Top 19 Historical sites in Phoenix
Discover the rich history of Phoenix through its numerous historical sites. From the ancient Hohokam ruins at Pueblo Grande Museum to the stately Victorian homes of Heritage Square, these landmarks offer a glimpse into the past. Don't miss the Roosevelt Row District, where vibrant street art meets historic architecture. Historical sites in Phoenix are a must-visit for any history buff or culture enthusiast.
- 1. Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square
- 2. Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square
- 3. Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights
- 4. Governor Hunt Tomb
- 5. Duppa Homestead
- 6. Scorpion Gulch
- 7. Francis Quarles Story neighborhood
- 8. The Lost Ranch
- 9. Historic Ellis-Shackelford House
- 10. Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum
- 11. S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum)
- 12. Smurthwaite House
- 13. Norton House
- 14. The Circle of Life
- 15. Charles Pugh House - Historic 1897 Victorian
- 16. Historic Grand Avenue
- 17. Sunnyslope Historical Society
- 18. Historic Transportation Marker - Phoenix Street Railway
- 19. Willo Historic Neighborhood
1. Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square
Only fully restored Victorian house in Phoenix

The Rosson House Museum, built in 1895, is a must-visit historic landmark. Located near the Teeter House Tea Room and Pizzeria Bianco, the museum offers guided tours for under $5, making it an affordable and enjoyable activity. The museum's guided tours provide valuable insights into the lives of its past residents, making it a great educational experience.
Our guide was instrumental in making our visit to the Rosson House Museum memorable. They were approachable, eager, and knowledgeable, skillfully recreating the house's history and the lives of its inhabitants through engaging stories and anecdotes. Thanks to their efforts, we gained a clear understanding of what life was like for the family residing in the house 160 years ago.
2. Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square
A unique blend of history, science, and culture

Heritage Square is a unique city space in the Valley that hosts annual celebrations and festivals for various ethnic communities. It's a great place to relax on a Sunday afternoon and try delicious ethnic foods. The area also features the Phoenix Museum of History and Arizona Science Center, as well as historical homes within the square.
This tourist destination consists of shops, museums, and restaurants, and is the only remaining group of residential structures from Phoenix's original settlement. If you're interested in hosting an event at Heritage Square, be sure to visit their website at heritagesquarephx.org/rentals. In addition to events, visitors can enjoy learning about the history of Phoenix and take in the charming atmosphere of this historical square.
3. Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights
Only actively guided tour available

If you're interested in learning about the history of the Carraro Cactus Garden and Tovrea Castle, signing up for a tour through the City of Phoenix Parks and Rec Website is a great option. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to meet the master gardener responsible for restoring the cactus garden and even get a peek inside the castle. However, while the grounds and history are certainly worth seeing, some visitors may be disappointed to find that the interior of the castle is essentially an empty shell, despite being restored.
To truly appreciate Tovrea Castle, it's best to focus on the exterior and surrounding desert landscape. The castle's history and urban legends are certainly intriguing, and meeting the master gardener who is working to restore the cactus garden can provide valuable insight into the property's past and present. However, those expecting a fully furnished and decorated interior may be disappointed to find that the castle is largely empty, with only its striking architecture and beautiful desert setting to admire.
4. Governor Hunt Tomb
Well-preserved example of Spanish colonial architecture

The unusual burial monument of Arizona's first governor, George W.P. Hunt, is a striking white-tiled pyramid located in Papago Park. This pyramid is a noticeable contrast to the red desert landscape of the park and can be seen from various locations in the southwest part of the park. The tomb is situated on a hill that towers over the Phoenix Zoo, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the eastern part of the Valley of the Sun.
George W.P. Hunt served as Arizona's governor for three terms, between 1912 and 1933, and his final resting place is a testament to his significant contributions to the state. The pyramid-shaped tomb is easily accessible to visitors and offers a unique historical perspective of Arizona's early government. As the first governor of Arizona, Hunt played a crucial role in shaping the state's political landscape, and his tomb serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
5. Duppa Homestead

6. Scorpion Gulch
Scenic desert views and unique plant life

The subject property is an abandoned stone house located in a park with nearby trails and horseback riding opportunities. The building is in a state of disrepair, with cracked walls and a lack of doors, making it uninhabitable and cold. Despite the draw of the picturesque park, the house itself is not a significant attraction.
There have been numerous claims of ghost sightings and spooky experiences in and around the house, which has earned it a reputation as a "ghost town." The area surrounding the house, known as Scorpion Gulch, is a popular spot for visitors to explore. However, the house itself is not worth visiting on its own due to its dilapidated condition.
7. Francis Quarles Story neighborhood

8. The Lost Ranch

9. Historic Ellis-Shackelford House

10. Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum
Interactive exhibits, costumed performers

The museum is a historical gem, featuring numerous original buildings from the late 1800s. Visitors will feel as if they have stepped back in time upon entering this fascinating site. The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about Arizona's rich history through its well-preserved historical sites and buildings.
This wonderful museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the history of Arizona. The site's historical buildings have been expertly preserved, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of life in the region during the late 1800s. The museum's commitment to historical preservation and education makes it an informative and engaging destination.
11. S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum)
Only National Historic Landmark in Phoenix

Discover the ancient heart of Phoenix at the Pueblo Grande Museum, a 1,500-year-old archaeological site left by the Hohokam culture. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the platform mound, ballcourt, and centuries-old irrigation canals that are among the few remaining examples of the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People's exceptional architecture and engineering skills.
At Pueblo Grande Museum, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the Hohokam's advanced knowledge of agriculture and water management. The site's well-preserved irrigation canals, which were used to divert water from the Salt and Gila Rivers, provide evidence of the Hohokam's sophisticated engineering abilities. Additionally, the platform mound and ballcourt offer insights into the culture's social and ceremonial practices, showcasing their complex and interconnected society.
12. Smurthwaite House

13. Norton House

14. The Circle of Life

15. Charles Pugh House - Historic 1897 Victorian

16. Historic Grand Avenue
Combines historical architecture and modern arts

The Arizona Capitol Museum provides an informative and engaging exploration of the state's history. The museum's exhibits are carefully curated, offering visitors a wealth of knowledge about Arizona's past. Among the museum's offerings are exhibits showcasing the state's political history, as well as its cultural and historical diversity. Visitors can learn about the state's Native American heritage, its role in the Civil War, and the development of its mining and agricultural industries.
Nearby, Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for reflecting on Arizona's history. The plaza features numerous monuments and memorials honoring the state's veterans, heroes, and historical figures. Highlights include the Arizona Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Arizona Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Wesley Bolin Memorial Fountain. The plaza is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Arizona's rich history and the men and women who have contributed to its development.
17. Sunnyslope Historical Society

18. Historic Transportation Marker - Phoenix Street Railway

19. Willo Historic Neighborhood
