Tucson , United States

Walking Mural Tour of Downtown Tucson

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About this experience

Discover the vibrant murals and rich street art of downtown Tucson on this 75-minute walking tour. Led by local guides, explore the city’s eclectic art scene, from the iconic 'Empowered Woman' mural to the colorful 'La Guitarrista'. Immerse yourself in the cultural influences that shape Tucson's artistic landscape, while strolling through historic sidewalks and engaging with the stories behind each piece. This tour is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking to appreciate the local culture in a lively urban setting.

- 75-minute guided walking tour covering 1 mile of downtown art
- Visit iconic murals like 'Empowered Woman' and 'La Guitarrista'
- Learn about the artists and cultural significance of each artwork
- Comfortable shoes and a water bottle recommended for a smooth experience

Available options

Walking Mural Tour of Downtown Tucson

What's included

One of our eccentric and ethereal guides.

A new knowledge of Downtown Tucson’s street art.

Detailed itinerary

History: The Rialto was built by William Curlett & Sons, who also built the Congress Hotel. The theatre opened in 1920, hosting vaudeville acts, live performances and showing some silent films. It was bought by Paramount-Publix in 1929 and began showing talkies– becoming a mainstay in downtown Tucson entertainment for several decades.

History: The Rialto was built by William Curlett & Sons, who also built the Congress Hotel. The theatre opened in 1920, hosting vaudeville acts, live performances and showing some silent films.

History: This powerful mural is said to be a gift to downtown from LoveBlock Partners, who also own the Little Love Burger, HUB restaurant and the AC Hotel.

History: Built in 1937 by A.C. Rosewell for two businessmen, this building is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Before becoming apartments, a car dealership and the Hotel Lewis were tenants.

**History: “Desert Soul” was commissioned by the owner of Cobra Arcade, Arial Bracamonte.**

**Mural:**

- **“Desert Soul” by ELMAC was painted in 2020. The artist said the figure holding the Saguaro blossom is based on his wife. He said he has been enthralled with Tucson since visiting as a child, and in the 90s and early 00s, he began painting murals in downtown behind the old Chicago Music Store.**

History: Garcia painted this large vibrant mural of a woman playing a guitar over another famous mural he’d imagined. In 2016 the muralist had painted NBA legend Bill Walton hanging onto a mythical jackalope that was bucking the superstar around the Rialto’s wall.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour meets outside of the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum: 414 N. Toole Ave. (South part of the Amtrak Train Depot).

About Tucson

Tucson, nestled in the Sonoran Desert, is a vibrant city known for its rich Native American and Old West history. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, stunning desert landscapes, and world-class outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Saguaro National Park

A stunning desert landscape filled with giant saguaro cacti, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

A unique blend of zoo, botanical garden, and museum, showcasing the wildlife and plants of the Sonoran Desert.

Museum 2-3 hours $25 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5-12)

Old Tucson

A historic theme park that recreates the Old West, featuring live shows, stagecoach rides, and Wild West stunt shows.

Historical/Entertainment 2-4 hours $25 for adults, $15 for children (ages 5-12)

Mission San Xavier del Bac

A beautifully preserved 18th-century Spanish mission, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sonoran Hot Dog

A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and a variety of condiments, unique to the Sonoran Desert region.

Snack Contains pork and gluten

Chiles Rellenos

Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in egg batter, and fried, often served with a tomato-based sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian (check for cheese and batter ingredients)

Prickly Pear Margarita

A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and prickly pear puree, giving it a unique pink color and sweet-tart flavor.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in Saguaro National Park Mountain biking in the Tucson Mountain Park Hot air balloon rides Spa treatments at luxury resorts Picnicking in Reid Park Stargazing at Kitt Peak National Observatory Visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Exploring the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather and various festivals. Expect cooler mornings and evenings, and warm afternoons.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tucson is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in less populated areas, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Tucson International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By bus

Tucson Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, with real-time tracking available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Tucson Tanque Verde Catalina Foothills

Day trips

Mount Lemmon

30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day

A scenic mountain range with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a cool, forested environment.

Tombstone

60 miles (97 km) • Full day

A historic Old West town known for its role in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and its well-preserved Western heritage.

Bisbee

90 miles (145 km) • Full day

A charming, artsy town with a rich mining history, known for its colorful buildings, art galleries, and unique shops.

Festivals

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase • February Tucson Meet Yourself • October Tucson Rodeo (Fiesta de los Vaqueros) • February

Pro tips

Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Explore the 4th Avenue Shopping District for unique local crafts and vintage finds
Take a day trip to Mount Lemmon for a cool, forested escape from the desert heat
Try a prickly pear margarita, a local favorite made with the fruit of the desert's iconic cactus
Attend a performance at the Rialto Theatre for a taste of Tucson's vibrant arts scene