Phoenix Union High School

Phoenix Union High School, founded in 1895, stands as a monumental landmark in downtown Phoenix, deeply intertwined with the city's growth and development. For many years, it held the distinction of being the oldest secondary school west of the Mississippi River, fostering generations of Arizonans. Although the high school itself closed in 1982, its magnificent campus, an 18-acre historic district, continues to thrive through adaptive reuse, primarily housing the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix and other biomedical facilities.

The campus is a living museum of early 20th-century architecture, showcasing a rich blend of styles including Neoclassical, Beaux Arts Classicism, Italian Second Renaissance, and Spanish Colonial Revival. Notable structures like the Domestic Arts and Science Building, the Science Hall, the Liberal Arts Building, and the iconic Auditorium, with its faithfully rebuilt facade, invite visitors to step back in time. The campus also features the unique 1941 Gymnasium, known for its rare lamella wooden roof, and the impressive Emery W. Montgomery Stadium, a Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece.

Visiting the former Phoenix Union High School campus offers a unique opportunity to appreciate its architectural grandeur and historical significance. It's a testament to Phoenix's educational heritage and urban development, providing a serene environment for exploring intricate building designs and imagining the vibrant student life that once filled its halls. Its continued preservation and integration into the Phoenix Biomedical Campus underscore its enduring value as both an architectural gem and a symbol of community legacy. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.