Pioneer Living History Museum

Activity Overview

The Pioneer Living History Museum is an open-air history museum in Phoenix, Arizona. Its primary attraction is a small town that teaches visitors of all ages about the 1800s by immersing them in an environment filled with authentic buildings and reproductions of historic sites from the era.

Traveling back in time is fun for the whole family at the Pioneer Living History Museum as you explore the bakery, bandstand, dress shop, opera house, stone corral, schoolhouse, and many other 1800s-themed sites!

Things to Do

• Explore the Flying V Cabin, which was built around 1880. Go inside to learn all about its history, including its involvement in a bloody decade-long feud between the Tewksbury and Graham families, while you examine its unique rifle ports.
• Visit the Opera House, which was built in the 1880s with a capacity of 200 people. Its stage was used for popular theatrical melodramas as well as by famous actress Lily Langtry, known as the "Jersey Lily".
• Check out the Teacherage, a small cabin originally built by the community of Pleasant Valley as a home for their teacher. While these buildings were commonplace throughout the country by 1910, this one is significant since it was built at least two decades earlier.

Pioneer Living History Museum Insider Tips

• The Pioneer Living History Museum is a great attraction for families and school groups because it helps children learn about the Old West in an immersive historical experience. Read some of the museum's study units or print out some of their fun learning activities before you go to make the most of your visit!
• Check the official website to find out about upcoming events such as the Rebels & Redcoats Experience, which focuses on the Revolutionary War era through guided tours, battle reenactments, and demonstrations.
• Save some money by bringing along your own packed lunch - you can enjoy it while sitting in the shade in the old town square.