The House On The Rock Photo Gallery by Forbidden Donut at pbase.com

The House On The Rock

Alex Jordan Jr's. father was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright.
However Frank was not pleased with him and kicked him out of Taliesin (the communal art school that Frank was running at the time)
As an affront to Taliesin Alex senior built this house in his own style high upon a rock formation just south of Franks house hence the name "The House On The Rock"

After Alex Jr. finished the house he started admitting sightseers and added many ground level exhibits of his collections.
It takes all day to see everything and can only be described as eccentric, strange and very unusual
They dont allow tripods but they do allow monopods, which I had to use for just about every shot as it is quite dark in this place

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Tstoto		11-Jan-2024 12:51
Wonderful Article!

David		16-Aug-2013 16:42
I remember the HOTR as a kid. I remember standing next to the living room windows and see the treetops and the sky. I remember being able to look down and seeing the rock face it is built on. Bright Sunny. No infinity room. No Collections. I visited recently and was so disappointed. It is now such a dark gloomy house. Now the force to follow a path to get you to the gift shop. The house was built to rival Frank Lloyd Wright. When I visited as a kid, the architecture did almost rival FLW. I don't remember Taliesin as a kid.

Guest		30-Jun-2013 22:03
I've just had a "Bucket list" check-off experience! After having a 1990 pamphlet about the HOTR I've wanted to see it...ALL! Now on 6-27-2013 I got too do so! I, my daughter and 7 1/2 yr old granddaughter visited and Daughter was intreaged with Jordan's "MIND". How he could keep -on=-keeping-on!It is a visit I will never forget. Five hours there didn't do it justice either! What a collectable legacy of life for others to see. No museum will ever match it!!!

Idebrabarpind		25-May-2013 03:49
this is a good topic,weldone! wholesale snapback hats

Natalie		22-Sep-2012 08:19
Hi. I visited HOTR about a year ago. But have been going there since I was 7yrs old. About 22 yrs ago. And so much has changed and they are still adding on. I took my 7 yr old there and loved it. There is much too see. I knew what to expect but for a young child it can be overwhelming. When we were done about 6 hrs later she wanted to go back. I am hoping to make the trip again this fall! It is a magical place. Though, it does have that creepy feeling. Last year we went and many times we were by ourselves in the exhibits and everything is in very low lighting. But I always get a very good feeling when I go there. For the first time we stayed at the HOTR inn and it was very cool. We did have one problem with the hotel key disappearing then it had reappeared on the table. And was woken up repeatedly by a big thudding noise. But we were only there for one night so I didn't mind. They have a nice pool for the children to play in. I do suggest everyone to see HOTR atleast once in your life time. You have to see it to believe it.

Guest		09-Aug-2012 05:26
Going back to THOTR after 30 years with someone that doesn't have a clue. It should be much fun! Can't wait.

kyle		13-Aug-2011 03:20
Has anyone every experienced ghostly activity in the sea monster room right in front of the case that held a gentlemans war medals, including his purple heart? We were there yesterday, and I swear as I was turning the corner, thinking what a brave man he must have been, a hand touched me on the back. I turned around and there was no one within 15 feet of me. Just another experience at the house on the rock. By the way, my 9 year old loved it and wants to go back.

Guest		08-Aug-2011 15:10
I've seen HOTR twice now and it never ceases to amaze me. I would LOVE to live in one of Frank Lloyd Wright's houses, but for now I'll just have to be content with touring the HOTR over and over (and over and over). I feel like there's a sort of magic in the walls at HOTR and I recommend this house to everyone!

Randy		04-Aug-2011 16:09
The weird thing for me is that since I have been around 14, I would have dreams of rooms filled with odd pianos, ones I have never seen in person. I have had these occasional dreams for over 30 years. Last year, my daughter took me to HOTR for the first time and I felt like I was walking the these crazy rooms I had only seen in dreams. This was my first time in Wisconsin; I live in CA. I was not prepared for the surreal experience that is HOTR. I am going back next month and I am gonna bring some type of hallucinogen and my video camera. My kid is driving me so I ain't tripping about trippin' Good Times

Guest		20-Apr-2011 02:42
Can you ride the carousel?

flip33		19-Dec-2010 19:23
There are many spirits here. I found it fun and entertaining with a bit of macabre tone. Would you spend the night here alone? :) If you give the house your blessings, it will bless you back (and the opposite is true...). You get exactly what you focus on, so decide to have a good time here. I had a dream that felt just like the house on the rock. In my dream, my old 76 Gran Torino was on eternal display with flowers around it. And in that little living room with couches and a coffee table, I felt an apparition of Aunt Bea from Andy Griffith having coffee. Just don't make her mad!

