SC Johnson Research Tower Frank Lloyd Wright
Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural marvels at the SC Johnson campus, including the iconic Research Tower and Administration Building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
SC Johnson Research Tower Frank Lloyd Wright
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural marvels at the SC Johnson campus, including the iconic Research Tower and Administration Building.
"A must-see for architecture lovers, with free tours and transport from Chicago!"
Free Bus from Chicago! 🚌
Take advantage of the free coach bus from Chicago; it's a great perk and makes the trip easy.
Book Tours Early 🎟️
Tours are free but essential to book in advance as they sell out quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Research Tower
SC Johnson Campus
Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic 'inverted skyscraper' with its unique 'dendriform' columns. A true architectural marvel.
The Great Workroom
SC Johnson Administration Building
A stunning open-plan office space featuring Wright's signature 'Pyrex glass tubes' and mushroom-shaped columns.
The Golden Batwing
SC Johnson Administration Building
The distinctive, wing-like roof structure of the Administration Building, a hallmark of Wright's design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Consider the Bus Tour from Chicago
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Interior of S. C. Johnson Administration Building, USA (1936-1939) by Frank Lloyd Wright [Building]
Free Bus from Chicago! 🚌
Take advantage of the free coach bus from Chicago; it's a great perk and makes the trip easy.
Book Tours Early 🎟️
Tours are free but essential to book in advance as they sell out quickly.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the campus and buildings.
Photography is Allowed 📸
Capture the stunning architecture, but be mindful of other tour guests.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Bus from Chicago! 🚌
Take advantage of the free coach bus from Chicago; it's a great perk and makes the trip easy.
Book Tours Early 🎟️
Tours are free but essential to book in advance as they sell out quickly.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the campus and buildings.
Photography is Allowed 📸
Capture the stunning architecture, but be mindful of other tour guests.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the SC Johnson Research Tower and Administration Building for their stunning Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. The free guided tours and the complimentary bus service from Chicago are highlighted as exceptional perks. While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, some find the booking process competitive due to high demand.
""
Bret Fynewever
""
Virginia Harrison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SC Johnson Research Tower is located in Racine, Wisconsin. Many visitors opt for the free coach bus tour departing from Chicago, which includes transportation to the campus. If driving, parking is available on-site.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at the SC Johnson campus. If you are taking the bus tour from Chicago, transportation is handled for you.
No, access to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings, including the Research Tower and Administration Building, is strictly by guided tour only. Advance booking is required.
The bus trip from Chicago to Racine typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic. The tour itself also has a duration.
Tour departure points in Chicago can vary, so it's essential to check the official SC Johnson website for the most current information when booking your tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tours of the SC Johnson Research Tower and other Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings are completely free. However, advance reservations are mandatory.
You can book tours through the official SC Johnson website. Reservations open on specific dates and fill up very quickly, so plan ahead.
The best way to secure tickets is to monitor the SC Johnson website for reservation openings and book immediately. The free bus tour from Chicago is also a popular option.
Tour hours vary depending on the day and availability. It's crucial to check the SC Johnson website for the most up-to-date tour schedules when making your reservation.
No, same-day tickets are generally not available. All tours require advance booking through the SC Johnson website.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the SC Johnson Research Tower and other tour buildings for personal use. However, tripods and flash photography may be restricted. Always follow your tour guide's instructions.
The Great Workroom with its unique columns and glass tubes, the exterior of the Research Tower, and the Golden Batwing roof are prime photo opportunities. The surrounding campus also offers scenic views.
Yes, exterior photography is encouraged. The unique designs of the Research Tower and Administration Building are best captured from various angles around the campus.
Drone photography is typically not permitted on the SC Johnson campus due to security and privacy regulations. It's best to stick to handheld cameras.
Given the unique lighting, especially with the Pyrex glass tubes, a camera with good low-light performance or a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Consider shooting in RAW for better post-processing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Architectural Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Great Workroom and appreciate the seamless integration of workspaces with artistic design. The Golden Batwing roof is another iconic feature that exemplifies Wright's bold aesthetic. Consider booking a tour that focuses on specific architectural details if available, or simply soak in the atmosphere and capture stunning photographs of these masterpieces.
Day-Trippers from Chicago
Plan for a full day, as the bus travel and tour duration will take several hours. Pack snacks and water, although there might be opportunities to purchase refreshments. It's a fantastic way to experience a significant architectural landmark without a substantial financial outlay, making it a popular choice for a unique Chicago-area excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Frank Lloyd Wright's Architectural Genius
Visitors often marvel at the integration of art and science within the campus. Wright's designs are not just aesthetically pleasing; they were conceived to foster creativity and productivity. The intricate details, from the custom furniture to the lighting fixtures, all bear his distinctive mark. Experiencing these buildings firsthand offers a profound appreciation for Wright's enduring legacy and his impact on modern architecture.
The SC Johnson Experience: Beyond the Architecture
While the architecture is the main draw, the tour also touches upon SC Johnson's commitment to sustainability and its role in the community. The experience is often described as surprisingly engaging, even for those not particularly interested in architecture. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, enhancing the overall visitor experience. It's a unique opportunity to see a working corporate campus that doubles as an architectural landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit