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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Bisbee to Yuma?
The direct drive from Bisbee to Yuma is 336 mi (541 km), and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 7 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Bisbee to Yuma, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Tucson and Tombstone, as well as top places to visit like The Bird Cage Theatre and O.K. Corral, or the ever-popular E Allen St.
The top cities between Bisbee and Yuma are Tucson and Tombstone. Tucson is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Bisbee and 3 hours from Yuma.
Tombstone, located in the southeastern region of Arizona, is renowned for its rich Wild West history. The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park houses several exhibits, including a replicated gallows. Allen Street is home to the O.K Corral outdoor theater that recreates cowboy gunfights from 1881. Local lore claims that ghostly apparitions frequent Bird Cage Theatre pockmarked with bullet holes.
Tucson, located in Pima County, Arizona, serves as the county seat and is recognized for being the home of the University of Arizona. It holds the distinction of being Arizona's second largest city with a current population count of 542,629 according to 2020 US Census data. Additionally, its metropolitan statistical area boasts a larger population figure at 1,043,433 residents.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 35% of way to Yuma
Best stops along Bisbee to Yuma drive
The top stops along the way from Bisbee to Yuma (with short detours) are Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, and San Xavier del Bac Mission. Other popular stops include O.K. Corral, Kartchner Caverns State Park, and Mt Lemmon.
Allen Street is the historical center of Tombstone, Arizona and a hotspot during its heyday for activity in the Old West. The storefronts on Allen Street are still mostly original and offer a glimpse into the town's past. Some of the notable businesses on Allen Street include saloons, gun shops, and general stores.
We visited here during the week so a lot of the shops were closed which was disappointing. But what was open was the okay corral and that was fantastic. We also did the horse and carriage ride which was relaxing, fun The driver was our tour guide and was very informative as we rode down some of the downtown streets.
ShonnaLee Rogers — Google review
cazz britton — Google review
Place is so cool. Great photo location
Eric Adams — Google review
I live on Allen Street here in Tombstone Arizona in the old hoptown district that was once ruled by China Mary. The sunsets here are absolutely phenomenal as well as the sun rises.... Come enjoy a weekend or even a day trip to Tombstone Arizona you won't be sorry.... There are so many cool shops here not to mention the restaurants and saloons...
The Bird Cage Theatre is a theater in Tombstone, Arizona that is said to be haunted by the spirits of women who worked there as prostitutes and their clients. It has been reported that over 190 bullet holes remain in the building from historic gunfights. The theater offers nightly ghost tours for guests 12 and older, which are popular with families.
Always a fun experience. Took my daughters on the ghost tour they had a great time. They also have the self guided tour that is cheaper but we enjoyed learning all about the birdcage and tombstone. So much history. Staff is very friendly. Trish knows so much of the history and it is always great to hear everything. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience.
Jeanne Wegleitner — Google review
This is a great museum that is in the original building from 140 years ago. They have a lot of original artifacts from when the building was a Theatre and a brothel. Wyatt Erp went to this establishment. They had a lot of historical information about the town and the different lives of the famous people that lived there.
Sharon Doyle — Google review
This was a fun tour! The tours are an hour and a half long, including the 30 minutes darkness time to 'welcome the ghosts to make their presence known'. Our guide, Karen, was knowledgeable, humorous and a delight. Highly recommend this tour. The history of the Bird Cage is interesting and you'll even see evidence of some of the lawlessness from history (1880's bullet slugs in walls and the bar).
Vicki Brown — Google review
The museum is even more exciting because of its original place. It's a real witness of history. The guides have huge knowledge and describe the place in a very interesting way. It's so much to see and feel the spirit of its past time. Only for this museum, I would travel even from Europe which I did a few days ago. It's not only for those who love the Western world but for all history lovers.
Andrzej Karaczan — Google review
Love the atmosphere of this historic little village. The main attraction we wanted to visit with the Bird Cage Theatre. It's believed to be haunted and so we wanted to check it out and see for ourselves. Highly recommend!!!
Dan&Heather Hooper — Google review
Amazing place to hang out and take a guided tour. So much to look at and learn about. It's like going back in time to the late 1800's. Our tour guide was awesome and you could tell she loves her job! 1.5 hours and a great bargain for the history lesson. The amount of original artifacts is mind blowing. You could easily spend a day here and not see everything it has to offer. Very knowledgeable staff. Make sure you use the restroom before going on a tour as there are no public restrooms. It's said to be quite haunted and while we didn't experience much activity the kid had a great time and the lights out period of the tour was really cool! I highly recommend this if you are into history. Great value for the money and one of the coolest things we did while in Tombstone !!!
FRANK RUSS — Google review
Ghost tour was AWESOME! Danielle was GREAT! Super informative! Very funny! Seeing all the interesting things made you feel like you could actually visualize what it was like there back in the day. Definitely worth the money! Didn't catch anything on camera but heard some cool stuff an some equipment they had kept going off. All and all it was a hit! A must see if you're ever in Tombstone Arizona!
Robin Stevens — Google review
My curiosity started with that one ghost adventures episode, we entered the town & i recognized the building & just had to check it out. It was such a cool experience. We didn’t experience anything spooky for my knowledge but would definitely recommend! A lot of history and originality
Jamilla C. Jaramillo — Google review
We had been here before but never took the tour... SO glad we did! Really fascinating. The history of this place is amazing. Definitely feels haunted!
Denyse Hollis — Google review
Really cool place, alot of nice things from the old west! A must do when you visit!
Mike Carrasco — Google review
Must do ghost tour in Tombstone! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and her passion for the history of the building and the town was contagious. It was quite spooky and thrilling to do the ghost tour after hours. Be aware that at the end of the ghost tour there is a period where you sit in almost complete darkness for 10-20 minutes.
Juju Linder — Google review
If you love history and want to know more about Tombstone's wild past the tour is perfect. There is so much to see! I spent a lot of time walking through and enjoying the ambiance. This was my favorite place to visit in Tombstone.
Candace Rose — Google review
Great place for going back in time and seeing the various rooms and objects at the Bird Cage Theatre. The people were friendly and the tour was great! A lot to look at and enjoy if you like historical items. Who knows, you may even come across a ghost being that it is haunted!
Jennifer Miller — Google review
I did a ghost tour here with my kids during the summer. It was a very cool experience! The guide was awesome, the stories, seeing genuine artifacts was great and we had some experiences during the lights out session. Definitely a must try if you're in Tombstone.
The O.K. Corral is a historic site that offers reenactments of the famous gunfight between Wyatt Earp and his brother Virgil. It is also haunted by the cowboys and law enforcement officers associated with the event.
Tombstone is known for this very spot, so it's obviously a must if you come to Tombstone. It's free to go inside the main shop but you have to pay $10 per person to explore the back courtyard and stables and the main draw: the staged gun fight. There are a few areas in Tombstone to see staged gun fights, but this one is by far the most recommended based on the fact that it's the OG and happens at the actual O.K. Corral, even the locals stated that. Go early that way you don't miss the show, as they are known to sell out especially during peak seasons and weekends. The gun fight is about 20 - 30 minutes and very entertaining, audience participation is encouraged like applauding the deputies and booing the cowboys for an added comical touch and they all have fun with it. Pictures with the actors are welcomed after the show which always makes the little kids go crazy. The staff inside the store are fun to talk with and very nice. Also, for fans of the movie (which I'd assume most everyone visiting Tombstone to begin with probably are), there are some props inside the store to read up on and admire. Prices inside the gift shop are on par with most everything else in Tombstone, though they do also have some exclusive merchandise being that they're the actual O.K. Corral. Overall, very fun and highly recommended.
Cody P — Google review
The actors use some humor when doing their thing. They do present some of the history that led up to the shooting, and a little on the Earp family after that. Enjoyable to be sure. We've seen it twice. Your ticket also gets you into a history presentation on Tombstone itself, which is well worth the small price. Gives you a much better appreciation for Tombstone and old Western history.
peter pinkham — Google review
This is a great show and it is very entertaining. The actors are funny and friendly too. We were so glad we went to the show. It was totally worth it. They have a nice setting with several buildings with written historical facts. They also have authentic photographs and artifacts from tombstone and the OK Corral. There is a blacksmith on the grounds selling his wares. They have a large gift shop and a small movie theater too. We enjoyed our visit.
Sharon Doyle — Google review
Great fun! Every part was perfectly Touristy! I loved it! Portrayal of the characters was done with proper respect and enough fun to keep the energy up! Will definitely go back, as we only did half a day and it was not enough! #templemastery
Andy B — Google review
What an awesome show. Kids and I just really enjoyed it. Great history all over. The OK Corral was more then I expected. We got the pass that gave you access to other museums and exhibits and even a discount and some eateries. But the show was the star for us. Had a good story and some funny parts. I would recommend stopping you doing the whole OK Corral experience.
csmather77 — Google review
Awesome time! Great reenactment! Very entertaining. Just wished they had Wyatt looked more like the real person. Nice shade, the set was small but worked. Actor's were super nice! Definitely worth it! Must check it out if you're every in Tombstone!
Robin Stevens — Google review
Great show! Museums were very informative. Staff was very friendly. Had a wonderful time visiting Tombstone for the first time!
Nenita Sprouse — Google review
We were here during Helldorado days and had a blast! Take the stage coach ride it's narrated and you get to learn some history that's not usually told.
Ms Maray — Google review
We all loved it and highly recommend it. The best gift shop is at the OK corral. The gun fight was fun and entertaining. The ambience of the entire place is perfect. Great job to all of you!
MC Goodrich — Google review
Cute little town to visit with the family! We wish we'd had more time to explore, but loved what we saw. We enjoyed the shops and the shootout show was fun! The actors were great!
Dorothy Fetter — Google review
A fun show with some clever lines. Deliberately campy and lots of laughs. The bad guys are the best. The Sam Elliot- like character who played Virgil's a bit wooden, but overall quite entertaining for all ages. Our party ranges from age 2 to 70 and we all enjoyed it. The Vincent Price-narrated diorama/ movie was cleverly done. See pic of the instructions you are given. Gift shop was touristy but our grands enjoyed getting a pop gun or two.
Granally S — Google review
Great show. Always a blast. The actors do a superb job of being fun and interactive. Been several times and always see the OK Corral reenactment. Good for all ages. Tickets are $10 and can donate to the actors at the end, well worth it. Can't wait to return.
Layla Rippy — Google review
This place is amazing!! So much history. The gunfight was absolutely fantastic!!! It was so great I saw it twice during my 5 day stay in Tombstone. The actors are wonderful, and also pretty cool dudes!! The O.K. Corral is a MUST when you visit Tombstone. I cannot wait to return!
Melissa Nocita — Google review
For $10, you can learn pretty much all you need to know about the gunfight. The live gun battle is pretty good and the actors let you take pictures with them. Fun for adults and children.
Colby Swann — Google review
It was a pretty short but engaging reenactment. Get to walk through some history on the premises as well. You $10 per adult buys you a range of experiences not just the reenactment.
They try to keep the majority of the audience in the shade. Three different times there is "gun fire" FYSA in case you have a little one or veteran sensitive to noise.
GRAMS — Google review
Worth the time and money for a perspective of American history! Tombstone has a lot going on for a day trip/overnight trip. I was glad to see the whole act. Lots of history, photographs, and spaces to explore. Definitely shown in the perspective of white americans as the great fighters of the west... Ignoring the fact that their American history contains all of today's Americans.... Showed Native americans as the ('enemies') bad guys and as though they aren't Americans and no mentions of any Black or Mexican Americans. Oh well...but who knew the o.k. corral was real!?! Sick! Thanks for the fun show!
I H — Google review
Fun old west show. The actors are funny, knowledgeable, and friendly. The show was entertaining and well done with a lot of humor. I've been twice and would happily go again.
Liz Waddle — Google review
What a cool place to visit! The gun show was really cool! The actor's did a great job! Cool to see history played out even if its not completely accurate. We loved the displays and gift shop!
Alex — Google review
ABSOLUTELY RECOMMENDED! I watched this show last week. I was expecting something shorter and simpler but it turned out to be very well staged and produced. 4 handsome, elegant, slim lawmen against the overweight outlaws. Excellent performances from all actors. Considerate amount of dialogue as well - to give you the context of the actual gunfight. The American Southwest is magic! Don't miss Tombstone. In memory of my late father, western film fan back in Greece - Christos Petropoulos (1931 - 2009).
Dimitris Petropoulos — Google review
I had a great time walking through the town and seeing all of the shops. The Cowboys were fun and entertaining! Tickets are reasonable, and there is much to see without paying for a ticket, so it works as a fun stop on a budget.
Larry — Google review
A very cool experience! A complete nostalgic throwback. Would highly recommend. Fantastic all day event with so much to see and do.
Marsha Gregory — Google review
Great show and great cast! My family and I loved this experience. Definitely a must!
Amanda Escarcega — Google review
Acting was superb. Actors offer to take pictures free of charge. Only cost $10 bucks. This has got to be the best price for a show anywhere
The Boothill Graveyard is a notorious cemetery in Tombstone, Arizona that holds the graves of many people who committed crimes in the Old West. The name of the cemetery is derived from those killed while wearing their boots in gunfights - meaning they were fighting to the death.
Interesting place to visit especially if you know the history or at least enjoyed the movies. Very rustic, historic cemetery with a reasonable entry fee (cash only, ATM in gift shop) and excellent visitors guide. Only downside is that it's all gravel and dirt on an incline so not really wheelchair friendly, or safe for those with balance issues.
Liz Waddle — Google review
This is worth the $3 entrance. The booklet comes with the entrance fee & has the stories behind each grave. It’s well kept and interesting to walk through. The gift shop is very nice as well, with a sweet clerk to welcome everyone.
L Stanley — Google review
Foothill Graveyard: I enjoyed the gift shop more than the graveyard. The graveyard seemed as if it the gravestone markers were all made around the same time, which made me skeptical as to if the information on them was accurate. I am not saying they are not accurate, but the feeling it gave me. My problem is I've been to graveyards in other places, such as Bodie and they leave this one bland.
I still suggest you go. It completes the visit to Tombstone and the cost is minor. Get it "Minor", at $3 a person to enter the graveyard. Parking is free.
I gave it 4 Star's due to the gift shop.
The graveyard is 3 stars.
Michelle Blair — Google review
Boothill Graveyard lives! I mean Boothill Graveyard is a real place.
I knew of this place as a child. Television shows of the Wild West told me so. The gunfight at the O.K. Corral reaffirmed Boothill is a special place where cowboys are buried with their boots on. However I didn’t see this site for myself. More than 60 years later, I traveled to Tombstone and rode along Route 80 to Boothill.
On the outskirts of Tombstone, not far from the Tombstone Grand, you’ll see the graves of an interesting bunch of cowboys and others forever resting in peace.
I paid $3 for a chance to confirm all that I learned from Hollywood movies and TV on the history and inhabitants of Boothill.
Once I entered through a small building, I saw what on first sight looked like gravesites with tombstones. As I looked around among the eleven rows, I found the resting place of John Heath. His death in 1884 was from hanging. Heath’s death stood out among “the residents” of Boothill. From the paragraph in the brochure, John Heath’s death reads: “Taken from county jail and lynched by Bisbee mob, Feb.22, 1884. He was called the leader of the five men who were legally hanged and was said to have planned the robbery. He was hanged from a telegraph pole a short distance west of the courthouse.” Some of the tombstone descriptions were mildly amusing such as that of Lester Moore: “Here lies Lester Moore, Four slugs from a .44, No les, no more.”
You may ask yourself, “Is this all real?” These are amusing gravestones in maybe an off kilter sense of humor way. I was left with wondering about the character and personalities of these folks from the Old West especially the large number of them under their tombstone that reads, Unknown. They lie for an eternity and will be visited often by strangers like myself.
Stew Cohen — Google review
Visiting Boothill is like stepping back in time.So much history is buried there,it is a fascinating place to visit and a must do if you are visiting Tombstone.You will receive a pamphlet with a layout of the cemetery when you arrive that lists the names on all the graves and a summary as to how they died and on some a history of how they lived,this was achieved by the families of the deceased giving the information to the owners of the cemetery.I highly recommend that you visit if you are in the area.
Johnny Stephenson — Google review
this is a really cool place to see you get handed a pamphlet with all the names and causes of death so you get to take your time and really look at everything as it's not a guided tour the staff where very kind and you could tell they enjoy there job we spent about an hour in there between looking at everything and paying respects one thing I will say is yes it's real so don't be disrespectful
Liam Is master — Google review
If you have kids they will get a kick out of it. If your a visitor who has never seen a real ghost town cemetery you'll enjoy this place. It's costs money to get in and it is mostly fake. Just keep that in mind. For us, it was a waste of time and money. Don't get me wrong........it's worth it for most people. We have been to too many real old west cemetaries and this is a place for tourists first and foremost. Go and see the real one as well.
Monterey County Real Estate Services — Google review
Cool stop going into Tombstone. As a fan of wild west history it's neat to see the graves of those shot at the o.k. Coral. Make sure you check out the gift shop because the workers are extremely nice
David Cody — Google review
We checked out Boothill Cemetery after learning some of the history of Tombstone/Bisbee. It was interesting to say the least. It was $3 per person to get in, but worth it!
Nikki Zacc — Google review
For an idea of how cheap life was in this mining town the Graveyard is worth the price. A map showing who is where and what caused their demise. I recommend you visit the Graveyard and look for yourself. Just who was bad or good often depends on who’s telling the story.
Tim Taylor — Google review
What a piece of history! It's like stepping back in time. When you visit the legendary Tombstone, Arizona, you have to check out Boot Hill Graveyard. There's a John Heath there, he was apparently lynched by a mob in 1884, but we haven't found any direct relation. ) This is one of those bucket list places that if you can find time to get there, it's worth the nostalgia.
Jim Heath — Google review
Very interesting to see. $3 per adult to enter. You are given a guide map upon entering. If you are into the history of Tombstone, then this is a must stop. The cemetery has an amazing view. Plan on spending about 30min to an hour to view all of the site.
Jimmy S — Google review
A must see. Lots of well knowns buried here. Easy to navigate. Some funny sayings on the headstones.
Grogu — Google review
Boothill cemetery is worth a visit. The price to enter was $3 and the gift shop has good products. The gravestones have a lot of history. The gift shop had different items than the shops in the town area. The shop had knives, apparel, coins, glassware, and antiques. The cashier is super friendly and loves to chat with everybody.
Jonathan Dunn — Google review
A tourist trap in its tackiest form. Yes, there are some very interesting characters, buried here, but the fact that you have to pay to visit a graveyard and can only exit through a gift shop really rips the il west spirit out of the experience. When we left, I felt like I had purchased a used car.
Kerry H — Google review
If you go to Tombstone I feel like you need to see Boothill Cemetery. It's only $3 per person to get in, and you're given a little information booklet about all the graves there. We spent close to an hour here, though we prioritized the more famous and unique graves. Some people could spend less or more time here and still feel like they got what they wanted out of their visit. The reviews that dismiss this place as "fake" irritate me - this is a real graveyard that houses the final resting place for many of Tombstone's founding and famous citizens. This place definitely has a tourist attraction touch to it, hence some of the occasional more comical tombstones (which is most of what these reviews are referencing), but they're still real graves, and you're still expected to be respectful when you visit.
Very big place inside!!! Lot and lots of wonderful gifts and souvenirs for everyone you know!!! And The Thing is a must see!!! Take that exit off the I-10 and explore this place!!! You'll be glad you made this pit stop!!!
Myzz ?Lady Trucca? — Google review
It's exactly what it's supposed to be a tourist spot. Signs in both directions for 100 miles telling you to stop. Always make it sound interesting. 55 60 years ago my father refused to stop here because he said it wasn't worth the money. I finally stopped 40 years ago once married. It's a good break from the highway good place to stretch your legs. It's obviously changed since my most recent stop last week. Rather bizarre storytelling along the walls now about aliens versus predators. Kind of like a fancy comic book reading. Some pretty nice old vehicles on site to take a look at. The thing is what it is....a thing😁. Souvenir site available dairy Queen on site. Like I said a good place to stop stretch your legs walk through and read and take a look at everything they have to offer.
Milton Hope — Google review
This is a must stop!!! I love the billboard advertising along the highway and was 100% intrigued. Upon stopping, you will find the neatest gift shop with so many different things, really clean bathrooms, friendly staff, the most fun museum for $5. I don't want to spoil the fun - just stop in and check it out.
Stacy Litchford — Google review
It was decent for the price. It was 5$ a person or 10 for a family. They had exhibits about the aliens dinosaurs and cars. It wasn’t very interactive so you couldn’t touch anything. But other than that it had a story line, and if your looking for something to take a break from while driving it a decent stop
Abbie T — Google review
This place is amazing. There’s so much to choose from in this store it will blow your mind. The tour of The Thing is awesome. All the staff and very knowledgeable about The Thing and everything in the store. I would definitely stop if I had the chance.
Pastor Adam Chlastak — Google review
Stretch your legs, munch on snacks, & enjoy the art, gifts, and exhibit. This truck stop offers affordable entertainment, fuel, and food. Staff is friendly, bathrooms are clean & well stocked, and the mountain views are breath taking.
Katarina Auer — Google review
The thing received a major update a couple years ago, so if you’ve been in the past, it is worth a revisit as it is a totally different experience. This is what every roadside America attraction should be: strangeness with a diversion from the road. Admission is five dollars per person or $10 per family so it is very affordable the gas is higher price than surrounding stations.
Jason Camorlinga — Google review
It may sound crazy but we loved this place. The Thing is a cross between history museum and conspiracy theory showcase. It was very informative and fun to "move through history". The little ones loved the dinosaurs and aliens. Totally worth the price of admission, which is pretty low.
Frank Steele — Google review
We like quirky. I was willing to pay the $5 to get in when I thought it was basically just a box. It was our quirky trip and we would just laugh. But it was so much more and totally worth it. Loved the story, creativeness, conspiracies and displays!
Patty — Google review
Wow is all I have to say! I found this hidden gem on a work trip and I kept seeing signs for 100’s of miles about the thing! I was intrigued from the get go and waiting to get gas until I got to this gas station! Upon pulling up I knew it was going to be a fun filled gas station! They sold everything you could think of and even had fireworks! There is a museum there with so many amazing items to see and the high light at the end with the thing being showcased! I can’t say when I’ll be back to this location but I can say if I ever pass by here again it will for sure be a stop that is required on my route! I suggest everyone stop by here to see the sites for themselves! Bravo on advertising and keeping people away for hundreds of miles!!!
The Moonkin Rater — Google review
Recently I had a loss in my family and idk something just gravitated me here I drove around back and just found the beautiful view and peace and silence ended up crashing here for the night and in the morning I was woken up by Shannon (manager) she came to my car just to do her job to which I apologized and explained why I was here and offerd me coffee and let me enjoy the view with no worries and also I checked out the thing and I was blown away it was very cool but not only that everyone inside are just good people making and honest living in so great full of how my situation was handled and that people can actually still care on this planet 😉 I will come back under better circumstances!
Jeff Jr — Google review
We always enjoy stopping by The Thing? when driving through Arizona! It has all the charm of a cheesy roadside Rt 66 attraction. There is an exhibit that ends with "the thing" and a really great gift shop. It also has a gas station and a Dairy Queen restaurant, but it closes at 7pm, so get there before sunset. Definitely a must see stop!
Casey M — Google review
Best experience at a gas station ever. Everyone needs to visit the THING. A fantastic eye opening example of a history of things that might have been. For $5 you can't beat it. It's a wonderful experience for everyone. I only wish I had more time to read all the posters they had through our the exhibit.
Will not disappoint!
Sorin Smith — Google review
This place was pretty interesting we went through the museum got some pretty cute pictures. The theory is interesting as well. They have a big shopping area all of the employees there and at the DQ were very very nice. They have truck parking on the side which worked out great for us.
chris h — Google review
Was driving across country from Las Vegas, Nevada to Florida. And stopped in here checked it out. Did the little museum tour? It was a lot of fun? Very friendly stuff, definitely recommend stopping and checking it out.
Sheridan Snyder — Google review
There's a gas station, bathroom, gift shop and convenience store, so everything you need during a road trip
The Thing Museum is very cheap even for a family. It's super quick to go through and very fun, definitely worth a stop
JasandJennifer — Google review
I was not very excited to stop but you only live once. First I was blown away by the friendliness of the staff. Shannon was so much fun! I have never had so much fun paying to see an attraction. She had us laughing! The attraction was very well done! The prices for the items in the gift shop are extremely reasonably priced.
Visitor center isn't open, but the trails are. 5th car in the lot on a Friday at 8:45, by 10 it was full with cars circling for a spot. Word is they are preparing to open soon.
No Trogan, although an employee in the parking lot said they have a resident one. Plenty of birds though.
I enjoy the peace and beauty, others enjoy being loud. I don't get it. There are plenty of trails in the area if that's all you're after.
Mark Leonard — Google review
Ramsey Canyon Trail was a perfect scenic walk with so much to see. We were amazed by the nature - butterflies, caterpillars, lizards, birds, so many different species of trees, bushes, mushrooms, a couple structures - all great photo ops! The trail is mostly shaded. You walk along the running creek mostly the entire time and the sound is beautiful. The staff is friendly and very knowledgeable. Someone did see a rattle snake slide across the trail, so be careful of you've got young children. If you do have kids with you, grab a bingo game card for them - it's a scavenger hunt. When they get back, they get a prize if they got four in a row. Definitely worth $5! Oh, and don't forget to sign the guest book!
Ames T — Google review
Beautiful area with maintained hiking trails, resting benches, some information signs. Gift shop run by friendly Nature Conservancy people. Paved parking lot. $5 fee to hike trails, which is well worth it and benefits the Nature Conservancy. We saw Berylline, Violet-crowned, and Broad-billed hummingbirds, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, along with deer, turkeys, squirrels, etc.
Gene Ellis — Google review
OMG this place was so beautiful. I never expected to see fall colors like we did in Arizona! We went here in November during Thanksgiving week.
There were so many big beautiful wild turkeys and deer that were not afraid of humans taking their pictures 😊
The hike up through the trees is an easy one and so worth it.
They have a great little gift shop and some history boards and displays.
It cost $7.00 a person to do the hike.
Kat Monteiro — Google review
Great walks, hike up to the lookout is pretty worth it. Have to climb on the rocks at the top to see the Valley but it's not bad.
Jessica Panza — Google review
I decided to take my little one on a hike this afternoon. Staff was friendly and admission was $5 for adults and free for kids. There were plenty of walking sticks available to use at the visitor center. My toddler and I really enjoyed the peaceful nature walk to the Sycamore point, followed by the steep climb to the top. We were unable to hike all of the way to the overlook point since I wasn't fully prepared with my small hiking backpack. We managed to climb halfway up before my little one had a potty accident. I had extra clothes, but they were in my car, which is why we stopped the hike and returned back to the car. In the future, I will remember to bring an extra outfit and snacks in a small backpack for my little one for future hikes. I did remember to pack my smartphone, beverages, hats, training pants, and bug spray. Fortunately, we didn't have to use any bug spray. Most of the trail is well-shaded so hats aren't necessary to wear. It is definitely worth seeing...a very beautiful hiking place and trails with plenty of deer, squirrels, butterflies, and birds to see. If you are hiking around lunch time or hiking all the way to the overlook point, then I recommend packing a small lunch, especially if you climbed the steep mountain like we did. You will be hungry and thirsty by the time that you reach the top. I heard from a friend that there is an easier alternate trail in order to get to the overlook point that doesn't involve the steep climb of the mountain...maybe we will try to look for that trail on a different visit.
