Edith Farnsworth House — Attraction in Little Rock Township

Our family’s visit to the Edith Farnsworth House was nothing short of magical. Tucked away in a peaceful, pastoral setting in Plano, Illinois, this architectural gem is more than just a home—it’s an immersive experience in beauty, serenity, and history.

From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the natural tranquility of the grounds. The lush landscape, the slow-moving Fox River, and the quiet rustling of the trees created an immediate sense of calm and reflection. It's one of those rare places where the outside world seems to fall away, and you find yourself entirely in the moment.

The staff deserves special recognition. Every person we encountered was warm, knowledgeable, and passionate about the legacy of the home and its fascinating story. They treated our family like guests rather than just visitors, making sure we felt welcome and informed at every step. Our guide in particular was outstanding—deeply insightful and engaging, weaving together the architectural, historical, and personal aspects of the house in a way that brought it all vividly to life.

Of course, the house itself is stunning. Designed by Mies van der Rohe and completed in 1951, the Farnsworth House is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Its glass walls and clean lines feel both timeless and profoundly peaceful. Standing inside, surrounded by light and nature, you can understand exactly why Dr. Edith Farnsworth fell in love with this vision of living simply and beautifully.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a thoughtful and relaxing family outing, the Edith Farnsworth House offers an unforgettable experience. It's a place that invites you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate the art of design and the serenity of stillness.

We left feeling deeply inspired and incredibly grateful for such a meaningful day together. Five stars is not enough. We will absolutely return—and we highly recommend visiting during the changing seasons to witness the landscape's...

I will start this review off by saying what a great time we had after leaving the gift shop. The lady who did our tour was a wealth of information and seeing Dr. Farnsworth house was a very interesting experience. We recommend.

The other half of my review is about the older man working at the gift shop who checks in the customers. My husband and I drove 45 minutes to get here. I walk in the door and went to find the bathroom. He rudely asked me where I was going. (Mind you other people are walking out of the bathroom area) I told him I was looking for the bathroom before my tour. He said “I will allow you to go but you have to check in after”. When I came out of the bathroom my husband already checked us in. While I was in the bathroom he asked my husband (who he didn’t know was with me since he came in separately) if he was “with the young lady who walked in here at a high rate of speed to use the bathroom”. (I am just by nature a quick walker). My husband confirmed and asked why it mattered. He then proceeded to ask my husband if HE needed to use the bathroom over and over again, in a condescending tone. My husband had to ask him to stop. First of all this is flat out unprofessional. He was acting like a child in front of everyone standing there waiting for their tour. It was highly embarrassing. We did nothing wrong. I don’t know what he has against young people who walk quickly to use the bathroom after driving 45 min, but we hope he is reprimanded for his completely unwarranted rudeness and...

Farnsworth House: A Timeless Marvel of Architectural Beauty

Nestled along the serene banks of the Fox River in Plano, Illinois, the Farnsworth House stands as a testament to the genius of architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Completed in 1951, this modernist masterpiece embodies the principles of minimalism and the seamless integration of nature and architecture.

The Farnsworth House is celebrated for its elegant simplicity and transparency. Its glass walls dissolve the boundaries between interior and exterior, inviting the surrounding landscape into the living space. The structure’s elevated design creates a sense of lightness, as it appears to float above the ground, harmonizing with the rhythm of the natural world.

Mies van der Rohe’s philosophy of "less is more" resonates profoundly within the house’s design. Every element, from the open floor plan to the meticulous detailing, reflects a deep respect for materials and form. The use of steel and glass not only showcases modern construction techniques but also highlights the beauty of the natural light that dances through the space.

Visiting the Farnsworth House is an experience that transcends time. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of architectural beauty, inspiring countless architects and admirers alike. The fusion of simplicity and sophistication in this iconic work ensures its place in the pantheon of architectural greatness, a serene sanctuary that continues to captivate the imagination.

Hans Maréchal | M+R interior...