Make your Tucson visit memorable with a stay in a very unique travel accommodation that only recently became available for vacationers. The Ranch House is one of three guest homes situated on the former estate of playwright Clifford Goldsmith in the historic Casas Adobes area of Tucson. Goldsmith’s work includes Broadway, Hollywood and television, but he is best known for “The Aldrich Family” radio show. Built by noted architect Arthur T. Brown in 1947, this private estate was once called home by some other interesting people. Past residents include: Oscar-winning actor Lee Marvin, movie producer Larry G. Spangler, Kansas City Ford Executive Rudy Fick (the auto dealer mentioned in the FBI’s notorious 1950 UFO memo) and newspaper publisher Carl Winter.

Like other ranches and citrus groves in the historic Casas Adobes area, development gobbled up most of the surrounding land over the years and what remains today is a tranquil 8 acre knoll covered with natural desert vegetation and abundant wildlife. The entire property, which you are welcome to roam, consists of this guest house, a main house (occupied by a nonprofit foundation) and two other guest homes. (Please see VRBO #725631 for the one-bedroom Bunkhouse and VRBO# 767200 for the two-bedroom Tennis House.)

The property entrance is off the main road, but all buildings are set back over 600-1000 feet and hidden from view. It feels amazingly peaceful and secluded here, but in reality you’ll only be about a mile or so from major shopping, dining and travel destinations, such as historic Casas Adobes Plaza, the Foothills Mall, Tohono Chul Park and NW Medical Center.

Private resort-style amenities on the grounds are exclusively for the use of our guests and include a tennis court, two pickleball courts, basketball, shuffleboard and a huge swimming pool (unheated) with views of the Catalina Mountains and city lights of the foothills and downtown Tucson. Sunset vistas over the Tucson Mountains are equally spectacular from here. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby hiking, golfing, horseback riding, and a network of paved bike routes throughout the area that can be accessed right from the end of our driveway!

The Ranch House is named for its romantic, western charm. It has an open, interior floor plan of approximately 950 square feet with a living room area with TV, sleeping area with a king-sized, gel-infused memory foam bed, dining area that comfortably seats four, kitchen with a breakfast counter and washer/dryer, bathroom with a walk-in shower, and ample closet space. Almost barn-like in openness, the Ranch House has a vaulted ceiling with wood beams, two rustic ceiling fans, acid-etched concrete floors, and windows that offer a variety of beautiful views, including the surrounding desert landscape, courtyard fountain and Catalina Mountains. There is also a private patio off of the bedroom area with amazing desert and mountain views! It is very common to see (safely) coyotes, bobcats and javelina parade past your windows as this guest house is near a natural riparian habitat and wildlife corridor.

The Ranch House is beautifully decorated and appointed with all you need for either a short or long-term stay, including a/c, WiFi, basic cable, all linens & towels, dishes, cookware & utensils, cutlery, silverware & glassware, iron & ironing board, and a variety of board games, books and DVDs for your use (many with local or western interest).

The Ranch House is ideal for up to two persons interested in Tucson's history and looking for a unique, high-quality, secluded travel accommodation. We love this place and think you will, too! Please feel free to contact us with any questions.