June Sengmany — Google review
You pay a little to visit these hiking trails, but they have done a really great job of making the conservancy inviting and friendly to wildlife, so totally worth it. Saw deer, frogs, and all sorts of interesting insects on the last hike. Plenty of short, gentle trails for little ones and mature ones, as well as a slightly more challenging overlook to add a bit of workout. Friendly staff and apparently great birding for those who are into that. Highly recommend a visit.
C and B Bryce — Google review
Lovely place to walk and enjoy nature. Local residents $5, others $8. Annual passes available. Parking is limited and at times the lot is full.
Mary Hanawalt — Google review
Challenging uphill trail in beautiful wooded Valley. Well known birding area. Historical buildings from an early settler along path. Optional Steep, steep trail to lookout. Small gift shop in visitor center. We'll worth return hikes.
Darlene K — Google review
Informative nature trail. Keep going up the peak to the overlook. The views are ASTONISHING.
Ray Osborn (TheRaysistance) — Google review
Operated by the Nature Conservancy, this is one of the prettiest places in Arizona. It's a wonderful place to bird watch any time of the year. The hike is short but well worth it. I have been there in summer and fall. The colors of the trees in October are amazing. Any time of year, it is a wonderful place to commune with nature
cyd cassel — Google review
Trail is well maintained! My 7 and 5 year old was able to hike up to the overlook. Very beautiful.
Tiffany Samuelson — Google review
I really enjoyed the nature walk with Dan, he shared some history of the preserve while pointing out birds and plants and other creatures. I got stung by a yellow jacket and the volunteers were very sweet and helpful (I'm perfectly fine). The property is so beautiful, and it was very enjoyable to spend 2 mornings there.
Crystal Ledezma — Google review
A haven for birders especially in the early spring and mid summer. There are miles of hiking trails and some mountain bike trails and roads. There's something for everyone. The Nature Conservancy's visitor center is cozy. The volunteers are helpful with recent sightings and ideas on where to go.
Maria Thi Mai — Google review
Outstanding birding area in season. We were a bit early for the full spring experience by several weeks but still nice. Be advised they are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. A small parking lot with no overflow or street parking so if the small lot is full you will have to leave and come back later. TNC charges admission if you aren't a member.
Snowshoe Dancer — Google review
Beautiful for taking in the fall colors, wildlife, and of course birds. Choose from a short, easy hiking trail, or go all the way to the lookout point, with benches along the way to just sit and observe. Nice gift shop with friendly help. Free parking is limited, but we didn't mind paying to park at the small lodge next door.
Alisa Sever — Google review
Ramsey Canyon is a fantastic place to see a variety of unusual birds. It is well worth the donation to walk this lovely canyon. We were surprised to find how especially beautiful the fall leaves were!
ML Ketcham — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place. The folks who run the visitor's center are welcoming and helpful and the visitor's center has clean restrooms. There is so much wonderful wildlife to see here, including many species of hummingbirds, coatis, deer, frogs and dozens of other bird species, just to name some.
I've been to the preserve several times now and I notice something new every time; whether that be flora or fauna.
The huge turkeys by the grassy areas and hummingbird feeders are also fun to observe.
Entry costs $8 for adults who don't reside within Cochise County and $5 for those who do live within the county. Considering that this place is well maintained with clearly marked trails and that they partner with The Nature Conservancy, I think this is absolutely fair.
The first few photos were taken the day I posted this review, the last autumnal photos were taken in winter of 2022. Autumn and early winter are very popular to take photos of the colorful foliage in Ramsey Canyon. It's advised to come on a weekday because this time is so popular.
Maren Thompson — Google review
A huge shout out to Pete Leiterman for the hike up the canyon today. This has been the best hike of my trip since I left Michigan on 14Dec23.
Thanks again Pete and Michelle.
Kartchner Caverns State Park is a vast limestone cave system showcasing living rock formations. It has been in existence for over five million years but remained undiscovered until 1974. The location was kept secret for another 25 years to prepare it for public viewing. The park offers two equally impressive guided tours, each lasting about 90 minutes.
Visited 02/24/22 while kids were out of school for Rodeo break! Very fun and informative tour. The visitors center was very nice as well. They have a restaurant on site if you feel the need. Make reservations online because the tours fill up fast. Definitely worth the $money$ and roughly a 30 minute drive from Tucson. Enjoy!
Alex — Google review
I remember visiting here a very long time ago. The cavern is basically the same thanks to thoughtful preservation efforts 👌. The tour was lovely. We had a great tour guide. He shared his "cave humor" and he obviously has a great passion for the caverns. This is a DO NOT MISS when in the area. We'll worth that $20-ish ticket. You must make reservations and the tours fill up fast so vest to plan ahead for this adventure.
Kristi Rhinehart — Google review
Loved the tour. The caverns are a gem and should be a must see for arizona attractions. That they have kept the integrity of the caves and still made it wheelchair accessible is unbelievable. What a treasure.
Cindi Hickman — Google review
The caverns are absolutely stunning inside. They have incredible rock formations. They have Stalactites and stalagmites and columns and soda straw formations and more. The colors are beautiful too. Unfortunately, you can NOT take your cell phones in the caverns, so you can not take any pictures inside the caverns. The inside of the caverns is like being on another world or another planet. They have lockers that you can store your items in until after the tour. They also have a great museum with a lot of history and artifacts. There is a gift shop too. We were very glad we visited.
Sharon Doyle — Google review
Lovely gardens and paths around park.
We did the rotunda cavern. Rich, our guide was fun...the caverns were spectacular. One sees the glory of God in his work underneath.
Natalie Smith — Google review
Another beautiful Arizona State Parks. I recommend doing both cave tours, Rangers took their time, answering questions, and being very aware of how important it is to maintain these gorgeous caves.
I stayed in a cabin for 2 nights, it is very comfy, and has a refrigerator and microwave. It was chilly out, I stayed nice and warm in the cabin. Very clean cabin and adjoining restrooms across the road.
Deb Reinert — Google review
So amazing!! We were told at the entrance no more tours and went into the park and discovered the gate gal incorrect! You can get a tour by walking in. It is probably better to assure a tour if you book online. But they do have wonderful tours throughout the day. They stop the cave tours for the bat breeding. Reopening in October. It's all on line and explains all the different things to do there. It's worth every effort to see it. No cameras, phones, etc. Enjoy!!
Suzanne Peck — Google review
Arizona has wonderful state parks & campgrounds. We loved Kartchner Caverns State Park. We had a spacious site with full hook-ups and was located on the end - no neighbors on our door side! Site #11 is the best! We had mountain views. It was very quiet. Our site was clean and raked. Rangers were helpful and guided hikes were offered. There were a number of hiking trails which provided elevated views of the area. The caverns are worth seeing. We went on one of the tours offered. It was interesting!
Susan Schwaderer — Google review
Nice park with RV campground, Caverns and hiking trails. Beautiful views all around. The RV park is nice and clean , spots are paved with picnic tables and a fire pit. Only water and electricity no sewer connection. Beautiful view, quiet, Verizon and T mobile services are very weak. There is park WiFi.
Kaja SWIEB — Google review
This was my second visit and enjoyed it as much if not more than my first! Erika was a Phenomenal guide and enjoyed her job immensely. The tour was exciting to see you again with all the different formations in history of the park.
Marc Shoemaker — Google review
Went there for the hiking - great experience. All the trails are moderate difficulty with only a few spots where you have to work around some of the larger rocks. For the Guindani trail, it was recommended to go counterclockwise, you follow the wash and it starts off harder, but is very beautiful and then the second half is much easier.
Tristan Trevino — Google review
Camping at the campground is a delight for a few days. They provide a nice modern place to camp. Hookup includes water and electricity a picnic table, fire ring and paved driveway.
The visitors center has a good number of displays and extensive explanations of the caves. There is a movie about the history and discovery of the ancient caverns. Admission to the two caves is affordable and they are spectacular!
In addition there are a number of well marked hiking trails to explore and the park is close enough to Benson for fuel and anything else that you need.
Wayne McStrack — Google review
What an amazing adventure! Camping at the grounds was great. Water, electricity, a table and firepit are provided, and the space is pretty huge. Bathrooms are large and clean, with showers separate from the toilet stalls. There was fire wood in our firepit, which was a great surprise as we thought we needed to go out to buy some, but didn't have to. DO THE CAVE TOUR! Our tour guide, Cody, was amazing, funny and informative. We were only able to do the Rotunda-Throne Room, but will definitely come back to do the Big Room. The Visitor Center is a MUST, but also check out the Bat Cave Cafe (the tamales were surprisingly great) and Hummingbird Garden.
Yanira Chavez — Google review
Didn't go into the caverns but had a great time hiking the Ocotillo trail around the area. Trail was engaging and safe, weather was perfect! Definitely would recommend, day parking was $7 without the AZ State Park annual pass.
Verrinia Kennedy — Google review
I had a great experience exploring the cave with the $23 standard tour. The tour guide was funny and engaging. I was just disappointed we couldn’t take photos even with a cell phone and no flash. To take photos you needed a special $125 ticket for tours the third Saturday of each month.
Emery Emerson — Google review
Loved the tour of the Rotanda and Throne Room where kubla Khan is so much that we decided to stay another day and see the Big room which we were very glad we did. Our guide for the Big Room was a Ranger named Max and she was so knowledgeable and quite funny.
Cecilia Swetland — Google review
Very peaceful campground. Easy to walk trails, dog friendly. The water pressure was low, @ 30 psi, we filled our tank and used our onboard pump. Cell service was good enough to stream, T-Mobile hot spot and Verizon phones. Take the tours, they are well done. The visitors center has a short film and a museum. Staff are knowledgeable and helpful. We had a pull thru site with a 32 foot fifth wheel and had plenty of room. We will be back to enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Brian Abbott — Google review
This place is great. When you enter the tunnels you will go through multiple door systems to lock out the dry desert air.
These create a very cool feeling entering different parts of the underground areas. You will see blasted tunnels and the amazing natural cave system.
Highly recommend.
Matt Mensinger — Google review
What an amazing park! The care people take in preservation of the cave is really striking! The cave really is a magical place! The visitor’s center and museum are amazing and fun for kids! Junior ranger program is a bit challenging, but fun! We were not able to secure RV camp spot on their campground - RV road trip during Easter week. But we were able to stay on their ginormous overflow parking lot overnight ! 15$, no gates, pay station with envelopes or pay in am when rangers come in. The overflow parking lot is very big and you can find a secluded corner.
Cafe on premises is really minimal. Highly recommend visiting this park! Unfortunately no pictures allowed inside the cave.
Yekaterina Goryacheva — Google review
My husband and I took the Rotunda/Throne Room tour. The formations are absolutely spectacular!! We were in awe and totally enjoyed viewing the beautiful, amazing, and large number of different types of formations. I am a photography buff and would loved to have taken photos but of course we read the rules and knew ahead of time that photos are not allowed. Believe me, photos would not do Kartchner Caverns justice!! You have to see it with your own eyes. A special detail is that the caverns is entirely wheelchair accessible! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and shared many interesting details. We are from the East Coast originally and have seen Luray Caverns, which does not have the variety of formations that Kartchner has. I highly recommend that everyone experience this beautiful and magical place. Water is truly an amazing force of nature.
My boyfriend and I have been to a couple different ranches and trail rides in Tucson, but Double R Guest Ranch located only about an hour away in Benson, AZ is our absolute favorite by far. Beautiful scenery and well trained horses. Along with great friendly staff and very friendly dogs that greet you with cute faces in search of belly rubs. Ron the owner is awesome such a kind hearted person and understanding of others who are new to riding and very helpful to ensure their safety and the horses safety as well. We had a blast and will be visiting again.
Beware of the road though it is not fit for low cars.
Mercedes McDavid — Google review
Found my calling and soul again with beautiful people! This ranch is about horses, community, and your very soul, that came alive after this tremendous venture! Ron and Trina make a family of you while you are here and after! There are no words for the beautiful scenery, you have to experience it for you yourself! Horses are my love, yet, everything about these rides touches your soul! I stayed there and experienced 3 meals a day with lovely people, a soul bound for those who need one! I came on a whim, the history of not just Tombstone, but the calling of those who lived well before that!
Book your stay asap, if you are searching! The most incredible place on earth
Renee Cassidy — Google review
Still smiling from this wonderful experience! Beautiful, well cared-for horses on acres and acres of lush desert landscape. Fun trail ride, the walk was easy for beginners, but still interesting and relaxing for experienced riders… There were a few small hills that were fun to go up and down! The owner and his team regard safety as number one, and make the experience enjoyable as well, with their interesting conversation and fun jokes. The horses’ coats were absolutely glistening, and they were very well behaved. You could tell not only were they trained well, but they are loved. Riders are matched to their horse by energy- genius! It worked out beautifully. If you are using a Groupon, don’t forget to bring cash to tip per person on the regular price and remember to pay sales tax on top of that. It’s worth it!! We are going back 🤗
Jo Chapman — Google review
An absolutely wonder experience. Ron and his staff were wonderful, warm and friendly. Horses were well trained, and patient. The scenery is absolutely beautiful. If you are looking for a real, not commercial, horse riding experience, this ranch is what you are looking for. Friendly cowboys, friendly horses.
Elizabeth Z — Google review
We had a fantastic time with Double R Ranch! Ron and his staff are incredible hosts and guides!
I rode a majestic horse named Romeo, all the horses in our group were professionals.
I recommend Double R to anyone, 10/10 experience!
Brandon Loudermilk — Google review
This place was amazing. I do not normally write reviews even though I’m very adamant about reading them but this place deserves all the praise. They were kind hearted people with all intent to please their guests. The help was super kind and very knowledgeable. We went on the sunset ride with a great tour guide who led us into the beauty of Arizona. They seemed to pair us with all the right horses as well. I rode bright eyes, which is only six and she was definitely curious as to what the world had out there and loved to snack. I tried to take charge till she hypnotized me with those eyes and I couldn’t resist to just let her have a snack or two along the trail. Other than her love for snacks she was perfectly behaved and a pleasure to ride. On our return she gave me hugs and snuggles as I thanked her for giving me the joy of riding her. We came back to dinner which was fantastic with great company of fellow riders, the cook, and our lovely tour guide. I think that is the best apple pie I have ever had in my life. I would recommend this place to any of my friends and family and will definitely be back for more of their services. Thank you so much for a fabulous experience and thanks for having us on your beautiful piece of property, I can’t wait for my next trip out there!
Laura Zemaiduk — Google review
The whole experience was fantastic. The horses were all super well-behaved, and my siblings had a great time riding a horse for their first time! The ranch hands were super helpful and nice. Definitely tip them for their kind courteous service when you go! The animals are all well taken care of and just super sweet! The owner and his wife are also fantastic and we’re super nice and accommodating! My baby sister has diabetes, and they had no issues with her taking her snacks with her! They accommodated us every step of the way! Highly recommend this wonderful experience!
miranda sierra — Google review
A group of friends and I recently went, our first time riding on a horse staff were kind and explained how to ride the horse properly. We did the 90 minute ride and I must say it was worth it! All the staff were friendly and customer service was great! I highly recommend and we will definitely be coming back!
Alyssa R — Google review
We went to ride horses and found so much more. Family style (delicious) meals with the owners and wranglers, a cozy cottage, and a complete lack of light or noise pollution. Ron and Trina were attentive and engaging. We practiced our Spanish with Billy and our sarcasm with Pancho. They shared their passion for the animals, knowledge of the area, and love of ranch life. The riding didn’t disappoint with skilled guides, clear trails, and incredible views. They had a variety of beautiful, well trained horses to match all skill levels. We had an unplanned trip to Tombstone and some impromptu roping lessons to round out the trip. If you want a ranch vacation- this gem is not to be missed!
Emily Woodard — Google review
We had the most amazing time riding on the ranch for sunset! The horses looked very happy and healthy. The ranch is absolutely stunning. Incredible views in every direction. Our guides are so friendly and we had great conversation throughout our ride. I appreciated the tips and tricks on riding as it had been a while but I quickly gained my confidence with their guidance, and it made for such a beautiful, peaceful ride for my husbands birthday. Thank you so much for helping us making amazing memories and we will definitely be back!
Angelina Olvera — Google review
So happy to have found this place on airbnb. We ended up staying two nights and the cabin we were in was amazing. Has all the comforts of home. The water pressure was very weak and if you plan to do any cooking make sure you bring all the ingredients with you. Otherwise this ranch was very charming. Wish I could’ve done the sunset horseback ride. Next time!
Ashley Thomason — Google review
We had a delightful experience at the Double R Ranch on the day before Thanksgiving. We're from the East Coast (that's me, my wife, and our two adult children), so we had NO idea what to expect, only that the reviews were good and that we wanted to go for a horseback ride. It was all we could have asked for and more. I bought the sunset ride with dinner. The ranch hands were friendly and professional (two of them accompanied us on our hour+ ride along the Arizona trails). It was beautiful, austere, rugged, and right out of the old West! Ron (the owner) gave us some instruction before departure, and the whole thing was very straightforward. My steed (Max) knew the drill and performed like a Double R Ranch professional, as did the other mounts in my family's party.
As the sun set, we returned to the ranch for dinner. Family-style arrangement that we shared with another family who were there for extended lessons over a series of days. Great food and lively conversation as we supped and got to know one another . . . just like in the movies when strangers gathered in a western hotel for a meal.
The day was a great success, because as we drove home, EVERYONE was very pleased and content. There was talk of buying a ranch and riding horses. We were all energized!
Thanks to Ron and Trina and the rest of the staff. The family and I give the Double R Ranch our highest recommendation.
William Cromwell — Google review
I had such an amazing time at the Double R Guest Ranch. I stayed there for a weekend and wish I could have stayed for longer!
The staff were absolutely lovely, super accommodating and so helpful. They all really go out their way to make the guests feel welcome and comfortable. I really enjoyed the great home-cooked meals (including delicious desserts with every dinner!). The staff joined us for the meals, shared their knowledge and stories and were genuinely interested in the guests.
The horses are really well looked after, happy, well-trained and just beautiful.
The bunk house I stayed in was clean, cosy and comfortable. I loved waking up in the morning, stepping out of the cabin and seeing the horses right outside as the first thing.
Everyone at the ranch has a respectful and gentle approach to horsemanship and all the animals. Safety and wellbeing – both guests’ and the horses - is taken very seriously at the ranch. Ron’s intuition and wisdom for matching riders with the right horses is great. I loved the horse I was assigned, and did multiple different trail rides (my favorite being the three peaks ride and the sunset ride) during my stay. I also did a riding lesson with Trina because I wanted to know more about the Western riding style (I’m used to English). She is a great teacher and I loved her showing her how it’s done in style on her horse.
I’m an experienced rider myself, but I was pleased to see that at Double R Ranch even beginners were taken on breathtaking trailrides thanks to the good-natured and wise horses and the experienced staff. This is something that would be hard to find in my home country Finland and across Europe, where most decent trail rides require previous riding experience.
I highly recommend booking a ride or a longer stay here! From the moment you arrive at the ranch to the time you leave the place (most likely with a big smile and wonderful memories to take away with you) you’ll feel relaxed, respected, cared for and safe.
I really hope to return to the ranch for another holiday in the future. Thank you!
Laura Merz — Google review
I usually avoid writing reviews unless an experience stands out, be it exceptionally good or bad. This time, it was undeniably amazing. Each and every animal from the dogs to the horses are friendly and treated with compassion at the Double R Ranch. The owners, Ron and Trina, are not only kind but also enjoyable company, showing genuine interest in each guest. They go out of their way to ensure that you enjoy your time on the ranch and that all of your expectations are met.
Opting for the 5-day bunkhouse stay, I found cleanliness, comfort, and privacy amid breathtaking views of horses and mountains. The lack of internet in the bunkhouse, surprisingly, enhanced my goal of disconnecting from life's stresses and reconnecting with nature. It didn't disappoint.
The trails were both challenging and beautiful with several options to chose from. The staff will selectively pair you with a horse to match your experience and riding style. I observed them do this with several guests and was amazed at how well they matched each horse and rider. I really enjoyed getting to know my horse and appreciated his playful personality. I will warn that you might make a new friend if you show a little extra love between rides. Already missing my buddy, Max.
Meals, served family-style in the lodge, were a highlight. Everything was homemade and cooked with care. Despite my introverted nature, I eagerly anticipated dining with my newfound ranch family. Dinner, especially, fostered a sense of belonging, with laughter and love shared among everyone. It truly felt like finding family that I had lost along the way.
Jon Patterson — Google review
We visited a couple days before Christmas for the Ocotillo trail ride and had a blast! I have not had a ton of riding experience besides a few lessons and trail rides, and the trail was definitely a fun challenge, but I felt completely safe and relaxed the entire time. Max was a complete gentle giant and not once did I feel that I could not trust him or that I was unsafe. Our guide was also excellent, made great conversation with every single person on our ride, and gave plenty of helpful advice while on the trail. Will definitely be back again, and I absolutely recommend this ranch if you are in the area and want a unique way to view the scenery!
Shelby Leeder — Google review
My husband and i celebrated our two year anniversary on a sunset trail ride and it was amazing! Ron was great at accommodating me as i wanted to surprise my husband with his favorite horse! Trail was beautiful and horses were very happy and well taken care of! His trail lead was very attentive, funny and even stopped to take our photo for us! Loved everything about this ranch! Will definitely be back!
Erica Miller — Google review
Unforgettable weekend for me.
I was looking for a peaceful place, no stress, no pollution. It’s exactly what I got. I came here to recharge my batteries, mom of 3 kids I needed a weekend just for myself. The cabin was more than enough for me, not too much pressure in the shower but that didn’t bother me. I liked the all inclusive with all good meals prepared for us and shared with the owners. I got lucky and shared an unexpected dinner time with Katrinka and her family who played piano for us and we all sang together. It was “genial” (new French word for Ron). My husband got very jealous of the stars and Milky Way that I could enjoyed during the night. The rides were obviously very great. But my favorite was definitely the fast ride with Ron, my horse for the weekend named Catalina and 3 of the 8 dogs of the property. I could enjoyed fast runs during the ride and that will leave me unforgettable memories. Ron brought me and an other guest who stayed longer at the ranch, in tombstone which was unexpected and very appreciated after our 3 hours morning ride. Everything was great. I’m planning to come back and bring the whole family to enjoy more. Thank you Ron and Trina for this weekend ! I’ll come back for sure.
Big park offering tours of a cave with unique rock formations & a butterfly garden.
Beautiful cave with geological formations and seasonal wildlife. We did the basic cave tour, the guides were pleasant, informative and amusing. A few nice trails inside the park and a little cafe with snacks. The pretzel is huge! Nice gift shop as well. Fun place to explore with a friend or take the family in a day trip.
Scott Petersen — Google review
My family and i had such a great time exploring and learning the history of caves! Our tour guide Jaye was awesome! She has a great sense of humor and made sure everyone in our tour group got to be apart of the experience. She was “boulder” than most and “rocked” as a tour guide!! All the staff we encountered here were so kind and helpful! The prickly pear slushy was so good! I would recommend if you are visiting Tucson to check out the Colossal Cave!
Aundrea Lohman — Google review
Had a great time. Hidden treasure in AZ. I have lived in AZ my entire life, and I didn't know about this place. It has a great history, and our tour guide was hilarious and knowledgeable. Great for a day trip! The folks in the gift shop were able to move us to an earlier tour since we arrived an hour early. We were very grateful.
Dayna Fuller — Google review
Let's be honest first impressions you're going to a hole in the ground. Then you get there and it's a hole in the ground. The staff are more than pleasant and our guide was in a great mood until she lost a few people. No seriously she was a great tour guide and the trip took a little over an hour and you wouldn't even know. Really for a hole in the ground it is really cool and a great experience especially if you're going with kids. When we went there was very few people and the weather was great. There's no need to bring jackets or warm gear even in the winter due to the cave having it's own climate system and it being comfortable year-round. Definitely worth checking out.
William Jordan — Google review
Our guide, Adam, was great, as was the cave! We’ve been to a few caves in the western US, and they never fail to impress… this one included.
They offer deeper access for more skilled adventurers, though they require a test of your ability before letting you loose.
The history here is unique, and the tour was fun and memorable.
Ryan Shipp — Google review
The cave tour and park are so neat. There was a lot of great information provided in the tour. I learned a lot about the history, cave facts, and different formations. The tour guide we had, Everett, was hilarious. The jokes were fast and frequent. He was also highly informed, enthusiastic, and kind. This has been one of my favorite vacation experiences in a while, and I travel a lot.
Oh and you do not want to miss out on the prickly pear soft serve. It’s house made and delicious.
Jessica Stephens — Google review
Our tour guide was Arik, he was excellent, knowledgeable, and funny. He took the time to explain the ins and outs of the caves very well. The cave tour was not too difficult and was a very unique experience especially if you have not been underground before!
Arthur Carter — Google review
This is a great place for a quick day trip. I have never been here before today, and I am a Tucson native. It is for sure worth the trip. The gift shop was very nice and the employees were nice.
Our tour guide, Everett, was friendly and very knowledgeable. He made the visit very pleasant and informative. I look forward to visiting again!
Don't forget to visit the little cafe, everything was fresh, hot and delicious. I would recommend the colossal pretzel! We also had the chicken fingers and corn dog, which were also delicious!
Tadeo T — Google review
This was a really cool place! Super close to Tucson and definitely family friendly! This was my 1st cave as I normally am not a fan of tight spaces but it was honestly great. Not once did I feel scared or anxious. The staff are also super friendly! Adam was our guide and he had jokes but was also really good about reassuring uneasy guests and kids. I highly recommend! Its a nice way to spend the afternoon with going full on desert park mode.
Nicole Clymer — Google review
It was a nifty cave system; the 45 minute tour only scratched the surface of the whole cavernous system. Our cave guide, Adam, was superb. His voice projected well, informing us about the history of the cave, and he was genuinely a pleasant person. I highly recommend Adam as a tour guide. Keep up the wonderful work!
Jon Mes — Google review
This is now my favorite place, it has many wonderful hidden treasures. Thanks for taking great care of this beautiful rock guys!
Our tour guide was Avrik he's the best! He helped my 12yr old son overcome his fear of heights just by talking to him and he treated us with respect.