Guest		12-Jul-2010 08:48
being from wisconsin, my wife always said this was her favorite place as a child. 25 years later, i got to see it for myself. WOW! i've been telling everyone about it! everybody should experience HOTR at least once in thier lifetime!

jyscott		02-Jul-2010 03:05
ive been there 5 times it is a awesome place and there is a book and a video about the creator of the house on the rock the video and the book r really good and tells you alot about him if ou havent been there you need to go it will blow your mind

Johanna		17-Jun-2010 05:54
I visited the House on the Rock countless times, between the ages of 4 and 7 and the experience still impacts me today. I know that my dreams got a lot more interesting after visiting and rooms still crop up here and there some nights.

Emmet		20-Apr-2010 19:39
Correction- everything pictured here up to and including the carousel is open during the winter.

Emmet		20-Apr-2010 19:35
HOTR's atmosphere is not quite like anywhere else in the world. The best way to put it might be that it makes you feel like a young child again, seeing untold wonders and riches for the first time. Other info: Summer is the tourist season (crowds somewhat lessen the experience, as always), but it is also the only time all the exhibits are open. Everything seen in this photo album is open year round. If you haven't gone you absolutely should. This place is a treasure.

Buff		12-Mar-2010 16:06
Obviously, this place is amazing to see. I would love to take my mother someday. I have a question for those who have been, what is the energy like? i.e. spooky-ghost busters, carnival-funhouse, Disney-smallworld afterall? And, is there a tour cd to purchase, or something that would explain where the inspirations came from? Thanks.

Hemant		17-Jan-2010 00:32
I visited it today and I am surprized to see the scale at which it is done. It must have costed fortunes to Alex. No word to describe it as it is a mega collection of strange things. Amazing and a must see place for everyone who visits Madison or Wisconsin. If you go there, please spend full day to see things in detail.......

Shane		14-Jul-2009 06:23
Thanks for these great photos. You might consider selling them to HOTR for their book. Very professional. I have to get back there and see it again!

Kristen		11-Jul-2009 21:10
I'm going there this following Tuesday! I can hardly wait! It looks really fascinating.

Guest		09-Jun-2009 18:09
CAL Definately a must see for anyone visiting the area. Your photos are great but as you know a must see for true appreciation. Something for everyone, particulary nostalgia antigue collecting buffs,and excentric architectures.At least one all day affair and then some,although you might max out after 3 or 4 hours and want out if you can find your way out. #1 tourist site Madison and WI.

Joe		20-Apr-2009 13:48
You really captured the feel of the place better than any of my photos ever have. Thank you.

Marc		03-Mar-2009 03:00
Great pictures. I took some myself on a recent visit, but without a monopod I didn't have much success except with a flash. Thanks a lot for these...they'll keep the HOTR alive in my mind until my next visit.

Guest		03-Mar-2009 02:29
Went to the House on the Rock last summer took about 200 pictures it was amazing and beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gregory Filardo		01-Feb-2009 06:14
I first visited in 1962 when I was only 12. The House was just being finished and I got a chance to see all of Alex Jordan's treasures stacked in barns waiting to be used in future developments. These pieces were the canvas of fantasy mixed by a creative genius. As the years and many visits passed I talked with Mr. Jordan many times and saw first hand this incrediable world of fantasy become a reality. A must see for everyone!

Deebs		31-Jan-2009 07:44
I was 5 when I went almost 20 years ago, and the Heritage of the Sea room scared the crap right out of me. Just sayin. I'd go back though, because the rest of the place was aces. Peace.

BW		26-Jan-2009 23:30
Hi. I'm a big fan of music machines. Two of my favorite instruments include the uniphone and the shaker chimes. Can anyone tell me which music machines at the House on the rock has these instruments? Thanks.

Billy Bob		08-Jan-2009 15:34
Cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob		08-Jan-2009 15:32
cool

Marta		04-Jan-2009 15:46
Fajne miejsce

Guest		29-Oct-2008 04:17
I went to the House on the Rock for the first time last winter with my girlfriend and her family and was absolutely blown away. It is such an amazing and ming-boggling place that no words can accurately describe. I have been talking about it non-stop for the past year and my family has finally decided to go there with me this Friday. I hope they like it as much as I do. Everybody needs to see it with their own eyes, because until you do, you cannot possibly comprehend it.

dashley		28-Oct-2008 04:20
We visited the House on the Rock just yesterday. It was definitely a very unique, interesting experience. We enjoyed it immensely.

A real Wisconsin Treasure		12-Sep-2008 11:38
I do not understand the feelings expressed by some people. I am from the area and have been to House on the Rock many times since I was a small child. NEVER have I felt scared, or thought the place was creepy; even as a child. As an adult the place takes on a whole new meaning. It is beautiful, unique, and one of a kind. For those that can not appreciate what the place has to offer, I actually feel sad for you. It is a place of amazement and wonderment, you see something new everytime you go. I challenge anyone that they will find one thing in their tour that they would want to stand and watch in awe. The beauty of the House is that it is beyond description, it is not a museum, it is not a freak side show, it's a time to be a kid again, to travel to a fantasy land. Enjoy!

takeabreak		04-Sep-2008 22:57
I did not know ahead of time what to expect or what it was that I was going to see, when my sister brought me to this site. To my surprise I had entered into a world of dreams and it was very hard for me to leave....we were there for six hours and I could have stayed longer. It was a collage, altered art, steampunk wonderland....so unreal, but yet vaguely familar....I swear I have seen some of the vignettes in the deep recease of my mind.....again, a place full of dreams....

