Tour of Campus
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Roycroft Campus East Aurora

4.7
·196 reviews·East Aurora, United States

Birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement, offering historic buildings, artisan studios, and a glimpse into a unique cultural legacy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Art shows and festivals abound!

CrowdMedium
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Tour of Campus

Roycroft Campus East Aurora

Best Time

Weekends

Art shows and festivals abound!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement, offering historic buildings, artisan studios, and a glimpse into a unique cultural legacy.

4.7
(196 reviews)

"A beautiful place that looks like a castle! It has entertaining events inside the building as well as in the courtyard."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Calendars

Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals . Plan around these for a vibrant experience!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings & Architecture

Historic Buildings & Architecture

Throughout the Campus

Marvel at the unique architecture, a testament to the Arts & Crafts movement. A must-see for history and design enthusiasts.

Artisan Shops & Galleries

Artisan Shops & Galleries

Various Studios and Shops

Discover handcrafted jewelry, pottery, prints, and more from talented artists. Perfect for unique souvenirs.

The Roycroft Inn

The Roycroft Inn

On Campus

Experience historic charm and hospitality. Even if not staying, admire its architecture and consider a meal.

Rare Book Room

Rare Book Room

Roycroft Chapel

Explore significant publications from the early 1900s, showcasing the Roycroft's literary contributions.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Arts & Crafts Legacy

Step into the birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement. Explore historic buildings, browse artisan shops, and immerse yourself in the legacy of Elbert Hubbard. Plan for a day of discovery and inspiration.

Check Event Schedules

The Roycroft Campus frequently hosts art shows, workshops, and festivals.TikTokInstagram+1 Check their official calendar before your visit to align with special events and artisan markets for a richer experience.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Art shows and festivals abound!
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring.
Crowd
Low
When
Holiday Season
Why
Festive art shows and gifts.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to the Roycroft Campus Arts and Antiques show! I made you some things. I'll be on campus today and tomorrow 10 to 5 so stop in the historic village of East Aurora and say hello! I'll be waiting for you.
@noxcorvum
13 likes • 118 views

🎯 Check Event Calendars

Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals.TikTok+1 Plan around these for a vibrant experience!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:

Set up on the Roycroft campus in East Aurora today and tomorrow 10-5! Come say hi!
@oc_ceramics
14 likes • 1K views
Upcoming bucket list item: Visit the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora (just outside Buffalo) ✨⁠ ⁠ @roycroft_campus
stepoutbuffalo
337 likes • 22.6K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

The buildings are stunning! Don't forget your camera for unique shots. :camerawithflash:

🛍️ Shop for Unique Art

Discover handcrafted treasures from local artists. Perfect for gifts or souvenirs. :gift:

Come see us in East Aurora on the middle school grounds across the street from the Roycroft campus. It’s June 29 and the show is open 10 to 5 today today. Come see all my new images from Italy!
lashot_david
8 likes • 132 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Calendars

Many visitors attend for art shows & festivals.TikTok+1 Plan around these for a vibrant experience!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be exploring historic buildings and grounds, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Architecture

The buildings are stunning! Don't forget your camera for unique shots. :camerawithflash:

🛍️ Shop for Unique Art

Discover handcrafted treasures from local artists. Perfect for gifts or souvenirs. :gift:

📜 Consider a Guided Tour

Learn the rich history and stories behind the campus. :scroll:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(196 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Roycroft Campus for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant artisan community. Many enjoy exploring the historic buildings and browsing the unique handcrafted items available in the shops. While some note that specific tours or exhibits might have fees, the overall experience is considered inspiring and worthwhile, especially during the frequent art festivals and events.

"I had never been here and I live not super far from it. It is really cool and a nice place to walk around and check out with a lot of cool history. It was worth going through and seeing the buildings and reading the history. There is a tour. We just did not make it LOL."

Kristin Haines

"Attended a two day workshop for making a stained glass panel-- loved it! Beautifully maintained historic building & grounds. The gift shop is a destination in itself; garden/sculptures/paper/print art/glass/pottery/jewlery-- a little of everything!"

N 2019

"Beautiful place that looks like a castle! It has entertaining events inside the building as well as in the courtyard. The shade from the trees makes it pleasant to be outside even on a hot day."

Shaliza Szuba

What People Like

Rich history and legacy
Beautiful architecture
Artisan shops and crafts

What People Dislike

Occasional admission fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Roycroft Campus is located in East Aurora, NY, just outside Buffalo. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is generally available near the campus grounds. Many visitors find it a charming day trip from Buffalo or Niagara Falls.Reddit

Public transportation options to East Aurora might be limited. It's often easiest to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from Buffalo.

The campus is walkable, with historic buildings and grounds to explore. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking.

East Aurora itself is a charming town with shops and eateries. You can also combine a visit with other day trips in the Western New York region.Reddit

Absolutely! The Roycroft Campus is a popular day trip destination for those visiting Buffalo, offering a dose of history and arts and crafts culture.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General access to the campus grounds and many of the artisan shops is free. However, specific tours, workshops, or museum exhibits may require tickets or admission fees. It's best to check the official Roycroft Campus website for current information.

Operating hours can vary depending on the season and specific buildings or shops. Many artisan shops are open on weekends, especially during art shows.TikTok+1 The Roycroft Inn has its own hours for dining and accommodation.