Jamie Salazar — Google review
If you are visiting Arizona this is a must stop!! This is my first time back to Colossal Cave since I was kid. The whole family took the Ladder Tour and our Tour Guide Everett was the best!!! The drive down was beautiful. It was very easy to find and had plenty of free parking. The nature trail was short and sweet and it had a gorgeous view. I highly recommend the Ladder Tour for children 12 and up. Everett made the tour so fun and had so much patience for our kids “million questions”. We learned so much and left feeling excited for our next trip back. Thank you Everett and the gift shop attendants for your kindness and help.
Saz C-Bennett — Google review
Decided to get out of the desert heat, literally, by going underground. My brother suggested this place to me to hit up while in the Tucson area. So, booked tickets online for a given time slot and head there for the tour of the caves. It was a nice diversion of the heat of the surface and some interesting formations in the caves. Our guide was a 17 year old girl who knew her history of the place well and gave us a nice narrated tour. I think her name was Jessica(?) We got a ice cream at the little outdoor cafe area near the entrance of the caves. So, all in all, nice visit. Oh, you do need to check in at the gift shop before you join the tour to let them know you have showed up for your time slot.
Mike Lee — Google review
This "Classic" cave tour, with 8-10 people, was led by Eric. The cave was tremendously interesting with tight enough passages and minimal lighting to lend a degree mystery, challenge and excitement. Walkways and stairways - constructed largely by the CCC in the 1930s - were easy and safe enough without being theme park "manicured." Eric was a most excellent guide. He was knowledgeable about the history of the cave's discovery, exploration and exploitation and its geology and formation. His presentation was done with humor, intelligence and enthusiasm. Great fun.
Peter A Poccia — Google review
Dalton, where do I even begin... I mean, I expected it to just be a normal fun time at a cave, but Dalton, oh but you just made it a hundred times better. Not to mention your STUNNING features and your AMAZING personality. The moment I saw you, I knew that this was going to be no normal experience. I mean, you made every part of it so interesting, I mean some things I would have never noticed if it wasn't for you. Dalton, you are the ONE and ONLY PERFECT tour guide.
But Adam...
SebMan E — Google review
I had a wonderful experience at the Colossal Cave Mountain Park, Classic Cave Tour. Our tour guide was Emilio, who was informative, chill, friendly, and chock full of dad jokes 😅!
It is so incredible what mother nature forms, and how in the right hands of humans, can be kept safe from harm. Beautiful views inside and out of the cave. I am definitely returning when I'm in the area once again to spend a whole day there. 🥰🥰
Note:
It is a bit warm in the cave, and we were informed that in the summer months, it can be extremely humid in there.
Clean restrooms are available. It is not out of the way to get to.
If you would like, you can tip your tour guide! I was a dummy, and didn't think to bring any cash to do so. Hopefully this review makes up for it this time!
P.S. Emilio says to mention how luscious his hair is so, EMILIO HAS LUSCIOUS HAIR! Haha!
Thank you again, good sir!
Amanda Wong — Google review
Wonderful tour guide he didn't go to fast and we brought our 80 year old grandpa<3. My 5 year old daughter got creeped out and he helped her and my husband exit the tour early as well definitely a stop worth making and it's not creepy at all. Very neat part of history.
Minnesota Gardener — Google review
My family and I visited Colossal Cave last week and it exceeded our expectations. We took the classic cave tour and had a great time.
Dalton was our guide and shared many interesting facts and stories as part of the cave tour. He was very personable and made the tour fun and interactive with the guests. We even saw a bat flying around inside!
I originally thought we would spend about an hour at the cave tour, but after it was done we spent a few more hours having lunch there, hiking around the nature trails, and checking out the gift shop.
The food was good and reasonably priced. Most of the food was fried and had a little wait due to the fryer capacity. If looking for a tasty snack I would recommend the Colossal pretzel and also the prickly pear soft serve ice cream!
The nature trail was very nice and not crowded at all. We enjoyed seeing the desert plants, especially the baby Saguaro cactus that we were trying to spot during our hike. It is so impressive how long it takes for the Saguaro cactus to reach full size after starting off so tiny and vulnerable on the desert floor.
I would highly recommend Colossal Cave to anyone looking for something interesting to do in Tuscon area. I definitely will plan on returning to take the ladder tour on our next visit to Tuscon.
Patrick Bowen — Google review
I loved the tour and I’m not an out doors type of person. My boyfriend is very adventurous and he enjoyed the tour as well and would like to try the other tours they have to offer! ADAM our tour guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about his job. Adam kept us engaged in the tour the whole time!
The ladies in the gift shop were lovely and caring and even helped me charge my phone! The lady at the food stand cafe was also all smiles and lovely and made suggestions on most popular meals. Try the prickly cactus ice cream and the colossal pretzel if you can.
This was one of the best trips my boyfriend and I had and the price is unbeatable ! Treat yourself to this trip! You will have fun and the people there are ALL awesome. Went Friday .
Ana Briones — Google review
Such a cool place to visit! Highly recommend. Our tour guide was great! I wish I could remember his name maybe Eric? Overall it was really fascinating and super cool to be able to go so deep into the cave. It took maybe 45-50 minutes once the tour started. Make sure you get there about 10 mins early!
Rebecca — Google review
Good-looking tour guide! Dalton was friendly, very knowledgeable about the cave system and has a great sense of humor. I would recommend the basic cave tour to anyone with smaller children. It’s a short but exciting little adventure with lots of fun facts for kiddos and adults alike. You learn a bit about the history and lots about the cave formations. I would love to go again for one of the more challenging tours.
Jessica Fazio — Google review
Our group of four enjoyed the ladder tour with our friendly guide Arike. While this cave tour was very mild with some climbing and a few tighter gaps, most will find this tour a great introduction to caving. Would highly recommend and hope you get Arike as your guide. Also, the prickly pear soft serve is a great way to celebrate this wonderful experience.
Hike Bike — Google review
What a fun adventure! Cute gift store and yummy treats available. Enjoyed the prickly pear soft serve. The tour was great, made even better by our guide Jay. You have to be able to do stairs, but otherwise, the cave is easy to navigate. Highly recommend if you’re in the area.
The Rincon Mountain Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Saguaro National Park. The center offers exhibits on the cacti, desert animals and the history of this amazing place. There are also restrooms and a gift shop.
Very nice people at the center. The video they show is well worth the watch before entering the park. We did the 8 mile loop road and stopped at various vistas. The road is curvy but beautifully maintained. Amazing views. Stopped at havalina rock to watch the sunset and walk around which was absolutely amazing. Then we wrote on the way to the end of the trail stopped in the last parking lot to observe the night sky and you can see all of Tucson lit up!
Valerie D — Google review
I am giving this five stars from previous visits. However, on my most recent visit, the exhibit inside the visitors center was blocked off, only the shop was open.
The staff was very friendly and there was a large selection of souvenirs and gift items. The view of the surrounding area was great and located just in front of the visitors center was a nice and short cactus garden.
Restrooms and water fountains are located outside, so you can access these even if the center is closed.
Michael Hillman — Google review
Small national park but worth the trip! It's beautiful with lots of short hikes available. The visitor center is small and the staff wasn't particularly friendly, but those huge cacti make up for any shortcomings. Make sure you're drinking lots of water while you're here
Deborah Mendoza — Google review
Any day you get to visit a National Park is a great day. This was my first visit to the East side of Saguaro National Park and it was so great. We did the Loop drive and stopped to hike a few trails in a loop. The gift shop of course had some great finds, including another magnet for my National Park magnet board!
Chrissie Osborne — Google review
The visitor center had exhibits, friendly staff, a nice gift shop, and clean restrooms. The park itself was amazing! There are many trails, from short and easy to long and difficult. An 8-mile paved road with many pullout loops through the park so you can get close to the giant saguaro and many other cacti. The scenery is breathtaking.
Steven Dugard — Google review
Very friendly staff! The staff was very helpful and kind—showing is the best things to do while we were here and talking to us about the various flowers, trees, and cacti that were in bloom. We thoroughly enjoyed the park.
Elizabeth Webb — Google review
Our family stopped here on the way back to Florida. My wife and I were here a few years ago, and we wanted our grandchildren to see it. It is well worth taking the eight mile slow drive through the park. We have nothing like this at home, the kids were amazed!
Jim Earp — Google review
Wonderful visitor center showing the history of the plants and wildlife in the area. We watched a great film over the park and they also have a very nice gift shop. Recommended.
Casey M — Google review
The visitor center was a bit busy due to the 3 day weekend. No matter. Those ladies were all over it with recommendations and enthusiasm. There was a 15% sale for the holiday and free entry to the road. That was awesome. The whole park was very well maintained and just great to wander through. There were various education walks and information offered as well.
Ninette — Google review
Amazing! I had never in my life seen such cacti in my entire life it was absolutely incredible sight. Miles of beautiful Trails, birds, and wildlife. A place I will definitely come back to.
J. Rose — Google review
We stopped at the visitor center to pick up a trail map and chat with the ranger about the best hike for our afternoon. They shared insider tips about where to stop, and steered us to the Cactus Loop and Lime Kiln trails which were excellent. This is the main stop to refill water and use restrooms. Our family collects national park magnets and we got a historic Saguaro poster print on sale. Do check out the colorful donor mosaic on the outside wall. It lists the wildlife and plants you'll see as you hike.
Barb Hauck-Mah (barbhmphilly) — Google review
Love this place. It’s so peaceful and beautiful and empty. I first visited 30 years ago and this place stuck with me. I’m so happy to have made it back.
Gary F — Google review
Always a great place to visit. If you like to bike it is a wonderful 8 mile loop that twists and turns.
Dwayne Hauck — Google review
A free visitor's center with great views of the mountains and saguaro cactus. 🏜
We were in a rush and were unable to drive through the park, unfortunately. 😔
However, we got to experience some of what the Saguaro National Park had to offer at the visitor's center. We also were able to buy some magnets and souvenirs at the visitor's center. The Park Rangers and staff were eager to help and very kind and knowledgeable. A beautiful experience. What a beautiful world we live in. Thank you, Jehovah GOD in Jesus Christ Name, Amen💚🙏💚
George Rodriguez — Google review
Saguaro is a unique national park and saguaro itself is a sight to watch. It was raining a lot the day we went so we could not hike much . But still the beauty of the park was really amazing ! The visitor center is located conveniently in the entrance. We did the loop road and a bit of the mica trail. Could have done more had it not rained. Our kids got their junior ranger badges. Totally worth a visit.
Sritama Chakraborty — Google review
Have been here a handful of times now and am awestruck each time. They just installed some new benches on some of the trails and I am grateful. There are several trails to choose from and a few are accessible to wheelchairs. There are numerous vistas and pullouts along the 8 mile mail loop. Whether here for an hour or a full day it doesn’t disappoint. This is the desert so bring sunscreens and water!
Darcy Kelley — Google review
Love the visit here at the Rincon Mountain visitor center. Staff and rangers were very knowledgeable and obviously love what they do. The park is absolutely beautiful! Lots of trails to explore!
Alex — Google review
The visitor center is small but has a lot of educational materials that describe the local vegetation and wildlife. There is also a gift shop. I highly recommend stopping in, especially if you have kids with you so they can learn and feel the various items.
Stacy Litchford — Google review
Wonderful spot at Mica Picnic area to walk with BoB stroller ADA friendly! One of my most favorite places on a nice day to get out and enjoy the beautiful Sonora desert scenery.
Arizona Zipline Adventures is a great place for team building activities. The 5 zipline stations offer a mix of peaceful scenery and adrenaline-pumping fun. The staff are friendly and make the experience memorable, encouraging guests to come up with silly names for themselves. Visitors can enjoy delicious food and even try their hand at panning for gold while taking in the beautiful surroundings. It's recommended to wear good shoes and bring some cash or card for souvenirs and treats.
WHAT A DAY!
You can really make a day out of it. We had lunch, which was fresh and delicious. The fries were so good and the ranch is homemade!! The guides were funny and helpful. Everyone was so kind. Wonderful experience. Worth the prices if that is your hold up!
Jessica Smith — Google review
WOW!! What an amazing place this is!! Valerie is the perfect shopkeeper and hostess. Daniel knows how to provide the maximum deliciousness to all the food!! Went above and beyond to make the perfect grilled cheese for my grandson. This may be a monthly vigil for us! Might even brave the zip line!!
Dakota Bleu Skyes — Google review
Had a great time zip lining. The bri’s were our zip lining guides and they were great! They made the experience even better. There was 5 zip lining and each one progressively a little faster. It was very fun. Everyone there was very friendly and the food was also very good.
abby leichtnam-fitting — Google review
We came here on a whim, to zipline for my husband’s birthday. We did make a reservation first. It was SO fun! The tour guides are very kind and fun people. The actual zip lining is exciting but also feels safe at the same time. We also chatted with the hostess a bit, and she is also lovely. The food was even great! I have nothing bad to say; we want to come back!
Miriam Frieden — Google review
We had so much fun here! We had a group of 8 people ranging from age 8- 77. It ended up pouring rain, but our zip line instructors, Taylor and Kyle were so fun and still made it a blast. I would love to go back again when it isn't raining and see the views that way, but regardless it was an experience to remember, and everyone was happy!
Stacey rugotska — Google review
Our family had an awesome time here. The scenery is great. The lines are fast and fun. The staff is amazing.
We highly recommend this adventure.
PS
Special thanks to our guides, Taylor and Brie, who made it a very very special excursion.
Jim Vahrenwald — Google review
Had such a great time today!! Loved how the ziplines started off slow and easy and progressed as you got to the 5th zipline. Taylor & Bri did such a great job at explaining the hand signals and made us all feel secure and safe the whole time. The complimentary water at the end of each zip was a great touch. Definitely will love to go again. If you're experiencing any doubts, DO IT!!!! :)
Sabrina Loureiro — Google review
Some ambiance shots to get a feel for the place. Hidden gem in Oracle, with great views of Mt. Lemmon and the surrounding valley. Come to zip, come for a great (huge) burger and the ambiance...
Christopher Jensen — Google review
It was an AwesomeExpetience!! The guides are very patient, professional and friendly. It's scary at the platform but once you step off it's wooohooo! Unforgetable Thrilling expetience. And the restaurant has great tasting food too. My group ordered hamburgers, chicken strips, Grilled cheese and fries, All were great.
Call to make Reservation.
Griselda Vidrio — Google review
We got so lucky to have Jewels and Annabri as our zip line guides!!! Both were fun but safe and professional. There were a few of us a little nervous and they made it all feel safe. The zip line course was fun and the surrounding mountains were stunning. The entire staff was extremely welcoming and kind. I would not question recommending Arizona Zip Line Adventures.
Stephanie Reed — Google review
Taylor & Jo are a great team together. They made it a fun morning. Thank you ladies ♥ I was the odd person at the final zip line so it was Jo & I for the race to the bottom. I beat you Jo ☺ I did something wrong at the bottom and they had to reel me in Like A Fish <º((< so sorry BUT I had a lot of FUN ♪
Mike Trout — Google review
There was a total of 5 of us. My brother and nephew were visiting from out of state and had gone the day before and told us how much fun they had. We all went together the next day!! Wow it was absolutely incredible!! Taylor and Bri are amazing instructors and added so much fun to the adventure we had yesterday. Thank you so much for these core memories. We plan to go again..and again..and again
Anna Rodriguez — Google review
Good fun experience.
The food 10/10
The staff was super helpful, kind an all-around happy/fun.
Jenny McCartney — Google review
Great fun! We have only been zip lining one other time but the two young girls leading our group did an excellent job. They kept us safe but also engaged. I would do this again.
David Oberlander — Google review
Want to get out of your comfort zone? Young or old Arizona zip lines is a breathtaking experience just a short drive away from Tucson. The staff knows their stuff and have a redundance of safety measures to ensure that everyone goes home safe, with a sense of accomplishment, thrill and adventure. Check ‘em out these guys ROCK!
Dan Crosby — Google review
This was such a fun activity! Jaz and Chris were our instructors and they were very informative. They made everyone feel very comfortable and goofed around with us the whole time. The zip lines got progressively faster and more intense each time. This made for an exciting and exhilarating experience.
Tara Werton — Google review
Great place for your company to send coworkers for Team Building. My coworkers and I enjoyed every thing ZipLine Adventures offered. Beautiful day with peaceful scenery and adrenaline as we zipped down all 5 stations. Food was killer and the staff were so kind and fun to spend the afternoon with.
EXPECT TO COME UP WITH SOME SILLY NAMES!!
TURQUOISE CHAMELEON
WHITE BUFFALO
GREEN FALCON
BLACK GECKO
Staff make your experience fun and memorable. Wear good shoes and bring some cash or card for the goodies and amazing food. Pan for some gold while tour here and get those awesome pictures.
Will bring my Daughter next time so she can see and experience what the outdoors has to offer!
Chuck's Stuff — Google review
My Mom and I did the sunset zipline tour this evening and I honestly can’t find the words to describe how amazing this adventure was. Our guides Chris and Bry were fantastic. They were so fun and made us feel very safe. They timed our tour perfectly so that by the time we reached the last and largest zipline, the sun was setting, the full moon was rising, and the hills/mountains around us were turning the most gorgeous shade of pink. I feel so lucky and grateful to have gotten to experience this. Thank you for helping to make my Mom’s birthday extra special!
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area is a beautiful desert canyon located northeast of Tucson. The park offers hiking trails and shuttle bus rides that make it easy to explore the area without having to hike into the mountains.
We took the trolley up and enjoyed the scenery and the information in the tour. We especially appreciated the strictly enforced mask wearing as we have frail family members at home to protect.
Half our group hiked the ridge back down and the rest of us rode back one stop then walked the rest of the way.
We had a wheelchair with us and the road was manageable for able bodied people to push it. There were some pretty good uphill sections so we got a great workout.
The scenery was so beautiful! We stopped at most of the creek crossings and our chair user was able to get out and walk around a bit. We were a as all SO happy to find somewhere to safely be outside together.
Lyric Montgomery Kinard — Google review
We took the tram because my wife doesn't like to hike. I'm planning to return next weekend alone for sure.
What an interesting and stunningly beautiful experience! The no extra charge headsets with access to a very good recorded narrative helped understand what we were seeing as we followed a good sized, fast running stream that can/does become a raging river during the rainy season. The guide said the monsoon season is spectacular! Be sure to bring your camera. It's a huge stunningly gorgeous canyon; the river is very, very beautiful and the canyon walls are nature at its very finest!
The tram was open air and quite comfortable, with roomy seats, easy on and off. Our driver and tour guide was both very friendly and informative during the about a half hour ride up the canyon and back down. There are nine pickup and drop off points. Most of these are points of particular beauty as well as departure points for short and longer hikes. I noted individual picnic tables tucked away in many attractive settings all along the tramway as well as restrooms at most stops.
The daily park entry fee, per car, is 8 bucks (might be 6 bucks. I paid by credit card and wasn't attentive). The all-day tramway fee is 15 dollars per person. Purchase can be done online or at credit card machines near the launch point. A ticket provides tram access at either end or at any of 9 stops, all day on the day of purchase.
Rodger Beard — Google review
Sabino Canyon is a hikers paradise offering trails at every level. For the less athletic, a bus service is a great alternative that hikers can jump on and off during the one hour tour of the canyon.
The canyon bus is windowless (weather permitting) and allows for amazing views of this incredible natural scenery.
This is definitely a “don’t miss” visit just an hour from Central Tucson.
Do it!
Ian McFall — Google review
Absolutely beautiful park. It was crowded due to New Years Day visitors. However, there are enough trails and space for everyone to e joy their little slice of heaven. My partner and I enjoyed every moment of our 1.75-mile hike in the canyons. The experience was unforgettable, and we would definitely come back here to explore the other trails and walk further up the mountain next trip to Tucson. Parts of the hike were steep, and several areas were not well marked, but my partner is a good navigator, so we were able to find our way around. The wash was beautiful, and there were children playing in the water, which was a lovely sound.
A Jones — Google review
Just WOW!! What an incredible experience ... such a beautiful place!! Took the tram ride into the canyon @ $15/person, then walked back (less than 3 miles back). Seats on the OUTSIDE of tram provides the best visual. Great water flowing down from canyon and over a few of the bridges. So beautiful!! Can't wait to go again next year!! Beautiful desert flowers in the spring!!
Louann Cunningham — Google review
pretty place to hike in Northeast Tucson. Lots of trails, days worth of hiking. Family and pet friendly, and sometimes there is even water. Somewhere in the park is an incredible crested Saguaro. I havent found it yet, but I will. Only hiked the place once.
Bronson Allen — Google review
Very busy on a Friday with beautiful weather! Ended up in overflow parking, which is quite a distance from the visitor center. Though, they did have someone posted there that was ready to help you read the map and pick a trail based on your ability. We ended up visiting the dam and then took the road further down to hike a couple of trail portions (esperero and rattlesnake) to make our way back to overflow parking and we really enjoyed the hike and views! We also ran into a roadrunner, very cool!
Robin Gauvin — Google review
We were being spontaneous when we headed for Sabino Canyon, and so we didn't know about the requirement of buying shuttle tickets ahead, but we enjoyed a hike that one of the rangers directed us to take that was right from the visitor's center parking lot. We saw a beautiful rock dam waterfall and lots of desert terrain. We hope to go back when we can actually go into the canyon.
Linda Radford — Google review
Did a very quick afternoon visit to the dam area to check out the water flow from the monsoons. The trail is pretty easy and a wonderful place to wander around for beautiful desert vistas (still quite hot though so be prepared!!). Thrilled with how green the desert looks after all the rain. The views of the mountains were stunning in the afternoon light and some of the cacti are flowering. The pops of color are always such a treat!
Katrina Kadyszewski — Google review
Trail#27 Telephone Line. We started hiking at 0700 on March 12, 2023. The weather was perfect and the trail was not busy. Flowers are just starting to bloom and the view was beautiful. We walked back on the pavement and crossed about 9-10 over flowing bridges. Total distance was about 10 miles.
Som Soukhome — Google review
Sabino Canyon is a must stop! We took the tram up to the top. They don't stop on the way up. They stop at the last stop, and you have about 5 minutes to take pictures. You can get back on the tram or walk down. You can get on the tram at any stop on the way down if they have room. They have multiple restrooms, and you can fill your water, but not at many stops, so plan accordingly! We walked back, which was over 3 miles. Stop 8 was our favorite. There's lots of flat rocks and water to dip your feet in. It is a perfect place to rest and have a snack. The views are so beautiful. We also stopped at the information desk before we left, and they were very helpful with information about Mt Lemmon. Steve helped us and gave the best advice. Highly recommend!
Rachel — Google review
This is one of my favorite places because it's a quick and easy way to get out in nature. However, on my last trip, the tram broke down and all the passengers had to walk until we got to a stop for an emergency tram to pick us up. The walk was no big deal for me, but the emergency tram was a crowded, tiny bus and offered no view of the mountains on the way out. I felt like we should have been offered a refund or free ride or something.
Also, I always enjoy leaving flowers at the End of Watch memorial for my great great uncle. I am disappointed that they removed his story from the tour guide's script.
Susan Claire Mace — Google review
Always a lovely place to take a morning or evening walk. Lots of nature. Photo opportunities of the flora & fauna are abounding.
Take the tram and get off at various points to explore. Nice place to learn about the desert southwest.
Andrew — Google review
Whether you are visiting or living in Tucson area , Sabino Canyon is a Must go to. A very lovely place for hiking, going for a short walk or cycling. The scenery will make you speechless. It's paved so it's Handicap accessible. You can buy the bus ticket and take a tour or use the bus if you are tired of walking from any of the bus stops along the hike. There are several rest areas .
One of my top favorites to go , definitely worth the drive
Zina Ibrahim — Google review
Apparently, this trail is a success story of a failed government project. This would explain a double lane paved portion of the trail going to the canyon.
I suggest you arrive early, like really early. Even in the off season the parking lot gets filled up fast.
Another suggestion - take a side trail that runs alongside the paved portion. You will be rewarded with a quiet and more intimate experience with nature, observing deer, rabbits, roadrunners, quail and many other animals that otherwise stay unnoticed.
Also check out the weather patterns to know what to expect for the time of the year you are going to be visiting.
Roman Kultajev — Google review
Great experience hiking around Sabino Canyon today. Amazing views. Started up Phoneline trail, then came back down Creek Trail. Took around 3 hours hiking over 5 miles through the mountain. It's definitely the most popular hiking area we've visited, due to so many trails available. If you love the desert, this was a great moderate hike
Alan Bielefeldt — Google review
Love the canyon! Over and over again. It's a little different each time you go. This trip was Bear Canyon tram and short hike to the dam. The trip is way shorter than up Sabino Canyon which we really enjoy, too.
Vicki Emanuel — Google review
Simply mind blowing. Came in early to ride the bike on the main path (you can only do that before 9 am) then did one of many trails available. Stunning views and changing landscapes seemingly around every corner. Go early and you will have much of it to yourself
Simon Proekt — Google review
This is such a beautiful recreational area and is kept very clean by their awesome and helpful staff. This part of the Sabina Canyon also offers a 3.7 mile, about 1.5 hours long, tram ride which makes nine stops for other hikers to get on and off! All in all, this area is quite popular for all ages, so expect a crowd! :)
Taylor Roberts — Google review
We love Sabino canyon! Visit every time we are in town. There are dozens of trails in the area and it changes all the time. You have an option to buy a tram ticket to take you up canyon and walk back, walk the road or take a trail. This visit the amount of water in the stream was very high, over some of the bridges. That was a novel experience.
S Mullikin — Google review
Lovely day and ride. Bring water as there were no water stations from halfway down until you get back to the visitor center. You will get thirsty even though it's all downhill.
daedolos — Google review
Nice area for a short or long hike..you choose. There is a parking fee or the National Park pass will get you in for free. There is a shuttle that charges a fee per person that goes throughout the park.
Rich Field — Google review
One of the coolest things we did in Tucson! When we arrived parking was easy and cost $8 for the day which can be done at a self serve kiosk. We then did a short hike and decided to take the tram up the canyon because we have little kids, and I’m so happy we did. It’s 1 hour round trip and you can hop on or off at any stop if you want. $15 per person and kids under 3 are free. I feel like we really got to see the landscape and all the cactus looming over the sides of cliffs was spectacular. I highly recommend this ride and park!
Dakota Jay — Google review
Lovely! No vehicles allowed. People hiking or riding the $15 tram with headphone. We went in March when the rains were still coming so there was water in the streams.
Valerie Ducos — Google review
Gorgeous park with approachable trails for all skill levels. We spent 3 hours hiking and could have easily done more. I highly recommend!
The Pima Air & Space Museum is a large aviation and aerospace museum with over 400 historic aircraft on display. The largest privately funded aviation and aerospace museum in the world, it has six hangars and three dedicated to World War II.
This was my second time after a 15 year gap and not have they added a lot of aircraft! So much to see and explore. We spent five hours here and enjoyed every minute. The outside static displays cover 80 acres so we opted to see it on a hide tree for the extra $8, well worth it. It can be walked as well.
