Step back in time and experience Arizona’s pioneer era at the Pioneer Living History Museum, a unique outdoor museum located in north Phoenix. This immersive destination offers families and history enthusiasts an engaging glimpse into life in Arizona from the 1850s to the early 1900s. During a recent Saturday visit, we explored the museum’s fascinating village, its collection of historical buildings, and the intriguing Telephone History Museum, making it a memorable outing for all ages.
What Makes a Living History Museum Special?
The true essence of the Pioneer Living History Museum lies in its “living” nature. Unlike traditional museums with static displays, this outdoor museum brings history to life through its meticulously reconstructed buildings and interactive exhibits. Featuring nearly thirty buildings dating from the mid-19th to early 20th centuries, the museum offers a tangible connection to the past. Wandering through the village, you’ll encounter structures like a sheriff’s office, a schoolhouse, and even a teacherage, each telling a story of pioneer life in Arizona.
Step back in time at the Pioneer Living History Museum, where historical buildings and exhibits bring Arizona's pioneer days to life.
One of the most interesting discoveries during our visit was the concept of a teacherage. We learned that these small, private houses were a rare and valued amenity for teachers in the 1800s. Without a teacherage, teachers would often have to board with local families, highlighting the relative luxury and independence these dedicated educators experienced when provided with their own living space. Another engaging exhibit, particularly for curious visitors, is the sheriff’s office. Peeking through the door reveals a playful surprise – life-sized figures of “prisoners” within the jail cells, adding an element of fun and intrigue. For families with older children studying Arizona history, a must-see is the original cabin of Henry F. Ashurst, Arizona’s first Senator, offering a direct link to the state’s early political landscape.
A Family-Friendly Museum Experience
The Pioneer Living History Museum is exceptionally well-suited for families with young children, offering a unique and engaging learning environment. The outdoor setting provides ample space for kids to explore and move around, a welcome contrast to the often hushed atmosphere of indoor museums. Children are free to be more vocal and inquisitive, fostering a more relaxed and interactive museum visit. The museum’s grounds are designed for accessibility, with well-maintained, wide sidewalks easily accommodating strollers, including double strollers. Ramps are also thoughtfully integrated into buildings with steps, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
To further enhance the family experience, the museum often features special attractions. During our visit, preparations were underway for gold panning and a hay maze, promising additional entertainment for children. Two spacious green areas provide ideal spots for picnics, with picnic tables and large shade trees creating comfortable rest areas. Seating is conveniently located throughout the museum grounds, near almost every exhibit, ensuring frequent opportunities to rest and relax. Notably, even the area around the Ashurst cabin offered seating. Safety is also well-considered, with potentially hazardous or delicate items within exhibits safely gated off from visitor pathways, allowing children to observe without touching.
While the museum excels in many family-friendly aspects, we did note the absence of diaper changing stations in the restrooms. The women’s restroom was clean and spacious, with enough room to maneuver a stroller if needed. Parents of toddlers should also be mindful of certain objects along the pathways that might require supervision to prevent children from climbing or interacting with them inappropriately.
Plan Your Visit to the Pioneer Living History Museum
To maximize your experience, it’s recommended to check the museum’s event calendar on their website. Timing your visit with one of their special events, such as the AZ Fast Draw or Rebels & Redcoats events, can add an extra layer of excitement and engagement. The calendar also indicates dates when school groups are scheduled for field trips, allowing you to plan your visit for a potentially less crowded day if preferred.
Currently, the museum operates on school year hours until May 31st. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From Wednesday through Sunday, the museum is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is reasonably priced at $10 for adults. Children aged 5 to 17, senior citizens, and veterans are admitted for $8, and children under 5 years old enjoy free entry.
For an enriching and enjoyable family outing that combines fun with Arizona history, a visit to the Pioneer Living History Museum is highly recommended.
Pioneer Living History Museum
3901 W. Pioneer Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85086
623-465-1052
[email protected]
Pioneer Living History Museum Website
