Is photography allowed inside the Faubus House?

No, interior photography is strictly prohibited to protect the historic property, but exterior photos are allowed without tripods or drones.

Is the Faubus House accessible for wheelchair users?

The house is not wheelchair accessible due to its age and design; guests with walkers or canes may visit if tips protect flooring.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Children under 10 are discouraged because of the bluff edge and catwalk, but they are not prohibited if accompanied by adults.

Can I bring food or drinks on the tour?

No outside food or drinks are allowed inside the Faubus House. Complimentary water will be provided.

Are pets allowed during the tour?

Pets are not permitted, except service animals as defined by ADA guidelines.

What is the best way to get to the Faubus House?

It is recommended to drive and park on-site where limited parking is available; please arrive early to ensure space.

Explore Arkansas History with the Faubus House Thanksgiving Tour

Located in the serene town of Huntsville, Arkansas, the Faubus House stands as a remarkable example of mid-century modern architecture designed by the legendary Fay Jones. This Thanksgiving Day tour offers visitors an intimate opportunity to explore a residence that masterfully blends architecture with the natural landscape of the Ozark Mountains. Built in 1967 for former Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus and his wife, Alta, the home is perched dramatically on a bluff, showcasing a cantilevered catwalk that extends boldly over the edge, defying gravity and inviting awe. Visitors begin their two-hour experience immersing themselves in the stunning design, where every line and angle reflects Jones’ philosophy of creating structures uniquely attuned to their environment. The home’s 7,356 square feet include carefully curated indoor spaces and peaceful gardens that reveal textures and materials rooted in the surrounding land. The parade of natural light through large windows and the interplay between wooden beams and stone elements deepen the intimate connection to the outdoors. Although photography inside the house is prohibited to protect its historic integrity, exterior shots of the house against the backdrop of lush Arkansas foliage are permitted and highly recommended. The tour guide's expert narration paints a vivid story of both the architectural genius behind the Faubus House and its place in Arkansas’s history. This is more than a house tour; it’s a portal into an era where design met nature in a singular expression of harmony. Situated just outside Huntsville, the Faubus House invites travelers to explore a quieter side of Arkansas’s outdoor recreation, where hiking nearby trails or visiting wildlife areas complements the cultural immersion. The house itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its significance and uniqueness in the region. Visitors will appreciate the care taken to integrate the structure without disturbing the bluff or landscape, highlighting sustainable practices long before they were mainstream. Practical guidance includes comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and the option to go shoeless inside — visitors can wear socks or booties provided on site to protect the flooring. Note that the home is not wheelchair accessible due to its original design, and care is taken to ensure safety along the bluff’s edge. Parking is limited but available on site. This Thanksgiving experience creates a meaningful blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty for those wanting to explore beyond the usual Arkansas attractions. Whether you’re a fan of design, history, or the outdoors, the Faubus House Thanksgiving Tour offers a rare glimpse into a quietly compelling facet of the Ozarks. Come celebrate the day after Thanksgiving by stepping into a living work of art permanently grounded in its place.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for anyone with basic mobility who can manage walking stairs and standing for a prolonged period.

Wildlife

Eastern Box Turtle
Songbirds such as Carolina Wren

History

Completed in 1967, the Faubus House reflects Fay Jones' architectural philosophy and was built for Governor Orval Faubus, a notable figure in Arkansas history.

Conservation

The house's design respects and preserves the natural bluff setting, demonstrating early sustainable architecture by harmonizing building footprint with terrain.

Established to present guided access to the Faubus House, the E Fay Jones Conservancy in Fayetteville, Arkansas offers focused public tours that highlight the architecture of Fay Jones. The conservancy’s programming centers on the Faubus House, a residence completed in 1967 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.\n\nTours emphasize the house’s signature features, including a dramatic catwalk that extends over a bluff, detailed design elements, and the surrounding lush gardens. The conservancy offers a Standard Tour that provides an hour-long exploration of design and views; a Thanksgiving Tour that presents the same one-hour experience during the Thanksgiving period; and a Sunset Tour that showcases the house as it illuminates at dusk.\n\nEach guided trip centers on architectural interpretation, historical context, and visual access to the bluff-side setting. The Faubus House’s recognition on the National Register of Historic Places and its authorship by Fay Jones provide clear credentials for these structured tours. For visitors seeking an informed architectural visit to a National Register landmark in Fayetteville, the E Fay Jones Conservancy provides defined tour options that highlight the Faubus House’s design, history, and scenic context. Tours emphasize the house completed in 1967, offering garden observation, architectural interpretation, and accessible viewing points of the bluff and catwalk and evening lighting.

Base locationHuntsville, Arkansas

Tours offered3+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

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