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended to learn about the rich history and significance of the Roycroft movement. Check the campus website for tour schedules and booking information.

The Roycroft Campus frequently offers a variety of workshops, from stained glass to painting.Instagram These are popular and often require advance registration.

Wandering the grounds and browsing many of the shops is typically free. However, specific events, tours, or museum access may incur a fee. Always check the official Roycroft Campus website for the most up-to-date details on admission.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore historic buildings, browse artisan shops and galleries featuring handcrafted goods,TikTokInstagram+1 visit the Roycroft Inn, and learn about the Arts & Crafts movement. Special events and workshops are also common.TikTokInstagram

The shops feature a diverse range of handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery, prints, paper goods, glass art, and furniture, reflecting the Arts & Crafts ethos.TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the campus can be family-friendly, especially during events with activities for children.TikTok The open grounds offer space to explore, and the history can be engaging for older children.

It was a leading center of the American Arts & Crafts movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, founded by Elbert Hubbard, promoting craftsmanship and artistic ideals.

The Roycroft Inn offers dining options. East Aurora also has several charming restaurants and cafes nearby for a wider selection.

📸 📸 Photography

The historic architecture, the Roycroft Inn, and the various artisan studios offer picturesque backdrops. The grounds themselves are also beautiful, especially during different seasons.Instagram

Photography policies can vary by building and exhibit. It's generally permitted in public areas and shops, but always check for specific restrictions, especially in galleries or during tours.

Look for architectural details, the 'face in the stone' on a roof peak mentioned by visitors, and the overall aesthetic that embodies the Arts & Crafts style.Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for architectural and landscape shots. Weekends during events offer more dynamic scenes.

Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Roycroft Campus can be a fascinating outing for families, especially during events that cater to children.TikTok The historic buildings and the idea of artisans creating things can spark imagination. Encourage kids to look for unique architectural details or imagine what life was like for the Roycrofters. The open grounds offer space for them to move around. Consider checking the schedule for family-friendly workshops or festivals that might include activities like tie-dye or mobile playgrounds.TikTok

🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts

This is your haven! Immerse yourself in the birthplace of the American Arts & Crafts movement. Take a guided tour to fully grasp the philosophy and history of Elbert Hubbard and his artisans.TikTok Spend ample time exploring the artisan studios and galleries, appreciating the dedication to craftsmanship. Don't miss the Rare Book Room for a glimpse into the Roycroft's publishing legacy. The campus itself is a living testament to design and artistry.

🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters

The Roycroft Campus is a treasure trove for unique, handcrafted items. The artisan shops offer everything from jewelry and pottery to prints and furniture, all made with care and reflecting the Arts & Crafts aesthetic.TikTokInstagram It's the perfect place to find a meaningful souvenir or a special gift that tells a story. Many visitors rave about the quality and variety of goods available in the campus shops.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Elbert Hubbard and the Roycroft

The Roycroft Campus in East Aurora, NY, is a National Historic Landmark and the cradle of the American Arts & Crafts movement. Founded by the charismatic Elbert Hubbard in the late 19th century, the Roycroft was more than just a collection of workshops; it was a community dedicated to craftsmanship, artistic expression, and a simpler, more intentional way of life. Hubbard, a writer and philosopher, envisioned a place where artisans could produce beautiful, functional objects and publications, rejecting the mass-produced goods of the Industrial Revolution.

Hubbard's philosophy, often summarized as 'Work is Love Made Visible,' permeated the campus. Artisans, known as 'Roycrofters,' excelled in various crafts, including printing, bookbinding, furniture making, metalworking, and pottery. The Roycroft Press produced iconic books and the magazine 'The Fra,' known for their distinctive typography and design.TikTok Visitors today can still feel the spirit of this era by exploring the historic buildings, many of which still house active artisan studios and galleries.Instagram

Understanding the historical context of the Roycroft is key to appreciating its enduring impact. It championed the idea that art and craft should be integrated into everyday life, influencing design and aesthetics across America. The campus serves as a living museum, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal period in American cultural history. Many visitors are struck by the architectural beauty and the palpable sense of history that permeates the grounds.Instagram

Experiencing the Roycroft Campus Today

Visiting the Roycroft Campus today is a multi-faceted experience, blending history with contemporary artistry. You can wander through the historic buildings, many of which have been meticulously preserved and now house active artisan studios and galleries.Instagram These spaces offer a unique opportunity to see artists at work and purchase handcrafted items, from intricate jewelry to sturdy furniture, embodying the original Roycroft spirit.TikTokInstagram+1 The gift shop is often highlighted as a destination in itself, featuring a wide array of artistic creations.Reddit

Beyond the studios, the Roycroft Inn stands as a beautifully restored historic hotel, offering a place to stay, dine, or simply admire its architecture.TikTokInstagram The campus grounds are also a pleasure to explore, providing a serene atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. Keep an eye out for special events, such as art festivals, antique shows, and workshops, which are frequently held throughout the year and draw visitors from far and wide.TikTokInstagram These events are a fantastic way to experience the vibrant community that continues to thrive on the campus.

For those seeking a deeper dive, guided tours are available to illuminate the rich history and the lives of the Roycrofters. Visitors often remark on the campus's unique charm and the palpable sense of history.Reddit Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque and inspiring outing, the Roycroft Campus offers a memorable experience that connects the past with the present.

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