Scottsdale Spire Frank Lloyd Wright - white tower during day time
1 / 10

Scottsdale Spire Frank Lloyd Wright

4.5
·432 reviews·Scottsdale, United States

A 125-foot architectural marvel inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, glowing at night and adorned with a giant elf during holidays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Holiday Season Evenings

Giant elf & magical glow

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Scottsdale Spire Frank Lloyd Wright - white tower during day time

Scottsdale Spire Frank Lloyd Wright

Best Time

Holiday Season Evenings

Giant elf & magical glow

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 125-foot architectural marvel inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, glowing at night and adorned with a giant elf during holidays.

4.5
(432 reviews)

"Prepare to be Spired Away! The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale is a Must-See Landmark!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Night Glow

Don't miss the Spire after dark! Internal LEDs create a stunning blue light show. :camerawithflash:

🎄 Holiday Elf Fun

Visit during the holidays to see the giant Elf on the Shelf atop the Spire. A unique Scottsdale tradition! :gift:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire

The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire

Scottsdale Road & Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard

A 125-foot architectural marvel inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's vision, blending steel, glass, and desert landscaping.

Holiday Elf Spectacle

Holiday Elf Spectacle

Scottsdale Road & Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard

During the holiday season, a giant 'Elf on the Shelf' adorns the Spire, creating a whimsical and popular photo opportunity.

TikTokInstagram
Illuminated Evening Views

Illuminated Evening Views

Scottsdale Road & Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard

Experience the Spire's magical transformation at night as internal LEDs cast a soft blue glow, visible for miles.

Reddit
Sculpture Garden & Desert Flora

Sculpture Garden & Desert Flora

Grounds surrounding the Spire

Explore a serene garden featuring various desert plants and other artistic displays, offering a peaceful contrast to the Spire's grandeur.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Spire

While the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire is visible year-round, consider visiting during the holiday season for a unique spectacle. For architecture enthusiasts, daytime offers a clear view of its design, while evenings reveal a captivating illumination. TikTokInstagram

Location & Accessibility

The Spire is situated at a busy intersection within a shopping center. Parking is readily available, making it an easy stop. It's a great spot for a quick photo op or a brief moment of reflection amidst desert flora. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Holiday Season Evenings
Why
Giant elf & magical glow
Crowd
High
When
Evenings (Year-round)
Why
Mesmerizing illumination
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime (Year-round)
Why
Clear architectural view
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Frank Lloyd Wright Spire, Scottsdale, Arizona #franklloydwright #scottsdalearizona #wandererdinesh
@wanderer.dinesh
164 likes • 1.3K views

📸 Capture the Night Glow

Don't miss the Spire after dark! Internal LEDs create a stunning blue light show. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🎄 Holiday Elf Fun

Visit during the holidays to see the giant Elf on the Shelf atop the Spire. A unique Scottsdale tradition! TikTokInstagram :gift:

Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale #spire #franklloydwright #thepromenade #scottsdale #dronevideo #dronepilot
@og_drone_pilot
35 likes • 799 views
The Elf on the… Spire! Lloyd, who is arguably one of the biggest scout elves you will ever see, has climbed the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire. This 125-foot spire, which is a focal point at the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, was intended to resemble the spire architect Frank Lloyd Wright revealed in his 1957 plan for a new State Capitol building—a design that was ...
azarchitecture
50 likes • 1.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Gardens

Explore the surrounding sculpture garden and desert plants for a peaceful experience. Reddit :seedling:

🚗 Easy Access & Parking

Conveniently located in a shopping center with ample parking. Perfect for a quick stop. Instagram :car:

Have you seen this 100 foot elf on the shelf in Scottsdale, AZ? It’s located at the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire on Bell Rd and Scottsdale Rd! Do you like this Scottsdale tradition? #arizona #christmas #scottsdale #yourlocalrealtor
svitlanakweerealty
8 likes • 298 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Night Glow