Rajnita		18-Aug-2008 21:10
House on the Rock, unbelievable, bizarre, unreal, from the mind of a genious on the verge of insanity...I was Alice in Wonderland for a day...no words or pictures can give justice to this place--like a nightmare and heaven mixed into one.

pooja		12-Aug-2008 21:08
Ive never been to house on the rock b4. but i heard its cool, i will be going tomorow. wish me fun!!!! -pooja

zakir hussain		23-Jul-2008 11:10
i really appreciate the view & pictures in House on Rock. What ever they have shown is amazing for me

Heather		10-Jul-2008 03:26
My grandmother loved house on the rock she went every year. One of us kids always made time to take her when she passed away in 2005 just before Christmas she was planning on going that year to see the Christmas tour she never made it. We promised each other we would continue the tradition now we pick a day and all go it is like she is with us. We enjoy seeing the small changes and the family gets to spend time together we never would have before.

buzzbuzz		15-May-2008 06:14
I will never forget my visit--if you don't like the house on the rock you are probably the sort that irons your bath towels. This place is not for wussies! The memories this place evokes are dark , creepy and cool- kinda like Graceland. Don't miss this as a top 100 place to see before you die. You will never be able to get it out of your head. The carousel made me stop dead in my tracks and I sat for over 30 minutes taking in it's splendor. I want to go back taking several more with me to see their reactions.

Guest		24-Apr-2008 17:53
I think The House on the Rock is one of the most attractive little worlds to visit; I've gone there over five times at least. Even though touring the entire building is a long stretch, I don't actually feel tired until I'm back outside again. I guess that's the magic of the place.

Nancy		07-Apr-2008 01:43
Went to the House on the rock this past weekend. 1st time there,abosultely wonderful. Will go again to see other rooms of the house that wasn't opened yet.Question I have, who does the house cleaning to keep the dust down.

Troy		11-Mar-2008 15:59
I live within 30 mi.of The House on The Rock.I have been there 18 times.I see something new every time.I recommend that anyone that comes to the area,that likes antiques or anything from days gone by.Visit.You will either go only once,or never go enough.I can't wait to go again.

Nanette		11-Mar-2008 00:44
I went to see the house on the rock over 10years ago, while I was living in the States. I returned home to New Zealand not long after, and over the years thought that this place must have been a dream, because nothing like what I had remembered could possibly be real. When I realised that it was real, I was so excited because places like this do mainly belong to dreams. I hope to one day return to the magic of the house on the rock... thank you so much for sharing your photos

Tiffani		10-Mar-2008 11:41
I went to see The House on the Rock when I was about 12 or 13. I am now going on 37. Over the years I have never forgotten the beauty and the wonders I saw on that day. Now I have children of my own. I showed them these pictures. They were amazed just looking at them. I'm planning to one day take them to see it in person so they will have the same fond memorines that I do. And someday, I would like to think, my kids will plan a trip to take their children, and so on down through generations. If anyone hasn't seen this house, I suggest you do. It truely is a sight to behold.

spragers		20-Feb-2008 03:40
My mother saw it back in the 70's when the "Music of Yesterday" was just a sign and you could still see out the windows of the house... I've been there at least three times and will be heading back this spring with a true "first timer." Each time I have a new camera and still fail to capture the essence of the place, whatever that really is. Your photo results are an inspiration. I actually just purchased a monopod for the sole reason of getting better pictures here this year!

Mark		05-Feb-2008 18:31
Was in Dodgeville in '98 for Babe Ruth Ohio Valley Regional Baseball Championship ( which we won ) and stayed at House on the Rock Inn - and went to see the "House". Look forward to the day I get to go back. Daughter was with us and was 9 at the time - she is the one pressing us to make trip back to see the house.

Guest		02-Feb-2008 13:12
Spring Green is just outside of Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Use google maps if you can't find it. Google maps even has house on the rock listed, and the location will appear if you type in the name. However, the satellite view does not let you zoom in very far. When I went to the House On the Rock, it was only mildly populated with tourists, however I felt a giant prescence there... probably the spirit of Alex Jordan Jr. It didn't feel oppressive to me, or bad, but kind of friendly and humourous. I was rather taken aback because the LOOK of the place is so grotesque and disturbing compared to the FEEL, which is kind of warm and homey. If you lean on the balcony in the middle of the Red Room music machine, and first look around at the musical instruments, the deliberately distressed custom carvings, and the religious imagery, and then shut your eyes and try to FEEL it, you might get an idea of what I mean. I am not sure whether Alex is only friendly to visitors who like the place, or all vistors. I'm just speculating, but maybe those of you who went home with a bad experience either didn't "get" the intent of the place, or hated it for whatever reason and Alex took offense and tried to make you feel creepy. That, or perhaps you are not as spiritual as I am.

