Historic Tours

The artistry of woodwork and plaster of the Dole Mansion will stop you in your tracks. Black walnut doors, detailed wood carvings in the Eastlake style, amazing marble fireplaces - there's so much to see on tour of the historic Dole Mansion, and her younger sister, the original Crystal Lake Country Club (now the Creative Arts Center.)

Historic tours are given on a limited basis, during festival events, such as the Lakeside Festival, OktoberFest and Christmas at the Dole, and on some special occasions as well. With plenty of advance notice, depending upon our volunteer docents' schedules, we may be able to arrange a personal tour for you and your party too. You are certainly free to explore the Dole if you are a guest of one of the arts educators or arts residents.

The Creative Arts Center, which was the original Crystal Lake Country Club building, was built circa 1926. Like the Dole, it too boasts some quite interesting and unique architectural elements in its own right. Built during a time of carefree and oppulent "Roaring 20's," its atmosphere captures the imagination. Some people see it as the ideal setting for Faulkner's Great Gatsby. Others have more vivid thoughts, comparing it to the chilling tale of The Shining.

The architecture and history of the Dole Mansion and Country Club building are yours to explore and enjoy at the Lakesdie Legacy Arts Park.

Contact us today to arrange a tour for your group. Call (815) 455-8000 or email.