Marc Shoemaker — Google review
If you're a local then you definitely know about this place. If you're from out of town or a visitor then you wanna see this place. We'll worth it. Be prepared to spend at least 3-4 hours checking this place out. But also be prepared for the heat and the weather. Take water, hat and sunscreen. Some people can walk around the grounds. But you can also take the tram. We took the tram and saved the walking. The tram is roughly 45 minutes. But has a lot of information about the jets, planes and other machinery that is also there. Definitely worth the visit.
Side note: the food at the snack bar is decent. Don't expect restaurant style food it's a snack bar. Quick food, soft drinks, water and a cool place to sit and relax out of the heat. Enjoy.
Robert Herrera — Google review
Been going here for over 25 years. This place is history. If your into aircraft you have to visit. Make sure you visit all the hangers. And have your phone battery fully charged, you will be taking lots of photos. And have lunch at their cafeteria, it has evolved over the years from a little tin shack to today's modern layout. The burgers are terrific, with kid food available. Standard Covid rules apply. Stop by today!
Charlie Bouschor — Google review
Amazing museum ,lovely staff very friendly. Absolutely massive so allow plenty of time if u decide to walk not have tour. We walked much better experience. Live air base near so may get chance to see fighters etc take off like we did.
Plenty to see toilets and drink vending machines dotted around.
Ben Watton — Google review
This is a great Air and Space Museum. It is HUGE. There are 5 huge hangars filled with planes and items related to flight. There is a lot of historical information. There are painted portraits of famous people, as well as historical photographs. There are several hundred planes outdoors as well. We spent only 3 hours there, but you could actually spend days there. There is a gift shop too. We enjoyed our visit.
Sharon Doyle — Google review
Fantastic museum for anyone who enjoys aviation or military aircraft. Every well put together with inside and outside exhibits.
Individual buildings highlight the museum with restored examples of most popular military aircraft. Along with great storytelling with smaller exhibits
The outside exhibits show a great variety of aircraft that you can't see elsewhere. Wear your walking shoes as the outside exhibits are extensive and will take a fair bit of walking to see everything. One huge plus is that you can walk right up to and under each aircraft allowing a closer than normal view of each aircraft.
Overall a fantastic museum for $20, my only regret is not going sooner as I only had a few hours to walk around before closing and it was not enough time to fully appreciate everything.
Michael Frawley — Google review
A very large section of Airplanes from the WW 2 time period. Anyone who is interested in the air force of the USA will enjoy their time at this Museum. I went to tour the Pima facility and was very impressed with the layout. Lots of great information posted everywhere about all the different models of Airplanes and Jets. This is a must see Museum for everyone at least once in your lifetime. I was planning a one day trip but ended up getting a 2 day pass. I totally enjoyed the time. Check them out sometime soon.
Neil Mack — Google review
What a wonderful air and space museum! This museum truly has a plethora of aircraft types and they all look great! The tram ride is truly worth it because the conductor makes frequent stops and shows highlights of the planes in the yard. My favorites were the helicopters and the GUPPY! INSIDE the museum buildings are organized displays of aircraft from different eras. Every building is absolutely immaculate and has great signage. Multiple restrooms abound, too , so you don't have to worry about that. The gift shop has some sweet merchandise, both for kids and adults. This museum is massive and worth going multiple times. They are working on a new military transportation area, so that will be good to see next time.
Cindy Rhodes — Google review
Growing up a Army brat then serving has given me an even greater admiration for our Armed services. Being a massive fan of science and all things aerospace, taking my children to this museum was fantastic. The rich history from 1st US motorized flight, female astronauts, to some of my favorite models I built as a kid in real life size. I feel that the experience is magnified when you are there with your children or grandchildren and could tell them about your own personal experiences with the A10, or the time I was on a sub.
We may have gone on our own and enjoyed it very much, I can't imagine what a guided tour would have been like, but I would recommend a trip to this museum 😀 🛸🛫🚢
Plenty of parking, super clean restrooms, indoor and outdoor attractions.
Ry Bajanconcepts (bajanconcepts) — Google review
Great exhibits with lots of interesting facts about each one. We had a group event in the evening and it was very well attended and all I spoke with really enjoyed it. We weren’t able to go out back and see the airplanes but it would have been cool to have a spotlight out there to see more than shapes and shadows in the dark. Would recommend!
John Thompson — Google review
This is an amazing museum, there is so much variety in the aircraft on display, really great. I have a preference for fairly modern fighter jets and large helicopters and included some photos of my favorites. There is so much to see, it feels a bit overwhelming, but in a good way! I enjoyed the tour of the outside areas via guided group tour, but I still walked around myself a bit to see some closely. I was lucky to hear a personal account from a WWII veteran which was really memorable and neat, he seemed to have his speech very well practiced. The replica plane he was sitting by was also really cool.
Jon Rodriguez — Google review
Worth every penny! We went to look at all the planes (over 300) outside and inside. The scale of these planes and being able to see it up close was amazing to see!
I recommend you stay for 3-4 hours, there are just so many planes to see and explore.
Tatianna Landry — Google review
Absolutely phenomenal museum! This place is massive! So many air vehicles! I could easily have spent at least 2 days here. Placards are very informative and give some history on the aircraft! Good mix of outdoor and indoor exhibits! The amount of aircraft outside was astounding and I easily spent 3 hours alone wandering around the planes on display outdoors. Bathrooms were easy to find and reasonably spaced around the facility. Even if this place was busy it would still be enjoyable due to its size! I was able to see everything I wanted to see in 5-6 hours but if you want to see everything I would definitely recommend doing the 2 day pass. Highly recommend!
Hayden Sofie — Google review
FUN & EDUCATIONAL! GREAT WORKOUT!
This place is massive! I was told there is a combined 80 acres of indoor and outdoor space dedicated to aircrafts and more. You see everything from helicopters, jets, single prop planes, medical transports, presidential planes, cargo planes, old military jeeps, memorabilia, insignia and tons more.
There is a restaurant on site, plenty of opportunities for the restroom, tons of free water fountains scattered about, and even more seating in the form of benches, chairs, and picnic tables. I get the feeling the staff understand the amount of energy and time it takes to ingest all the information and view all the sites this museum has to offer.
PRICE: The $18 charge (circa early 2022) came to be well worth it. I was there for over 3 hours and know I could have been there much longer if I was to read all the rhetoric available.
FYI: They close early in the summer. My guess, it is way too hot and they probably have too many people experiencing heat stroke.
SUGGESTIONS: (1) Arrive early (2) purchase the tram if you can afford it (3) save the entrance Hanger 1 for last because it is the last to close (4) come hydrated (5) Skip your gym routine the day of (6) Wear comfortable shoes (7) wear layered clothing as you will be indoor and outdoor and find yourself getting hot and cold.
*Check out the map in my images
surgioramon — Google review
Great place to take the kids of all ages if you love anything to do with aviation! There are dozens and dozens of different types of planes and helicopters within the bounds of this museum. There is an inside museum that could take you all day if you wished, there is an air park to walk around in outside and they give guided tours to the bone yard across the street in a comfortable air conditioned bus with a great tour! Definitely worth the trip to keep these types of local museums alive!
Kay W — Google review
I can't speak highly enough about this place. It's on the pricier side, around 20 bucks a person, but it's simply stunning. Countless incredible aircraft with stories and information; I could spend days here. The trolley tour is WORTH THE 8 BUCKS. The tour guides know their stuff and you learn a ton of stuff you would never guess.
It really is just a quality establishment.
Benson Lee — Google review
Great facility with a great collection of planes. They have multiple buildings with planes inside along with a vast amount of planes outside. There are a lot of unique planes to see. Give yourself ample time to tour the whole facility, at least 3-4 hours.
Michael Castaldi — Google review
Pros: huge, lots of planes, rare planes, nice gift shop, decent restaurant, excellent museum even if you aren't an aviation geek
Cons: space section is smaller than I thought it would be.
If you like airplanes they have the airplanes. I'm more of a space person, and even I really enjoyed the rest of the museum. They have a small section dedicated to space flight where you can see one of the Gemini capsules and a mock Mars rover. Outside they have one of the Super Guppies that used to carry oversized bits for NASA such as a complete 3rd stage of a Saturn V rocket--hard to believe one of these behemoths is still in use today! They have various types of engines on display, airplanes through the ages, record setting aircraft (like the tiniest ever successfully flown), a wedding dress made out of a parachute (yes, it was actually used), some unusual Japanese planes. Just A LOT of really interesting stuff, not all of which are planes.
Plan to spent an entire day here, which probably means taking a break to eat at the Flight Grill (the food actually does taste good, its just expensive--you're paying for convenience).
Catsur na — Google review
What an amazing experience! I had the privilege of going through the museum with a retired aviation mechanic from the Chilean Air Force and he has spent his life in aviation and the stories he could tell of the experiences he had had with many of these aircraft types was amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing these historic aircraft and learning more about them.
Dewey Levie — Google review
Amazing collection of historical aircraft.
I have driven by the museum multiple times and finally had the opportunity to stop. I have been to many air and space museums worldwide wide, the Pima Air and Space Museum is definitely one of the best collections I have had the privilege to visit. This museum showcases aircraft and memorabilia from all areas and time frames of air and space history. The displays and representative aircraft are well maintained and organized in such a way to enhance the experience of your visit. I will definitely return and recommend this museum. I believe you could spend multiple days in this museum and still not see everything it has to offer. It was a great experience.
Ken Weber — Google review
A wonderful collection of aircraft and history for guests of all ages. I have been coming here since the 90s and am always impressed. Recent additions have made the museum very kid friendly. If you're in Tucson and love aviation history, this is a must-see!
Alec Kozak — Google review
We went here on a weekend afternoon. It’s easy to get to. There’s plenty of parking available. We both found this museum really interesting. It has a lot of airplanes and space craft on display. It literally covers almost everything from the first flight to the space shuttle and satellites. There’s unique airplanes, like the smallest airplane to the largest. There’s military airplanes covering planes used in World War II to Afghanistan. There’s planes from several European countries as well as the United States. They have 2 of the planes used by United States Presidents…Air Force One (including the one that was used by JFK). There are planes on display in a large indoor building as well as many more outside. They offer a guided tour of the outside planes. This is done via a motorized cart towing the seating trailers. I highly recommend taking the tour… I doubt that you can get the same information that they tell you on the tour. There’s water for sale, which you can have with you in the museum but sodas etc are not allowed. This museum is truly covers the history of flight. Highly recommend.
Bradley Tatro — Google review
It's where planes go to die.
Seriously, it's actually a fascinating place packed with all sorts of aircraft spanning modern history.
The collection is eclectic, so it keeps your interest over the several hours you'll need to see everything.
The site is huge with hangers and outside display areas, but it's all easily accessible. There's even a short tram tour available.
A great way to spend the day if you fancy something different.
Michael Lees — Google review
Everything about this museum is 10/10. Beware, if you are planning to visit, then plan to be here longer than expected! There is so much more than meets the eye, and you might just find yourself in Snoopy's happy place...wildly imagining the sounds and sites of the Red Baron flying around freely and mastering the sky. My 3-year-old grandson loved, loved, loved it, and was completely enthralled the entire day! We are so glad we spent the day at this museum. We visited previously during the summer months and loved it but returned in the cooler months to really enjoy the outside components more.
Matt Tanquary — Google review
My wife and I had a great time at the museum, so much to take in. The vets that give of their time to answer questions of guests is fantastic. We ran into one vet that had an amazing sense of humor and we spent a lot of time with him. The fixed wing and rotary collection of aircraft is impressive. They have so much to look at and get right up to and touch. I highly recommend you visit the Pima Air & Space Museum. Best time to go in my opinion is between late October to end of February. Bring a jacket as it does get windy and cool outside when you’re on the tarmac/apron.
Rob G. — Google review
Amazing museum. I spent almost 5 hours touring and I didn't see everything. I would recommend the Tram tour also, very worth the $8. There are planes from the military, private, and international planes. The snack bar has many options. Interesting interactive exhibits. I took lots of pictures.
tina G — Google review
Amazing Museum. Been to many. B-17 exhibit is a must. Seen some aircraft I have not seen elsewhere. Got there an 1 1/2 hours after opening...got busier around noon. Thoroughly enjoyed the visit. Go and let the geek out on aircraft. Highly recommended.
Robert Mabrey — Google review
Went here on a whim from a friend's suggestion, and I was floored. This place is huge! If you are not a history buff, you might be after a visit here. From the Wright Brothers to the 707, and everything in between. Great place to bring kids and even pets. You can walk the hangars and grounds or take a guided tour with a little history behind some of the aircraft. It was worth a trip, and definitely worth admission.
Mt Lemmon is a majestic mountain located in the Tucson area, reaching an impressive height of 9,159 feet. It offers a diverse landscape and breathtaking scenery, distinct from what can be found in Tucson. As one ascends further up the mountain, they will encounter trees and mountains, making it an ideal destination for hiking and camping during summertime as well as alpine sports during wintertime.
Incredibly beautiful! I drove up the mountain to see the sunrise multiple times (near Windy Point Vista). The shapes of the rocks are gorgeous and inspiring!
Shiang Tang — Google review
Love that you are just a little over an hour away, perfect 1 day getaway. We stopped and played in the snow and had a ride on the ski lifts. More snow was expected for today, so thinking they will be open for skiers this weekend. We also enjoy stopping in Summerhaven for a snack before heading down the mountain. The views are beautiful.
Jeanine Leary — Google review
Lovely views from the mountain top. The forest is refreshing and a great place to take a hike when it isn’t too hot.
Layla Todd — Google review
Great senic drive with lodging, restaurants, and activities like riding the ski lift. Control road great for 4x4's and site seeing!
Dan — Google review
Beautiful drive up into the mountains. Scenery changes from desert to pine topped mountains. We encountered snow on the sides of the road near the top with many scenic pulloffs along the way. The are also some wonderful waterfalls along the way.
Rich Field — Google review
Picturesque Old West Americana at its finest! This was an incredible place to visit, and has an enriching topography that compels one to truly stand in awe of nature. Breathtaking and beautiful, this was a trip much enjoyed and a must if you’re in the Tucson area. Highly recommended!
Luke Daniel — Google review
Great view and nice road to drive to the peak. We will have to walk 2-3 miles from the peak parking lot. It will be colder and windy that you will expect. Bring some jackets and blankets with you. You will see the whole town with downview and the clouds will be upon your arms.
Dongwon Shin — Google review
You cross about 5 different eco-regions on this drive, not to mention some fantastic views of the Tucson valley. You go from arid desert to subalpine up at the ski valley, and it's amazing as you cross the regions driving this byway. The Arizona trail crosses in this area as well and there are tons of day use, hiking trails, and camping areas here as well.
Lady Margaret — Google review
Love the views during our trip up the mountain. My husband couldn't believe the trip with all the twists and turns. We visited the general store for the fudge and souvenirs. Then we went to the restaurant for a fabulous lunch. Just make sure that you dress appropriately for the temperature change.
Darlene Boomer — Google review
Mount Lemmon is a must visit if you’re in the Tucson area. It’s a dramatically different landscape and scenery than what’s found in Tucson. The further you go up Mount Lemmon there are lots of trees, mountains, as well as a place to ski. It is a great place to visit if you enjoy bike riding, but it’s a very steep climb. There are numerous places to pull over to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. I highly recommend visit in Mount Lemmon.
Derrick Grant — Google review
Very Majestic Mountain! Beautiful drive and very scenic! I went multiple time. Try the Ski ride while you up there and don’t miss out breakfast in Iron Door. They open breakfast at 9am on Saturdays and Sundays.
Revathi Ramula (Rev) — Google review
It's definitely worth the trip up the mountain. Lots to see. Highly recommend. I had to walk up from the ski area since the road was closed to traffic. Once at the top, there are a few sets of radio towers. I recommend heading up to the upper one. There is a rock outcrop behind it with a spectacular view of the valley below.
john rubis — Google review
Green forested mountain. It is really clean and offers great viewpoints and hiking trails. The lake is also good for fishing.
Noah L — Google review
A nice, short escape from the heat and hustle and bustle of town. Beautiful scenery and a few places to grab some good food. We bring the kids here whenever we're in town to get some cool, fresh air. Views from the top via the ski lift are pretty great.
Brian Jolley — Google review
Gorgeous drive and views. Better have good breaks. Went thru three climates with a ski resort at the top. Lots of snow. Have a cookie
Valerie D — Google review
Mount Lemmon
Tucson, Arizona
This is a fantastic drive that will take you to an elevation of over 8000 feet. Along the way you'll pass tons of hoodoos. I was actually able to climb one and hang out for a while. There was hardly anyone else up there.
At the top, you'll reach a small town called Summerhaven. However, when I went there was almost nothing open. I'm really surprised that this isn't more popular. Highly recommended.
Jef Henninger — Google review
Mount Lemmon is an absolute showstopper right now with its breathtaking Autumn colors. If you're up for a scenic treat, this is the place to be! Don't miss out on this lovely natural spectacle!
Joshua Radosavlevici — Google review
HIGHLY RECOMMEND**
In moderate traffic, the scenic 27-mile drive up Mt Lemmon took about 1.5 hours at 230p on Thanksgiving Day. Of course, it can take longer if you make stops along the way. I enjoyed the calmness of the drive up to the top and in to Summerhaven (tourist and residential area). The area offers: so much:
Breathtaking vistas
Beautiful rock formations
Various trees & wildflowers
Wildlife (turkeys) viewing
Overnight Camping
Picnics
Hiking
Fishing
Skiing
Steward observatory (Mt Lemmon SkyCenter); reservation only for science programs
Mt Lemmon Hotel (cute cabins)
SummerHaven
Please mind the posted speed because there was law enforcement along the route.
Demetris — Google review
A well traveled, but well loved mountain pass that reminds me of Wyoming and Montana. I say this, not only because of altitude and pine, but that I've seen "the magnificent " roaming around up there
Josh Harris — Google review
It’s about an hour drive up Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway with viewpoints along the way as well as trials and campgrounds. The peak of the mountain is Marshall Gulch with large trees, a stream, and some benches.
Emery Emerson — Google review
9,000 feet high at top, but not much air. Great hikes. Meadow and Mt. Lemmon loop #5 a 2.1 mile top-of-mountain easy path, but even small hills a challenge at altitude.
Larry Besnoff — Google review
4.8
(1253)
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5.0
(3244)
Arizona 85619, USA
I'll never travel to Yuma without this trip planner again
The Titan Missile Museum, located in Green Valley near Tucson, is a historic site that was once a top-secret missile silo during the Cold War. It currently serves as a museum showcasing exhibits and offering guided tours underground to explore the Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Site 571-7. Visitors can experience a simulated countdown/launch sequence and gain insight into the complexities of ballistic missiles during this era.
Very interesting. Tour about 45 minutes. Our tour guide was wonderful and fun. It is 55 stairs down and same coming back up. A lot of us seniors and I didn't see anyone having problems. We learned more about mass destruction And hopefully the active missiles never need to deploy. We enjoyed our tour.
Deb Lorance — Google review
If you’re anywhere in the area you owe it to yourself to visit this living museum from the Cold War. The only remaining titan missile in existence (minus the 9 megaton atomic warhead of course). There were 54 at one time and the other 53 had to be destroyed so that it would satisfy the other nuclear powers. The tour that Steve gave us was outstanding and if you’re lucky enough to have him on the tour you’ll learn a lot. They have an interesting simulation in the control center that they will take you through.
Well worth the visit and I would’ve driven substantially out of my way to see this museum. Don’t miss it!
There are questions about elevator access. This is from the website:
The Titan Missile Museum is an ADA compliant facility. Handicapped parking is available and the Exhibits Gallery and all restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
For the daily 45-minute guided tours, guests are required to ascend and descend 55 stair steps. There is no elevator access. Visits made by guests unable to use the stairs will be limited to the surface portion of the site.
J Hytken — Google review
Incredible place to see and learn about. We made a reservation online for our preferred tour time which worked out great. There is a small area in the entrance with displays and a museum store. The tour took about 45 minutes and included a five minute video before walking down the staircases to the underground facility. Our tour guide had served as an Air Force crew member assigned to the launcher and provided a lot of great information and insight. We were able to sit in the control room and learn about all the safety procedures and processes involving maintaining and launching a Titan missile. We also walked to the other side of the facility to the launch tube and saw the training missile in the tube. After the guided tour, we were able to walk around the outside area and look down into the launch tube from above.
Bill G — Google review
What an awesome experience! The facility is kept in great condition. Neat and clean. The tour goes below ground to show what it was like to operate and possibly deploy a nuke. The guide was great. You're allowed to interact with the exhibits so I went through a launch sequence. 45 minutes.
Jim Cenname — Google review
Very unique experience at this museum. They offer tours to the underground command center. I'd definitely recommend it. The tour guide was a former member of the crew that was in charge of the missile and its maintenance. He walked us through the underground command center showing us (step by step) and explaining to us what would/could have happened in the event of the nuclear attack. It was an intense experience!
Dilafruz ?? ????? — Google review
Definitely worth the $15 fee for the tour. Guide was Dave. Very knowledgeable. Used to work the site while he was in the Air Force. Would have loved to see more levels of the silo though.
Jeff Galbraith — Google review
A great experience to see this museum. Staff was extremely welcoming. Tour guide Dave was very insightful and produced the right amount of information, humor and knowledge to make this tour memorable.
To experience how closer we were to 9Million tons of TNT in this well preserved museum is great. As a testament to World peace and a simulated launch, this museum is a must see if you’re passing through
Joey Hernandez — Google review
Found this close by and decided to take the tour. If you book online, it will only show an hour out plus so make sure you go into the visitor center to see if the next tour has spots available, which ours did.
Tours happen every half hour and lasts about 45 minutes. $16.50 per adult unless you are a senior or a resident, limited to 25 spaces per tour. Restrooms are on sight as well as a little gift shop.
The tour was pretty informative and our tour guide added to the experience. You'll go down into a command station room where they explain what it takes to actually launch a missile. Then onto the missile itself to view. Definitely worth seeing. We would love to bring a group back here.
Honeymooners Offroad Adventures — Google review
It was really neat. If you’re visiting Tucson, I’d recommend coming here. Buy tickets online in advance. Our tour was full so we only got to go to the missile launch room in the bunker and nothing else. I would have rather done a self guided tour and seen all the areas available. Tour guide was pretty rushed.
Mike Andrews — Google review
Cat was our Guide, just WOW! Presented with perfection! Exactly the way I would have thought it should have been done. Her knowledge was extraordinary! The details that she mentioned, are amazing. This was an experience beyond what I could have imagined! I worried about going once, now I can't wait to go back!
#templemastery
Andy B — Google review
This is an amazing one of a kind experience you won't want to miss. An incredible story from the Cold War told through one of the missile silos that was poised to launch at a moment's notice. The tour is fabulous where you will learn about the crews stationed there, the control room and of course the Titan II missile itself. You will go through a mock alert and launch procedure before you walk down the long and narrow passage to the missile itself. The tour guides were amazing and the gift ship is filled with awesome memorabilia and some unique authentic pieces. I look forward to visiting again :)
Takis Diakoumis — Google review
I finally visited the Titan Missile Museum yesterday after living in Tucson for 29 years.
Probably has to be one of the coolest, most informative, and sobering experiences to participate in.
The tour starts in the main outbuilding and takes you down into the actual silo and control room, where the tour guide will walk you through various things that happened/could have happened in the facility.
Once the tour finishes up, you come back and take a look at the surroundings and such around the top of the silo.
All in all, an essential historical experience that I would 100% recommend you take part in.
ADDENDUM:
If you're a licensed Ham radio operator, you can also use the antenna out by the parking area! (Just stop in at the museum office and ask the staff first)
Jace D — Google review
I’ve taken a couple of groups of people to this museum with ages from 8 to college students. Everyone always enjoys it and has a great time. Visiting the silo does require going up and down stairs so if you have mobility issues this might be a bad choice. The tour takes about 45 minutes make sure to arrive before four the last tour starts an hour before it closes. The gift shop has lots of fun and affordable souvenirs.
Heath Blackmon — Google review
Wow! This tour was one of the coolest things that I have ever been to! Steve was such a great guide! You can tell that he truly loves his job! If you're in the area, be sure to go on this tour! What a lesson in history!
K P — Google review
------- I strongly endorse it for its educational value -------
The Titan Missile Museum in Tucson offers a truly unique and inspiring experience that takes you on a journey back in time. I highly recommend visiting this museum, as it provides a fascinating glimpse into a critical period in history.
This museum is situated at the actual site where an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) was kept active during the Cold War, from the early 1960s until 1984. The introductory film is exceptionally informative and sets the stage for your exploration of the museum's exhibits. Notably, the Titan II missile on display here is the largest operational land-based nuclear missile ever used by the United States.
Inside the museum, you'll find a realistic, life-sized re-entry vehicle and a mock nuclear bomb, offering visitors a tangible sense of the strategic importance of these weapons. The museum effectively showcases the complex war strategies of the era. Outdoors, you'll discover various missile engine parts, including stage one and two engines, an Air Force helicopter, a police jeep, and another re-entry vehicle, all on display for visitors to explore.
The highlight of the visit is the glass dome, allowing you to peer down into the missile silo. The silo doors are intentionally partially closed, ensuring that the missile remains securely in place, even by accident. Additionally, a cutout in the nose cone provides a clear view of the inert nature of the weapon.
The knowledgeable guides at the museum are incredibly helpful. They lead you underground through a tunnel with three levels of stairs, taking you to the control room, where original equipment and launch keys are preserved. Visitors have the unique opportunity to participate in a role-play exercise, simulating the actions of a commander and their deputy as they manipulate the original launch keys. Afterward, you'll be guided through a lengthy cable tunnel to the missile silo itself.
During our last visit, my 8-year-old daughter, who is quite the curious George of the family, was absolutely captivated by the guide. She stuck to the guide like glue, firing off a barrage of questions. To our delight, the patient guide answered all of her inquiries, enriching my daughter's knowledge in the process.
As part of the tour, it was explained that the missile currently situated in the silo is not the original missile but rather a training missile that was transported from Texas. The original missile's location is currently secure and undisclosed. However, it's important to note that the training missile on display is a faithful replica of the original one, faithfully preserving its appearance and characteristics for educational purposes.
One aspect that stands out is the museum's cleanliness and peaceful ambiance, making it an enjoyable experience for families. Overall, I can't recommend the Titan Missile Museum enough. It offers an educational and thought-provoking journey through a significant chapter in history that shouldn't be missed.
Mahesh Kokkula — Google review
Synopsis: Truly a must-see if you are in the Tucson/Phoenix area. It is well worth the time travelling out to see this historic gem--history nerd or not! Also, Steve is the best!
The Titan Missile Museum is truly one of the highlight pieces in the Tucson/Phoenix area. Situated 26 miles south of Tucson itself, the Titan Missile Museum is a historic site representing the power and history of the United States during the Cold War. I won't spoil anything about the museum itself (outside of some pictures) so you can experience the wonder and historic significance for yourself.