Guest		12-Jan-2008 21:57
When I was 6 years old, my family took me here. I remember it like it was yesterday. Hands down the most fascinating place I've ever been to. One day I'll take my son to see this magnificent display of art and beauty. Anyone who is having doubts about going should just GO!! you won't regret it!

lakinda		09-Jan-2008 17:17
this place looks amazing. but i have no idea where it is and i want more information about it so i can share with other how much i see just by looking at the web site.

Lo-tech Mech		08-Jan-2008 21:27
It was open during the last days of 2007 with no waiting. I live in Florida and that makes it difficult to impress me. My brain tried to wrap itself around HOR and classify it as attraction or museum. As a museum it is disappointing there is not more labeling, as has already been noted by others. As an attraction it is something to do in the middle of nowhere where otherwise you would be trespassing if you were exploring Wisconsin in those parts. Logically, as a house, Jordan kept valuable heat down low where it was useful and thus fuel efficient. Originally it complimented the mountain and did not try to upstage nature too much. Where the house ended and the museum began is hard to tell. The preponderance of red lights, red stuff and fake Chinese influence was disturbing, not relaxing, and so that cancels the goal of blending with the Wisconsin beauty to feel like you are a part of nature. As a man Alex should've been happier where he was with what he had. Frank Wright was Alex's equal not his superior. Alex should not have been so discouraged by someone who probably saw him more as competition. There is no other way to explain the one anecdote from their meeting. Bottom line- Its a scary, absurd place with little spiritual solace or natural solitude other than the infinity room and the parking lot and the cafe. No Godly influences. It probably exactly reflects the soul of Alex all our homes do. Best and fun exhibits- music technology, historical artifacts and cafe windows and tables. Biggest disappoinments - Apparent collection of actual pipe organ technology with no apparent intention of ever making any of it operational...other than the shutters. A carousel you can't ride until you puke.

Guest		08-Dec-2007 22:08
My wife has tried to get me to go here. Now I want to!

Guest		03-Dec-2007 03:16
I live in Spring Green and finally just went back to the House on the Rock today. I use to go every year when I was in elementary school and thought it was creepy, long, and boring. Now that I'm in my 20s I have a lot more appreciation for it and I loved it!! I want to go back right now! I do wish that I knew more about Alex Jordan though, I use to work at Taliesin (Frank Lloyd Wright) and everyone had their own tale to tell but everyone agreed that he was odd (obviously) but if anyone knows anything interesting about this man, other than the reasons for his multiple orgy rooms, they should post it!!!!

Pam Jaramillo		06-Nov-2007 14:53
My family built a summer cabin back in 1972, just 7 miles from House On the Rock. We have gone up there every summer since 1972. I was about 14 years old the first time I saw it and we have gone back many times over the years as it was continued to be built upon and expanded to the monstrosity that it is today. And I mean that in a good way. It is a glorious monstrosity. Like being in someone elses dream or nightmare. I have always loved every inch of the place and I am now 49 years old. My kids are totally fascinated with it. Whether you love or hate it, it is unforgettable and truly a wonder of the modern world.

Terri		20-Oct-2007 03:11
I experienced the House On The Rock in 1982 when my husband and I were transferred to the US from Australia. We came across it by accident when we went to Dodgeville in search of Cornish Pasties. I found it was way up on our list of tourist experiences alongside the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls. If I ever make it back to the US, I will definitely be heading to the House On The Rock.

Nathan Pralle		18-Oct-2007 15:39
What a waste of time and money! No, I take that back, that's not completely the case. The house itself is of a fascinating architecture, much like a DeLorean is a fascinating car architecture, but not nearly as practical as you might think. The collections, however, while impressive end up being overwhelming. Between that and the constant inane music that plays over everything, you see it for a few hours and then go, "Nope, that's it, I can't take any more. Someone get me out of here or I'm going to remove my frontal lobe with a swizzle stick." It just ends up being too much.

Lacy		09-Oct-2007 19:49
I went to House on the Rock when I was 12 years old. I forgot about it until yesterday when my mom mentioned the worlds largest carausel. That brought back tons of memories :( That place totally freaked me out. The people who created it are crazy and jacked up on crack cocaine. I hated it. All theses years I thought it was all a scary dream, but nope, that Willy Wonka's Factory inspired attraction is something I would not visit ever again. Creepy!!

Jessica		03-Oct-2007 04:04
I'd never even heard of this place before I got off the plane in Madison and picked up a brochure about it when I went to the Avis counter. It was the second place I went, the day after visiting Taliesin, which was the main thing I had planned to see. I have never in my life seen anything like the House on the Rock and I am a student and aficianado of roadside attractions, kitsch and otherwise. This defies all description, although Jane Smiley's is an excellent job. Unreal.

nikki		27-Aug-2007 01:55
my husband and i took our son yesterday and it was just as magical as i remember it being when i was younger! i could go there everyday and not get bored!