Don't miss the Spire after dark! Internal LEDs create a stunning blue light show. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🎄 Holiday Elf Fun

Visit during the holidays to see the giant Elf on the Shelf atop the Spire. A unique Scottsdale tradition! TikTokInstagram :gift:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Gardens

Explore the surrounding sculpture garden and desert plants for a peaceful experience. Reddit :seedling:

🚗 Easy Access & Parking

Conveniently located in a shopping center with ample parking. Perfect for a quick stop. Instagram :car:

💡 FLW Fan Detour

A worthwhile stop for Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts. Consider visiting Taliesin West nearby. Reddit :building_construction:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(432 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire's unique architectural design and its captivating nighttime illumination. Many appreciate the serene sculpture garden surrounding the landmark and find it to be a worthwhile detour, especially for fans of Frank Lloyd Wright. The seasonal addition of a giant Elf on the Shelf during the holidays adds a whimsical and popular element. Some note its location within a busy shopping center, which can detract from a purely tranquil experience.

"Although I’ve been driving past this beautiful spire for many years , I never realized that there was a stunning sculpture garden that surrounded the grounds of this landmark. I was fortunate enough to have borrowed a book from the Phoenix public library that spoke about places in Phoenix that you must not miss written by Travis Taylor. It’s a great book that gives you in depth information on all sorts of places to visit in our surrounding city. I highly recommend reading this book .
And visit this landmark too!"

Patricia Pieton

"Apparently, this sculpture is illuminated at night ... the daytime viewing is still magnificent considering it's a product of FLW. The area is a very serene garden od different desert plants & some palm trees. There are other forms of artwork displayed on the grounds.

The spire is located on on a corner plot of a large shopping center. It's worth the detour if you are a true fan of the architecture by FLW."

Xtine Trinidaddy

"Prepare to be Spired Away! The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale is a Must-See Landmark!
Have you ever seen something so unique, so striking, that it just stops you in your tracks? That's exactly what the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire in Scottsdale, Arizona does! This isn't just another landmark; it's a testament to architectural genius and a fantastic photo opportunity that you absolutely shouldn't miss.
Standing proudly at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, this 125-foot tall spire is a breathtaking sight. Originally designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright in 1957 as part of his ambitious "Oasis" concept for the Arizona State Capitol, the spire wasn't actually built until 2004. Imagine that – a design decades ahead of its time, finally brought to life!
Wright's original vision for the Arizona State Capitol, dubbed "The Oasis," was unfortunately rejected back in the day for being too "modern." However, Scottsdale recognized the brilliance in Wright's design and decided to make the spire a focal point for the Promenade Shopping Centre. Thanks to one of Wright's apprentices, Arnold Roy, who adapted the original design, this stunning structure became a reality.
What makes the spire so special?
* Unique Design: It's unlike anything you've ever seen. Constructed from 1,700 steel pieces and weighing a hefty 75,000 pounds, the spire's turquoise blue panels and geometric design are truly captivating. It embodies Wright's philosophy of "organic architecture," blending manufactured structure with the natural desert landscape.
* Historical Significance: It represents a fascinating piece of architectural history, showcasing a design that was ahead of its time and a glimpse into Wright's unbuilt vision for Arizona's Capitol.
* Awesome Photo Opportunity: Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, the spire offers incredible photo opportunities. During the day, its unique shape and color stand out against the Arizona sky. But the real magic happens at night when internal LED lighting illuminates the spire in a soft blue glow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle visible for miles.
* Celestial Alignment: Adding to its uniqueness, the spire's design aligns with the celestial equator, making it a man-made star map of sorts!
Local Tips for your Visit:
* Evening Visit: Arrive in the evening to witness the spire's stunning nighttime illumination – it's a completely different experience than seeing it during the day.
* Combine with Shopping/Dining: It's located at the Promenade Shopping Centre, so you can easily combine your visit with a shopping spree or a meal.
* Explore Wright's Scottsdale: For a deeper dive into Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture, Taliesin West, his winter home and school, is only about 7 miles away. Touring the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Scottsdale
The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire is more than just a sculpture; it's a symbol of Scottsdale's commitment to art and architecture, and a must-visit landmark for anyone in the area. Go see it for yourself and prepare to be amazed!"

