2 hours (approx.)
Daily Tour
15 people
English
Discover why Tucson is one of the most important cities in the American Southwest on this cultural heritage walking tour. The walk spans downtown Tucson’s El Presidio and Barrio Viejo districts to learn about the Indigenous, Spanish Colonial, and Mexican cultural heritage of the area, as well as the city's UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation. Guided by a former National Park ranger with a background in historic preservation, you'll come away with an understanding of what makes Tucson so special.
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.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
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.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
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.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free