Want an insider look at some of the best mid-century modern architecture in Phoenix and Scottsdale? The iconic Hotel Valley Ho in Old Town Scottsdale is launching the Insider Mid-Century Tour of Scottsdale, available beginning in November. Local expert Ace Bailey will be your guide as you explore the history and architecture of incredible buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright and other notable Valley architects. As the owner of Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours and a part of the talented concierge team at Hotel Valley Ho, she loves to share Scottsdale’s rich culture and architecture.
The day kicks off with an abbreviated Magical History Tour of Hotel Valley Ho, a true icon in Old Town Scottsdale with mid-century design details and a Hollywood past, originally opened in 1956. Up next is a behind-the-scenes look at the Garden Apartment District next to the hotel, where you’ll get a special look inside a mid-century modern townhome that was featured on the Modern Phoenix Home Tour. Savor lunch at local favorite Postino Highland, housed in a stunning mid-century building that previously housed a bank.
While many people have visited Taliesin West, the winter home and architecture school of the late Frank Lloyd Wright, few have seen the Price House in Paradise Valley. Completed in 1955 for a favorite client of Wright’s, it is the largest house he built in Arizona, complete with a swimming pool, stunning views and a masterful courtyard. Enjoy an extensive walking tour of the home and grounds.
You will also get an insider’s driving tour of several notable mid-century gems, which may include the Triangle Building by prolific Valley architect Ralph Haver (1962), Frank Henry’s dendriform-column bank (1968), the Christian Science First Church by T.S. Montgomery (1962), Villa Monterey by Dave Friedman (1961-67), and Frank Lloyd Wright’s last residential project, the Lykes House (1959).
Tours are offered by appointment and must be booked in advance; at least two weeks’ notice is recommended. The full tour is offered from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A three-hour mini tour is available at 9 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., and includes Hotel Valley Ho, the Garden Apartment District and the Price House. The tours are offered at a flat rate and can accommodate groups from two to 10; the full tour is $1,400 (plus $25 per person for lunch including a glass of wine), and the mini tour is $700. Your booking includes transportation and a donation to the Price House to help preserve Wright’s legacy in the desert. Call the hotel concierge at 480.376.2600 to reserve a tour and start exploring.
