Architectural Tour of Farnsworth House & More in Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3-4 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required, but comfortable walking ability recommended.
Overview
Discover Illinois's architectural gems with this exclusive guided tour of iconic Mid-Century Modern homes. Dive into history, design, and expert insights in a scenic setting.
Trifecta House Tour
A One-of-a-Kind Modernist Experience Saturday September 20
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About This Adventure
Embark on a remarkable journey through Mid-Century Modern architecture with exclusive access to the privately owned Ford House. Enjoy a light breakfast, guided tours of the Schweikher and Farnsworth Houses, and expert commentary on architectural styles. Conclude your day with hors d'oeuvres and drinks, making this an unforgettable experience.
Date/Time
September 20, 2025 @8:30am-6:00pm
About
Make this the experience of the year when you join us for a special guided tour of the Edith Farnsworth House, the Bruce Goff for Ruth and Al Ford house, and the Schweikher House.
Your experience begins with a light breakfast and a morning tour of Edith Farnsworth House to start the day. Participants will then board and travel by bus to the other two houses. While in transit participants will enjoy guided discussions on the different modern architecture styles used in all three properties. The day will conclude with a tour accompanied by hors d'oeuvres, drinks and tour at the Schweikher House before returning by bus to the Edith Farnsworth House Historic Site.
Additional Information
As portions of the experience are held outdoors, please be sure to dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. All participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to the start of the tour.
Tickets are limited. Don't miss this One-Of-a-Kind Opportunity!
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
Secure your spot early, as this exclusive tour tends to fill quickly.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking through historic homes and outdoor grounds, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Bring a Notebook
Capture your thoughts and perhaps some sketches during the expert-led commentary.
Check Weather Conditions
Since parts of the tour are outdoors, dressing appropriately for weather ensures comfort.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bird species common to Illinois wetlands
- Squirrels and small mammals in the grounds
History
The Farnsworth House was designed in 1945 by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and remains one of the most significant examples of modernist architecture.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve these historic structures, minimizing impact and maintaining landscape integrity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes for walking through historic homes and outdoor grounds.
Notebook and Pen
Jot down notes or sketch during the expert commentary.
Weather-appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable during outdoor portions.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture photos of iconic architecture and scenic views.