Bill Weaver

What People Like

Unique architectural design
Mesmerizing night illumination
Serene sculpture garden

What People Dislike

Busy shopping center location

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Spire is located at the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in Scottsdale, Arizona. It's situated within the Promenade Shopping Centre, making it easily accessible by car. Ample parking is available at the shopping center. InstagramReddit

No, the Spire is not located in Old Town Scottsdale. It's situated in the northern part of Scottsdale, at the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, within a shopping center. TikTok

The Spire is at the prominent intersection of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard. It's also near Bell Road. TikTokInstagram

While specific bus routes may vary, Scottsdale has a public transportation system. It's advisable to check the Valley Metro website for the most current routes and schedules that serve the Promenade Shopping Centre area. Reddit

Yes, the Spire is a recognizable landmark in Scottsdale, particularly due to its height and unique design. It's often mentioned as a point of reference. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to view the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire. It is a public art installation located in an open area accessible to everyone. Reddit

The Spire is accessible 24/7 as it is an outdoor public art installation. However, the surrounding shopping center has its own operating hours. The nighttime illumination is a key feature to experience. Reddit

There is no admission fee to visit and view the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire. It's a free public art piece. Reddit

Yes, visiting the Spire after dark is highly recommended to witness its beautiful internal LED illumination, which creates a mesmerizing glow. Reddit

The Spire is a standalone public art sculpture and not part of a specific museum or gallery, though it is located within a shopping center. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Art

For architectural detail, daytime offers clear views. However, many find the evening illumination to be the most photogenic time, creating a dramatic effect. TikTokReddit

Yes, the grounds around the Spire often feature other sculptures and art displays as part of the surrounding garden. Reddit

The Spire is inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's principles of organic architecture, blending manufactured structure with the natural desert landscape. It features geometric designs and steel and glass construction. InstagramReddit

The Spire's design is based on a concept Frank Lloyd Wright proposed in 1957 for the Arizona State Capitol. It was later adapted and built, representing a piece of architectural history. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The Spire is internally illuminated with LEDs at night, casting a soft blue glow that is quite spectacular. Reddit

🎫 🎄 Holiday Traditions

During the holiday season, a giant inflatable 'Elf on the Shelf' is placed atop the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire, creating a unique and popular Scottsdale tradition. TikTokInstagram+1

The Elf on the Shelf is a seasonal display, typically appearing during the holiday season, from late November through December. TikTokInstagram

No, the giant Elf on the Shelf is a temporary holiday decoration and is not a permanent part of the Spire. Instagram

The Elf on the Shelf is placed on top of the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire, which is located at the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Bell Road. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Elf on the Shelf atop the Spire is a very popular photo spot during the holiday season, drawing many visitors. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire offers a fun and accessible stop for families. During the holiday season, the giant 'Elf on the Shelf' is a huge hit with children, providing a whimsical photo opportunity that kids will love. TikTokInstagram Even outside of the holidays, the Spire's unique shape and the surrounding garden with its desert plants can spark curiosity. It's a great spot for a quick break during a family outing, offering a chance to stretch legs and enjoy some public art without requiring a long commitment. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire presents a compelling subject with diverse shooting opportunities. During the day, capture its striking geometric design and how it interacts with the Arizona light and landscape. TikTokReddit The surrounding sculpture garden also offers interesting compositions. However, the real magic for photographers often happens at night. The internal LED illumination transforms the Spire into a glowing beacon, creating dramatic and atmospheric shots. Reddit Consider visiting during the holiday season for the unique addition of the giant Elf on the Shelf, offering a quirky and festive subject. TikTokInstagram

