Pueblo Grande - Phoenix, AZ - Archaeological park and museum

The Pueblo Grande museum is not only a place to learn about the prehistoric history of the area, but it's also a National Historic Landmark in its own right being on the site of a 1,500 year old Hohokam ruin.

The museum site covers some 102 acres and is completely City-owned and operated. The site is of a Hohokam village ruin showcasing, among other things, a platform mound, aqueducts and remnants of their technologically advanced canal irrigation system. The museum is dedicated to preserving the site and the history that goes along with it, and aims to educate and inform the public of all aspects of Native American history and culture.

As well as ruins the site is also home to a number of replica buildings that visitors can walk through, giving them a real sense of what it was like to live during those times. There are numerous exhibits showcasing not only the Hohokam's advanced technological skill but also their creative endeavors, being a particularly artistic and creative people. There are examples of actual jewelry, pottery and textiles that were created during their time, all beautifully preserved and giving a unique insight into their lives.

The park is home to three galleries showcasing numerous exhibits and objects found in the ruins, a theater with a video offering an added glimpse into history, and an outdoor trail which takes visitors through the ruins themselves. There's also a museum shop which not only stocks souvenirs of the museum itself but also unique gift ideas including artwork, jewelry and pottery.

The museum runs a number of educational programs throughout the year, all with the aim of teaching people about the history of the Hohokam people (and other cultures of the Southwest) and to show the importance of archaeological study and how it helps to enhance our knowledge of the past. With options including workshops, lectures and even a simulated archaeological dig for children, there'll be something to appeal to anyone of any age who wants a better understanding of the history of the area. There are also various tours that can be booked in advance, both on-site and off.

The museum is open year-round, from Monday to Saturday 9am until 4:45pm and on Sundays from 1pm to 4:45pm, although it's closed Sundays and Mondays from May until September. Admission rates are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for children aged between 6 and 17 and free for children 5 and under. Group tours are always accommodated, usually with discounted rates, and parking is free as well with numerous spaces making it as convenient as possible.

The Pueblo Grande museum is a great place to go to learn about the history of Native American culture from the site of an actual ruin. With knowledgeable staff, unique exhibits and fantastic tours, all in an inspiring location, visitors are sure to learn something new during their time there.