Guest		01-Aug-2007 22:02
i was at the house once when i was 20 and i have never forgotten it. now 9 years later im about to go back and take my son. i hope he enjoys it as much as i did.

OVERSHOE		31-Jul-2007 16:54
I LOVE THE HOUSE ON THE ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Guest		22-Jul-2007 12:53
This is by far the greatest collection of pictures from the House on the Rock that I have ever seen. Thanks for sharing with us. Nick

Bill		16-Jul-2007 18:29
I enjoyed all 3 tours but was at a loss most of the time as there were very few descriptions of just what I was looking at. The model ships were all a mystery except for the flags they flew. The firearms were very impressive but again I had no idea what I was viewing. There is a lot on construction going on to be completed in 2010. Finally all too many displays are so poorly lit a visitor should be issued a flashlight !!!

Patty		12-Jul-2007 20:40
We where just at the house july 10th,this is something I'm sure we'll be talking about for a very long time. We spent four hours there and enjoyed every minute of our walk. I took so many pictures my battery was gone before we went thru the last tour This was a quit an exprience for use.

Guest		30-Jun-2007 05:20
As I was relooking thru all the photos, I noticed somethings that werent there while I went thru the tour with my grandparents! Now I know I must go back, and really take another tour! I dont care how long it takes me, but there are somethings that are definately worth going back and seeing! Thanks again for sharing these!

Guest		30-Jun-2007 04:58
I have to say that seeing all of these pictures has brought back alot of memories! I took a mini vacation with my grandparents yrs ago (they are now deceased) and we went to The House on the Rock, and I fell in love with this place! My grandma took pictures as we went along of some of my most favorite places, but thru time, the photos were lost or misplaced! I am thinking of going back soon, and taking an all day tour so that I can recapture some of the photos, and the memories that we had shared while we were up there! Thank You for sharing these photos with everyone, and I must say that you have done great work taking them! I know that when I was younger, the walk was long, but I was never bored with seeing such interesting things! Thanks again for sharing!

e smith		27-Jun-2007 01:23
I live in Texas and have visited the House on the Rock several times and each visit I see something new and exciting - Truly amazing place. We were there in 1986, 1996 and return this Christmas! The huge red carousel is breath taking. My husband was entralled with the Mikado, being a barn goddess my favorite has to be the hundreds of carousel horses (on the walls, and miniature circus'. We've been there in the summer and in the fall is wonderful with all the fall colors and can't wait to see decked out this year at christmas!

Sarah		23-Jun-2007 21:02
I live a couple of hours away from The House on the Rock, so I have been there several times and still find things that I have never seen there before. I just can't get enough of this place! If anyone is doubting whether they should go to this place, I am telling you it is well worth it! There is something there for everyone. My fiance has never been there and I can't wait to take him there and show him something that truly inspires me.

Zeke		18-Jun-2007 23:50
i just got back from htere. there's something wrong with that place. the Indians sensed spiritual spots and they made sacred mounds, now we build roadside attractions. every moment i was in there i felt like something that didn't like or approve of me was watching me. there's something wrong with that place

T Smith		02-Apr-2007 04:18
America's best kept secret! My wife and I visited The House on the Rock in June 1990. We had flown from L.A. to Madison for my friend's wedding. Looking for some local adventure, we discovered this most notable place. Eccentric, bizarre, whimsical, grotesquely imaginative - the perfect mind-escape. I have traveled extensively home and abroad, and still remember this place as being at the pinnacle of odd enchantment,ingenuity, and very worthy of news of the weird. Love it! Love it! Love it! Can't wait to show my kids!

schnail		06-Feb-2007 03:27
Nice gallery! I've been to the House on the Rock twice, and I've tried to explain to my wife (who hasn't) how utterly absurd the place is, but I haven't been able to convey it adequately. I'll have to take her when we get to Madison later this year. I remember already being dumbfounded at the bizarre excess of the place - and THEN walking into the room with paths winding through giant functionless machinery, and I just cracked up when I saw it. The place had outdone itself with that.

Zanahoria		14-Oct-2006 15:55
Wow.... Did I forget how incredibly creepy everything was at this place! :o But in a good way, of course. :D Seeing these photos is almost as good as going to the place itself. I can't believe you took all of these, they're amazing! I commend you wholeheartedly for your efforts, very admirable (especially with me being a freelance photographer myself!). Very nicely done! :O

Ethan Riley		10-Oct-2006 08:49
Um, can I ask a question? Is picture #10 haunted? It's the picture of the bookshelves and the staircase. Look to the far left,above the stairs; there's two feet that are attached to...nothing. The person is wearing jeans that seem to disappear. Does anyone else see this?

Maggi		09-Oct-2006 22:04
This is simply awesome. Thank you for a most comprehensive collectuon of photos about this amazing place.

