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Petersen House Museum: A Victorian Gem in Tempe

Discover Tempe's history at the Petersen House Museum, a beautifully preserved Queen Anne Victorian home and a window to the past.

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The Petersen House Museum, built in 1892, is the oldest Queen Anne Victorian brick residence in the Salt River Valley. Once a rural ranch house, it now stands in the heart of Tempe, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

A brief summary to Petersen House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the Tempe History Museum's website for the schedule of tours and events at the Petersen House Museum.
  • Carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited during events.
  • Explore the gardens for a peaceful retreat and photo opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Arizona State University campus, walk to the nearest Valley Metro Bus stop. Take Bus Route 72, heading east on Southern Avenue. Get off at the stop near Rural Road, a short 5-minute walk west to the Petersen House Museum at 1414 W Southern Ave. A single bus ride costs approximately $2.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Mill Avenue and Southern Avenue, head east on Southern Avenue. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles. The Petersen House Museum will be on your left at 1414 W Southern Ave.

  • Driving

    From anywhere in Maricopa County, get onto the nearest major road that connects to Southern Avenue. Follow Southern Avenue until you reach the intersection with Rural Road. The Petersen House Museum will be on your right, just before the intersection. Free parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Petersen House Museum

Step back in time at the Petersen House Museum, a beautifully preserved 1892 Queen Anne Victorian home. This iconic house, once the centerpiece of a bustling ranch, stands as a reminder of Tempe's transformation from a rural community to a vibrant city. Niels Petersen, a Danish immigrant, commissioned the house, which was considered one of the most elegant homes in the Salt River Valley at the time. The Petersen House is more than just a pretty building; it's a window into the lives of early Tempe residents. The Tempe History Museum manages the property and opens it several times a year for tours, events, and public programs. Visitors can explore the house and gardens, learning about the Petersen family and the history of the area. The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and received the Governor's Award for Historic Preservation in 1990. Note that the Petersen House Museum is not open for regular daily visits. Check the Tempe History Museum's website or social media for scheduled events and open houses.

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