the property. This prohibition extends to any drone launched or operated from Fallingwater property, as well as drones launched from private property outside of Fallingwater but flying over Fallingwater boundaries and/or above Fallingwater facilities.

Fallingwater reserves the right to restrict photography at any time in any location. Fallingwater staff have the authority to approach and verify the intent of photography to ensure compliance with the photography policy. Failure to adhere to these guidelines or staff direction may result in being asked to cease all photography or leave the premises.

Fallingwater visitors may be included in photography or videography during their time on site. Visitors grant the right for their images to be used in promotional materials and in all formats of media.  All images shall be the property of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.   

On the Day of Your Visit

• Allow enough time on-site to experience  our Visitor Center where you will find our Museum Store and Café. We recommend that you plan to stay with us for at least two hours.
• Service animals are welcome to join you on the tour and on the grounds around the house. Pets are not permitted in  Fallingwater, at the Visitor Center or on the grounds around the house.  Although we suggest you don’t leave pets in your car, please use caution if you choose to do so. Our parking lot has limited shade and we cannot guarantee a shaded parking spot. When walking your pets in the parking lot areas, please be sure to use a leash and be courteous of other visitors by cleaning up after your pet.
• Note that there are no public restrooms inside Fallingwater.  Please use the restrooms at our Visitor Center prior to beginning your tour.
• Come prepared for the weather.  Currently all experiences are conducted outdoors, and mountain temperatures are generally about 10 degrees colder than those in Pittsburgh. Please bring appropriate clothing and umbrellas.
• Summer tours are more comfortable in the cooler, morning hours.
• Only small wallets and handheld cameras are permitted on tour.  For the protection of Fallingwater and its collections, handbags larger than 10x10x3 inches (25x25x8cm), backpacks of any size, camera bags, tripods and other cumbersome items are prohibited inside Fallingwater and must be left in vehicles or placed in lockers at the Visitor Center prior to your tour.
• Outside food is not permitted at Fallingwater’s dining facilities. If you would like to bring your own food, outdoor tables are available at the Barn at Fallingwater located on Route 381 approximately ¼ mile north of the main entrance to Fallingwater.
• Fallingwater is a carry-in/carry-out facility.  We ask that you take your trash with you when you leave.
• We understand that many Fallingwater visitors will have accessibility concerns.  We are constantly working to make the visit comfortable for everyone. If you haven’t visited us before, view our  Accessibility at Fallingwater page  for a few tips to help you make your visit more enjoyable.
• All photography, filming, recording on mobile devices, painting and sketching is permitted for personal use only  and cannot be sold, published or posted on a website without permission of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Original works may be exhibited, but reproductions or prints may not be produced. This includes, but is not limited to all photographs, films, mobile recordings, paintings, sketches and drawings generated during your visit.
• The  use of drones is not permitted  on the property. This prohibition extends to any drone launched or operated from Fallingwater property, as well as drones launched from private property outside of Fallingwater but flying over Fallingwater boundaries and/or above Fallingwater facilities.

Families with Young Children

• Families with children younger than 6 are invited to reserve a Guided Grounds Walking Tour, Family Field Trip or self-guided Grounds Passes.
• F amilies may also choose to hike  the grounds or nearby  Bear Run Nature Reserve  while waiting for the rest of their party to complete their house tour.

Make a Day of it Here at Bear Run

• Bring along comfortable hiking shoes , and enjoy some of our 20 miles of outstanding trails at nearby Bear Run Nature Reserve.
• Enjoy the beautiful native rhododendrons which typically bloom with a white to light pink flower from late June through early-mid July.
• The Laurel Highlands are brimming with exciting adventures, all within a 25-mile radius of Fallingwater.  Since you’re headed to Fallingwater visit the  Laurel Highlands website  for even more information.
• A variety of lodging facilities are located within a 40-mile radius of Fallingwater .  You may wish to stay with one of our  Lodging Partners in Education , many of which offer packages that include Fallingwater, Wright at Polymath Park and Kentuck Knob.  The  Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau  offers additional information about lodging and other nearby sites to visit.

Privacy Overview

The story behind Frank Lloyd Wright's Kentuck Knob

D UNBAR, Pa. (KDKA) -- To understand the Frank Lloyd Wright home, Kentuck Knob, you must know that near it is another Wright house, Fallingwater.

"Fallingwater is, of course, arguably, one of the most famous houses in the entire world, and we exist latterly and figuratively because of them," said Tim Fischer, manager of Kentuck Knob.

The Hagan family from Uniontown, who were once the owners of the Hagan Ice Cream Company, were friends of the Kaufmann family, who owned Fallingwater. And after years of visiting them at their home above the waterfall, the Hagans decided they needed their own Frank Lloyd Wright house.

What would follow in the mid-1950s would become the house on top of the knob.

"They caught Wright at the tail end of his career," said Fischer. "He agreed to design a house for them and said his one condition was he had to create all of this without ever stepping foot on the property, sight unseen. He told the Hagans to send topographical maps and photos, and he would come up with the design for them, and that's what he did."

Wright once said, "No house should ever be on any hill or on anything. It should be of the hill, belonging to it." And that's part of the organic philosophy in the architecture that he used in designing this house.

"Wright wanted to create distinctly American architecture, and these Usonian houses were part of that program," Fischer said. "They would be small, modest houses, affordable for the average American family, so they should be able to spread all across the United States. It was the beginning of what we know today as the ranch-style house."

The Hagans ended up paying around $96,000 to build the house, landscape it, and fill it with furniture.

They lived here full-time until the mid-1980s. Eventually, they sold the home to architect enthusiasts Lord and Lady Palumbo of Great Britain, and it was the Palumbo family that opened this home to the public in 1996.

Thanks to them, each year, thousands of people journey from all over the world to see this Wright hidden gem.

The next time you are at Fallingwater, leave some time to drive down the road and visit Kentuck Knob.

For tickets, a tour, and other information on Kentuck Knob, click here.