Join me for a tour of unique historical buildings and architecture in Florence, Arizona!
Small towns scattered across Arizona often hold some of the state’s most fascinating architecture and a true window into the past. Florence, Arizona, is no exception. Just a quiet drive south of Phoenix, Florence welcomes visitors with its sleepy charm, historic Main Street, and friendly locals. The town’s preserved buildings showcase architectural styles that reflect Arizona’s territorial days, making it an ideal stop for anyone interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying an afternoon stroll through time. Florence is one of my favorite spots for an easy day trip!
Florence, Arizona also offers an Annual Historic Home Tour which takes place every February.
Historic Pinal County Courthouse, Florence, Arizona
Technically, this is the second Pinal County Courthouse. The original still stands a few blocks away in McFarland State Historic Park, where self-guided tours are available daily. Designed by James M. Creighton and completed in 1891, the new courthouse spanned 15,000 square feet and reflected Florence’s ambitions for future growth. That growth never fully materialized, as nearby mining towns declined, leaving the courthouse more grand than the community could sustain. The clock tower still stands without its clock, a reminder that funds ran out before it could be installed. Even so, the Historic Pinal County Courthouse remains one of Arizona’s most magnificent examples of Late Victorian Revival architecture.
Historic Private Residences in Florence, Arizona
Walking through Florence, it’s impossible not to notice the private residences that still stand- some lovingly preserved, others quietly fading with time. Many are built of brick and adobe, materials that have proven remarkably durable even against Arizona’s extreme desert climate. These homes tell stories of the families who once lived here and serve as a reminder of how the past is never too far away in small-town Arizona.
Historic Main Street in Florence, Arizona
Florence’s historic Main Street is one of the best-preserved in Arizona, where 19th-century architecture blends seamlessly with 21st-century life. Today, many of the buildings house restaurants, shops, and local businesses, making it both a heritage site and a thriving community hub. With its walkable layout and welcoming atmosphere, Main Street is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring history while enjoying modern small-town charm.
Florence Reminder & Blade-Tribune Building, Florence, Arizona
The Florence Reminder & Blade-Tribune has been a part of Florence since 1892, and its offices are housed in a restored historic building on Main Street.
Florence, Arizona may be a small town, but its historic buildings tell a story much larger than its size. From the grand courthouse to the quiet adobe homes, every corner reflects resilience, craftsmanship, and the charm of a community rooted in the past yet alive in the present. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon stroll, Florence offers a glimpse into Arizona’s heritage that’s well worth the visit.
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