House on the Rock

House on the Rock is a building complex in Wisconsin that extends over a roughly 60-meter-high rock formation called Deer Shelter Rock and includes numerous indoor spaces, gardens and shopping streets. The site consists of several levels and connected structures that together form an extensive network of galleries and exhibition areas.

Alex Jordan Jr began building a simple retreat on the rock in 1945, which grew over the years into a walkable collection. In 1959 he opened the site to visitors and added more buildings and collections over the following decades.

The name refers to the natural rock outcrop on which the main building rests, known locally as Deer Shelter Rock for generations. Visitors today walk through a kind of living museum where collections of musical instruments, figurines and everyday objects sit alongside fantasy recreations of old streets and townscapes.

The site is located on State Highway 23 in Wyoming and offers three different tours through different areas of the complex. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and plan several hours, as the routes pass through many winding rooms and staircases.

Inside there is a huge carousel with 269 animals, none of which are horses. The collection instead includes dragons, sea creatures and other fantasy beings that spread over several levels.

Location: Iowa County

Inception: 1959

Architects: Alex Jordan, Jr.

Architectural style: modern architecture

Website: https://thehouseontherock.com

GPS coordinates: 43.10000,-90.13611

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00