Go back to a simpler time for your Tucson visit with a stay in an authentic bunkhouse. This quaint vacation home has all the western charm of mid-century Tucson, but has been updated for the comfort of today’s modern traveler. Only recently made available for short-term guests, The Bunkhouse was home to real cowboys who worked the 75 acre ranch estate of playwright Clifford Goldsmith. Goldsmith’s work includes Broadway, Hollywood and television, but he is best known for “The Aldrich Family” radio show.

This unique and historic compound was built in 1947 by noted architect Arthur T. Brown and has been called home at one time or another by some interesting people. Other past residents include: Rudy Fick, the Kansas City auto dealer mentioned in the FBI’s 1950 memo regarding the alleged crash of flying saucers in New Mexico, Newspaper publisher Carl Winter, Oscar-winning actor Lee Marvin, and movie producer Larry G. Spangler.

Like other ranches 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 The Bunkhouse, a main house (occupied by a nonprofit foundation) and two other guest homes (see VRBO listings for The Tennis House at #767200 and The Ranch House at #4325448). The property entrance is off the main road, but all buildings are set back over 600-800 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 Casas Adobes Plaza, the Foothills Mall, Tohono Chul Park and NW Medical Center.

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.

The Bunkhouse itself is a free-standing building of approx. 850 sq ft. with a/c, wi-fi, basic cable, full kitchen & bath, wood-beamed ceilings, tile floors, and generous closet, drawer & cupboard space. The bedroom has a king-size, gel-infused memory foam bed, TV, writing desk, and sitting area with a leather recliner. The living room has a leather sofa and chair, fireplace and armoire with TV and DVD player. The kitchen is equipped with a range, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster, washer/dryer, and granite counters with seating for 4. The backyard is private and fenced with a covered patio (converted from the original horse stalls) with seating for 4 and a Weber grill (charcoal). There is also covered parking in an attached carport. Your stay in The Bunkhouse also includes: all linens & towels, dishes, cookware & utensils, cutlery, silverware & glassware, iron & ironing board, and a variety of books and DVDs for your use (many with local or western interest).

The Bunkhouse is ideal for short or long-term stays for two persons interested in Tucson's history and looking for a unique, high-quality travel accommodation. We love this place and think you will, too! So, come kick off your boots and stay awhile! Please feel free to contact us with any questions.