Downtown Tucson and El Presidio Guided Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Scott, your tour guide, has a passion for good story telling! Hear the historic stories, fascinating tales & my interesting tidbits of Tucson History on this guided walking tour! We discuss Tucson's founding in 1775 as a Spanish Colonial Presidio & learn of our 4,000 years of Native American History!
We see a historic Sonoran Row House & learn how these mud adobe structures were built for our desert climate. We stroll past charming historic mansions, three by the famous architect Henry Trost, learning the fascinating tales of our Pioneer Founders...one story is a real hoot!
We visit the historic Pima County Courthouse to learn of the Dillinger Gangs capture in Tucson in 1934. Learn of a famous gunfighter & the fascinating story of Tucson’s first cathedral!
We stroll past a historic theatre, see a stunning former department store, see Tucson's first skyscaper, and learn of a former luxury hotel, as we hear of Tucson's mid century shopping scene that gains national acclaim!
Available options
Downtown Tucson and El Presidio Guided Walking Tour
What's included
2 Hours of Incredible Stories that bring Tucson History Alive!
Detailed itinerary
1
We stroll past the rebuilt Presidio Walls hearing how Tucson was founded in 1775 as a Spanish Colonial Presidio, and of our 4,000 years of Native American History.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
We stroll past this historic Sonoran Row House doing a deep dive into how these mud adobe structures were built for our harsh desert climate.
3
We stroll past the J. Knox Corbett Mansion, Hiram & Petra Stevens Home, and Sam Hughes Home hearing the fascinating tales of these Pioneer Founders.
4
We stop outside the stunning Steinfeld Mansion to learn of the famous architect Henry Trost, and hear the fascinating tale of the Steinfeld Family, one of Tucson's Pioneering Merchant Families!
5
We stroll past the Owls Club Mansion in the El Presidio Neighborhood learning details of what the club was and of the high society parties they threw! This story is a real hoot!
6
We stroll past El Charro Cafe to learn the history of the oldest continuous same family Mexican restaurant in the United States! The story of this restaurant is an entrepreneur's dream!
7
We see several stunning murals, including Arizona's tallest mural, that are on the Transamerica Building in Downtown Tucson!
8
We see the January 8th Memorial (Gabby Giffords Shooting Tragedy), and learn the story of a stunning modernist mid century fountain!
9
We visit the stunning Historic Pima County Courthouse, built in 1929, including a visit to the Dillinger Gang Courtroom where we hear the tale of the Gang's Capture in Tucson in 1934!
10
We hear the story of our first St. Augustine Cathedral built in 1868 and what happens to it - This is a fascinating tale! Plus we learn of a famous gunfighter who partied the night away on this plaza!
11
We stroll past this southwest art deco designed theatre learning of its storied past!
12
Learn the story of Tucson's first skyscraper!
13
We learn of a luxury hotel that was originally in this building complete with a rooftop experience for guests!
14
We learn the fascinating tale of the mid century shopping scene the Steinfeld's and Jacome's built in Downtown Tucson including the story of a luxury hotel that dates to 1929!
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tour Participation Risk Acknowledgement and Liability Waiver: By booking this tour, I understand and agree that participation in this Guided Walking Tour involves walking on public sidewalks, crossing streets and entering both public and private buildings and property. This guided tour could involve risk of physical injury, illness, death or property loss, and despite safety precautions, the tour operator cannot guarantee safety thereof, as all risks cannot be prevented. I understand that any injuries, medical expenses, property loss, or other personal expenditures that result during or from participating in this Tour, are to be borne by the participant, or by their parent or guardian (if participant is a minor), and I agree to release the tour operator and it's owner and employees of any and all liability.
No pets please. Service animals are allowed.
Meeting point
We meet directly across the street from the YMCA located at 60 W Alameda Street under the big shade tree on the southeast corner of the intersection of W Alameda Street and N Church in Downtown Tucson.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
