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Old Tucson, United States of America - Things to Do in Old Tucson

Old Tucson

Old Tucson, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Old Tucson is a historic Western movie studio and theme park located in the Sonoran Desert, just west of Tucson, Arizona. Originally built in 1939 as a movie set for the film 'Arizona,' this authentic Western town has served as the backdrop for over 400 film and television productions, including classics like 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral,' 'Rio Bravo,' and 'The Three Amigos.' Today, it operates as a popular tourist attraction that combines Hollywood history with Wild West entertainment. Visitors can experience the magic of the Old West through live gunfight shows, stunt demonstrations, and interactive experiences that bring the frontier era to life. The park features authentic Western architecture, saloons, a jail, a church, and various shops, all set against the impressive backdrop of the Sonoran Desert. Beyond the entertainment, Old Tucson offers educational opportunities about both film history and the actual history of the American Southwest, making it a unique destination that appeals to families, history buffs, and movie enthusiasts alike.

Top Old Tucson

Live Gunfight Shows and Stunt Performances

Watch authentic Wild West gunfight reenactments and professional stunt shows performed by skilled actors throughout the day. These entertaining performances take place on the dusty streets of Old Tucson, featuring period costumes, choreographed action sequences, and audience participation opportunities. The shows blend humor, history, and Hollywood-style action to create memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

Booking Tip: General admission tickets ($19.95 for adults, $12.95 for children) include all shows. Visit during weekends for the full schedule of performances, and arrive early to get good seating for popular shows. Check the daily schedule upon arrival as showtimes can vary seasonally.

Movie Set Tours and Film History Experience

Explore the authentic movie sets and soundstages where hundreds of Western films and TV shows were produced over eight decades. Learn about the film industry's golden age and see props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes artifacts from famous productions. The self-guided tour includes informational plaques and exhibits that detail the park's rich cinematic history.

Booking Tip: Movie set access is included with general admission. Plan 2-3 hours for a thorough exploration of all sets and exhibits. Photography is encouraged, and guided tours may be available for an additional fee during peak seasons.

Western Town Exploration and Shopping

Stroll through the authentic Western buildings including saloons, a blacksmith shop, jail, and general store, many of which house unique shops and exhibits. Browse for Western-themed souvenirs, handcrafted items, and movie memorabilia while experiencing the atmosphere of a 19th-century frontier town. The buildings maintain their original movie set authenticity while offering modern shopping experiences.

Booking Tip: Shopping is included with admission, though purchases are separate. Many shops accept credit cards, but bring cash for smaller vendors. Visit the gift shops near closing time for potential discounts on select merchandise.

Desert Nature Trails and Wildlife Viewing

Explore the beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape surrounding Old Tucson on designated nature trails that showcase native flora and fauna. Spot desert wildlife, learn about indigenous plants like saguaro cacti and palo verde trees, and enjoy panoramic views of the desert mountains. The trails offer a peaceful contrast to the bustling entertainment areas.

Booking Tip: Trail access is included with admission. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities and cooler temperatures.

Interactive Western Activities and Games

Participate in hands-on Western-themed activities including gold panning, rope tricks demonstrations, and period games that were popular in frontier towns. These interactive experiences allow visitors to try their hand at traditional Western skills while learning about daily life in the Old West. Special seasonal events often feature additional activities like barn dances and storytelling sessions.

Booking Tip: Most activities are included with general admission, though some special experiences may require additional fees. Check the activity schedule upon arrival and plan to participate during less crowded weekday visits for more personalized attention from staff.

Getting There

Old Tucson is located approximately 12 miles west of downtown Tucson via Speedway Boulevard (also known as Gates Pass Road). The most direct route is to take Speedway Boulevard west until you reach the park entrance. From Tucson International Airport, the drive takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Rental cars are the most convenient option, though some tour companies offer transportation from Tucson hotels. The park provides ample free parking on-site, and the desert road leading to Old Tucson offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape.

Getting Around

Old Tucson is designed as a walkable Western town, with all attractions, shows, and exhibits accessible on foot via dusty streets and wooden boardwalks that maintain the authentic frontier atmosphere. The park covers about 400 acres, but the main entertainment areas are concentrated in a compact area that can be easily explored in a few hours. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven surfaces and dirt paths. The park is mostly accessible, though some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues due to the historic nature of the buildings and terrain.

Where to Stay

Downtown Tucson Historic District
Foothills Resort Area
University of Arizona Area
Catalina Foothills
Tucson Airport Area
Westside Tucson

Food & Dining

Old Tucson features several on-site dining options that maintain the Western theme, including the Big Jake's Restaurant which serves American fare and Southwestern cuisine in a saloon-style setting, and various snack stands offering classic theme park foods like funnel cakes, turkey legs, and cold beverages. The Cantina offers Mexican-inspired dishes and refreshing drinks. For more diverse dining options, visitors often combine their Old Tucson visit with meals in nearby Tucson, which has an excellent Southwestern and Mexican food scene, including renowned Sonoran-style Mexican restaurants, barbecue joints, and farm-to-table establishments that showcase local ingredients and flavors.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Tucson

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

The Parish

4.6 /5
(2930 reviews) 2
bar

American Eat Company

4.5 /5
(2913 reviews) 1
bar cafe store

HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery

4.5 /5
(2851 reviews) 2
bar store

Cup Cafe

4.6 /5
(2217 reviews) 2
bar cafe

Wildflower

4.5 /5
(1723 reviews) 2
bar store

Café à La C'Art

4.7 /5
(1378 reviews) 2
cafe

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Old Tucson is during the cooler months from October through April when daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities, typically ranging from 60-80°F. Winter months offer the most pleasant weather but can be crowded during peak tourist season. Summer visits (May through September) can be extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, though the park offers shaded areas and indoor exhibits for relief. Spring and fall provide ideal conditions with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds, making these seasons perfect for enjoying both the outdoor shows and desert nature trails.

Insider Tips

Arrive early in the day to secure good seating for popular gunfight shows and to explore the grounds before afternoon heat intensifies
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the desert sun can be intense even during cooler months, and shade is limited in some areas
Check the park's event calendar before visiting as special themed weekends and holiday celebrations often feature additional entertainment and extended hours

Activities in Old Tucson