Landmarks in Tucson

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Tucson - Things to do in Tucson

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Tucson. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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95 Available Tour Excursions in Tucson

(65 reviews)

I provide the transportation and it’s the Oasis of Tours in Tucson. The van is air condition. There’s a audio tour as we drive up the mountain, and we provide binoculars; bottles of water.

Price: $95.00

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(31 reviews)

Have a whole bunch of fun, and come home with awesome memories on this evening venture into the Sonoran Desert! Enjoy sampling delicious wild edibles, learn about our unique desert animals, and even learn some traditional survival skills- like making fire using a traditional fire by friction set! Want to customize your adventure? No problem! Contact me and we'll create your ideal adventure!

Price: $55.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(26 reviews)

*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.

Price: $50.00

Duration: 2 hours

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(25 reviews)

The Pistoleros Wild West Show offers a thrilling 30-minute outdoor performance packed with action, comedy, and cowboy-style stunts. Set in the charming Trail Dust Town, this family-friendly stunt show features high-falls, explosive effects, and slapstick humor that entertains audiences of all ages. With evening shows every weekend, witness the hilarious antics of the Pistoleros as they bring classic western tales to life. It's a perfect outing for families seeking fun and excitement in Tucson.

Price: $13.95

Duration: 1 hours

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(17 reviews)

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 Strolls and Stories Tours guided walking tour! We begin with the St. Augustine Cathedral and a discussion of Tucson's Spanish Colonial founding & 4,000 years of Native American history! We stroll historic Scott Ave seeing several buildings by the famous architect Henry Trost, and learn the tale of the Temple of Music & Art. Next we visit the Barrio Viejo, the largest concentration of mud adobe structures in a single neighborhood anywhere in the United States! We discuss how our Sonoran Row Houses were built for our desert climate, learn of corner mercantiles & Chinese Grocers! We learn of the melting pot of cultures who lived in the Barrio! We visit the El Tiradito Wishing Shrine dating to the 1870s, & learn the tale of Juan Oliveras, and how some good comes of his sexual sinful ways, & stroll past the Teatro Carmen!

Price: $35.00

Duration: 2 hours

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(16 reviews)

Take in the beautiful Arizona Sonoran Desert like never before! Floating 2,000-5,000 feet over the desert in a hot air balloon, the 360 degree unobstructed views and peacefulness of flight is breathtaking. Following your 45-60 minute hot air balloon flight, guests are treated to chilled champagne and a continental breakfast in the heart of the desert, the perfect start to the day.

Price: $347.71

Duration: 3 hours

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(14 reviews)

Experience Tucson’s culinary scene like never before with our Progressive Dinner Tour—a full evening of elevated tastings at some of the city’s best locally owned restaurants. Created by Tucson’s original walking food tour, this experience is perfect for date nights, celebrations, and food lovers looking for a unique night out. Enjoy multiple chef-crafted courses, curated beverage options, and stories about Tucson’s food culture, history, and neighborhoods. We feature restaurants known for innovation, flavor, and unforgettable atmosphere. Your evening includes generous portions, water, a Tucson Food Tour Blue Margarita and a dedicated expert guide to lead the way. It’s the most delicious and seamless way to dine around Tucson. Book direct on our website for the lowest price and discover why we’re Tucson’s #1-rated tour experience for over 14 years.

Price: $130.00

Duration: 4-5 hours

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Free Cancellation
(11 reviews)

Unveil the intriguing tales of Tucson's past through a two-hour walking tour dedicated to true crime stories. This engaging experience will take you through the heart of downtown, where you'll hear about notorious figures, captivating murders, and shocking kidnappings that shaped the city. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, uncover hidden historical gems and quirky facts that even locals may not know. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this tour offers a relaxed pace for immersive storytelling in a vibrant urban setting. - Two-hour walking tour exploring Tucson's true crime stories - Engaging guide with in-depth knowledge and storytelling skills - Discover hidden historical facts and unique insights about downtown - Ideal for locals and visitors interested in the city's mysterious past

Price: $35.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(9 reviews)

Mount Lemmon offers world-class rock climbing in a unique and beautiful setting. Climb amongst the pines and aspen groves within view of the city of Tucson in the desert valley below. Moderate temperatures and exceptional climbing draw climbers to Mount Lemmon from across the world. When you book our guides, the logistics are taken care of, all you have to do is sign up to experience this true adventure. This activity is suitable for all experience levels.

Price: $230.00

Duration: 5 hours

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(8 reviews)

Book anywhere from one to 15 seats on this two-hour pub crawl of downtown Tucson, where your certified party bike pilot will bring you and your merry band of companions to three of our partner bars, where you'll receive exclusive VIP drink specials! And with BYO legal on our party bike, all eyes will be on you as you're raising your cans and solo cups while pedaling and partying at the best that 4th Avenue and Downtown Tucson have to offer!!

Price: $45.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(8 reviews)

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!

Price: $35.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(5 reviews)

We invite you to explore the rich art and cultural heritage of the Desert Southwest. This ticket provides access to captivating exhibitions, including "Cruzando La Linea": Contemporary Art in the Borderlands" and 'Colors to Dye For: The Mysterious World of Navajo Dye-Making.' Learn about the diverse histories and artistic expressions that shape this unique region. Open Wednesday to Saturday, the museum offers a perfect destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike, allowing for a deeper understanding of the cultures that define the desert landscape.

