Established in 1972, the Tempe History Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of Tempe, Arizona. Housed in a former library building, the museum offers permanent and changing exhibits that explore Tempe's journey from its early days to the present. The museum's collections highlight Tempe's diverse heritage, including its agricultural roots, industrial development, and cultural contributions. Educational programs further enrich the visitor experience. The Tempe History Museum also oversees the Petersen House Museum, a Queen Anne Victorian house that offers a glimpse into Tempe's daily life around the turn of the 20th century.
Website: facebook.com
Phone: (480) 350-5100
Open now
- Wed 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
809 E Southern Ave Tempe, AZ 85282 ·1851.55 mi
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Amenities
- Accessible
- Family friendly
Reviews
tripadvisor
The temporary exhibit on skateboarding was awesome. I never realized how empty swimming pools helped make Tempe a great place for skate boarding.
MoreVery interesting exhibits and especially impressed with the actions Tempe has taken related to obtaining and conserving water. It’s also free to visit!
MoreOn our semi-annual trip to Phoenix to visit family we were looking for an activity to share when my son suggested the Tempe History Museum. He downplayed it a bit, but said it was a place to take up time. Well, he was WRONG! It is quite nice. There are displays narrating Tempe's near and historic past with numerous artifacts. The Museum is housed in an complex with the Library and other civic buildings. We were especially pleased at the candor of the displays regarding water uses and problems and past racism. It was refreshing to read about as well as to understand what the city is trying to do about both. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time. And learned lots about Tempe.
MoreIt's nice that the city of Tempe has set up this museum on the history of the city. In the bigger scope of things, the historical origins are quite ordinary and humble. What has happened in the past 50 years is far more impressive. If you happen to be near the library and want you or your children to have some appreciation of the history of Tempe, a brief visit may be worthwhile.
MoreCheck out the museum and the calendar of events, free local music during the season, exhibits change, learn/experience Tempe history, learn about its roots in music, learn about the indigenous people before it was Tempe.
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