Top Tucson Culture

This walking tour covers the history of the land, people, and fort structures that played a huge part in the development of modern Tucson during the Apache Wars, America’s longest-running military conflict. This 2-hour leisurely walk is just under a mile. It will feature the adobe ruins of fort structures such as the Quartermasters Building, Officers’ Quarters, Post Barracks and the Fort Hospital. Admission to the museum is included with the tour. Be prepared to be on your feet. No public water or restrooms are available at the museum, but the park offers fountains and public restrooms (next to the parking lot, by the Craycroft entrance).

Get outside of Tucson and explore its surrounding areas with our Self-Guided Tucson Day Trips Driving Tour Bundle. Discover the unique culture and history of this dynamic destination at your own pace with our expertly crafted self-guided tours. This bundle includes two full-day tours: - Saguaro National Park - Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway From the scenic beauty of Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway to the historic landmarks of Saguaro National Park, this bundle offers an immersive journey through the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Each tour includes detailed driving directions, offline maps, fascinating stories as well as insights about the area's history, geology, and more. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

This is a walking tour of Tubac by a local which is located in Arizona’s Santa Cruz County. Tubac originally emerged as a village of the Tohono O’Odham and is the site of the oldest European settlement in what is now the state of Arizona, founded in 1752. The itinerary is divided into 4 themes, including background & interpretation of Tubac’s geography, historical and natural resources as well and contemporary life.

Recent years have seen an explosion of public art throughout Tucson. The Public Art & Murals Walking Tour, led by tour guide Dorothy Yanez, begins at the Presidio Museum and proceeds into the downtown area, stopping at numerous public art pieces and murals. At each stop you will learn about the artist and the artwork. Several new murals have been added to the tour route since Dorothy began giving these tours about a year ago. The tour is approximately 2 miles and includes stops south of Congress Street. Dorothy will be on a microphone for better hearing.

Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert like never before on our Self-Guided Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Tour! In the comfort of your own vehicle, we'll take you on a journey through the breathtaking scenery of the Catalina Mountains, providing stunning views of the desert landscape as you climb to the summit of Mt. Lemmon. Turn your phone into a personal guide on this self-guided tour that shares fascinating insights into the area's geology, ecology, and history, including the unique wildlife that calls this area home. You'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning vistas at multiple stops, taking in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, our Self-Guided Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Tour is a perfect choice. Book your tour today and discover the magic of this iconic Arizona destination! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

Journey through historic Tucson where 250 years of architecture reveal a dramatic story of cultural meeting points and adaptation. From 1775 Spanish fort foundations to intimate Sonoran mud-adobe row houses with central zaguán halls, explore how Hispanic and Indigenous building wisdom survived American territorial expansion and 1960s urban renewal. See grand Spanish Colonial Revival civic monuments, grassroots wishing shrines lit by candlelight, and historic Spanish-language theaters. Discover how earthen walls hold both intense desert heat and enduring human memory along the historic streets of Barrio Viejo. - A 1.9 km self-guided tour with 7 stops over 92 min - Ideal for travelers interested in Art, Design & Aesthetics and History & Memory - Immersively told in a podcast style by experts and locals - Matching audio content, AI guide and navigation through the app

Experience Arizona’s stunning natural beauty with this GPS-guided tour bundle. This bundle takes you through the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Instagram-famous Horseshoe Bend so you can get the most out of your time in this unique state. Take in glowing red rock vistas, hike along the Grand Canyon’s rim, and visit the canyon that tamed the mighty Colorado River. Plus, learn about the Native peoples of this state and the fascinating geologic history behind its formation! Recommended: purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Discover the unique heritage of Tucson as you explore centuries of history shaped by Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and American influences. Admire stunning architecture, uncover fascinating local legends, make a wish at a famous historic shrine, and stroll through a scenic park that played a role in the Mexican American War. Book now to experience the rich culture, history, and stories that make Tucson one of the Southwest's most captivating destinations.

Explore Tucson's rich heritage on a captivating tour that reveals the stories behind its fascinating history. As the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the U.S., Tucson offers unique culinary experiences intertwined with tales of gun fights, ghosts, and bank robbers. Discover the secrets of Spanish forts and admire stunning murals that breathe life into the city's past. This tour is perfect for history buffs, providing an insider's look at the cultural tapestry of Tucson. - Dive into Tucson's intriguing history with tales of gun fights and bank robbers - Experience the city's designation as America's first UNESCO City of Gastronomy - Admire the vibrant murals and a historic Spanish fort - Ideal for both history enthusiasts and guests seeking a cultural experience

Explore the unique blend of art, culture, and history painted through the murals of the historic 4th Avenue District. The tour wanders through alleyways adorned with striking murals that showcase the city’s diverse artistic influences, from traditional southwestern motifs to contemporary urban expressions. Along the way, learn about the talented local artists who have contributed to Tucson’s burgeoning mural scene, each piece telling a story that resonates with the community as we encounter hidden gems and lesser-known masterpieces that contribute to the unique character of Tucson’s streets.

Tucson’s Historic Downtown Walking Tour A 2 ½-mile loop through downtown that showcases Tucson’s Spanish Colonial architecture and historic landmarks. The Turquoise Trail Walking Tour begins at the Presidio Museum, located at 196 N. Court Avenue and is marked by a distinctive turquoise line painted on the sidewalk, making it easy to follow. Trail Options: 1) A self-guided tour brochure is available at the Historic Pima County Court House Visitor Center or at the Presidio Museum for $2. 2) A GPS-led app called "Turquoise Trail" is available at Google Play or the App Store for $5. The complete walk takes 90 minutes to two hours, but it can also be done in segments. The Trail is fully wheelchair/scooter accessible. More than 30 restaurants are within a few blocks of the walk, providing opportunities for lunch along the way.

Skip the traditional walking tours and discover Tucson in a new way with this app-led scavenger hunt. Use your phone to solve challenges and uncover hidden landmarks such as El Presidio Park and St. Augustine Cathedral while learning about Tucson's art, culture, and history. Choose your own interactive role and enjoy a flexible adventure designed for any occasion.

The Presidio Museum is the first stop to become familiar with the history and culture of Tucson. It is also part of a wonderful day trip to the Presidio Historic District which includes Old Town Artisans, the Historic Court House Visitor Center and several popular restaurants. OCTOBER-APRIL DAILY ACTIVITIES TUESDAYS: 10am-12pm: Historic Interpreter and Demonstration 2nd & 4th WEDNESDAYS:10am - 12pm: Ask an Archaeologist/Flintknapping Demonstration THURSDAYS: 10:30am Docent Guided Tour of grounds FRIDAYS: 10am - 3pm: Mexican Soldier Interpreter/Q&A Kids activity game box always available. Check calendar for other special events, especially on weekends.