Price: $12.00

Duration: 1 hours

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(4 reviews)

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio tour of the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway to unlock the secrets of this breathtaking route from Tucson’s desert floor to the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains. As you climb 6,000 feet, experience dramatic scenery changes, panoramic vistas, the country’s southernmost ski resort, and a mountaintop observatory. Along the way, hear stories on ancient Tohono O'odham culture and the unique Sky Islands ecosystem play automatically, enriching your drive through one of Arizona's most remarkable landscapes. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates. Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Price: $19.99

Duration: 3-4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(3 reviews)

The Presidio Museum is the first stop to become familiar with the history and culture of Tucson. It is also part of a wonderful day trip to the Presidio Historic District which includes Old Town Artisans, the Historic Court House Visitor Center and several popular restaurants.

Price: $9.00

Duration: 0-1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(3 reviews)

This is a walking tour of Tubac by a local which is located in Arizona’s Santa Cruz County. Tubac originally emerged as a village of the Tohono O’Odham and is the site of the oldest European settlement in what is now the state of Arizona, founded in 1752. The itinerary is divided into 4 themes, including background & interpretation of Tubac’s geography, historical and natural resources as well and contemporary life.

Price: $50.00

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(3 reviews)

Take part in a 5-course sushi-making class in Tucson, hosted through Cozymeal. This 2.5-hour workshop blends traditional and modern Japanese flavors while teaching hands-on rolling techniques. The menu you will prepare includes: - Starter: Miso soup - Salad: Edamame with avocado and ginger - Roll 1: California roll - Roll 2: Spicy shrimp roll - Dessert: Miso butter cookies Enjoy your creations in a small-group setting and bring wine or beer to complement the meal.

Price: $115.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(3 reviews)

Tucson is the 1st city in America named by Unesco as a City of Gastronomy. This walking tour showcases the unique fusion of Southwest flavors that made this designation possible. The walking tour an explosion of flavors and stories told by a professional chef and storyteller.

Price: $72.00

Duration: 2 hours

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(2 reviews)

The number of murals in downtown Tucson has grown exponentially in recent years supported by City of Tucson funding and public interest. Take a tour from Dorothy Yanez, a Presidio Museum tour guide, who literally wrote the book on Tucson's downtown murals. She'll show you murals you may never find on your own and share with you the stories behind the murals.

Price: $35.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Climate: Arid Desert
  • Timezone: America/Phoenix
  • Population: Approximately 543,000
  • Best Time to Visit:
  • Visa Requirements Tucson is located in the United States. Most travelers require a visa or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for entry. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries (including EU, UK, Australia, Japan, and others) can apply for ESTA online before travel. Other nationalities must apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate. All visitors must have a valid passport.

About Tucson

Tucson, nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, is a city that captivates visitors with its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. Known for its warm, sunny climate and stunning mountain backdrops, Tucson offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with countless trails for hiking and biking, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and stargazing. Tucson’s downtown is alive with galleries, museums, and historic districts, reflecting its multicultural roots and creative spirit. The city is also recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, celebrated for its distinctive Southwestern cuisine and innovative food culture. Visitors are drawn to Tucson for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse attractions, and the chance to experience authentic desert living.

Tucson Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Arizona
  • Duration Range: 2-8 hours
  • Group Size: Flexible group sizes
  • Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
  • Recommended For: Visit between October and April for the best weather. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities. Respect local customs and be mindful of desert wildlife. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small vendors. Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Average Tour Price: $75

Lowest Price Tour: $45

Highest Price Tour: $250

1. Choose Your Tour

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2. Check Details

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3. Book Online

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Tucson.

Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

Saguaro National Park: Famous for its towering saguaro cacti, this park offers scenic drives and hiking trails through the iconic Sonoran Desert. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: A world-renowned zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum showcasing the region’s unique flora and fauna. Mission San Xavier del Bac: A stunning 18th-century Spanish mission known as the "White Dove of the Desert," featuring beautiful architecture and religious art. Sabino Canyon: A picturesque canyon with walking trails, tram rides, and opportunities to spot wildlife in a lush desert setting. University of Arizona Campus: Home to museums, gardens, and the historic Centennial Hall, offering a blend of education and culture.

Popular Activities

Hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding desert and mountains. Exploring the vibrant downtown arts and music scene. Visiting local markets and festivals celebrating Tucson’s multicultural heritage. Stargazing in the clear desert skies. Participating in guided tours of historic sites and natural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Tucson is from late fall to early spring (October to April), when temperatures are mild and comfortable.

Yes, Tucson is renowned for its outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring the Sonoran Desert.

Tucson is famous for its unique desert landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and being a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Tucson’s food culture is a highlight, blending Native American, Mexican, and Southwestern influences. Signature dishes include Sonoran hot dogs, carne asada, and chimichangas. The city is also known for its unique mesquite-grilled flavors and fresh local ingredients. Notable restaurants include El Charro Café, the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant, and Café Poca Cosa, famous for its innovative Mexican cuisine. Street food and farmers’ markets are popular, offering a taste of local specialties.

Getting Around

Tucson is accessible by air through Tucson International Airport, with direct flights from major US cities. The city has a public bus system (Sun Tran) and a modern streetcar connecting downtown, the University of Arizona, and key neighborhoods. Taxis, rideshares, and bike rentals are widely available. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding desert and attractions outside the city center. Transportation costs are moderate, with affordable public transit and a range of car rental options.

Travel Tips

Visit between October and April for the best weather. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities. Respect local customs and be mindful of desert wildlife. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small vendors. Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Culture & Customs

Tucson’s culture is shaped by its Native American, Mexican, and Anglo heritage. The city celebrates its diversity through festivals, art, and food. Local customs include a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community. Major events include the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, All Souls Procession, and the Tucson Festival of Books. Politeness and friendliness are valued, and visitors are encouraged to engage with local traditions and support small businesses.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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