The recent chaos at Price Tower in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, has left many architecture enthusiasts at a loss. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this 19-story skyscraper is a rare example of his work in vertical design. As fans mourn its looming closure, Mason City, Iowa, offers a rich alternative. Home to the last remaining Frank Lloyd Wright-designed hotel and a treasure trove of Prairie School architecture, this city is a must-visit for architecture lovers.
The Historic Park Inn: A Lasting Legacy
The Historic Park Inn in Mason City is the world’s only surviving Wright-designed hotel, making it a significant destination for fans of Wright’s work. Built in 1910, the hotel has been meticulously restored and now serves as both a boutique hotel and a museum. Its design features Wright’s signature Prairie School elements, including horizontal lines, broad eaves, and an integration with the natural landscape.
Visiting the Park Inn allows you to experience Wright’s architectural genius firsthand, offering a rare opportunity to stay in a piece of living history. The hotel’s carefully preserved interiors transport visitors back to the early 20th century.
Discover More Mason City Prairie School Gems
Mason City’s architectural charm extends beyond the Historic Park Inn. The city is home to the largest concentration of Prairie School homes in the Rock Crest-Rock Glen Historic District, where you can see works by Wright’s contemporaries, such as Walter Burley Griffin. Another highlight is the Stockman House, a beautifully preserved Wright-designed home that showcases his revolutionary L-shaped open floor plan.
As the architectural world adjusts to the loss of Price Tower, Mason City remains a destination for those passionate about Frank Lloyd Wright design. Plan your visit to Mason City today and explore the lasting impact of Wright’s work, from the Historic Park Inn to the many Prairie School gems that define this charming Iowa city.