My girlfriend and I were vacationing in Phoenix and knew we needed to make the day trip down to Tucson to see what the city had to offer and to visit this gem. For the two of us, with no discounts, the total was $33.00 which included the museum itself and a guided tour (mandatory), and boy did we luck out. Our tour was led by Steve, who if you've read other reviews, is the premier guide at this museum. Steve was incredibly knowledgeable not only about the museum itself but about history and the relevance of the site during the Cold War. Not only did he know his stuff but he made the tour interactive and enjoyable for all of us on it by involving us in the tour and creating a scenario that played out right in front of us to represent what things would have been like during the 50s.
You do not need to be a history geek (or teacher like myself) to truly enjoy this museum. The information presented around the museum puts into perspective the scale and seriousness of the Cold War and the lengths people were willing to go. I cannot recommend this museum enough if you are in the area and want something enjoyable and educational to do for a couple hours.
5 Armed Stars out of 5!
Geoff Travagline — Google review
We visited on a Saturday in December. We opted for the tour. The tour took approximately 55 minutes. There is a short presentation prior to the tour and then we went below ground into the control room and missile silo. The tour was informative and entertaining. The guide did a good job. If you enjoy military history you will enjoy the Titan Missile Museum.
Chris M — Google review
This was an amazing tour! I didn't think it would be that interesting, but I was totally wrong. Toured with son and his family and everyone enjoyed it. I will definitely suggest it as a tour to visiting guest. I'd suggest purchasing tickets in advance to make sure you get the time slot you want.
Brenda Arney — Google review
A truly awesome (and a tad terrifying) look into our history. This rainy day adventure with my husband turned into a real-life walk into a time capsule that is hauntingly captivating.
From the timeline of events that created this nuclear weapon to the time it was dismantled....really brought home just how quickly life as we know it could end.
Our guide, Ethan, was very knowledgeable and offered keen insights to what it was like for the four military man crews that were charged with monitoring this missile site.
Kelly-G Kishbaugh — Google review
5 Stars. One of the best tours I've ever been on. Educational, fascinating, frightening. Our guide was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. A cold war relic that you mustn't miss if you are in the the Tucson area.
Rob and Curtis Jesson Horsman — Google review
This was unreal to see. Seeing the missile up close was incredible to see. Steve was so energetic and was a great tour guide.
Highly recommend seeing this! And book in advance if you can, we arrived and they were full in the AM and had to come back for noon.
Tatianna Landry — Google review
Great experience! My wife and I visited the museum while in Tucson. The tour director was very knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor in his presentation. The tour, which was about 45min, was a really informative glimpse into working in a silo during the Cold War. The self paced tour outside of the silo was good as well. Highly recommend to anyone interested in American history.
Jared Streets — Google review
Came here for work and had extra time to kill. I can't stress how awesome the tour is. It's absolutely amazing to see and almost imagine being part of that era. Lots of history on the nuclear program.
A few tips:
Ask the tour guide to see the crew living quarters.
Volunteer to be a key turner. You will get a unique gift for doing so.
Becca was an amazing tour guide.
This scientific institution designed after Earth showcases a 3-acre greenhouse with tours of a rainforest and ocean. Biosphere 2, the self-sustaining facility that conducted experiments in artificial environments, is also part of the tour. Visitors can access video tours through QR codes presented at the front desk. In addition to its scientific features, this museum boasts stunning views of mountains and sculptures set amidst beautiful landscaping.
Our first visit was back in February 2019 just before the pandemic shut everything down. We had an amazing tour guide who took us throughout the entire facility including the underneath part. Our second visit in January 2022 was a little different, we had to download an app to download tour guide videos, and didn't have access to go underneath the facility like our first visit. Regardless, it was a wonderful experience and my mother who joined us on our second visit enjoyed it.
Rosa Vasquez (iamamiwhoami) — Google review
Amazing place of education and fun. The guided videos were very informative. The facility is impressive. If you have kids or friends, it is a great place to go wander around and enjoy. If ya life near the Tucson or Phoenix area…it’s worth the trip.
Trevor DeVage — Google review
The views are incredible of the nearby mountains and the domes and glass buildings. The staff are very helpful at getting you started and pointing you in the right direction. The arrows are easy to follow and recognizable. We enjoyed watching the videos from the app that are very educational and helpful. My grandma enjoyed that they made the areas more accessible when they could, offering ramps when possible. Inside was absolutely gorgeous and incredible! It was like being next to the real thing! They also had videos and documents that you could read of look at to learn more about the mission! Everything was explained and shown so well! This is for people who are in the science field and also those who just enjoy it as a hobby or just love nature. We loved being able to go at our own pace!
baby jay — Google review
What a unique and fascinating site to visit! I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in biology or space exploration. Using a QR code presented at the front desk my group was able to take a video tour of the facility. It was so interesting to see the living quarters and notes of participants in the self sustaining facility Biosphere 2 experiment along with the beauty and design of each of the artificial environments. With a gorgeous view of the mountains, sculptures, beautiful landscaping, and donated minerals and fossilized wood in between each stop in the tour there was never a dull moment.
Abby Fuller — Google review
The family and I had a great morning exploring this treasure. We went in late June and the temperature was in the 100's. We were dressed for the weather so it wasn't uncomfortable at all. There are lots of transitions from indoors to outdoors during the tour and none of them were unbearable due to the hot temps. The self-guided tour is done via a phone app and it has little videos explaining the different places that make up the facility, that you play at various stops along the way. They have several controllable biomes that have sensors to make important environmental studies possible that you can't do in nature. It was truly fascinating and a lot of important science is taking place there. I'd recommend checking this out if you have any interest in Earth Science, nature, future space exploration or self sustainable technology. Also great to bring the kids that might need a spark to ignite an interest in science and technology. It could be a bit challenging for people with mobility issues, to do certain parts of the tour but I believe I saw accommodations for wheelchairs in a few of the areas. If you are in the area definitely check it out!
James Marsh — Google review
I worked here for the summer, so I may be slightly biased, but this is an amazing place to be in.
I visited as a tourist years ago and loved the different biomes and research going on inside. And as an intern this summer, it just got even better.
Early morning is the best time if you wanna tour the outside areas. This is a great place for birdwatching and to observe local wildlife if you come in at the right time. And the view from up here is absolutely stunning too.
I believe current self-guided tours are set at about an hour and a half, but if you wanna really stop and admire things, plan for at least two hours. Bathrooms are also limited within some spaces, so plan accordingly before moving on from the main hall.
Angelica Casas — Google review
I took my 14yo. son during fall break, and we had an excellent time.
This is a self guided tour using a cell phone app and headphones. It's indoor and outdoor. About 50/50. I recommend going during the cooler months and still bring sunblock, water, hat.
Make sure you review the website for all the details.
V M — Google review
Came out here as a part of a weekend visit from Phoenix. Interesting and very cool place to see. Several of the sights were closed but we still enjoyed the tour. I would suggest calling and asking about the availability of the sights to see as it wasn’t mentioned on the website which if any would be closed.
Kawana Wright — Google review
My wife and I had a great time here. With a gorgeous scenery, that makes for some great photos. I also enjoyed there user friendly app. Which takes you step by step and with great insight on what the scientist went through and their goals. Best time to go would be the cooler months. There is walking and the rainforest section is SUPER humid.
hermilo guerrero — Google review
Visiting Tucson for the day so we decided to stop by the biosphere on our way down from Scottsdale. We are so happy that we did so! It’s honestly a really fun experience. The price is very fair and it is a self-guided tour. They do offer guided tours as well, however, we chose to do the self-guided. You download an app, and at each stop (about 115 of them) the app tells you more about each location. You start outside to get views of the exterior and then you move into the desert dome, after that you head into the ocean dome and end in the jungle dome. You can make it a quick stop or spend as much time as you’d like.
It’s open from 9am to 4pm and there is no set arrival time. The last tours are allowed in at 3:30pm so it’s a really freeform type of experience. I would highly recommend to anyone.
Zan Lee — Google review
It's such a fascinating mess of a story and a bit of American history. There are bugs and roaches throughout, so check your belongings on the way out. It was $80 for two adults and two children. I think it was worth it. I can see they are trying to keep it alive. It was really confusing to try and see everything with a disabled child in a wheelchair. Some of the lifts were out of order, and there are some old covid rules that make us have to walk around the entire facility for her to access all parts.
Garland Alvey — Google review
Very cool and educational place to stop. Beautiful drive up to it. Maybe 40 minutes from Tucson. The inside was nice and they have a walking tour app that takes about 1-2 hours depending on how fast you walk and what you like to look at. Very unique place to go.
Sam W — Google review
Very cool! I was surprised how big this place is. Tour guide was great. Lung tour was cool. Lots of interesting info. I wish this place was still running those experiments. Only disappointment was not seeing the library tower.
Sam Carlson — Google review
Was fun to see it in person, would like to have had access to more of it, like a bedroom and the library. It was fascinating to imagine spending 2 years locked inside! The designs of the buildings were very interesting, and the different habitats were pretty and had lots of information about them through the app. I really liked going at our own pace with earbuds listening to our phones instead of having a live guide.
Jennifer Higdon — Google review
Pretty cool place with an interesting history. I was hoping the tour would allow a bit more exploration of the sites, but it was pretty great all the same. The location is fairly remote, best not to rely on ride share apps which wouldn't come to pick me up and the local taxi service was very expensive.
The conference venue was great. Nice housing and presentation spaces. Definitely worth waking up early to see the sunrise over the Catalina mountains.
Taylor Sparks — Google review
We've always wanted to come see the Biosphere 2. And we're glad we came during the cooler time of the year. We had taken a jacket in case it was cold. But it was so much warmer inside than it was outside. I would recommend coming during the cooler Arizona months versus the warm Arizona. It's very interesting to think about people living in this place for 2 years.
Wendi Guerrero — Google review
Really enjoyed the experience! The backstory is intriguing, the architecture is so impressive, and the ongoing scientific/outreach mission is inspiring. The facility grounds and drive up are beautiful as well.
Be sure to download the Biosphere app from the booking website in advance as the WiFi login up there can be tricky. If you can, definitely pay extra for the lung and library tower tours as they are especially unique.
Reva Golden — Google review
Great narrated, self-guided tour. Nice to be able to go at your own pace. The app was great but it would be nice to have teleprompter at each stop so you didn't need your phone to hear it.
Vicki Emanuel — Google review
Absolutely amazing facility! So much cool history for science involving agriculture, environmental science, and space training. The different biomes are very impressive and cool to experience out here in the deserts of Arizona. Military and UA students get a discount as well which is nice. We did the self guided tour and we spent about 2.5 hours to get through everything.
KC Desmarais — Google review
1 of the 50 wonders of the world. If you live in Tucson or Phoenix, it's definitely worth the drive out there. You have to download the biosphere 2 app for the self guided tour, which we found very helpful and informational. We liked it better because it was quieter and at our own pace. The whole campus is unique and definitely one of a kind. It is a mile round trip so bring walking shoes!
Cabron “Cabron” L — Google review
Very good museum. It's a testament to the ingenuity of this country for sure. I was somewhat disappointed that there's not more going on and we couldn't examine more of the mechanical and engineering feats contained therein. I recommend and will return
John V — Google review
What a great place to spend the afternoon. Did not expect it. The tours are great, or just walk around yourself. Very interesting on what went on, and nice to see that they can still use the place for future experiments. I must stop if your in the area.
San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Colonial Catholic mission built in 1783 that is now a National Historic Landmark. This beautiful church features baroque architecture and painted artwork and it is still used for religious purposes, making it a great place to visit if you are interested in history or religion.
Beautiful little place with a lot of history.
The architecture of the building is wonderful, and there is some very sympathetic restoration happening to keep the Mission looking as great as it is.
The staff here are amazing, really helpful, and very knowledgeable.
The insides of the buildings are exquisite with the carvings and hand painted murals and walls.
Great gift shops selling authentic art and handcrafted goods on site.
Nice place to visit. Will take about 60 to 90 minutes to look around everything.
Samuel Liddicott — Google review
We stopped hereon our cross country drive. It was absolutely beautiful and the people we so kind! There are locals making fresh food on the ground and the architecture is breathtaking! Highly recommended stop.
Matthew Miller — Google review
Here are a couple of photos of when my little family and I went. They are friendly, lovely gift shop, and delicious fry bread sold outside. Support locally run business. It's free but they do ask for donations so make sure you take some cash.
Mykael Johnson — Google review
It was a very fun place to visit. It had a lot of very nice artwork on the walls, and it is a very historical place. It has a little gift shop just on the side. The gift shop had a lot of cool things in it. A lot of jewelry. There are some wild animals that are cool to look at. We saw a chipmunk which was really cute. Overall I really loved visiting this place.
Clara Loper — Google review
Great mission and piece of history/architecture. Gift shop in the mission was nice along with the shops across the mission. With just the pictures alone, my mom loved it and now wants to visit.
Just a reminder to people, this is an active mission/church. So you might not be able to see the inside if there is a service or event going on. Please be respectful.
Eddie Guillén — Google review
An active parish and important historical place. Beautiful and engaging. Moderately maintained by volunteer contributions. Moving, inspiring and historically significant. Quiet enough to spend time in prayer and reflection. A special chapel for remembering the dead, sick and beloved.
Valerie Flanagan — Google review
I was married in a church that resembles a flying saucer. It’s a one-of-kind architectural marvel in Illinois. On a drive south to north through Tucson, I was urged to stop just off of Interstate 19 and visit the oldest European structure in Arizona. My destination was 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson. This is where at the end of W. San Xavier Rd., I would see what is nicknamed “The White Dove of the Desert.” A huge white stucco Spanish Mission church awaits a visit from one of 200,000 visitors every year. The mission easily accommodates visitors because it’s open to the public everyday from 9 am to 4 pm. I came on a Saturday for services and after sitting for about 20 minutes on a fantastic wooden pew, I realized I’d have to wait another 30 minutes for mass, so I got up and left slowly. But before I left, I looked at what my son’s friends talked about when they saw this mission. There’s good reason San Xavier del Bac is a National Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Walking into this mission is like going back in the time of the American frontier.
Stew Cohen — Google review
What a beautiful spectacle, placed in the middle of a spectacular setting, where history rests in and outside of this structural sanctuary.
I attended the Easter Sunday Mass as my third visit here. There was a packed house and had people standing outside the doors to attend the ceremonial celebration of the resurrection of our Christ Jesus.
I watched as a observer in the very intimate partaking of the sacrament. I am not Catholic so I didn't participate; however everyone was super welcoming and very humble in their ceremonial communion.
I apologize if I am not utilizing the proper terms for any of this description, I mean no disrespect.
I felt honored to be there, the warm embrace of the Lord was definitely present that day.
This place is unlike anything you have ever seen, it is definitely worth seeing!
Chelsey Keithley — Google review
Beautiful! We were not able to go inside due to a service that was being held. However, we heard the music and enjoyed it. The gift shop has some nice items and fair prices. The locals set up and made delicious fry bread.
V Adams — Google review
It’s a beautiful Church in Tucson. There’s a lot of history and it’s worth the drive to go see this Church. It’s a historic Spanish Catholic mission that was finished in 1797. It doesn’t take too long to walk through.
There’s also a nice gift shop that you can visit on the way out.
Tamera Frederick — Google review
The sense of history, beautiful art, working church...just kind of hits you when you enter. So beautiful. Food vendors out by parking lot. Restrooms. Wheelchair accessible and a gift shop. Free entry however, they do have donation drops a few places.
Tawnyna Kokx — Google review
Very beautiful! Stunning in fact. Well worth a visit. Sunday was VERY busy, so beware. Food on sight was very good 'street food'! Beautiful but very expensive gift shops with lovely folks to help. #templemastery
Andy B — Google review
We visited this mission on a Sunday a week ago before the 10 am mass. We read that we cannot “tour” the inside of the mission during mass. It’s a beautiful church and worth the visit. There was a hill next to the mission that had a spectacular view of the mission and the valley. There were vendors outside the church selling food and drinks.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
If you're in the state you need to visit. Such a peaceful place. Amazing how much of a visit into the past that it is. Worthwhile stop for anyone, whether Catholic or not. Cool history, too! Friendliest roadrunner I've ever met was there, too! He came right up to me and stood on a log right beside me for several minutes looking me over and chirping.
Rich D — Google review
This church was so beautiful! The fact that it's as old as it is and that it's still an active church today is wonderful! The history is amazing and the gift shop is full of very interesting items.
David & Dixie Butts — Google review
This place is worth the short drive 15 minute drive south of Tucson. The main hall is very impressive. We were able to sign the guest book and even lighted a candle. I brough5 my mother in her wheelchair and there were several areas on the grounds that were wheelchair accessible.
Maureen Miller — Google review
This is one of the most beautiful missions I have ever visited. The interior is just as stunning as the exterior. This mission is built on Tohono Oodham land. At the time of its initial construction, it was part of New Spain. It dates back to 1675, which makes it one of the oldest churches in Arizona.
Roya R — Google review
This mission is an amazing site! Built in the late 1700’s, a pretty great piece of history for the Southwest! The carvings and frescoes are spectacular! You only need about an hour. Nice little gift shop around the corner, and great Mexican made burritos and fry bread options (we split a fry bread w powdered sugar for $4, other food ranging up to $10)
Stacy WB — Google review
Unbelievably beautiful on the inside and outside. Amazing murals up the walls and ceilings. A must-see in Tuscon. Self guided or guided tours are available. A place to also say thanks and reflect and pray. Beautiful gifts available in gift shops. Take cash for donations.
Monique Pike — Google review
Wow!!! When I saw this place from a distance, I started to realize how big it truly is. The place is beautiful, and the artwork is tremendous. This place was on our list to stop by and see for years but each time we came by something happened and we could not stop, but this time, we made a special stop just to see this Mission and it was well worth it.
Nobody Special — Google review
The "White Dove of the Desert" You want to live history, this is living history. Beautiful structure still used for daily mass. Enjoy the native fried bread. Inspirational. Great place for a hike, too.
manny fig — Google review
It's worth the drive! The church is beautiful and so historic. The grounds aren't too large, so it's easy to walk and see it all. Inside the church is amazing. There is so much history and detail everywhere you look.
Parking and admission are free. There is a gift shop and a store to purchase special intention candles to light.
Definitely worth coming to see!
T Stoey — Google review
Beautiful active church with amazing history. Still used so follow protocols if service is underway. Gift shop has interesting items for sale. Outside food vendors and small mall located nearby.
John Espinosa — Google review
I am so glad I came to visit. Incredibly beautiful church and well maintained, rich with so much history. Love the Moorish touches. The outside garden is also lovely and the gift shop was great. Incredible architecture and details. Burrito was also nice and filling.
Shermeen Khan — Google review
Lovely mission that lives up to its nickname, "The White Dove of the Desert." It is located on tribal land a few miles south of Tucson. The architecture and design are beautiful. You feel the history and scaredness of the building and grounds the moment you arrive. The inside has amazing frescos that were restored a few years ago. It is an active church with services held there on Sundays. During the week, the crowds are minimal; you may see artists painting or drawing the building. Be sure to take the short stroll across the parking lot to visit the cafe and shops.
Tohono Chul Park is a botanical garden and nature preserve located in Casas Adobes, a suburb of Tucson, Arizona. The park features gardens, galleries, and a bistro that serves American Indian cuisine as well as regional food from the Sonoran Desert.
Definite go to if you like nature and appreciate all its beauty. I finished all the trails within an hr but I was rushing through it. They have a bistro with calming outdoor ambience. Highly recommend. $15 per adult. Plenty of parking. Bring your camera for awesome shots.
Texas Girl — Google review
Desert gardens with well maintained walkways featuring lots of places to relax on a bench & enjoy the peaceful beauty. The plants & trees are mostly labeled and displayed in unique, creative settings. The gift shop offers books, unique art (we bought a signed, framed, colorful, embellished photo of agave), hats, handbags - definitely worth checking out. The greenhouse features potted cacti & desert adapted plants for sale at very reasonable prices (several came home with us). The garden bistro has both indoor & shaded outdoor seating. Wonderful (but a bit pricey) menu in a lovely garden setting. We waited over an hour for a table at 12:30, followed by another wait of an hour for our meal. The food was worth the wait, & we weren't in a hurry. Great place to spend a couple of hours or most of a day.
Mountain Mama — Google review
Super cute park to walk through. There are some art sculptures, and many signs teaching you about the plant life. We were on our way to the children's museum, and there are signs with little icons to direct you. There is a butterfly garden, and we saw lizzards, butterflies, humming birds, and doves. We had a three year old and grandparents with us, and the path was doable for everyone (many areas are unpaved). There are also many benches and places to sit if people get tired. There is a shop where you can buy unique art and gifts, as well as beverages and snacks. They also have live music on a regular basis.
Dawn Massey — Google review
This is among the BEST brunch I have ever had! Mimosas are amazing. The best French fries on the planet! Avocado toast was life changing. Setting was absolutely gorgeous! Service was great. Don’t walk, run to this bistro! Absolutely zero complaints whatsoever.
Haley West — Google review
Kinda quaint we did not eat at the Bistro, it was a nice space both in, and outdoor seating. The green house is pretty impressive, not big, but well organized. The plants were priced to sell. The lady at the ticket booth was accommodating. There is a child’s museum but it was outside and it was hot. We didn’t feel like sweating. They had pumpkin displays all over
Cute place, maybe on a cooler day we will return.
t diamond — Google review
Coming from Maryland, this was the most unusual and delightful experience of my visit. Loved all of the special "zones." Such a unique couple of hours! The volunteers were soooo helpful. Loved the Bistro the night before--delicious! I can always find wonderful things to purchase in the gift shop--this is my second time here. I shushed a rattler off the street upon exiting the parking lot. Don't worry, I didn't get close to him. Will definitely be back next time I come to Tucson.
Kathy Vesely — Google review
We came slightly late, but they seated us and fed us
Everything from Tacos to Croissant chicken salad sandwich was good.
Best fresh fruit salad I've ever eaten at a restaurant!
Pretty location and use of the natural environment
Sara Kambouris — Google review
Amazingly beautiful, incredibly peaceful. Gorgeous trails take you through the gardens where you'll see rare and unusual along with local specimens of plants, shrubs, trees, succulents, cactus and rocks, turtles, lizards, butterflies and birds. It's a wonderful display - especially in Spring when so much is in bloom. There is food and drink available and some nice gift shops. Really nice place to spend time.
Margaret Parslow — Google review
Beautiful garden to visit with lots to look at and explore. We went during chilling at the chul event. They had great food, live music all night, and most of the garden was open to wander around. As well as the art galleries being a good spot to cool down. It was free for this event to get in, but normally, its around $15 for adults.
John Knapp — Google review
In love of this beautiful place!
Worth the entry fee (adults$15, children under 5 free).
Long trails of green, big cactus some are sooooo cool so big! and lots of varieties of plants.
Restrooms, bistro, souvenirs, Children’s museum is rly cool!!!
U can spend hrs exploring this place just bring a hat and sunscreen.
A great place to walk, meditate or just visit with your family.
MaryB MJ — Google review
Great lunch in a very beautiful & relaxing garden area. So many flowers are blooming! The food was a little pricey, but very good and nice portions
Kari McElderry — Google review
Coming from Orlando, Fl where we are surrounded by lakes and ocean on both sides to experience the flora in this park was just like going to another world. Who would have thought that in such an arid place there would be such diversity and vibrant colors. Absolutely beautiful and manicured in some places while wild and untouched in others.
J D — Google review
This bistro was great! They have inside and outside dining. We chose to be on AC inside. I had the French toast with a side of bacon and a prickly pear margarita (delicious) and hubby had the chicken chili tacos. He said everything was good. Beans were good, salsa on the extra spicy side. We really enjoyed our experience there! We did enjoy the gardens too. They are small but nice. A little pricey at $30 each but figure it goes to a good cause.
Christine McCollough — Google review
I went at night for the 5000 hand carved pumpkins. It would have been better if they advertised them as foam pumpkins. It's like if I said I was hosting a Lamborghini exhibit and charged for entry and there were 50 hotwheels on a counter, beautifully painted.
The art was still amazing and it was a fun little walk through. Parking was a bit tough but we finally found a spot.
Jennifer Dunaway — Google review
Each time I go, they've added new improvements. Oro Valley Children's Museum is now located in the gardens, as well as another children's area making it very family friendly.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a 98-acre establishment that combines live animal exhibits with botanical gardens and museum displays. It showcases the flora and fauna of the Sonoran desert, including cacti, coyotes, and hummingbirds. Visitors can observe desert creatures in their natural enclosures while learning from knowledgeable docents. The premises also offer strollers and wheelchairs for convenience, as well as various amenities such as a gift shop, art gallery, restaurant and cafe.
This is one of the nicest museums I have ever visited. Entry is expensive, but you can tell they really use that money to maintain the premises. The bathrooms were clean and even had sunblock dispensers. The staff was very friendly and helpful. One of the highlights was the raptor flight demonstration. I really enjoyed watching the birds and learning about how unique the Harris hawks are in the bird world. The variety of cactus and other desert plants was another highlight. I had no idea there was such a variety of life in the desert. If you're in the area, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
Andrew — Google review
What a great out door adventure, amusement, activity! This museum will definitely have you engaged for hours and hours. Definitely visit hours before closing unless you're just going to the gift shop. The animals, the design the knowledge available and gain will be forever treasured! I had a blast with my family. Honestly the apprehension made it the adventure very suspenseful and rewarding! I think tour guides should be available for this type of museum. It will definitely take the adventure from Great to Extraordinary!!!!
Joel Weathers — Google review
Wow! What a great place to visit! I highly recommend it! Loved the experience learning about the desert life! The facility is very well maintained! They have both indoor and outdoor experiences. The outdoor trek around the desert is a unique experience. It's an opportunity to view so many different cacti! Who knew some are hairy? They have plenty of hydration stations around the walkway, which was really needed! A return to the air-conditioning was much appreciated. Inside there are a variety of exhibits from sea life to desert life. There is a very nice gift shop and a small venue for drinks and ice cream. Everyone was extremely helpful! Parking was surface parking and it was Hot!!
Kelly Biastre (KellyBee) — Google review
Overall a beautiful and informative experience! I guess I shouldn't have been surprised that all of the inside exhibits were rather small. The aquarium was okay, but again it was rather small. There is so much listed on the website, the place would have to be enormous to contain rooms and rooms of exhibits. I was saddened to see how small the individual cases were for the snakes and other critters. Barely enough room for the snakes to move around. I feel badly for the Black bear and Bighorn Sheep that were each alone in their habitats. Their habitats were a decent size, but the bear especially seemed rather sad. The hummingbird aviary had lots of shade and spaces for the hummingbirds to hide in, but there didn't seem to be very many birds. My husband and I enjoyed walking through the desert habitat. We had not seen Javelina in person before, so that was a fun new experience. The Cactus Garden was terrific. So many types of cactus I had not seen before, and there were lots of signs explaining the different types. It is beautifully maintained and everything is so healthy-looking! I took lots of photos there! There were staff spaced out all along the outside areas, and they were very friendly and shared lots of good tidbits. We had lunch at the Ironwood Terraces. Food was tasty and reasonably priced, totaling between $30-$40 for the 2 of us. My husband had a burger and I had chicken tenders, both came with fries. We spent about 3 hours in total, and we're glad we decided to check it out. We've only lived in Arizona for 5 months, and I would recommend it to other newcomers.
