Heritage Square in Phoenix is a dazzling historic block that can be found in the heart of the Downtown District. The highlight of the square is arguably the Victorian Rosson House, which was built in 1895. When visitors aren't enjoying tours of this impressive home, they can always stop by the old Baird Machine Shop and enjoy some brick oven pizza. Built in 1929, this former machine shop is now a gourmet pizzeria that serves up delicious food. One of the other historic homes doubles as an elegant wine bar, and anyone who fancies dolls and toys won't want to miss the museum at the Stevens House. In the evenings, it is often possible to catch some live jazz at the Bouvier-Teeter House.

Heritage Square in Phoenix offers a look at the city how it once was before the modern era set in. The various structures were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with one of the oldest buildings being the Rosson House. This impressive Victorian abode was one of the top homes in town back in the day, and the city has lovingly restored it since taking over ownership in 1974. Among the interior highlights are the elegant dining room and the stunning wooden staircase, not to mention the slew of period antiques. General tours of the Rosson House can be enjoyed for a fee Wednesday through Sunday, with Tuesdays being reserved for school tours. On Mondays, the house is closed.

After exploring the main house on the block, visitors to Heritage Square in Downtown Phoenix can wander over to the Hands-On Heritage House to enjoy some interactive exhibits. This old home is now a museum, and exhibit pieces include some old fashioned games and kitchen tools that are more than 100 years old. Over at the Stevens House, the Arizona Doll & Toy Museum awaits. Among other things, this museum features a room that has been designed to look like a one room school house from the turn of the century. The Stevens House also holds architectural interest, as do the bulk of the other structures that are found on this historic square in Downtown Phoenix. This former residence from 1901 has an especially interesting roof system. The whole roof is raised more than a foot above the home's attic level, allowing for increased air circulation.

Phoenix Map

Heritage Square in Phoenix is fun to explore, and the fact that it is home to a pizzeria and a wine bar means that it can be easy to linger longer than expected. Architectural enthusiasts and history buffs are especially encouraged to include this historic square in Downtown Phoenix on their itinerary, and they might want to keep some of the area's other landmark buildings in mind. These buildings include those that are found at Taliesin West and the elegant Wrigley Mansion.

As a side note, Heritage Square in Phoenix is part of the Heritage & Science Park. In addition to attractions such as the Rosson House and the Stevens House, visitors to this part of town can also enjoy the Arizona Science Center and the Phoenix History Museum.