gunnison pioneer museum

As the title says, we visited this pioneer museum primarily to kill a little time while waiting for a scheduled visit to another attraction, but were so impressed with this eclectic museum focusing on the history of Gunnison that we returned the next day and spent most of a morning here. This is not a one-building museum but an entire, large complex that includes, for example, a couple of entire 19th century schoolhouses that were transplanted here, an entire steam train, and exhibits galore of clothing, implements, smaller buildings, and other artifacts from the history of the region.

After years of driving by the Pioneer Museum we finally stopped in and were pleasantly surprised. The eager volunteers gave us a great overview of the museum's collection and then we were off wandering throughout the property for at least an hour. Be sure to visit the schoolhouse and car barn (two buildings in one).

Took the kids here one day while staying in Gunnison. LOTS to see! There are many different buildings full of various historical items. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The best part is that if you can't get through the museum in one day, you can come back again another day to finish up. All on your one admission price! We stopped at the coffee shop and went on to the museum. They allowed us to enjoy our coffee and the museum all at the same time. Can't beat that!

We are a family of 4, with 2 children under 10. I have to honestly say, there was not a dull moment. There entire family loved the 3 hours we spent there. Not a whole lot of museums can hold a childs attention, for 3 hours. From the train, to the automobiles, to the war artifacts, there is not a dull moment. Highly recommend for an early morning or late afternoon activity during the summer...kinda hot in the middle of the day.

Great "pioneer" focused museum. Many machines; agricultural, railroad, mining, and an 80 vehicle antique car display.

Many, many artifacts and a great little authentic village with an actual train. The car museum is a must-many, many cars are displayed.

My husband has been to Gunnison multiple times for vacation over the years and this year, we finally checked out the museum. There is a LOT to see on this 6 or 7 acre site! We didn't get through all of it (had a toddler who needed a nap) but what we did see was impressive. There's all sorts of things though the favorites were definitely the train and the antique cars. Inexpensive too. They also offered us the option of a golf cart for traveling the property but we walked.

We have visited museum after museum--big ones, little ones. The Gunnison Pioneer Museum is by far the most comprehensive, extensive, inventive museum we have seen in eons. It's a "must"...and has something for visitors of all ages. Do not assume this is just about the Gunnison area, but covers American history generically, boasting memorabilia that collectors would love to own. Plan to spend hours...or as long as your attention span will allow. And you can get a pass to return if you need a respite. Enjoy!

Amazing--plan for an entire day--GREAT!!! Has entire building full of older vehicles too!!! Can leave for lunch and return!!!!

By far one of the best museums I have ever visited. They have everything you could think of! They have a wide range of buildings, including two school houses, and an actual two story house full of antiques and very open exhibits. In fact, everything is an open exhibit. When you're looking in the main building you're already thinking you've seen a lot of stuff, but until you walk outside you realize there is so much more! They have a huge collection of antique cars where my father spent most of his time, and they even have a large collection of military items, and old wagons. It would take me a while to list the wide array of things they have because they really have it all. I suggest this to any family who is willing to spend a few hours in a museum. I even went off on my own to read books at one exhibit. Very fun place.

After 13 hours of driving from Oklahoma, we stopped on a whim to stretch our legs. So glad we did! They have done a great job with this museum. The grounds and displays were very well maintained and made for a perfect family stop. They had a wide variety of artifacts that were interesting to mom, dad, and kiddos. I was very impressed. After 8 days of vacationing in the area, it was still the favorite museum of the trip! If you have kiddos be sure to let them ring the bell in the train! Enjoy!

The first time our family was in Gunnison, we drove right past this museum. Thank goodness for second chances! We were at Blue Mesa camping this week and had some time to go into Gunnison. After picking up the brochure for the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, we decided to give it a try, and we were so thrilled we did. This is one of the best historical museums we have ever been to. There are so many historical buildings on this site, and each one is loaded with artifacts; it would be difficult to choose a favorite. Be prepared to spend some time here. We thought that we would be there for an hour tops but easily spent three hours. When you leave this place, you will be so appreciative of the history of this beautiful city. *They also have an elevator in the main house and golf carts available for people who have difficulty walking great distances. I thought this was a considerate touch.

We spent about 4 hours there but I am sure you can spend even more time. We didn't go through everything but they offered for us to go get lunch and then come back to finish. Worth the small fee to see.

This is a must-see if you're visiting Gunnison! You'll understand the history of the Valley after seeing these amazing artifacts and antiques.

My family and I were on a lengthy road trip and had chosen Gunnison to spend the night. We noticed this museum on the way into town and decided to visit before hitting the road again. I am so glad we did! I cannot express how impressed we were with this collection of artifacts spanning from farming implements to telephones. I was blown away by the condition of clothing that was over 100 years old. One of the volunteers that works there told me that they can't afford to professionally preserve the items which is heartbreaking but to see these artifacts the way they are is like running across an old trunk belonging to your ancestors filled with untouched items. I was most impressed with the military collection and the Gray house. It is so nice to not only see all of these wonderful items but to be among them and not separated by glass or ropes. It is obvious that the families in and around this area treasure their town and museum because the quantity and quality of items loaned or given to this museum are truly amazing. I spent two hours here, which honestly skims the surface. Unfortunately I had to get back on the road or I easily could have spent the better part of the day viewing the exhibits. This museum is a hidden gem and way more than I ever expected.