Jennifer Higdon — Google review
Sonora Desert Museum is so much more than a museum! It's a botanical garden, aquarium, zoo, enrichment center and gallery! It's got big animals, fish, rodents, reptiles and birds! The plant life is extraordinary and it's all labeled throughout so you can learn more about native plants without guessing! It's a complete program from start to finish and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of every hour we spent there! We took the opportunity to participate in the Avian Experience with an amazing team and two stunningly gorgeous owls! I highly recommend spending a day in Tucson at this amazing discovery!
Cindy Pealstrom — Google review
I haven't been in years. It was nice to revisit. Always some changes for the better and a couple disappointments but overall it's bigger and better than ever. We didn't get through it all - it has expanded quite a bit! There were several habitats that were inexplicably empty. I hope they have plans to get some new animals in!
It's a must-see for the Tucson area.
V Hansen — Google review
Really enjoyed our day here. If you are interested in seeing a lot of different vegetation and a nice walk This is it. There were different exhibits which were nice like the minerals and there’s a few live animal exhibits but just seeing the beautiful Saguaro’s made it worth it!
Marie — Google review
I hadn't been there in 10 years or so and was really impressed. There are a number of new exhibits. It is truly a gem. Great place to take out-of-state visitors. One thing that you should be aware of is that you need to be prepared to do a lot of walking. It's a big facility and some sections are dirt/gravel, but smooth and well maintained. The staff are very professional and helpful.
Definitely get a map, if you don't want to miss something good. Wear sunscreen and bring a hat.
Howard Rains — Google review
This place is special. I love Botanic Gardens, but to have all the desert plants and flowers makes it unique and fascinating. It is also a great walk through the desert with a gorgeous view. I love the MINERAL EXHIBIT and the aquarium exhibit. The minerals are in a cave exhibit which looks like the real thing. SO COOL. The Hummingbird Aviary was dreamy.
There is SO much to see and do. You could probably see the highlights in an hour or two. But I could spend days just getting lost in this wonderful place.
Definitely remember how HOT it is. Many people were complaining already. Just remember, it's the desert. ;) And, keep your paper map! Your phone probably won't have service either. So good to know if you want to split up. And you can see a lot but don't have to do the loop through the desert unless you want to; especially if you have young kids or are concerned about the heat. It's a nice walk but you see mostly the same things near the entrance.
Even the Gift Shop was amazing. I am not much of a shopper, but this was full of gorgeous pottery and minerals and books and Prickly Pear Taffy! The snack bar there has delicious drinks too! I loved the AGAVE LIMEADE! And the Prickly Pear Lemonade was delicious.
The staff and all of the volunteers were wonderful people. The whole experience was good for my Soul. Thank you so much!
Dawn — Google review
This Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum was super cool because they had great educational sections for kids and adults to learn about the desert landscape while providing a great outdoor experience walking around. I will advise, it gets extremely hot so bring lots of cold water. Luckily the bathrooms had sunscreen which helps quite a bit.
The whole museum is outside technically and it comprises of a variety of sections to explore with lots of desert plans, animals, caves to explore and things to see. The staff is super friendly and the gift shop has quite a collection. The whole desert walking experience is ADA friendly.
The Traveling Camera Man — Google review
This was a wonderful place to visit! There is a hummingbird aviary! There is an excellent restaurant, and a lovely gallery with scratch board art. You can even touch stingrays. There is a beautiful pollinator garden too.
Dede Russell — Google review
Awesome museum with lots to see. I checked out every exhibit other than the closed #11 burrowed animals. It took me around 3 hours and it was worth it. For the big animals outdoors, it was a bit of a hit or miss whether you see them or not so just don't be disappointed if the animals are taking a nap and you can't find them. They have a decent gift shop and restaurant. Good amount of parking but the road to get here can be hilly.
Heming Diep — Google review
Had a lovely time with my boyfriend walking around the trails and paths. I enjoyed it so much and discovered many things I hadn’t seen before like the coyote enclosure. Also enjoyed the art exhibit and hummingbird enclosure. Very relaxing!
Yelitza Tamayo — Google review
We live in Phoenix and have been here many times, so we decided to take our out of town visitors to the Desert Museum. It’s been a few years for us, but the place has only gotten better. It is definitely a well curated representation of the flora and fauna of the whole Sonoran desert, not just Arizona. The wildlife areas are, of course, the most impressive. Many or most of the animals at the museum were rescued from bad situations involving humans, and even through they are now living in what is essentially a zoo, they seem to have very nice area and great care. I will definitely go back again, probably when it’s a little cooler out so that we can see more of the residents. Very highly recommended.
John Payne — Google review
I went for the plants and there were a lot in bloom.Would have been nice if the animals were more visible. Need to be very patient to see any birds. We went at 8:30 am, which was nice,cause it got hotter more crowded and noisier by 10 am. Great gift shops. Loved the geology exhibit with the rocks and minerals.
Lynn Arneill-Brown — Google review
Great time with the kiddos and beautiful spot. We hadn't been here in about 20 years, and it was definitely worth it. The stingray exhibition, which does cost extra both for entry and for feeding, was amazing for the kids. Very educational, very fun, definitely wet. The pack rat playhouse was an amazing place for kids! It's inside, air conditioned, and has a lot of play activities for the kids, there's even picnic tables for the adults. Overall great time!
Rebecca Martz — Google review
Wow! What a beautiful park. We got the membership because we’ll definitely be going back.
I recommend going early to avoid the heat and take a few extra dollars to keep cool for a bit with your arms in the stingray pool! Plus, you might get lucky, if you look too hot the little buggers might just splash you!
Bring a bottle for water, there are several bottle refill fountains and those are all located on the free map at the entrance.
There are signs about the rattlesnakes and they mean it. Remember they share the wild places with us, not the other way around. Watch your step and keep your distance.
We came in April and the gardens were beautiful and had many flowering cacti and succulents! The pollinators were working hard and this is the place to see them!
The gift shop is great, a little expensive, but you know, gift shops always are. Overall, a great experience!
Euphony88 — Google review
Great. Bring a water bottle...they have fresh and cold, free water refill stations throughout. A bit hot for some of the animals to be active but we found most of them. The sky, the view the interesting facts...incredible. beautiful representation of the desert. Glad to have bought a membership because it's not possible to see everything in a day.
Kristin Benson — Google review
Great experience. The weather is perfect in October. I made it through the entire facility in just shy of 3 hours. The museum is well maintained with helpful volunteer members. If you are an Arizona resident, you will receive a reduce price admission. I would recommend this museum for families, tourist and the elderly. Per effect introduction to the Sonoran Desert.
Tiara — Google review
Absolutely fantastic! I haven’t bee here in over ten years and the last time was on a field trip with my oldest and this time was also a field trip with my middle son ! They have added a huge variety of fun activities as well as animals! My son was super excited about the cave with crystals in it ! Staff are very warm , welcoming and willing to go that extra mile to ensure you enjoy your experience !
Heather — Google review
This museum has it all. Learn about the local plants and wildlife, see animals like otters, wolves, and big horned sheep, see hummingbirds up close, plus so much more. I highly recommend visiting if you are a visitor or live in the area. The Cafe also has the best prickly pear Margheritas. Yum! They also have nice restrooms throughout with both hand sanitizer and sunscreen dispensers.
Stacy Litchford — Google review
I've been there a few times over the past 3 years, and it's one museum that never gets old. That being said, it's super unique just due to it being outdoor and indoors with amazing trails to get that true desert experience. There are places to eat or get a quick bite from the Café in the gift shop. There are stingrays and even a theater and art gallery for a little brake for when it gets unruly with the heat. We'll be going again, 100 percent.
John Knapp — Google review
This is a gem of a place in the Tucson area. Excellent animal displays of all sorts from large cats to aquatic animals. Walking paths are mostly paved, frequent bathroom and water fountains available everywhere. Get some exercise while enjoying the desert outdoors and displays!
Ed Eyden — Google review
We were there on 3/9/24. Be sure that the raptor show is happening the day you go. I had been to the show before, so I had my husband stand where I had a pretty good idea the birds would fly directly over his head. Yup. He had birds fly over his head within inches. This place is a zoo and botanical Garden. The docents are great in explaining the area plants. There are grey wolves there (very few left in the world) that the docents is very knowledgeable about. There is a humming bird aviary, which is cool. Wear good shoes as some paths are not paved. This is a must to see
Pam Sulak — Google review
Great attraction for families and couples - has a small aquarium, small zoo/bird aviaries (the hummingbird aviary is particularly unique), art gallery, gem museum and large botanical garden to learn about Arizona's history. Gift shop has some great local products and is not overly expensive like some other attractions. Great way to spend 2-3 hours.
Nicole N — Google review
Hands down one of the most magical places in our country. The wondrous beauty of the desert and its creatures are highlighted throughout every inch of the Desert Museum. I could wander these trails for days and still have the “is this a real place?” feeling at the end. It’s vibrant, alive, and exudes thoughtfulness in the layout, the care for the habitat, and the emphasis on native species of all kinds.
This was my second time visiting. This time around I was joined by my husband, teenage son, and my parents. Range in ages from 14-72. We appreciated the ample benches either views for rest breaks, the many on-site dining options, and the mix of active learning paired with breathing room to just take in the wonders of the Arizona desert landscape.
Come here. Stay awhile. And then come back and do it again so you see how it changes.
brittany prim — Google review
We went here on a weekday morning while in Tucson. This place is much more than a museum. It’s also a small zoo, its grounds include some walking trails that take you past a variety of plants. It has a nice restaurant as well as a snack type of shop with hot sandwiches, salads etc. The gift shop has some really nice items for sale. The zoo area has a good variety of animals that are native to Arizona… ocelots, wolves, snakes for example. We also saw a couple of staff members who each had an owl. They were happy to talk to us about the owls and answer questions. At 10am you can go to an outdoor area where a few staff members come out to feed a few raptors. It’s a free fly so the birds are not caged etc but fly in to get food. The staff speak about the birds. They come separately…a raven, owl and a few falcons. It was pretty amazing. I’d plan on staying for a few hours. It’s easy to find as it’s near the entrance to the Saguaro National Park West. Highly recommend!
Bradley Tatro — Google review
We visited the last week of December which just happened to be the perfect weather for visiting, it wasn't very cold, and it wasn't hot either! We had a fantastic time while we were here, almost everything was out & could be seen. Granted a few of the animals were just sleeping while bathing in the sun, but that is what animals do. Animals are just that, animals and the animals they have here aren't trained so it is a toss of a coin whether they will be out to see or not, it happens so I was very happy we got to see pretty much all of them. I could have stayed inside of the bird aviaries all day if my husband and kids weren't with. We didn't do the rays as it was an additional cost and we had done a similar thing the day before.
I loved all of the different gardens as well, a lot of the cactus had flowers and all kinds of birds, and small critters were out enjoying the weather as well. I caught some great shots for my nature photography page that I am looking forward to sharing. I also thought it was neat they have an art gallery to visit, they had some beautiful pieces that would be nice to own. If you are looking for a slightly cleaner and less trafficked bathroom, there was no one inside of the art gallery when we were in there which meant the bathrooms were also empty.
The minerals cave was also pretty neat, the kids really liked that they had a "real life" cave experience where you could squeeze through to the other side. Being able to do a walk/mini hike while exploring the grounds and looking at animals was a lot of fun. If I lived closer I would visit here more often! The reptile house was nice, there was a lot to see and the Aquarium was pretty cool as well. Get there early if you want a parking spot closer to the entrance! The parking lot fills up fast, then you'll have to park further back and take a mini hike just to get to the entrance. We got there right as they were opening and there was already quite a bit of traffic. When everyone went to see the birds of prey show we used it as a chance to check out the reptile house since there were only a few people in it & when we went to the aquarium, we had the whole thing to ourselves aside from one staff member fixing/cleaning something on a tank.
It was a blast to visit and I can't wait to go back!
Luna H. (The Moonlit Nook Blog) — Google review
What an excellent place to visit. Easy to walk around, views are amazing. Such a wide variety of cacti, lots of explanation. Cafes and restaurant so you can refresh and enjoy your day.
Catherine Shawarby — Google review
I live near Phoenix. This past weekend was my 3rd visit to the museum this year. Finally, I purchased a season pass. I am so impressed with this amazing collection of all things Sonoran. This place offers educational content and volunteers who actually enjoy educating. On the edge of Saguaro National Park the views are spectacular. It is most definitely worth the price of admission. The Raptor show is incredible when it is in season. Other standouts are the beautiful botanical gardens, we enjoy the cave & the museum’s rock & gem collection. The museum deserves your support & I wholeheartedly recommend to locals & visitors. FYI there are hiking trails that have slight inclines, zoo exhibitions, as well as indoor play areas and displays out of the sun. Come prepared & drink water
CD Reynolds — Google review
It's a truly beautiful attraction with stunning views of nature. The harmony of various saguaro, mountains, and the sky is breathtaking. Very scenic drive ways to get here as well. We visited with my 2-year-old baby, and the ground was quite smooth and flat, making it easy to walk around and explore the sights. Please be sure to bring a stroller when you visit with your toddlers though. I highly recommend this museum to visitors from other states or countries.
The Red Hills Visitor Center is a smaller facility located in Saguaro National Park. It offers guided walks, restrooms, water fountains, maps and public programs to visitors. Due to the low number of tourists visiting this park, the center has limited capacity and maintains a list for entry. The staff at the visitor center are knowledgeable about the park and provide helpful information to visitors. Additionally, there is a gift shop available for those who wish to purchase souvenirs or gifts.
So this was a great experience, from the time I got into the park till we left for the day. The park ranger at the visitor center was very polite and well educated about the park and where we needed to go. we only did one trail because of my bum knee but it was great I've never seen anything like this place we will definitely come back but probably won't be in the summer. Also the gift shop was fantastic
Andrew Veerkamp — Google review
This is a Visitor center for Saguaro National park.
Since this National park is not visited by tourists in large numbers, this visitor center is smaller and not equipped to handle for more people.
There was a list maintained to give entry to limited number of people inside visitor center.
Pradeep Khatri — Google review
The Saguaro National Park is a great place to visit. The natural beauty of the surrounding areas is something people should see. It's more than just cacti.
Marc Gregory — Google review
A very cool place to visit.
Staff are friendly, and the volunteers are too.
Store is well stocked with great things.
The ranger talks are excellent and very much worth visiting. The video presentation is a good watch as well.
Restrooms are well maintained and clean.
A good number of short trails around the center for those with limited mobility with a host of signposted desert plants.
Samuel Liddicott — Google review
How have I lived out this way for all these years and never even knew of this place? LOVE IT! What a perfect little spot for a small, simple, outdoor wedding! What better backdrop could one hope for? Plus a great place to take out of town company to to see the desert sights and grab some touristy items and local honey and treats! #Wedding Venue
Jodie Corliss — Google review
Unfortunately, didn’t have enough time to enter the national park and dessert museum, but this visitor center already had a lot of saguaros around it for you to understand how big they are! It was amazing. Hope to visit the Saguaro National Park again to learn more about this special plant. Also, I loved the gift shop, great collection!
hyunjin — Google review
This is worth the stop with a beautiful view of the desert. It has a gift shop. We often stop at the visitor center to talk to the ranger on the best places to hike given the time we have and where the best places for sunsets.
Catherine Hunt — Google review
Although it closes at 4pm you can still drive up to the visitors center. There are paths that you can walk to get closer to some of the cacti as well as education boards. Kid I had more time I definitely would have spent more time there.
Josh — Google review
Great visitor center! Ot was packed in the afternoon, though, but there is plenty of parking. It's much better than the East side visitor center. Great displays, gift shop, park maps, and theater before going out and exploring the park. We stumbled upon the trail around the back of the visitor center, which was also fantastic. It's a short trail that takes you back to the parking lot anyway and worth the quick walk.
brandon dengler — Google review
I car camped there while waiting for the sunrise and it was perfect. The Red Hills Center has access to all ♿. A visit there is like a visit to the entire National Park.
Juan Luis Gutierrez — Google review
Very nice visitor center. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Recommended some short hikes for us and the scenic loop drive. Saguaro cacti are amazing to see in person and to learn about them and the other types of cacti. Valley View and Signal Hill were nice, short hikes.
Vickie Zaatar — Google review
The staff at the visitor center were very friendly and helpful. They guided us on what we could in two hours (5 PM to sunset).
Don't miss the Sonora Desert presentation. It is spectacular, shown on a very large screen with perfect surround sound of the desert birds and animals (runs every 30 minutes, 4:30 PM last show). IMO, it is on par with the IMax movies!
Arun Khan — Google review
Nice center with tons of interesting info and we’ll stocked gift shop.
Lots of nice spots to sit and enjoy the view.
Excellent exhibits.
Theater with 15 minute film about what the desert and saguaros mean to the Native Americans.
Fun Fact: Saguaros live up to 200 years, and don’t branch out arms until they are about 75 years old!!!
Brad and Cheri — Google review
Very nice people here. Knowledgeable ranger (Charlie?) who shared many interesting facts with us. Lord of interesting reading signs. I guess you can hike here but that's not our thing. Also, the sign describing all the types of rattlesnakes was enough to keep me off the paths!
Jo Beliles — Google review
A beautifully serene and peaceful place. The Saguaro is fascinating. A true testament to one of nature's greatest accomplishments and patience. The visitor center offered excellent information and a great store, as well as a short video.
Definitely worth a trip and a drive through the loop. There is specialness here as the Saguaro cover this landscape in all sizes and immense number.
Wendy Turner — Google review
Great place to start your experience of understanding of the AZ desert and Saguaro National Park. Super helpful ranger who's master with a map. She'll set you on your way - short or extended visit of hiking or sightseeing.
Keith Kelley — Google review
The visitor center was small compared to other nps visitor centers I've been to but it was still really cool and they had unique stuff for the Park. I ended up spending a lot more on things to bring home to the family than I expected 😛
The park has some great trails! The only bummer was I was a few weeks too early for the wildflowers.
Daniel Lowell — Google review
Gorgeous leisurely drive through the park the views were incredible and the plant life was amazing
There were many times we could pull over and take pictures and the loop drive is highly recommended
Marie — Google review
Red Hills VC is the primary visitors stop for the Saguaro National Park just west of Tucson. Stop here to check in, get maps of hiking trails and expert advice on the trails matched to your time and ability.
Make sure to carry plenty of water when hiking. The arid deaeet can sap you pretty quickly and there are no water stops on the trails.
Pure southwestern desrt hiking with washes, canyons and small mountains
Ed Eyden — Google review
Absolutely.Remarkably beautiful location with a very nice visitor center. The Saguaro's are so bountiful and elegant!
Rhonda Graham — Google review
Giant cactus 4-story high, lovely healthy cactus forest 10,000 years old, and more. The best visitor center I have seen in a long while in the desert, clean restroom, water station, gift shop, spectacular view, mini theatre, the design of the building is not just a box but beautiful red earth concept.
Sunny Orchid — Google review
Beautiful hands on museum displays. Good informative movie about local culture. Great book store with plenty of t shirts and park stamps! Clean bathrooms. Friendly staff.
Kathy Sutherland — Google review
Incredible views, especially if you like desert sunsets. Get here early in the morning and you catch wildlife walking through the wash. The gift shop has all of the cool national park stuff so definitely stamp your passports. Getting here is also a scenic drive, so make sure that you continue on to Old Tucson and take lots of photos.
Visitors in modest apparel may tour the grounds of this monastery, attend church or stay overnight.
Wonderful experience! I am fairly new to orthodoxy and stopped by while in town from out of state. I ended up spending several hours here walking the beautiful grounds and the churches. The place is like an oasis in both a spiritual and physical sense. It is one of those places where you meet strangers and quickly feel a connection because you are all pilgrims on the same journey. Highly recommend.
Allyn Hirsch — Google review
This is beautiful and would visit again. There is a dress code they are strict about. Women need closed toe shoes, long skirts to the ankle, long sleeves, and a head scarf. Men need closed shoes, pants, long sleeves and if they are wearing a hat, please remove it when entering a chapel. They have clothes there you can borrow if needed, they are washed daily.
tiffiny drewes — Google review
This is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend some time. Make sure to dress modestly. Men and Women should cover up with ankle length pants for men and skirts for women. Shirt's should be long sleeve. Well worth the drive.
Chris Simmons (Picture This Innovations) — Google review
I went here today, and I cannot describe how beautiful and peaceful of a place it is. Everyone that lives there and works there are so friendly and kind hearted, they helped me to wear the proper clothing and even provided what I needed to wear to walk in the monastery. I was given a map of where I was allowed to go and your welcome to go inside all buildings and take photos
Tracy lynn — Google review
Just a warning this place is serious on the dress code. It's is no joke. Women must wear long skirts and large scarf covering hair. Long sleeve shirt covering chest area. In the middle of nowhere. Very beautiful grounds with lots of waterfalls and you can enter some of the chapels. They do have a small trailer out front selling drinks and small tidbits. I purchased baklava inside the bookstore and bread but did not care for it.
Marlene P. — Google review
The best experience ever! A Holy place. You will surprised if you visit the Monastery. Make sure you check the website so you dress properly. Outside the a little Cafe spot for take aways, some Greek traditional food.
El Sa — Google review
This is truly a holy and blessed place to visit. Whether you're orthodox, Christian or not even religious, this is a beautiful Oasis to visit in the middle of the desert. They have groves of olive oil trees, Orange trees and lemon trees on the holy compound. The people there are very friendly and informative and they have a wonderful gift shop with many items as well as olive oil made from their own olive oil trees, olives, and many other nice gifts. There is a strict dress code so make sure you take notice of that before visiting. I visited last time, kind of a last minute thing, and they had plenty of extra clothes to borrow if necessary as I had no pants to wear and only shorts since I was visiting in the summer.
This beautiful and holy compound has multiple gorgeous churches laid throughout and many water fountain as well. It literally is a tropical Oasis in the middle of the desert. Truly a holy experience that you will never forget. A must do bucket list item for all devoted Orthodox Christians!
Jim Poulos — Google review
JUST GO!!
It’s beautiful and everyone is kind. Dress code is enforced so make sure to read guidelines. Worth the drive.
I do wish they had like labels on doors of which were for public to go through. But that’s a me thing and did not take away from experience
Malarie Garcia — Google review
An incredibly spiritual place. Here, one can feel the divine presence in every carefully laid stone, in every carefully grown plant, and the inhabitants' complacency. The concentration of spiritual power of all North America.
Dmytro — Google review
Wow this was absolutely amazing. I love it here so so much. I learned so much and I felt at peace here. There is a special kind of a reverence and quiet here. Would go again!
JoJo Guddat — Google review
Beautiful, holy place. Must visit and experience for yourself but please respect their rules the same as you'd expect someone else to follow your house rules. We are blessed they allow us pilgrims to enter.
Jodie Moreno — Google review
One of the most amazing places on earth. St. Anthony’s is the largest Orthodox monastery in the Western Hemisphere. It is the first properly sized monastery in America. It’s the resting place of Elder Ephraim, one of the greatest contemporary saints of our time. The level of spiritual life being lived out here is unmatched anywhere else. The uncreated energies of God are at work in this sacred ground.
Since they’re so big, they have large guest houses for both men and women. The monks also run a shuttle to pick people up from the airport free of charge. Definitely call ahead to reserve a room if you plan on staying overnight. More information is available on their website.
Marc Manolache — Google review
Breathtakingly beautiful, sacred, peaceful and if you consider yourself a faithful or spiritual person, regardless of your denomination, St. Anthony’s will move you beyond anything you could imagine.
Please be aware men must wear long pants, long sleeves and closed shoes and women are required to wear a long skirt, long sleeves, closed shoes and a scarf to cover their hair. There are incredibly kind women at the entrance who can provide these items if needed but their inventory is limited.
cc Studios — Google review
What an absolute beautiful place! There are many different shrines to visit, and the staff and people are super nice. This is definitely a hidden gem in Arizona!! Make sure that you abide by their clothing requirements, otherwise they have clothes at the front desk. There’s a lot of beautiful architecture here, and a lot of paintings and history about the saints. If you haven’t seen it yet, definitely check it out!
Benjamin Beckham — Google review
So exquisite and serenity in every corner! The many fountains and fruit orchard are picturesque
Cammy Haugen — Google review
Wow! What can you really say about this holy place. I took pictures but they do not justice for the beauty of the grounds and chapels. I came here with my wife on a pilgrimage project. We will come back and spend more time. Ensure that you wear the proper attire or you will need to don adequate coverage. The holiness here is liminal and that can be experienced by anyone who visits with an open spirit.
The Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is a must-visit destination for families looking for an enjoyable time. The friendly and happy animals, including stingrays and lorikeets, provide a unique experience that is worth the extra cost. Feeding the critters takes approximately an hour, with additional goat penthouse feeding available on a pulley system that kids love.
Worth a visit! All of our kids had an amazing time! Animals were gentle and happy to see us. The sting ray feeding was definitely worth the extra few dollars. They vacuumed the food right from the kid’s fingers and they loved it! It was a unique experience. The lorikeet feeding was also noteworthy! I’m kinda afraid of parrots, but these little guys were so nice and I enjoyed their company. It took us a little over an hour to feed all the critters and redo the goat penthouse feeding, because the kids really loved the pulley system. The staff was extremely kind and helpful. They were so sweet checking on our kids and they even checked back in with us to make sure we had a great experience when we were done. Go check them out and enjoy making some memories!
Misty R — Google review
I didn't really know what to expect as it was my first time visiting but I loved it. You get your feeding cups and instructions and go around feeding the animals. We saw donkeys, birds, chickens, goats, Bambi, parrots, ducks and mantarays. You will definitely need a big hat for the sun.
Gina Apresa — Google review
What a spectacular place! The staff was kind and friendly. Joe was great to chat with and to help make the experience even better.
Loved feeding and interacting with the animals! The Ostrichs, birds that take the lid off of your feeding cup, stingrays, goats, and the tortoise named Speed Racer were a hoot!
Very family friendly or for anyone who loves animals and being outside.
I recommend the $15.00 feeding purchase. Allows you to feed every different animal there!
I will come again next time I'm in Tucson.
Wendy Turner — Google review
Loved this place! Well kept areas for wildlife as well as human traffic, etc. Friendly and hospitable staff. Loved feeding and experiencing the canaries, turtles, ostrich, goats, stingrays and the lorikeets! The animals were all well taken care of. A definite “must do it again” for this family!!
Amy Behm — Google review
This was lots of fun. It's a smaller place but feeding the animals was a great experience. Never really interacted with an ostrich before. Feeding the tortoise was cool too but my favorite was the lorikeets. I would recommend going spend an hour hangout and feed some cool animals.
Oh one more cool thing, never thought I'd be feeding stingrays in a desert!
