Nestled in the northern part of Phoenix, the Az Pioneer Living History Museum offers an immersive journey into Arizona’s pioneering past. As an outdoor living history museum, it vividly recreates the daily life of Arizona pioneers. My recent Saturday visit with my mom was a delightful experience, as we explored the village, its diverse buildings, and the fascinating Telephone History Museum, a newer addition to the site.
Pioneer Living History Museum buildings
What truly sets this museum apart is the “living” aspect. With nearly thirty meticulously reconstructed buildings dating from the 1850s to the turn of the 20th century, history comes alive in a tangible way. Walking through the grounds, you’re transported back to a different era, exploring buildings like an authentic sheriff’s office, a one-room schoolhouse, and even a rare teacherage.
During our exploration, the concept of a teacherage intrigued us. We learned these small, private houses were a coveted luxury for 19th-century teachers. Without a teacherage, educators typically boarded with local families, highlighting the significance of these private dwellings. At the sheriff’s office, a playful, slightly spooky surprise awaits those who peek inside – life-sized figures of “prisoners” within the jail cells, adding an unexpected element of fun, especially for children. For families with older children studying Arizona history, a must-see exhibit is the original cabin of Henry F. Ashurst, Arizona’s first Senator, offering a direct connection to the state’s political origins.
The AZ Pioneer Living History Museum is exceptionally well-suited for families with young children. It provides a unique and engaging learning environment, quite different from traditional museums. The outdoor setting encourages exploration and allows children a degree of freedom to move and express themselves more freely. The museum grounds are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring well-maintained, wide sidewalks easily navigable with strollers, including double strollers. Ramps are also thoughtfully incorporated to provide access to buildings with step entrances, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.
To enhance the visitor experience, especially for younger audiences, the museum often features interactive attractions. On our visit, preparations were underway for gold panning and a hay maze, promising additional entertainment for children. The grounds also include two spacious green areas, one equipped with picnic tables and mature trees offering ample shade. These picnic spots are ideal for enjoying a family lunch amidst the historical ambiance. Rest areas are conveniently located near almost every exhibit, with seating readily available, with the possible exception of the Ashurst cabin area, making it easy for visitors to take breaks. Safety is also well-considered; potentially hazardous or fragile items within exhibits are thoughtfully cordoned off, allowing children to observe safely without touching.
Despite the museum’s family-friendly amenities, we noted the absence of diaper changing stations in either restroom. However, the women’s restroom was spacious and clean, comfortably accommodating a stroller if needed. Parents of toddlers should also be mindful of certain objects along the pathways that may require supervision to ensure children’s safety.
To maximize your visit to the AZ Pioneer Living History Museum, it’s highly recommended to consult their website calendar. Timing your visit with one of their scheduled events, such as AZ Fast Draw competitions or Rebels & Redcoats reenactments, can significantly enrich the experience. The calendar also helpfully indicates dates when school groups are expected for field trips, allowing you to plan your visit for a potentially quieter day if preferred.
Currently, operating on school year hours until May 31st, the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From Wednesday through Sunday, it welcomes visitors from 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is reasonably priced at $10 for adults. Children aged 5 to 17, senior citizens, and veterans enjoy a discounted rate of $8, and children under 5 years of age are admitted free of charge.
For an engaging, educational, and family-friendly outing in Phoenix, a visit to the AZ Pioneer Living History Museum is highly recommended. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Arizona’s vibrant pioneer history.
Pioneer Living History Museum
3901 W. Pioneer Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85086
623-465-1052
[email protected]