Mike and Linda		01-Oct-2006 22:53
Went to The House on the Rock over the weekend. Purchased all three tours and was not disappointed at all. Well worth the $26 per adult fee that is charged. Amazing all the articles, stuff, junk (call it what you want) that is collected there.

Brian R. Johnson		20-Aug-2006 23:59
Thank you for these amazing photos!!

Andrew		05-Aug-2006 20:57
I just went to the House on the Rock a few days ago. Though all three tours were purchased, I got there late (around 2:00 PM), and only had time to see the first 2 tours before it closed. Next time, I will try to stay overnight nearby the attraction so I can see it two days straight to allow plenty of time for lingering, picture-taking, etc. Though I brought a home recorder (and used it), it turns out that the house does offer CDs and cassettes of the various real and fake music machines. As far as I know, these are only available from the House on the Rock, either in the gift shop or (probably) via mail order. I will be writing an article on the music machines that I did get to see (I could not see/hear all) to be posted on the Mechanical Music Digest, so watch that space.

junieb		14-Jul-2006 07:58
i went to "the house on the rock" for my honeymoon in 1997. we came from near erie, pa, and it was soooo worth the trip. my new in-laws had been there years before and had bought a book about "the house", but i'll tell you what !!!! you really have to see this place to believe it !!!!! the book just doesn't do it justice. if i lived nearby, i'm sure i would visit "the house" every year!!! living in s.c. now and have a new husband and can't wait to show him. this house is absolutely unreal ! you really do have to see it to believe it ! thanks go to alex jordan and all those who are dedicated to keeping "the house on the rock" a great and awesome place !!!!! junieb

Guest		02-Jul-2006 18:25
Years ago, in the 50's, when Alex Jordon was first "building" the house in bits and pieces, a friend of ours used to ride motorcycles up the ramp and park them in the house when visiting Jordon. That was of course before it was "open to the public".

Christina		21-Jun-2006 21:32
TOTALLY AWESOME!

Guest		15-Jun-2006 22:23
Thank you for such a fabulous job documenting this mind-blowing place!! Your work is a gazillion times better than the "official" site. Read about this place in Gaiman's book &, out of curiousity, did a search to see if it was real... and it is... and Oh, man... does this just so ever crack me up! Love the car show page, too, with all the happy smiling grills.

Holly		27-May-2006 02:12
A trip to the House on the Rock is a true study in human nature. My husband and I have visited twice, first on our honeymoon. All of our relatives have been through numerous times. A walk through the house and all of the buildings is better than any antique store or museum. Every item in every room has been carefully displayed as if a person had time-traveled to the past. If you don't care for something, i.e. clowns, you just have to look around the next corner. There is a special ambiance in every effect, including the music that flows through out. I learned quickly that I didn't have to buy tokens to play the 'music machines' throughout the tour. The volunteers will insert a token to keep the machines playing. To this day if I hear a familiar tune from the tour, I am immediately reminded of the fantastic voyage we took on our honeymoon. If I had to choose my favorite part I would say it was the doll houses... or maybe the doll carousels.. or Merlin the magician guiding us, or the awesome brewing equipment, or the infinity room, or the breath of fresh air as we took in the view of the valley from the balcony, or the cobblestone streets, or the steam engine, or the birdcages, or the Titanic memorabilia, or the octopus, or the automatic bands, or was it all of the friendly visitors that we met from around the world? There is only one place in the world where a tree growing through the wall is completely normal. Wait! My favorite part was the Asian room, or maybe it was the gun room. The suits of armor gave me a true feeling of history as it was never taught in school. I'm just have to go back again!

Robert Rains		15-May-2006 18:30
Going to The House On The Rock gave me a sense of complete freedom. I myself have been to the site 6 time and every time I go I see something new. My mother and stepfather have been there 7 time and love every minute of it and we all wish to go back sometime soon. I hope you all enjoy it!!

Andrew		03-May-2006 22:51
Um, after I posted the comment, I noticed the comment box added the closing parentheses to each link, preventing the links from working right. So if you want to see the web sites, please remove the close parentheses ) and period . from the end of each address, and the link should work fine. Or just cut-and-paste without. sorry for the mishap.

