Explore the iconic Edith Farnsworth House by night on the magical Moonlight & Mies Tours. Enjoy an intimate, guided stroll under the stars with stunning architecture as your backdrop.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking on flat, lighted trails.
Wildlife
History
The Farnsworth House, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, is a pivotal example of modernist architecture, completed in 1951 on property by the Fox River.
Conservation
Efforts are made to preserve both the historic structure and its natural surroundings, encouraging sustainable visitation with minimal environmental impact.
Farnsworth House
Explore the iconic Edith Farnsworth House by night on the magical Moonlight & Mies Tours. Enjoy an intimate, guided stroll under the stars with stunning architecture as your backdrop.
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 a flashlight
Even though the path is lighted, a personal flashlight helps navigate darker areas safely.
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves walking on trails, so opt for comfortable, sturdy footwear.
Arrive early to park
Limited parking spots are available; arriving early ensures you get a convenient spot.
Dress for the evening temperature
Temperatures can drop after sunset; layering helps keep you comfortable throughout the tour.
Flashlight or headlamp
Provides additional lighting for navigation during the moonlight tour.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protects your feet and ensures easy walking on the paths.
Layered clothing
Helps adjust to temperature changes as the evening cools down.
fall
Bug spray
Helpful to deter mosquitoes and other insects on warm summer evenings.
summer