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Petersen House Museum: A Glimpse into Tempe's Past

Discover Tempe's heritage at the Petersen House Museum, a beautifully preserved Victorian home showcasing the city's rich history and culture.

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The Petersen House Museum, nestled in Tempe's Peterson Park, offers a captivating look into the city's history. This beautifully preserved Queen Anne Victorian home, built in 1892, was once owned by Danish immigrant Niels Petersen, a key figure in Tempe's development. Today, it stands as a museum showcasing Tempe's early lifestyles and the Petersen family's contributions.

A brief summary to Petersen House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the Tempe History Museum's website or call ahead for tour schedules and special events at the Petersen House Museum.
  • Explore Petersen Park, which surrounds the museum, featuring a playground and picnic areas.
  • Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Mill Avenue and Southern Avenue, head east on Southern Avenue for approximately 1.5 miles. The Petersen House Museum will be on your left at 1414 W Southern Ave. There is no fee for access to the museum grounds.

  • Public Transport

    Take Valley Metro Bus Route 72, which runs along Southern Avenue. Disembark at the stop near Rural Road, and walk approximately 5 minutes west on Southern Avenue to reach the Petersen House Museum at 1414 W Southern Ave. A single bus ride costs $2.

  • Driving

    From any location in Maricopa County, navigate to Southern Avenue and proceed to 1414 W Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282. Parking is available on-site and is free of charge. Note that parking may be limited, especially during events.

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Discover more about Petersen House Museum

Step back in time at the Petersen House Museum, a beautifully preserved Queen Anne-style Victorian home built in 1892. This iconic house, once the residence of Danish immigrant Niels Petersen, offers a unique glimpse into Tempe's transformation from a rural community to a vibrant city. Petersen, a prominent farmer, businessman, and civic leader, played a significant role in Tempe's early development. The Petersen House Museum features exhibits that showcase the lifestyles of Tempe's residents during the territorial and depression eras. The interior is adorned with period furnishings, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the Petersen family and their contributions to the community. Visitors can explore different rooms representing different time periods, including the Victorian era and the 1930s. The museum also highlights the history of Tempe and the surrounding area, including displays on the Hohokam people and the city's growth. The "Senator's Office" exhibit is dedicated to James E. Petersen, Niels' son, and his contributions to Arizona as a state senator. The Petersen House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a reminder of Tempe's past and the people who shaped its future.

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