Andrew		03-May-2006 22:45
Firstly, I came upon these pictures from Google. I would like to say thanks for taking these! I plan on visiting House On The Rock sometime in the future, and this gives me a great idea of what to expect when I go there. As a responsible enthusiast of automatic musical instruments, I have to say that much of what is there is fake. Especially the rooms full of stringed and especially wind instruments "playing" themselves. True experts, including some people who worked behind the scenes on these exhibits, give the story here http://mmd.foxtail.com/Archives/KWIC/R/rock.html). Real orchestrions do not have instruments arranged in chairs and other fragile locations, they are usually large cabinets, with decoration ranging from beveled mirrors to art glass to lamps and fine woodworking. Although a few makers around the turn of the last century (c. 1908-1930) had come up with violin players which really played the violin, only two were successful in the long run: The Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina, made in Germany, and the Mills Violano-Virtuoso, made in the U.S.A. Though they also made orchestrions incorporating the real violin mechanisms in very limited quantity, most of these violin players consisted of one (or two or three) violins accompanied by a piano. The vast majority of other orchestrions and automatic instruments such as band organs use finely-voiced organ pipes to imitate string and wind instruments, with varying degrees of success. Of course, real orchestrions often have real percussion instruments such as xylophone, bells, drums, as well as often a piano, too, so I suppose there is some resemblance. It is interesting to note that the House on the Rock DOES have some real automatic instruments, however due to poor maintenance and neglect over the years most were allowed to become inactive in favor of the easier-to-maintain fake machines. Despite this, however, a gentleman and collector who is well-respected in the field has been consulting with the new owner of House on the Rock, and at least two of the real authentic vintage instruments have been restored, a Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina and a large Gebrueder Bruder fairground organ, which is pictured on this page as the photo on the left, second row from the bottom. This is how it looked prior to the restoration. For more on this organ, as well as a link to photos of how it looks NOW, please go here: http://mmd.foxtail.com/Archives/Digests/200604/2006.04.07.02.html). And, if you are now somewhat interested and wouldn't mind hearing a few sound clips of beautifully restored REAL automatic musical instruments (including the violin players mentioned), you may go here http://www.mbsi.org/gallery.php). This page is part of Musical Box Society International, an organization for owners, collectors, and just enthusiasts of all kinds of automatic musical instruments. I hope this has been informative and please don't write off the House on the Rock as a good place to visit because of this; it is still a fun tourist attraction!

Guest		02-May-2006 04:07
thanks for the pictures. i read of the house on the rock in neil gaiman's novel AMerican Gods. The pictures really make me able to envisage the atmosphere. many thanks

Guest		25-Apr-2006 18:59
These pics took me back, I was there with my husband five years ago and it was an unforgetable expirience. Thanks for sharing these pictures just looking at them gave me the same chills I felt when I visited.

LEODA		15-Mar-2006 23:32
THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL PICTURES. I WAS THERE ONCE AND HAVE BEEN ENCOURAGEING MY FRIENDS TO GO THERE. NOW I MIGHT BE ABLE TO SHOW THEM WHY THEY SHOULD GO. I WAS AMAZED AT EVERY THING THERE AND IF I GET A CHANCE I WILL GO BACK AGAIN.

Adam		18-Feb-2006 16:55
Thank you so much for the photos! I was trying to describe my childhood visit experience to my wife, and I thought that maybe I was exaggerating the uniqueness/creepiness/wonder of the place, but I was wrong! My wife and I are definately going to go visit again soon!

David		26-Jan-2006 12:30
I visited the House On The Rock back in 1971. Back then, the man who built it was still alive and still lived there. We were only allowed to go into certain areas of the house. His personal living quarters were off limits - even to look at back then. After the house tour, one was able to see but a very small display of automated musical instruments. I remember asking my Grandfather for a quarter at the time to play the machines. I have no idea what they would cost today, or even if they are still in working order. I remember that there was a construction sheet up in front of a doorway that was off limits. There was a sign that said something to the effect that there were "coming attractions". It has been 35 years since I was last there and I wonder how much the place has changed since then. Would be interesting to see it again.

Lara		15-Jan-2006 19:39
I'm so glad you've posted there... I was there as a very small, panicky child, but still adored the place. I haven't had the chance to go back, though my friends did bring me the music on CD -- at any rate, this has made me realize that my childhood memories are dead-on and NOT exaggerated in the slightest, which is both disturbing and delightful. I'm convinced that visiting the place at such a young age cemented my dream-imagery, in the gooduns & nightmares alike. doffs hat

Jenni		19-Dec-2005 19:07
I would like to know if anyone can answer about visiting The House On The Rock during the Christmas season. Is it worth it? I haven't been yet and my family from Florida will be here for the Holidays. I thought that might be a neat place to take them to.

Howard		28-Nov-2005 09:52
While your photos are excellent, your two opening paragraphs of introduction are largely incorrect. Alex Jordan Sr. was once an admirer of Frank Lloyd Wright, but not a student at Taliesen. He designed an apartment building to be built in Milwaukee. He showed the design to Wright, who didn't like it, and told Jordan in typical Wright fashion, which is to say in a caustic and demeaning manner. The senior Jordan went ahead and built the apartment house anyway. Jordan, Jr. discovered Deer Shelter Rock, where the House on the Rock was constructed, during his boyhood summers spent with aunts who lived in Spring Green, only a few miles from Taliesen. He dreamed of building a house on it, and began doing so before he owned the land itself or even had permission from the landowner. He borrowed money from his parents to get it started, and like Topsy it just grew and grew. Jordan Jr.'s motive for the House had everything to do with his love of the locale, his own artistic bent, and nothing to do with Frank Lloyd Wright. Jordan Jr. began admitting visitors almost from the beginning as a few inquired to see what he was building. Long before the House was "finished", Jordan Jr. began charging admission and gradually raising the price in hopes of discouraging any more visitors. Finally, he realized those admissions would help pay for his continual desire to expand the House and to add to its collections of collections.

