Tucson , United States

Historical Guided Tour in Tucson

Active

(31 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A visit to the rugged, bold west! Hear the stories of the sometimes violent and storied past of Tucson.

Visit the historic Presidio, where a man named Hugo O'Connor, the Red Captain of the Spanish Military fathered and named the City of Tucson.

Find out how the University of Arizona almost didn't happen, but a Saloon owner and 2 gamblers saved the day!
Learn about the Apache Indians and their reputation as pirates of the desert, and their raiding, pillaging, ruthless ways.

View the exquisite White Dove of the Desert and see where the Dillinger Gang was captured in the 1930s and so much more!

Available options

Historical Guided Tour in Tucson

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the oldest European structure in the old west territory. The Mission San Xavier del Bac, inspired by Father Kino and built by the Tohono O'odham

We'll take a drive by historic A Mountain, the Apache lookout for the Tohono O'odham and a

Take a walk into history, explore the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, built when the southwest was a Spanish Territory filled with Natives and Spanish Military, settlers and a handful of Jesuit Priests. Discover how those people lived and the Presidio built to protect them from the raiding Apache Indians and other hostile enemies.

We will pass by Historic Hotel Congress, the St. Augustine Cathedral. We will view the magnificent Cathedral built in the late 1800's whose mason had a daughter that invented the Chimichanga.

Drive by Historic Old Main at the University of Arizona. Find out why this amazing University almost didn't happen and how 2 gamblers and a Saloon owner saved the day!

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time will consume 4 - 5 hours

Meeting point

5870 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ

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