Step into the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio this December for a guided holiday tour of model trains, mechanical toys, and midcentury architecture. Reservations via www.abdow.org are required—these intimate, reservation-only tours blend festive fun with serious architectural significance.
Step into the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio this December for a guided holiday tour of model trains, mechanical toys, and midcentury architecture. Reservations via www.abdow.org are required—these intimate, reservation-only tours blend festive fun with serious architectural significance.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Alden Dow Home and Studio · Midland, Michigan
easy.
1.5 hours.
Minimal walking and short stair negotiation; comfortable mobility recommended.
Yes—tours are reservation-only. Book at www.abdow.org or call 989-839-2744.
Children must be at least 8 years old to attend; no exceptions.
No photography, video, or recording is permitted inside the building or of objects; exterior photos are allowed.
No—the Home and Studio is not wheelchair accessible and includes small level changes.
Tour parking is behind the Post Street School as noted in the check-in details.
A 24-hour cancellation notice is required for a full refund or to rebook; contact the booking number for changes.
Alden and Vada Dow established the home’s playful holiday displays; the property is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
Strict no-bag and no-photography policies protect original finishes and objects; limited group sizes help reduce wear on the historic fabric.
Alden B. Dow Home and Studio in Midland, Michigan, preserves the legacy of architect Alden B. Dow and offers public programs, guided tours, and youth design camps. The property is recognized for its Mid‑Century Modern architecture and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can tour the Home and Studio to see Dow’s integrated approach to design, materials, and site planning. Public programs include guided Group Tours that can be tailored to group interests, highlighting the creative process and architectural innovations of Alden B. Dow. Seasonal Holiday Tours in December present festive decorations, whimsical scale trains, and mechanical toys, offering a family-friendly experience that blends design history with holiday tradition. Youth programming features immersive camps for elementary and middle school students. The 2025 Architecture I Camp engages 4th–6th graders with hands-on projects such as constructing a miniature treehouse and exploring the site from unique vantage points, including canoeing on the pond. The 2025 Design II Camp invites 7th–9th graders to study design principles through mixed-media projects, inspiration from historic artists, film screenings, and outdoor activities. Educational value is grounded in the site’s historic status and its physical examples of Mid‑Century Modern practice. Interpretive tours and structured camp curricula provide clear learning objectives and creative skill development. Visitors and groups can reserve tours and programs through the Home and Studio’s booking channels. Programming combines architectural interpretation, hands-on making, and site-based learning to create memorable, educational visits. The site welcomes visitors of all ages to explore design education and inspiration daily.
Book with Alden Dow Home and Studio