Dustin Hornsby — Google review
We have lived in Arizona for many years. But have never taken the time to explore this wonderful place. It was so close to home too. Very reasonable price entrance fee. Animals are very happy to see you with your treats. And there's so many critters to pet. My favorite was a stingray tank. A great experience for the entire family. Making plans to come back again to do the monster truck tour!
Wendi Guerrero — Google review
Fun place to visit. Kids and adults had a blast. Our favorite were the miniature donkeys! The sheep were also very sweet. You can make this a quick stop or go slow and enjoy the animals.
Cruising with the Clemons — Google review
Beautiful visit. Clean, well organized layout, simple feeding instructions. Best wildlife park I've been to lately. Highly recommend everyone visit. Super affordable, animal feed included with admission fee. Plus, you can buy extra! Lots of parking, including semi turnaround past the entrance.
Kendrick Sutton — Google review
COOLEST FEEDING FARM ON THE PLANET!!!!!! we had the time of our lives! We brought our 13 yr old son and his friend and they laughed so much and had a blast! The goat kissing wall is a gem!! The animals were all so interactive and fun. The staff was warm and excited to share the ranch with us. We will definitely be back! Thank you so much for the best day of our whole summer, even in the killer heat!! What you're doing there is wonderful 😊
Patti Hobbs — Google review
This place is awesome!!! Low key animal feeding experience. We had a blast and will definitely return. The staff are beyond nice and the animals are all super friendly too.
Robin VanIwarden — Google review
Cool little place to go at least once. More than just ostriches. The price is not too bad 12-15 per person and you get enough food it's hard to use it all. Fun little adventure.
Kelly Andrade — Google review
Amazing! We had a wonderful time feeding all the animals!!The highlight for me was feeding the stingrays and petting them! They were so friendly and almost like having a water puppy! Other cool animals were the rainbow lorikeets, miniature goats, bunnies, and so much more!!! Highly recommend!
El Paso Dive School — Google review
This place is awesome! So much fun. If not is just you and one other person it will take about half an hour to an hour to get through the entire thing but if you have a bigger group it makes it easier to spend more time with each animal. The animals were so excited and energetic. We went right when they opened in the morning on a weekday and it wasn’t busy until we were getting ready to leave which was nice. The bathrooms are clean. The employees are nice and clearly enjoy their job.
Noah P — Google review
Okay, this spot!! Where can ya go for $15 and have unlimited fun in such a clean, well kept and family friendly place where the kids and adults all will have a great time. These animals are taken care of so well that some aren't even interested in eating out of your hand. From the time you walk into the orientation (worth the trip alone) to the extremely social birds and so on... the while property is nestled into the most scenic backdrop and the property is very well maintained. Whether you want to rush through or honestly enjoy the animals and the day... you can't go wrong. If you can't appreciate what they have done and provide here at the Ostrich Farm then ya probably don't get along well anywhere because this place just makes you smile, makes the kids happy and makes adults little kids again. 1hr from the Valley... what a gem!
Jesse Kevan — Google review
We had a great day with family and friends. We visited in July, so we got there as soon as they opened to beat the heat.
It costs $15 per person and that includes food or tokens to get food to feed all the animals on the farm.
I recommend that you feed your humans before you come or pack snacks/water or a picnic lunch to eat when you are done.
The location is kind of in between towns, so the nearest restaurants are about a 15-20 minute drive.
They do sell vending machine snacks and drinks.
They also have restrooms.
The staff are all friendly and helpful. They have a video at the entrance and signs by each of the animal enclosures that instruct you on safety and how to feed the animals.
The farm/ranch is mostly uncovered between the animal exhibits, except the stingrays at the end. There are plenty of chances for photo ops. You can also spend as long as you would like in each area.
There is also a gift shop as you exit.
We spent about 2 hours to go slowly through and spend time with our favorite animals.
They also host groups and do birthday parties.
AZ Kimba — Google review
I had more fun than I thought I would. It was such a good time. For $15, you can feed donkeys, deer, goats, ostriches, rabbits, lorikeets, tortoises, and sting rays. It’s like an interactive zoo. Well worth the money.
Emery Emerson — Google review
For $15 admission "$12 if don't feed the stingrays" it's well worth the money. We we're all 3 adults. But saw numerous kids enjoying their time immensely. You won't spend all day there. But it's a good 90 min - 2 hours of fun. The animals seem well cared for. And the way they have set it up for you to feed the animals. Made it even more fun. We all 3 thought the bird sanctuary was the best part. "Great picture opportunities" they will land on everyone, adult or child. Especially if you have the nectar. Which is included with your admission. As is the parakeet food, rabbit, chicken,turtle,goat food. we enjoyed everything. To feed the goats they have an area you send feed to the penthouse, as well you can feed them in a 2 level area, and another section penned. They have probably 200+ ostriches, bunnies, chickens, turtles. The bunnies apparently weren't hungry. Feeding the turtles was fun. You walk around in with them. They all have names. Our last stop was feeding the stingrays. And on to the gift shop. Which is priced about like most places. Not to bad but not cheap either.
JEFF Devlieger — Google review
What an absolutely amazing experience! The staff were very friendly and helpful. It was so awesome to get up close to all the animals and see them! From donkeys to deer - to sheep and ostriches-to chickens and bunnies, stingrays and bird, and so much more - what an epic expo! Loved being able to get up close with all the animals and interact with them. Very worth a trip if you are passing through or haven’t been!
Alaina Despars — Google review
Our family had a fantastic time here. Great price, friendly staff, and a very interactive experience. Reasonably priced fun gift shop items as well. Would definitely recommend if you're in the area. A good post hiking activity.
Cassie Lee — Google review
Loved visiting and feeding all the animals! It is so clean, and the interaction with the animals is fun. The food that came with the entry fee was plenty. Definitely worth paying the extra $3 for the stingrays.
Stacy WB — Google review
My sister and I went here (both over 50 years old) and we had a great time! I haven't laughed so much in a long time. I loved all of the animals and being able to feed them and pet most of them. Be careful of the ostriches though! There are numerous signs saying that they bite - and they do! My sister and I both got bit even though we held our hands out flat like instructed. Oh well, no harm done and it makes a funny story. The best part was "kissing" the goats! They actually were very gentle and never even touched my lips. All of the animals seem to be well taken care of. The price was very reasonable for the experience we had. I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves animals.
Tricia Duff — Google review
The monster truck tour was awesome and safe. We had the best time. I go twice a year. It keeps getting better and better. It's the place I take my friends and family. Thank you.
Char Mckee — Google review
What a fabulous time we had here!! We took my son who is autistic here for his 24th birthday and it was just so much fun and the staff is just so friendly and fun to be around! The Dad is so adorable 😉 You need to come up and when you do taking the monster truck ride is a must!! Learned so much about the ranch and the ostriches! Got to see so many sweet animals and feed them! And fishing with the ostriches was so much fun!! Thank you Cogburn Ostrich Ranch for making my son’s birthday and our day spectacular!! See you again soon!! ❤️❤️
Diana Milone — Google review
This was Absolute a great experience! It’s well organized, a great variety of animals, in the staff was very helpful and friendly. The monster truck tour through the ostrich area was so much fun. The guide/owner is absolutely amazing. I absolutely recommend.
Crista Murphy — Google review
Such a cool place I’ve lived in Arizona most of my life and never had been but I’m so glad I finally went. Such a great place for kids! So many animals and a great ways to interact with them. We will definitely be back
Sabrina Gonzalez — Google review
You will be blown away! The ranch will far exceed your expectations. So well done. No willy nilly here. This compound is well designed and leads you from one animal experience to another, culminating in a large loop where the self-guided tour begins, at the main building which houses the stingray pool. Generous amounts of feed are provided if you upgrade your ticket to include feed. Friendly staff. Clean restrooms. Plenty of parking. Bird enclosure, rabbits, goats, sheep, ostriches, donkeys, giant land tortoises, deer, and more. Very affordable admission fees. You will love the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch.
1300s-era Hohokam compound in the desert comprising a 4-story house, ballcourt & irrigation canals.
Very interesting place to visit. Lots of very old history that is well explained. Absolutely free admission which is amazing. Good exhibits inside as well as good information outside. You can get right next to the actual ruins and walk among them.
Jonathan Demcak — Google review
Nice gift shop as you 1st go in, great little museum with lots of artifacts and info which my 5 kiddos loved. We were blessed to get in on a tour outside given by a very knowledgeable young lady. I sure wish I remembered her name, she did such a great job. Full of information, answered questions thoroughly and showed pics. We all enjoyed it very much. The ruins we're absolutely amazing, it was fun being able to walk around, look and read about them. We even saw the 2 great horn owls that the park made a box for in the over hang shading\protecting the Casa Grande ruins. If your ever in the area you need to check this place out, it's awesome and free!
Renae Eckhardt — Google review
I've lived in Arizona majority of my life and finally got to see how truly awesome the Casa Grande Ruins are with my family. Definitely must see! (Mask are required and there are some if need one but only in the gift shop/indoor museum. )
L — Google review
My uncle and cousin painted the murals and my cousin is in the video in the film hall. Very informative and relaxing space. I can't believe how large the ruins. The facility is nice and the staff are super friendly and helpful. The museum it's self is a smaller space but it has tons of history to see. The gift shop has beautiful art work you can take home and snacks to buy.
Mrs Howard — Google review
This was a nice little spot. I stopped here on my quest to get a magnet from every state and national park in Arizona. They have a nice little gift shop and a little museum. The museum was closed for remodel when I was there, but I could still see in and it looks like it would have been interesting. They have a theater where they show a 20 minute movie about the ruins. I did not attend. The ruins themselves are within walking distance of each other and it's interesting to imagine the people who lived there while standing in their house. It was free to get in and worth a stop if you are in the area.
TakayasMom — Google review
Cool place to visit, wouldn't go out of my way to see it.
It's covered which is awesome. The staff is friendly.
Museum has a great deal of information.
The outside structure itself looks like it could fall at anytime. Lots of rods holding it up.
Bathrooms are pretty clean.
Gus Dalinis — Google review
Cara Grande Ruins is a very interesting site. The reason for the structure is not totally clear but the size is quite grand for a structure that old. Even without a guided tour, the signs have a good idea of the history and the people and their practices from the time of the structures in the complex. The store on site was nice without a lot of touristy items and since this is a fairly lightly visited site, it was not busy.
Millie Kwan — Google review
Well preserved slice of history. Interesting displays and I like that the tour was self-guided so I could go at my own pace. Cost is free but there is an opportunity to donate if you like. Gift shop has some great things to buy.
Dennis Webb — Google review
Pretty cool, it's free. Everyone should come out and check it out. I would give five stars but there wasn't a bowl of water for my dog. Always have dog water on the hottest day of the year folks please 🙂
Gregory Eastman — Google review
Highly recommended! So much more than I was expecting! More ruins than I expected, but also didn't realize there was a museum. Make sure you catch the movie in the museum; it is very informative.
No admission fees, but please consider making a donation.
Joyce M — Google review
This was a fun diversion on our way down from the Phoenix airport to Tucson. The museum, while small, gives good context to the site and the short film was very informative and kept the attention of our family (two adults, 15, 12, 10). The ruins themselves are larger than I had anticipated from seeing photos, thought do not take long to see. We saw a horned owl in the rafters, which was cool and unexpected. I think in all we were at the site for about an hour. Entrance is free so why not stop?
Michael York — Google review
It's a really cool site to visit. I really like it because it's a self guided tour, and you can get right up next to it! A fascinating piece of architecture and history!! I highly recommend it!!
Carey Crane — Google review
Worth a visit, any history is valuable knowledge. Take time to read the informational boards and exhibits.
There's a Great Horned owl nest site under the protective covering for the main building. Many more ruins are preserved under soil throughout the property.
Lucy Delgado — Google review
Very interesting place to visit. They even provided umbrellas for us sun sensitive people to use. Plan on 90 minutes to watch a video and explore, well worth the time.
Chris Leon — Google review
These ruins were pretty cool! Being able to check out one of the oldest ruins- turned into a monument- in the United States was a pretty rad feeling- I’d highly recommend it. There’s pottery and other small items cased in glass inside the visitor center. There are also staff who are very knowledgeable about the ruins and will tell you anything you want to know.
There are a few HUGE owls that currently reside within the walls of the Casa Grande, and if you visit during the day, you’ll see them perched up there.
It’s not a huge thing that takes up a lot of time to see, so definitely something you could do to kill some time, especially if you’re a history lover.
Definitely recommended to check this place out!
Kaylin H — Google review
Nice interpretation center and gift shop inside leading to a controlled access of the monument and ruins. The grounds are covered in pea sized gravel that is fairly flat. There are interpretive signs on each side of the monument as well, which is covered by a canopy to protect it from further erosion. You are not permitted to climb into or on the ruins themselves, but you still can see quite a lot of the interior through gated doorways.
Rick Potter — Google review
I passed these historical ruins many times coming and going to and fro. We finally made the decision to stop by as it was close to our destination. If you like Arizona history, science, and native civilizations then this would be a fantastic visit. I enjoyed stepping back in time and seeing how diverse and advanced people lived once upon a time. It was a rainy day when we went so I did not get the close up pictures I would have liked to do too muddy terrain but nevertheless it was still a good time. Please look at the pictures and artifacts I have posted to get an idea of the grand history. Also, the two people at the front desk were very helpful and gave me guides to visit more sites of native history around Arizona and the surrounding states. I am miffed that I did not catch their names but they were helpful and answered any questions that we had. Fun time overall.
Steven Harris — Google review
Awesome place to spend a few hours and get some history lessons! Rangers and staff were awesome, engaging and friendly. Ruins were excellent and made for great pictures. Don't forget to get your passport books stamped!
just keeping up with the Joneses — Google review
Awesome national park site. Had no idea this was the first national cultural monument back in 1892. A lot of info about the site's history and the people that farmed here are located in the visitor center, but the I formation boards around the monument are extremely informative also. They also give guided tours. It's worth the 20-mile or so detour from your I-10 travels if you have the time.
brandon dengler — Google review
I appreciate this place so much. It’s got so much history. They have a guided tour in case you are interested, otherwise, there is no cost to go through and check out the museum and walk around the ruins.
Anissa Romero- Mesa — Google review
We stopped here on the way from Phoenix to Tucson. It was easy enough to get to from the highway. We weren’t sure what to expect but so happy we went there. It’s a very historic place and helps tell the story of the culture. There’s a museum that is well worth visiting. It’s not too big so you can go through it without committing a lot of time. Outside are the ruins that date back to the early days of the Native Americans. The ruins are also worth visiting. There was an employee there who could answer questions etc. There’s a gas station, some shopping available a few miles away. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area.
Bradley Tatro — Google review
My family and I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Casa Grande Ruins, and it was an enlightening experience. While the physical remnants may not be extensive, the wealth of knowledge offered makes it a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.
Upon arrival, we opted for the guided tour, and our guide proved to be a font of information. His deep understanding of the Sonoran Desert people and their way of life added depth to our visit. However, it's worth noting that our guide seemed somewhat hesitant to entertain a barrage of questions, which could be a minor drawback for the more inquisitive visitors.
Despite this, we thoroughly enjoyed our exploration of the site and left with a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the area. The Casa Grande Ruins may not boast towering structures or elaborate artifacts, but the insight it offers into the lives of the Sonoran Desert people is truly invaluable.
Overall, our experience at the Casa Grande Ruins was both educational and memorable. It's a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of ancient civilizations and a must-visit for anyone seeking to uncover the mysteries of the past.
Gerrit Kelly — Google review
Very glad we made this stop during our travel in the area. Being able to directly see history makes so much more of an impact compared to just reading about it. We watched the informative short movie before touring outside. We walked around on our own, but there are ranger guided tours. We went on a week day toward the end of January and it was not crowded at all. We had our 5th wheel attached and could get around in the parking lot fine.
Shauna Baird — Google review
I flew to Arizona for a weekend getaway. While driving from Phoenix to Tucson, the sign for Casa Grande Ruins National Monument caught my eye. I'm so glad I took that detour.
It's quite a drive down 87 in Coolidge, but you are greeted by a passionate and friendly staff when you walk thru the doors. There are plenty of items in the gift shop, and our tour guide (Preston) was AMAZING! History provides context for human existence and helps you appreciate the current day even more. Check out the Great House. You won't be disappointed!
P.S. The tours are FREE!!! Plus, here's a fun fact: The builders of the great house carried pine trees 🌲 60 miles from Mt. Lemmon. They didn't float them either. Fascinating!
James Alexander — Google review
Very cool and dogger friendly. Definitely worth the stop. It’s a free stop with a fun gift shop lots of neat things. Everyone should remember we need to help the historic places for future generations.
Gourmet market & restaurant starring locally produced olive oil & specialty foods plus mill tours.
Everyone should visit!! Was quite busy when we arrived but the staff handled it very well! Wonderful selection of foods on the menu! Fresh and delicious! Love the store and selections of olive oils as well as vinegars! The outside area is amazing as well! Didn’t get a chance to go on a tour but will next time. Definitely planning on visiting again!
A Godley — Google review
I've been to a farm type restaurant, but it was my first time with olive trees. The trees are very beautiful! I enjoyed this place but it was too crowded on the weekend. And this place is not as big as I thought. One more thing that disappointed me is the yellow line ruined the landscape to take pictures. Anyway we had pizza, chicken sandwich and a boozy brunch flight and it was cute and delicious. This is where you can enjoy live music and eating outdoors during the picnic season!
Jae Choi — Google review
That was an amazing experience for us 🤩 Both of tastes and olive oil 101 tour excelent. If you are looking for different experience and if you live in Arizona, you can try that. By the way life music and nature is amazing. You can go with your children and friends :))
Rana Betül Başıbüyük — Google review
I visited Queen Creek Olive Mill on my trip to visiting family. This place was so dope. They had olive oil products that were unusual to me like gelato and lip balm. They also had some food, fresh pasta, hot sauce, gift sets with different olive oil herbs and desserts. I enjoyed my time here. They have tours, but I didn't get to go on it.
Mio N??ez — Google review
Had the most wonderful time on Monday. Our tour guide Wolfgang was knowledgeable, articulate, and detailed explaining the entire extra virgin olive oil process. I would highly recommend the tour, sampling the oils, balsamic, dressings, and anything else you can get your hands on. Absolutely delicious! After the tour we stayed for lunch and the food was incredible. I loved the chapters sandwich and fries, my husband thought his Italian flatbread was full of flavor, and my aunt said the Italian wedding soup was some of the best she’s had. I cannot wait to come back (hopefully in the spring) to see the olive blossoms! If you have the opportunity to visit, I would highly recommend.
Serena Lynn — Google review
Oh this place is so nice! The food (a tad pricey but delish), the ambiance (very chic farm-ish with an elegant Italian vibe to it), the tour (great bang for your buck...quite informative) and what's for sale (man oh man it'll be a bit spendy but if you want high quality items, this is it). We really enjoyed ourselves and will definitely be back.
Icy Alma Jose — Google review
A great experience and easy to spend a couple of hours at. It's clearly a popular spot to dine at based on the queue to get in as we left. A nice gesture was the staff announcing how long the wait was, so those inline could decide.
A huge selection of local produce with eclectic varieties in the market area. The coffee was fantastic and is ordered from a separate counter to the food. I had the avocado toast with salami. A small portion with a single slice of toast, nice nonetheless.
Plenty of seating in the shade with misters for the warm days. Bonus for me was a live musician before 12pm! Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to returning on my next visit to AZ. ☕🥑🍞
Alan King — Google review
Stopped by to take the tour and get a bit to eat. We enjoyed a wonderful tour that was very informative given by Von. I don't think there was a question he couldn't answer. I highly recommend the tour. It'll give you a whole new perspective about olive oil and it's benefits. We were able to sample the different types of olive oil. Then we went and got some food. I ordered a Caesar salad with crispy chicken on top which was very good. My wife ordered the fish and chips which she thoroughly enjoyed. There's plenty of seating outside. There's a place for bocce ball as well as private areas in the orchard for private parties.
Larry Holcombe — Google review
We went last weekend. The ambiance and the food were fantastic. We took the tour and learned about olives and olive oil. It was a great way to spend the afternoon with family. I can't say enough great things about the food and the store items. GREAT. Must go!
Amy C (AC) — Google review
Our family is from Wisconsin, and we visit the Olive Mill whenever we are in town! The food is great, and the cocktails incorporate different oils and vinegars to make unique and tasty beverages! There is a large selection of items in the shop (and samples!). They will even ship orders (over $90). It was a warm day, and the misters on the patio were perfect.
Dawn Massey — Google review
A week later. . .
The linguine & meatball today the pasta was all stuck together. Very disappointed from our last visit. The Pasta Carbonara was on point. The canolies we're amazing but the orange cupcake frosting was amazing but the cupcake was dry and lacked flavor. The consistency doesn't seem to be there. From our Italian to another please get some consistency down.
Delicious lunch but lots of choices for any meal. Open and airy seating. So many choices to try all at once. Can't wait to come back and try something new! Food was excellent!
Silver Wine — Google review
I love this place. It's a great location for people to hang out, for family, friends, or for couples. When you enter the property there is a huge outdoor area with tables in an olive orchard.
There are sometimes events going on as well, and so you will see event booths and live music (they have a Garlic Fest every year!).
There is a restaurant and gift shop as well. The restaurant has really good food and serves alcohol as well. The gift shop sells different kinds of olive oil, vinegars, reductions, and condiments that are made by the Olive Mill. There are also other products like soaps, lotions, and a whole lot of snacks, candy, and chocolate as well.
I've visited this place quite a few times and have also taken family and friends over when they visit -- all of them enjoyed it!
They also offer tours of the mill so that you can see how they make the olive oil. I highly recommend this place!
Vivin Paliath — Google review
Fun venue but extremely busy making for a very long wait for our food. You order at the counter, and they give you a buzzer for when your food is ready. You come get it yourself and bring it to your table. You have to get your own beverages as well. Simple decor with limited inside seating but massive outdoor seating area unlike anything I have ever seen before. This is a store for selling their products and an eating venue combined. The wait is for food, not the store. Pizza is your best choice.
Kevin Davis — Google review
I am sorry I could not give the Olive Mill a higher score. I had not been in some time and was unfortunately disappointed. My husband and I had sandwiches, the bread was so dry and boring. Also, very expensive. I wanted to buy an extra loaf of bread to use to taste the oils, and what they had was hard as a rock! Food was ok. Olive oils and balsamic were ok. I hope to go back one day and have a better experience.
Carla J Senteno — Google review
My parents visited the Queen Creek Olive Mill whilst visiting family in the area and brought back some for me and I immediately became obsessed. Delicious on it's own or perfect to cook with, Queen Creek olive oil is the perfect addition to your kitchen. I also feel great using it after doing some research into the adulterated Olive Oil scandal of Italy and Greece. American Olive Oil will be my first choice from now on! I recently returned the favor and bought my parents (and myself!) a classic gift pack and the Roasted Garlic Olive Oil. Perfectly packaged and Super fast shipping. It's a great gift! Delicious, Pure, and Made in the USA.
Gwyneth Jones — Google review
The store is absolutely fantastic. So many unique items and gourmet foods. The menu is made up of delicious dishes and I hope to try each one. Their desserts are super delightful and they serve gelato too.
Lisa Reyes — Google review
The store is outstanding with a variety of cheeses, olive oils and jarred products. Available to taste test. Grabbed a coffee from the coffee shop inside while I shopped.
Outside is welcoming and lively.
Amount of food they give is great and all is delicious!
Alexis Godinez — Google review
Every bite I've had at Queen Creek Olive Mill has been delicious. Such unique local gift ideas as well. This is one of the places I highly recommend to new residents in the area. They host a variety of events, and give very interesting tours of the OliveOil making process.
Kari Gutierrez — Google review
We really enjoyed ourselves. The food was good, service was great but Brian (grandpa) was my best experience there. Great family history. A lot of olive oil products, olive wood products, ornaments, cheese, wine, etc. the products and property is fabulous! Love the outdoors seating, fire places are wonderful, what a beautiful setting in the olive grove.
I WOULD RECOMMEND
Cindy L — Google review
Delicious food, highly recommended tour, great product, and a wonderful area to eat or have a drink in. Love being able to mix and match tasters of their products to find delicious combos. Wish I lived closer to make coming here a regular thing. Can easily spend 2-3 hours here.
Brianna Staubo — Google review
For our short visit, it was a lot of what I already read through the years.....lovely, relaxing, informative, and superb quality (oil). We had lunch prior to our visit and got there before the last tour, but we found out the guide got really sick and had to be sent home. It happens and we understand. It just gives me another excuse to visit sooner than later. In the mean time, my husband and I were about to walk the isles to see what you all had for sale, when I nice associate unboxing product up front, took the initiative to tell us what isles were sauces, oils, and balsamic vinegars. That was great for us since we are not only foodies, but great cooks ourselves. So, he went straight to the sauces, I went to the oils. There were a lot of free samples on every isle as well. What we thought was FANTASTIC was that there were recipe cards in every isles that you could take home. We just loved that! We bought product because of that.
After trying trying a few, I saw the coffee bar and thoroughly enjoyed talking with the barista there (sorry, forgot her name). She recommended a hibiscus and lavender tea that I wanted ice and it did not disappoint. Soooooo good! She was so funny and very knowledgeable about her craft. Being a former barista myself, I loved the wood burning display on the counter a customer made for you folks. So good and VERY informative. It begs people to ask questions what each one does for the coffee bean. As a coffee master, I wished I had one for my old job
You're very lucky to have that there.
Then, my husband and i went to the deli! I gasped in joy! Being part Italian, I had to buy some of those beautiful pastries. OMG! The lemon cannoli........heaven!! The gluten-free cherry date bar was AMAZING!! The tiramisu cup was good but not " tira-cinnamon-ey" enough for us, according to my husband. Everyone at the counter were so kind and answered all our questions about the pastries.
We stayed in the garden for about 20 minutes and thoroughly loved the homey feel of the patio and the garden. Its inviting. My husband, a retired arborist, said someone there knows what they're doing when it came to your olive trees, as he looked at your grounds. Again, although our visit was short, we'll be back again and hopefully take in the tour next time. We highly recommend Queen Creek Olive Mill for a quant getaway for lunch, a date, or a beautiful walk. Definitely something to do on your list for any season.
Jennifer Fear — Google review
First time in AZ and QCOM. We learned a lot by attending the paid guided tour. After tasting a few award winning EVOO, we bought several products to bring home. Spending more than $90, our purchases were offered free shipping to our home address. Friday is fish and chips day in their menu. Unfortunately, we already ate so perhaps next time. We highly recommend a visit.
Carlos Mangrobang — Google review
A fantastic day starting with the Olive 101 class and tour. I had no idea about how olive oil is made and the differences in ratings.
The store is amazing and had fun tasting all sorts of oils, balsamic vinegars, and various other products. Their products are not inexpensive, but the quality is amazing so bring your credit card so make sure you take some home.
This place can get packed, so if you’re coming for lunch be patient as they will have a line out the door. We didn’t eat there, but seeing the food come out looked fantastic. We will be back to shop and have a nice lunch next time.
