We believe that architecture enriches lives, and MAF is committed to connecting people with architecture in creative ways, even remotely. Our website has a number links to resources and activities (see below) to stimulate imaginations of all ages during stay-at-home orders and beyond. Many other organizations also are providing ways to virtually experience global architecture and landmarks.
Here are a few of MAF’s suggested sites to nurture your curiosity, senses, and wanderlust, all from the comfort and safety of home.
From the Michigan Architectural Foundation Website:
- Looking for fun and educational physical activities for children? Why not engage with them in the architecture-based lessons of MAF’s ‘Architecture: it’s Elementary’ program? The FREE lessons, for children in grades K-5, are available on the Resources for Kids page of the MAF website. There, you’ll also find our ArchiTreks videos, which take kids on adventures that get them excited about architecture, science, and engineering. ArchiTreks can be done with family during a neighborhood walk, or even around the house.
- Learn about historic Michigan architecture that MAF’s Evans-Graham Preservation Awards helped support over the past two decades
- Want to learn more about some of Michigan’s must-see architecture, and even make plans for a future Michigan architecture tour?
- Follow MAF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube for news, activities, and updates on all things Michigan architecture.
World Architecture and International Landmark Tours (from other sites):
- Cranbrook conducts Instagram Live tours every Tuesday and Thursday at 5 pm EST of their Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Melvyn Maxwell Smith house. You can also tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Eppstein House in Galesburg, MI via YouTube.
- Speaking of Frank Lloyd Wright, have you ever wanted to visit Fallingwater, or the legendary architect’s other iconic properties around the United States? Check out the #WrightVirtualVisits initiative, a new series of digital tours.
- Tour Detroit Art Deco gems The Guardian Building and the Fisher Building.
- Other Michigan architecture you can enjoy virtually include Midland’s Alden B. Dow Home & Studio, Grand Rapids architecture, Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel, Bay City’s Center Avenue Historic District, and the Michigan State Capitol.
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Great Wall of China, or tour England’s Buckingham Palace.
- Visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including China’s Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge and the Sydney Opera House (and click here for more UNESCO sites, including Russia’s Red Square and India’s Agra Fort).
- Google Arts & Culture has several links to virtually explore other world architecture and attractions.
- Michigan Historic Preservation Network’s website has simple architectural building models that kids can print and assemble.
- Online architecture and design magazine Dezeen is hosting an online Virtual Design Festival and ArchDaily has links to virtual tours of architecture around the world, including Le Corbusier’s Casa Curutchet in Argentina and Finland’s Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Online design resource arch20 has links to virtual tours of historical sites, including the Taj Mahal and the Acropolis in Athens.
