Set against the rugged backdrop of northwest Arkansas’s rolling Ozark landscape, the Faubus House Sunset Tour offers an extraordinary blend of architecture and natural beauty just outside Huntsville. Designed by Fay Jones—one of the region’s most celebrated architects and a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright—this residence is notable for its dramatic catwalk that extends boldly over a bluff, creating a breathtaking vantage point over the surrounding forested hills. This two-hour guided tour allows visitors to explore the full interior of the Faubus House, a 7,356-square-foot residence that embodies Jones’s distinct philosophy of harmonizing building and landscape.
Completed in 1967 for former Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus and his wife Alta, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as a rare example of mid-century modern architecture integrated seamlessly into the rugged Ozark terrain. The tour arrives in the late afternoon, building anticipation as daylight fades and the house’s distinctive lighting ignites the cliffsides and glass surfaces at dusk—a truly singular experience where light and shadow play off the home's sharp angles and natural materials.
Visitors are welcomed with a carefully curated cocktail and hors d’oeuvres served inside the residence, enhancing the intimate feel of the evening and encouraging relaxed conversation among architecture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Note that shoes are not permitted inside the house, preserving the delicate hardwood floors and immersing guests in the home’s tactile ambiance.
Located at 640 Governor Rd, the Faubus House is a short drive from Huntsville, Arkansas, a town known as a gateway to the Ozarks with ample options for lodging and exploration. This tour is non-refundable but can be rescheduled if you coordinate in advance, and it operates rain or shine, with safety as a top priority.
The Faubus House stands apart within the Arkansas outdoor recreation scene, blending a deep respect for nature’s forms with human creativity. Jones’s architectural language speaks directly to the landscape’s unique karst topography, native hardwoods, and panoramic views, making this tour a must for those who appreciate design, history, and wilderness.
While photography inside the house is restricted, exterior shots at sunset capture the essence of this architectural jewel. Visitors are encouraged to come prepared with weather-appropriate attire and comfortable walking shoes for the short approach and navigate stairs, as the property is not wheelchair accessible.
All told, the Faubus House Sunset Tour offers a rare opportunity to witness an architectural masterpiece come alive as day turns to night, providing a unique addition to any outdoor adventurer’s itinerary in Arkansas’s scenic Ozark region.