J. Thomas		17-Nov-2005 08:54
Ive been twice. Once as a child and later as an adult. Both times however I was overwhelmed with child like emotions. As a child the house and some of its rooms and displays were really creepy. As an adult I still found some of them the same way when I returned but I also had a great sense of appreciation for the collections there. It truely is a dream land. Great pics!!! The "House" is 700 miles away from me so these pictures allowed me to walk through and reminisce a bit.

Toia		11-Nov-2005 20:29
Oooh your pics are really great. I love the way that the site reflects just how u feel in the house-mystified. Really great....i went when i was in high school and am planning to go back!

BJ		28-Oct-2005 19:07
I plan to visit this house in about two weeks and appreciate the information. I've been to Winchester House in San Jose, but this promises to be even more interesting. Thanks.

John		10-Oct-2005 23:45
Awesome pics! Haven't been yet, but as THOTR plays a major role in Neil Gaiman's "American Gods" (I highly recommend you give it a read), your photos helped bring the story to life even more.

chip717		09-Oct-2005 03:38
This whole house reminded me of walking around in an "I Spy" book. It was frightfully awesome!

John		14-Sep-2005 19:14
The gentleman that sugested that you color correct your photos has apparently never visited the House. Your photos correctly capture the warmth of the surroundings. Even though the compex is massive it is built in such a way that there is a close comfortable warm homey feeling. The colors truely reflect the natural visual colors. To color correct the photos and have stark blarring colors would take completely away from the true feeling. Thank you for you photos !

Lori		23-Aug-2005 11:00
Truly amazing place. We were there 8-20-05. The huge red carousel is breath taking. It took us 4 hours to get through it and we were not going slow by any means. I'd like to know the square footage of the whole house. I also liked the Mikado, tall bookcase, doll carousel, whale, carousel horses (hundreds of them) on the walls, and miniature circus'. Really too much to mention......

Jacci		22-Aug-2005 12:25
The place was amazing -- went Sat. Aug 20, 2005. But, almost falls under the category, "Just because you can doesn't mean you should..." too much. I'd like to see an aerial shot of the grounds. Did he construct the carosel himself?? Is that why no one is to ride on it???

Ewa		21-Aug-2005 05:58
The pictures are great. I wanted to know how i can add more to the ones already here i just went to thr House On the Rock two days ago and have some good shots. The plase is breathtaking.

Guest		15-Jun-2005 14:15
Thanks for taking the time/effort to post these photos. I live in VA and will visit next March. Always interesting to see how other bachelors deck out their pads. Small critique: Have you thought about using software to color-correct the incandescent shots? The "real" colors will come through better...w/o the yellow cast.

chris		13-Jun-2005 06:38
I so vaguely remember my experience at the house that I'm amazed to even think of it. Trying to explain the sights to a friend was a futile effort. I was 7 when I visited, but at 22 ive still never seen a thing like it. Thanks so much for these pictures as they keep my memories alive.

RaeFalk		08-Jun-2005 18:07
I love House on the Rock! It is so weird and dark and creepy and cool; apparently everytime someone told Alex Jordan "you can't do that" he did it anyway. I've been here 3 times (all when I was a kid, I haven't been there recently, but I plan on changing that this summer). I highly recommend this place, it is well worth the ticket price, but come early because it will take all day- this selling tickets 1 hour before it closes is for the birds. I also recommend the unofficial biography of Alex Jordan. P.S. The pictures here are far, far better than those on the official site, but nothing does it justice.

Gospellady		20-May-2005 17:32
Thanks for the great shots. It is food for the eyes of a wayward daughter of Wisconsin. I try to see this place every time I go home but sadly my husband does not share my passion for it. I will say this much though, it is leaving the ideals of the Jordans since it was corp. purchased. The latest updates make it much less handicapped frendly. Thanks again, I needed this!

Sacheen Littlefeather		18-Apr-2005 16:33
What about the ceiling full of naked mannequins with angel wings and crudely added nipples? And the room that extends out over the trees that narrows to a point? The House on the Rock is what the Neverland Ranch ought to look like. By which I mean it's creepy. It's something to do in Madison, however, for which Sam and Jibangus are grateful. I join them in their gratitude and also applaud this site and your proud use of a "monopod." And I like how you refer to Frank Lloyd Wright as "Frank" after the first mention.

Dominic G		26-Feb-2005 06:57
I've been to the house on the rock several times and it is the most amazing thing I have ever seen in my life. Each time I go, I feel a bit more connected with this amazing piece of history. The pictures capture the essence of Alex Jordans creation more than words can express. Breath-taking.

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