Enjoy an evening of live jazz and delicious food at Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois. Bring your picnic gear and relax under the stars while soaking in summer vibes and world-class music.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels
Wildlife
History
Farnsworth House, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, is an iconic example of modernist architecture dating back to 1951.
Conservation
The Farnsworth House Preservation Trust actively maintains the site to protect its architectural integrity and surrounding natural habitat.
Farnsworth House
Enjoy an evening of live jazz and delicious food at Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois. Bring your picnic gear and relax under the stars while soaking in summer vibes and world-class music.
Farnsworth House is a historic modernist house in Plano, Illinois dedicated to architecture, art, and landscape interpretation. Operated as a conserved cultural site, Farnsworth House offers guided tours of the Edith Farnsworth House and self-guided access to 60 acres of grounds from March through November.
Visitors can join specialized experiences including watercolor workshops, canoe trips along the Fox River, moonlight tours, curator-led talks, live music evenings, and collaborative events with local partners. Programs at Farnsworth House combine architectural interpretation with seasonal exhibitions and community-focused events.
Expert guides provide 90-minute tours that explore Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's design, the property's preservation efforts, and the house's place in Mid-Century Modern history. Special events feature artist talks, exhibit openings, and joint tours with nearby cultural organizations and local distilleries. Farnsworth House engages recognized curators and artists to present rotating exhibitions that illuminate local and Native American art, including focused conversations on artists such as Truman Lowe.
Families, architecture enthusiasts, art students, and outdoor recreation visitors find value in combined offerings like canoe-and-tour days, the Trifecta House tour with additional private homes, and evening music and dining events. Farnsworth House's blend of education, conservation, and cultural programming positions it as a trusted destination for learning, photography, and reflective visits to a landmark of American modernism.
Seasonal ticketing and limited capacities ensure personalized, high-quality visitor experiences year-round.
Location
Plano, Illinois
On the banks of the Fox River
Tours Offered
11
Guided, self-guided, special events
Grounds
60 acres
Riverside walks, birding, photography
Exhibitions
Rotating
Curated shows and artist talks
Book guided tours, workshops, and special events in Plano, Illinois — limited seating available.
Bring Your Own Picnic Essentials
This event encourages guests to bring blankets, chairs, and food to enjoy a personalized picnic experience.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
To secure a comfortable spot close to the music, plan to arrive well before the performance begins.
Prepare for Evening Temperatures
Even summer nights can get cool outdoors, so bring a light jacket or blanket to stay comfortable.
Parking is Limited
Carpooling or arriving early is recommended as parking near Farnsworth House can fill quickly during events.
Picnic Blanket or Folding Chairs
Provides comfortable seating during the outdoor music event.
summer
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm as temperatures drop after sunset.
summer
Mosquito Repellent
Protects against insects during an evening spent outdoors.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying the event.