Tucson Origins Walking Tour

*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.

1. 1

   Presidio San Agustin Del Tucson Museum

   15 min

   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.

2. 2

   Pima County Courthouse

   10 min

   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.

3. 3

   Barrio Historico

   30 min

   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.

• 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

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.