Tucson , United States

Tucson Origins Walking Tour

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About this experience

*Featured in the New York Times' 52 Places to Go in 2023 & Time Magazine's The World’s Greatest Places of 2023*

Learn about the origins of one of the most important cities of the American Southwest, Tucson on this cultural heritage itinerary.

Walking downtown Tucson’s El Presidio and the Barrio Viejo districts, we will explore the history and architecture of the community through the themes of the Native American, Spanish colonial, Mexican, and American Territorial eras, and also explain Tucson’s UNESCO designation as a City of Gastronomy.

This is an opportunity to discover what makes Tucson such a unique and special place that forms part of America's tapestry.

A former National Park ranger leads this tour with a background in historic preservation and heritage interpretation in the southwest. I have also worked on the effort to make the Barrio Viejo neighborhood a National Historic Landmark and at the nearby historic mission of Tumacacori National Historical Park.

Available options

Tucson Origins Walking Tour

What's included

Gratuities

Detailed itinerary

Step back in time to the earthen adobe fortress founded in 1775 by the Spanish. We will learn about the Indigenous, Spanish Colonial, and Mexican cultural heritage of Tucson in this historic El Presidio District of Tucson as well as feature street art.

We'll visit and learn about the architecture of the beautiful and historic Pima County Courthouse, travel back in time in the Plaza de Armas, and take a moment to reflect on the January 8 memorial.

We'll go on an urban hike through the historic quarter of Tucson, the Barrio Viejo. Where we will visit is only a third of the size of the original community that was spared the wrecking ball of "urban renewal." We will discuss the only regional as opposed to national and international architectural styles present here. The only example left north of the border in the Sonoran Desert. You'll find out how Tucson got its name and get to know what is said to be the only shrine on unconsecrated ground in the United States.

What's not included

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

19 reviews

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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

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet directly in front of the white-plastered historic adobe with distinctive blue doors called La Casa Cordova - located on N. Meyer Ave. & next to the Tucson Museum of Art entry.
The nearest public parking:
Pima County El Presidio Parking Garage
165 W Alameda St, Tucson, AZ 85701

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