🏛️ Architecture Buffs

Frank Lloyd Wright aficionados will find the Spire a significant point of interest. It represents a piece of his unbuilt legacy, a design conceived decades before its realization. Reddit Studying its form, inspired by organic architecture and celestial alignments, offers insight into Wright's innovative thinking. Reddit While not as extensive as Taliesin West, the Spire provides a tangible connection to his architectural genius in the Scottsdale area. Visiting the surrounding garden also offers a glimpse into how Wright's designs aimed to integrate with natural settings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Vision of Frank Lloyd Wright

The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire is more than just a modern sculpture; it's a testament to the enduring vision of one of America's most influential architects. Originally conceived by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1957 as part of his ambitious 'Oasis' concept for the Arizona State Capitol, the design was considered too avant-garde for its time and was ultimately rejected. Reddit This unbuilt masterpiece, however, found a new life decades later when Scottsdale embraced its brilliance. The Spire, as it stands today, is an adaptation of Wright's original design, brought to fruition by one of his apprentices, Arnold Roy. Reddit

Wright's philosophy of organic architecture is evident in the Spire's design. It aims to harmonize manufactured structures with the natural environment. The Spire's construction from 1,700 steel pieces, weighing 75,000 pounds, and its distinctive turquoise blue panels and geometric patterns, all contribute to this seamless integration. It's a striking example of how modern materials and design can echo the forms and spirit of the desert landscape. Reddit

Furthermore, the Spire holds a unique celestial significance. Its design is aligned with the celestial equator, effectively making it a man-made star map. This astronomical connection adds another layer of depth to the structure, inviting contemplation of both human ingenuity and the cosmos. For those interested in Frank Lloyd Wright's work, visiting the Spire offers a tangible connection to his unfulfilled architectural dreams and his profound impact on American design. Reddit

Experiencing the Spire: Day vs. Night

The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire offers a distinctly different, yet equally captivating, experience depending on the time of day. During daylight hours, visitors can appreciate the intricate details of its construction, the interplay of steel and glass against the vast Arizona sky, and the surrounding desert flora. It's an excellent time for photography enthusiasts to capture the Spire's unique geometric form and its integration with the landscape. TikTokReddit

However, many visitors and locals alike rave about the Spire's transformation after sunset. As darkness falls, internal LED lighting illuminates the structure, casting a soft, ethereal blue glow that can be seen from miles away. This nighttime illumination creates a truly magical and serene atmosphere, offering a completely different visual spectacle. TikTokReddit

For those seeking a unique seasonal experience, the Spire becomes an even more whimsical attraction during the holiday season. A giant 'Elf on the Shelf' is often placed atop the Spire, turning this architectural marvel into a festive landmark that draws crowds for photos and a touch of holiday cheer. TikTokInstagram This blend of art, architecture, and seasonal festivity makes the Spire a dynamic and memorable destination throughout the year.

The Spire's Festive Transformation: The Giant Elf

During the holiday season, the Frank Lloyd Wright Spire undergoes a delightful and unexpected transformation, becoming a beloved local spectacle. A massive, inflatable 'Elf on the Shelf' is strategically placed atop the 125-foot structure, creating a whimsical and eye-catching display that has become a popular Scottsdale tradition. TikTokInstagram+1

This festive addition draws significant attention, with many visitors making a special trip to see the giant elf perched high above the intersection. It's a fantastic photo opportunity, blending the architectural grandeur of the Spire with the playful spirit of the holidays. The contrast between the sleek, modern design of the Spire and the jolly, oversized elf creates a unique and memorable visual. TikTokInstagram

The Elf on the Shelf display typically appears from late November through December, adding a unique charm to the Scottsdale landscape during this festive period. It's a testament to how public art can be creatively adapted to celebrate seasonal events, making the Spire a dynamic and engaging landmark throughout the year. Instagram

You may also like