Rob Deutsch — Google review
A great place to visit. A selection of oils and vinegars to buy , gelato and food. I took their tour. An introduction to understand how olive oil is made and how to evaluate its quality I like the food their. As in Italia. I recommend to come early as it’s a large line around three lunch time.
Andrei Lopatenko — Google review
This place was great! If you are in the area or looking for a relatively near-phoenix epicurean adventure, this is an excellent option.
They had a huge number of standard and flavored olive oils, as well as balsamics, tapenades, and other dressings and sauces. They had a very large range of olives and stuffed olives as well as breads and many other high end chocolates and sweets.
They have a food counter with a dessert and ice cream section. We did not eat there because we had already eaten up in Phoenix before going, but the food looked great and everyone we talked to said the food was excellent ( and our extended family have been there many times).
There is a tour that you do need tickets for (buy ahead). They also have a handful of beers on tap and a small number of custom ingredient cocktails which we did have and they were very good and fun. And of course last but not least an outstanding coffee bar.
Also there are many special events there including bands on weekends. Lots of outdoor seating in and amongst pretty, decorative olive trees. Kid friendly and fair amount of parking.
This is one of the best places to visit when you are in Queen Creek. They always have something going on and have events for different times of the year. We love the atmosphere and the staff is always very friendly. Make sure for big events like Christmas that you book far in advance because they fill up quick.
Elliot Hosch — Google review
Schnepf Fatms is the best!!! Went for the first time this year for the Pumpkin and Chili Party and it was amazing! My kiddos had a blast! So many rides, food was awesome and cute little shops. Recommend 100% you won’t regret going. Oh and so many cute places to take photos. Loved it! 😍
Zusel Bouza — Google review
We had such a great time! We've been to the farm in the past, but this was the first time we did many of the fun things available. We ate breakfast, which was delicious (highly recommend the biscuits and gravy). We also enjoyed a private golf cart tour of the property and saw/learned a lot interesting things. There are beautiful wedding venues, a vintage camper area that you can rent, and tons of attractions and activities. We rode the train with our 3 year old and visited the playground and animal areas, including the petting zoo. They have giant chess, and a cute shop as well.
Dawn Massey — Google review
So we went for the Christmas at Schnepf Farms the Sunday after Thanksgiving, at first I thought for sure we could make this a tradition. The entrance was festive since we went right at 5:30 the lines for Santa and the train abs hay ride weren’t long at all and the Santa Claus lane was beautiful.
Liked the decorating pine ones, writing a letter to Santa with the mailbox right there… then once we hit the Santa’s workshop it started going downhill… staff were all kids who knew nothing and could answer questions, it was confusing what was included and what wasn’t, and the line for the one thing that was hot on a cold night was forever long.
Then, we paid extra ($30) for 3 people to ride the Illumination Express. What a disappointment!!! About 30%-40% of the lights on the Illumination Express didn’t work or weren’t turned on….. really??? One of the biggest attractions at that place for Christmas and a good percentage didn’t even work??? Would live to get my money back. I was willing to overlook everything till that. Made it seem run down and not maintained. With the admission to get in, 90% of the staff being kids and the extra charge on the train you would think they could at least make sure the lights were on and working.
More than likely won’t go back which is a shame we were excited to go since we heard good things and live down the street. We were disappointed.
Hannah Johnson — Google review
Idk what the hype is but it’s not this, the train ride was 1-2 hours wait the “rides” entertainment was not that great. Pretty Dissatisfied for how expensive it is. Shout out to hot chocolate girl for accommodating to us she did and amazing display and the hot chocolate was great!
For that I will give you two stars!
Cela Greeen — Google review
Absolutely Amazing!! My daughter and I took my granddaughter and grandson for her 3rd birthday and We had a blast, Ate in the Cafe..Delicious fresh burgers and fries, can't wait to try all the stuff we bought in their store. The train ride was wonderful to.Thank you for letting us enjoy your beautiful farm, We will definitely be back.. Can't wait for Peach season!! 🥰
Tina Houle — Google review
At first I thought it was pricey but after going in… it’s well worth it. Rides are included with the entrance fee, the pig race was kinda fun, hillbilly bob and his dad jokes are awesome. Definitely coming back for Christmas.
Angel salazar — Google review
Had a fun experience peach picking here with family. The staff are very polite and helpful, they even let you try the peaches before purchasing. I definitely plan on coming back!
Hawra A — Google review
We went during the off season, early august and still had a blast. For sure recommend going when it isn’t a million degrees outside.
Tons to do
Jumping pillows
Huge play structure
Huge chess game
Train rides $5
Rides( that were done open during our trip?
Fun little stores ( not open during summer)
Animals
Petting zoo
Even better admission is free!
I really don’t understand how they’re able to do that but it’s a beautiful location and much appreciated.
Able to bring 6 children there and all found something to interest themselves.
Zabby Salaz — Google review
A big farm with plenty to do. I think we came during the off season though, because no attractions were open. The train was running, which takes you all around the farm. Some of the stores were open for produce and bakery, but everything else closed, that is during May 2023. We did get to see some animals at least, but I'd like to come back when it is fully running to see what it's really like. The entry was free, so that was a bonus.
Kahlil Nurse — Google review
Such a fun place! We came during the Christmas experience and were blown away. The grounds are completely decked out in lights, and they have so many activities to do, the majority of which are included in the ticket price! From meeting Santa, bounce houses, a carousel, tons of great food options (including multiple bars for the adults), and a variety of Santa workshops and toy stores, there is so much to see and do. Definitely a place to bring the whole family! The staff is all very nice and helpful, too.
Highly recommend arriving early - before opening. It will get packed in a hurry and the entry line gets long!
Overall, had a great time and can't wait to come back again!
T Stoey — Google review
I recently visited Schnepf farms for their pumpkin and chili event, and I have to say, it was a bit underwhelming compared to previous years.
While it's still a fun experience, there seemed to be fewer activities and attractions this time around, especially with the price.
The shows were entertaining, but there weren't as many rides or vendors as I had hoped for.
On the positive side, the food was delicious, and I enjoyed playing a round of mini golf on their beautiful course.
Overall, it was enjoyable but not quite up to par with previous experiences.
Dixie Ziemba — Google review
I went with my boys and their classmates for their field trip, and it was a lot of fun. They enjoyed the train ride, exploring the pumpkin patch, playing mini-golf, eating their snacks in the designated school area, having fun on the playground, jumping around, and spending time at the petting zoo. The morning was pleasant, but as it progressed, it got quite hot. At the end of the trip, we took a walk to get some food for their dad (a Cajun dog) and ice cream for the boys. It was a fun day.
Estevao Avillez — Google review
I took my duaghter to Christmas at snepf farms. They had a HUGE inflatable obstacle course! The lights were lovely. The whole place was set into a adorable Christmas theme. They had a snow globe you could walk into and "snow" flurries all around you. They had pictures with Santa.
The best part was the train ride it cost $10 per person. Ut it was weel worth it! The train passed through the most beautiful and fun Light show! I've never seen anything so well set up!
While leaving you get to skate on REAL ice. It was the first time I've seen anything like it it was the closest thing I've ever seen to a naturally frozen pond. A must see!
Lizz Tetter — Google review
Love visiting this location as this was our second visit. Once to the Chili festival, then to see the Christmas lights. Both visits were a blast. Amazing food and staff clean restrooms and easy parking.
These events sell out super fast even though the venue is located in a small town environment. At least it used to be!
I will say that's my only complaint is that it's hard for locals to get tickets, and driving to work in that area is a bit insane during these events.
Surprisingly, it's an event in the area that is lgbtq friendly. As a resident of the area, some events/ areas are not so accepting, so I avoid doing somethings locally.
It's just a fun night out with friends enjoying some put-put golf, good food, lots of laughs, and good old family time away from technology!!!
Take your friends and family as it's a beautiful area with friendly staff enjoy the time together.
Ashlyn “LittleD” G — Google review
Food prices are high and many places are not available or menu items are not available. Pizza is closed, No pulled pork and have been in line for 30 minutes for a burger and am less than halfway through the line.. Need better prices and more food, cashiers, ect.. YOU NEED TO BE BETTER!!
Used to love it hear now many families including ours are continuing to have more negatives than positives year over year.
Save your time and money and do something else with the family.
This will be our last visit and we may leave early so we can actually eat.
Pathetic!!
4 workers talking and laughing with an hour line. 🤯
JC Marks — Google review
Nice place ,all rides were closed so all we could do is the petting zoo (goats) and playground. Train not working. But still something different.
George Bajal — Google review
Had not attended an event here until now. I have wasted several years by not doing so. Christmas Village was well done. Line management fantastic. So glad we came and will come to more events in the future.
Robert Fisher — Google review
4.4
(2501)
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3.5
(242)
24810 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142, USA
Unbelievable collection of bronze art, paintings, baskets, wood and stone sculptures, jewelry etc. It was absolutely fantastic.
Sharon Mann — Google review
The Eddie Basha collection was amazing. Spent 2 hours there and could easily spent twice that. Southwestern art, maybe American art, ceramics, bronze castings, baskets. And most had an interesting story to go with it. And best of all - FREE!
Ryan Hetzer — Google review
A spectacular collection. We've enjoyed it for years. Too bad the collection couldn't be kept together. We would have loved to see an Eddie Basha Museum here in Chandler. We loved Eddie, and he loved his community. I'm glad that most of the collection will still be enjoyed here in AZ. Thank you, Eddie
Nancy Schroeder — Google review
A very unique and extensive collection of painted and woven art and guns and sculpture. Loved it.
Matthew Hobbs — Google review
Free entry when I have been there. By donation.
.Really cool museum/art gallery. Many detailed paintings. Mostly on history of The West.
If you are aware of the fur trade, Hudson Bay Co. , the Metis, the Red River Colony. You will enjoy slowly looking at paintings.
Many old handguns on display.
If you don't care for history at all, you may not find this place too exciting.
Owner i think has sold business? But I think museum collection will stay or be relocated.? This place is in Chandler - Phoenix.
I am Canadian, so not up to date on local info.
David R — Google review
Truly unbelievable and concentrated collection of western art, mainly presenting art from The Cowboy Artists of America. Free to attend (thank you Basha family). Unfortunately, the museum will be closing permanently on November 30th 2023 so if you have any interest in seeing art of the west, then get there fast before it's broken up.
Chuck Northrop — Google review
Impressive, beautiful, and extensive collection of art and items related to Western American History and Native culture. Because many of the works are by contemporary artists, you also get insight into their lives and creative process in addition to learning about the historical scenes depicted in the artwork. I would recommend 2-4 hours here. I’m so glad I visited!
Lily Chan — Google review
Outstanding exhibit of native American history! Quite an extensive collection.
Dave Merk — Google review
This is a must-see in Chandler. It is the finest collection of Western American art in all if Arizona
Rick Wells — Google review
I've lived in Chandler for 30 years and never knew of this hidden gem. A very nice collection of western art (paintings, sculpture, drawings, etc.) by the Basha family. Free admission, but remember to leave a donation. All 5 in my party enjoyed the museum and found one or 2 new artists to follow. Highly recommended.
Gregg Gengler — Google review
Fabulous collection from a lifetime of trading with the tribes of the Southwest by Eddie Basha. It's closing down in a few weeks, and that is a great shame. The Heard Museum will only be able to display a little at a time.
John Rauh — Google review
The collection is nothing less than spectacular. It is sad and happy that this collection is being donated to the Heard Museum and the Western Spirit, Scottsdale Museum of Western Art. So, the collection will remain available to see and in the hands of two prestigious guardians of art, culture, and our history.
Pat Krueger — Google review
Unfortunately, it closed the day after we got there. The collection will be divided between the Heard and the Museum of the SW in Scottsdale.
Dawn Akers — Google review
Stunning pieces of artwork that Eddie Basha acquired. I believe around 3000 pieces! Free admission and so impressed with the quality and displays!
Cindy Weingart — Google review
I wasn't sure about going, but once I was there, I was amazed! Beautiful art that looks like it is coming alive right in front of you. I highly recommend visiting!!!
Jay Lutt — Google review
They received permission to be open 2 or 3 more days. Call, confirm and go Monday or miss out on an excellent opportunity.
South Mountain Park is a nature preserve located in Phoenix, Arizona that encompasses 17,000 acres. It is the largest municipal park in the United States and is renowned for its hiking trails as well as its breathtaking views of the city. The park also contains ancient petroglyphs and archaic stone structures, all dating back hundreds of years.
South Mountain park is amazing! The hikes are so fun, but make sure to pack plenty of water! My wife and I ran out halfway through our home. The landscape is so pretty! I would always recommend going for a hike here!
Isaac Mote — Google review
I love this specific park. It has a few different trails. The one I hike I wouldn’t necessarily say is good for bike riding because of all of the rocks but it is a nice place for an early morning hike while the air is still fresh. It is a pretty steep hike, but I love it. I’m not sure of the surrounding trails because I haven’t hiked them.. There’s quite a few people that hike this trail and area most of the time, so it’s not exactly lonely.. but I would recommend going with at least one friend because it does extend pretty far away from help if you needed it. If you had to scream even other hikers may not even hear you depending on the distance you were apart. Make sure to take plenty of water because the heat warms it up pretty quickly. I would recommend a thermos cup and a light backpack to carry your important items. The view is gorgeous and it’s so serene and peaceful on the trail and once you reach the top. Enjoy.
Lonnie H — Google review
We walked the Judith Tunell Loop, which was paved. That was the easiest trail to find. I wish they had better directions to the different trails and staff on hand to assist. We were left to figure it out. The trail was quiet and clean. I was looking for a better experience here. I would not visit again or recommend it, unless you have someone familiar with the park and can assist you.
Miiz Miiz — Google review
This mountain is worth visiting even if you only have a bit of time. There are plenty of trails to hike and get great views. You can also drive through and stop at multiple lookout points. I have not used all the trails but many of them have been easy to follow in standard active clothes. Definitely bring plenty of water, even if it isn't too hot, the temp will trick you. It is a great place to go for thought and mental clarity.
Sarah — Google review
First time here and just stopped by because I was in the area. I wanted to take a look to see how dog friendly it was. Saw plenty of hikers with their fur babies and even a gentleman on his horse. Many different trails to choose from. Plenty of parking. I'll be returning to explore more with my pup. Whether you want to hike or mountain bike this is the place with beautiful scenery all around. I'm glad it's nearby where I live as I'll be frequenting here now to get my desert Zen.
Brian Montez — Google review
Great time horseback riding with Arizona Horses Company. Lots to see as far as a desert goes. Would recommend.
Matt Murphy (Murph) — Google review
Great place for day hikes, picnics and outdoor parties. Seemingly a large enough area to be able to avoid crowds.
Anthony Ryan — Google review
South Mountain has everything you need to have a fun day on the mountain. If you want to have a picnic there are covered areas with grills. There’s lots of hiking trails and on this day I went up the Holbrook Trail which was a challenge with beautiful views. Along the way there are ancient pictographs which really give you a sense of how old this place really is. South Mountain can be chill to extremely challenging so make sure you are prepared and informed. All in all a great place to visit.
Daniel Nateras — Google review
Went on a Tuesday afternoon, pretty much had the mountain to self.
I'd say it's a moderate hike for an experienced beginner. Def not a 'walk in the park'.
It's inclination up is manageable for someone who used to put up 8 minute miles in gym class in middle school.
It's 1.3m up and I came straight bk, the way I came. You can make it a loop by connecting it with a national trail. I may sound intelligent, but that's just what the sign says up top.
If you could, can I would bring/make a hiking stick(s) for stabilization.
And download the map at the welcome post in the parking lot. To do this, your phone camera must have that feature to scan barcodes and what have you.
Or, download the 'All Trails' hiking app for your phone.
Erik Thompson — Google review
I love this park! Such a large open area with several miles of different trailheads for every type of fitness level. I enjoy mountain biking here. Very busy at times but friendly people everywhere. Get out there!
David Y. — Google review
My visit to South Mountain Park and Preserve was amazing! It's a huge, beautiful park with lots to do. I hiked on some of the trails and the views were breathtaking. The desert scenery was stunning, especially during the sunset. There were picnic areas, and I had a great lunch while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The park is also famous for its lookout points, and I could see the whole city from up there. It's a fantastic place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. I had a wonderful time exploring and taking in the beauty of South Mountain Park.
Herbert Swanson — Google review
I had an amazing time at the park! The views were breathtaking, and the trails were perfect for a relaxing hike. Nature at its best – a must-visit spot for any nature lover!
Fran Laf — Google review
Amazing Views! Amazing Trails!
Sunrise and During the day ...both beautiful in their own way!
Dedee Paysse — Google review
Great place to hike and mountain bike. There are flat wide paths great for walking. Also a trail up the mountain for a little more exercise and great views.
Cameron F — Google review
Great place to hike but trailhead was hard to find. A lot of bikers-- if you are looking to walk, I'd probably recommend somewhere else.
Ryan Kreger — Google review
Great hiking when temperature allows. Spring wildflowers in March and April. That's also when the rattlesnakes come out, so keep your eyes open.
John Galban — Google review
Wonderful hiking and biking trails. Great views of the city.
BY (Flyinhawaiian) — Google review
Beautiful views, but far too busy on Christmas evening. We were not able to make it to the top for the proper views because of the traffic jam going uphill. It seemed to be quite spectacular and there are several Saguaro cactus to snap picture of along the route.
Isabel Prosper — Google review
South Mountain Park is a wonderful resource for Valley residents and visitors. Some fun facts:
* SMP is the #1 largest city-owned park in the United States. Period.
* SMP has been sacred to indigenous people for centuries who called it "Greasy Mountain" after a story about the trickster coyote.
* SMP is the northernmost extent of the rare Elephant Tree (Bursera microphylla) with a few growing in the park
* Some SMP trails have been used for over 1000 years and are lined with amazing petroglyphs
* Indigenous people grew agave and maize (corn) in certain areas of south mountain beginning over 1200 years ago
The Mystery Castle is an old and unique castle built by a father for his princess. It features 18 rooms and 13 fireplaces, as well as an underground bar and decorative turrets. The castle is internationally well-known and remains open from October through May.
A very enjoyable tour of a very unique house built under very unique circumstances. As soon as you turn down the unpaved and rocky road and turn the corner you can see “the Castle” which lets you know you’re in for a unique and fun experience. The staff, especially Ramon, was very polite and knew the property very well. In short it’s a home built by a dying but dedicated man for his family. It was really enjoyable to step inside and be able to look all around after hearing his story.
They have a small gift shop up top and I would suggest bringing in a mask because sometimes you will be inside around a lot of people less than a foot away. It is $5 for children and $10 for adults. I would recommend for any fan of the offbeat.
Zan Lee — Google review
I'd visit it because of the unusual way it was built and unique materials used. Before you go know, the caretaker and family give tours for $10 (cash) per person. Pictures are allowed in most areas but not all. Limited souvenirs are for sale in the gift shop. The history is interesting but questionable if all the details are correct or enhanced. The view from the home is of Phoenix and the surrounding mountains (Dobbins overlook a nearby drive with awesome views).
Michelle Blair — Google review
This place was fun. Wait time was less than 5min. It was kind of busy. Our group was around 15 people or so. The tour guides were welcoming and friendly. My sister took her toddler twin girls, with us, which were, at times, somewhat inpatient as kids are and it felt that some guests weren't welcoming of that (rude, since it's a family friendly activity) but if the guides had a mic to enhance their voice louder I think it would help them not get winded or have to raise their voice so high. But a beautiful historic scenery and learned such a beautiful story about the history of the castle and its founder. Definitely recommend it. It's worth a visit!
leticia — Google review
I loved this (cash only) tour. For a pretty low price compared to other attractions in the area, we spent almost an hour exploring the eclectic and nuanced art of a very interesting family. The views were beautiful and being able to explore a literal stone castle made this visit one of my favorites in the state. Our tour guide was also very knowledgeable and chill.
Gabby B — Google review
A great historic find! I’ve been living in Arizona for 20 years and I just heard about this place! I love the history to this home and all the eccentric details! We were giving enough time to really look around and take in the views. The tour guide was nice, maybe a little quick with the speaking, but it wasn’t bad! The tickets were only $10 and you’re allowed to take video and pictures every where with the exception of the gift shop area. Definitely come by and check it out. It’s amazing to hear the story behind the mystery castle.
Deborah Rodriguez — Google review
For $10 dollars it was pretty great to get a firsthand look at this family legacy. Not all of the rooms of the house are open. When you get there you will have to wait. I suggest going early and bring cash. They take a group of 10-20 ppl at a time every 20-35 minutes. You can take pictures but no video. They usually have two tour groups going at once. Bring water with you because it will be hot, especially if you are waiting for a tour to finish. You will not pay until the start of your tour.
Denitra Houchins-Crowder — Google review
What a cool place. So much history. You really get to explore the location and see for yourself the hard work that was put in by Boyce Gully.
Tour guide is great. A wealth of knowledge. For only $10 you get to see plenty of rooms. There is a gift shop of u like.
Free parking on he premise. Just show up and they are very accommodating with the tours.
Enjoy! I sure did
Miguel June — Google review
This is definitely a quirky odd the beaten path spot but worth it. It’s only $10 and they bring you through the entire house. The people working there truly love it and have worked there for 20+ years so they have lots of personal antidotes and dad jokes, lots of dad jokes. It’s right by a ton of hiking paths and a good addition for a full day adventure. I went on a Saturday at 12pm and joined a tour right away. I PAID CASH. Make sure you bring cash.
World Traveler — Google review
I went in June for the full moon. Gates were already closed for the season but wanted to get this castle with full moon. Did not disappoint. I bet it’s even better up close.
Jane Roundtree — Google review
Cool, out of the way place to explore. Interesting history and fun to learn about the area. Lots of odds and ends to see. Tour guide had great personal stories to recount. No matter when you show up, you just hop on the tour and follow it til you get back to where you started, which is neat that you don't have to worry about specific timed tours.
Phoenix Raceway is a popular destination for NASCAR fans, boasting a seating capacity of over 65,000. The venue has undergone recent improvements that have greatly enhanced the overall fan experience. While free parking is available, visitors should expect to walk a fair distance. Inside the track there are plenty of food and beverage options, including self-serve drink areas that offer quick service for water or alcoholic beverages. It's worth noting that Phoenix Raceway has transitioned to a cashless system.
What else to say, it's the place to be for NASCAR. They do a great job and the improvements over the last couple years have made it a great fan experience. Just be prepared to walk a good distance when you park in the free parking area. There are plenty of food and drink options for when you get inside, The self serve drink areas a unique and easy to use to get a quick water or adult beverage. It definitely flows quicker for just getting something to drink. They have gone completely cashless, just be aware of that. When planning to go, know where the sun is at and where you are thinking of sitting. Closer to the start line gets shad sooner than section 112.
Brian Gingras — Google review
Always love coming to the Cup Series races here! Hadn't been in the infield/pre-race pit access since 2017, and so much has changed for the better! Much more fan engagement, chances to meet/see your favorite drivers, and be close up to the cars in the garage! Awesome all the way around, and while my favorite driver is retiring, I still want to come back just for the experience! And the seats behind the start finish line in 151 is a great view, when normally up close isn't!
Brennan Wagner — Google review
Incredible facility for race fans! The infield experience and the views from the grandstand are some of the best on the West Coast for racing. Your best opportunities to see the cars in the garage up close are here at Phoenix. Parking and Concession Pricing do need some adjustments to be more fan friendly, but everything else is top-notch. Go check out this track on raceday if you get a chance.
Vanillawafer — Google review
Love everything about this track. From hillside seating to grandstands and the camping amenities are great and the showers are clean and perfect. Wish the campground store had more available but everything else is amazing. NASCAR championship race 2020 and 2021 camped all week and loved it. Will go back as much as possible.
Audrey Robideaux — Google review
The staff at the venue is always great, have visited several times for various events and even with huge crowds the staff is always well aware of what is going on and great at directing traffic. Most recently attended a “Laps for Charity” event and had the pleasure of driving on the track. Well organized and smooth execution as usual.
E Fed — Google review
Great venue, has a land train to transport from parking to (almost) entrance, lots of refreshment choices and plenty of access to seating both stairs and elevators.
Simon Biggs (Biggsy) — Google review
Great time at the Shriners Children's 500. It was great racing at a great venue. Ya gotta get pit passes when you go. The added experience was worth it. Plan to do some walking while you're there.
The only thing I'd change is installing kiosks at the infield food vendors. When the race is going, they can't hear what you are trying to order. A kiosk would really make ordering easier
R Riemer — Google review
First timer for a NASCAR race and I was impressed with the facility and organization of this huge event. The one downside were the huge prices at concession stands.$7 for a plain hot dog? $21 for a smoked turkey leg. Wow.
Rick Wennerstrom — Google review
What an absolutely fantastic venue to watch a NASCAR race! The raceway is huge with ample seating throughout. Within the middle sections you could almost see the cars throughout the entire track! There are plenty of food options and vendors in the stadium and the majority of seats were able to get some shade in the early afternoon!
In terms of parking, there is no need to pay as there were lots of free options within close walking distance adjacent to the stadium.
Austin Gee — Google review
We had a great time. Camped in the Trails with bigger spots and a short walk down to the track. The garages are accessible and we got to walk down the backside of the pits. Fantastic teach and experience!
Keith Hutchinson — Google review
Great event! Phoenix Raceway was clean, and the staff was friendly. Very well organized to help visitors get back and forth to their cars. Had a kids zone to keep them entertained before the show. You're allowed to bring drinks and snacks into the event, but there are pricey vendors there. One thing I would recommend is bringing a flashlight if your goi g to a late game. If you have to walk back your car, the walkways are busy and dark. We saw 2 people fall. However, they were walking right along the fence line.
Nicole Ostler — Google review
Great race track and all around one if the best places to watch a Nascar race. We watched the championship weekend. Nothing negative here, just get to a race and see for yourself. You'll make this a yearly event on your calendar
Gordon Wheeler Sr — Google review
Great time at the truck race. Big crowd but super convenient access to everything from food to kids entertainment. The tram system work perfectly, Easy in and easy out general admission parking..
Howard Wheatley — Google review
Good day watching Nascar. The facility is much nicer than before they redid it. The infield area was nice, and it was fun to be able to go through the garages. Seats were comfortable for a sports complex seat. Food is super expensive. Bring your own earplugs. They are outrages there.
Mike Campbell — Google review
Best experience down in the infield and pits. We had VIP Passes due to sponsoring a car. But it was one of my most favorite experiences being down in the infield. So much to see & do!!
Jason Martin — Google review
What an awesome adventure to spend time with Nascars finest and to enjoy it with great friends... lots of things to do and enjoy. Food and Beverages are your usual over the top in prices, but you sorta have to expect that.
Ken - Gabo - White Lightening Sx — Google review
We had an awesome experience here. You can show up at 8am for a race that starts at 1. Lots of vendors and activities. The higher you sit the better the view but they’re obviously more expensive. You can bring in a cooler with food and drinks just no alcohol. They have lots of food options prices are on par with and stadium vendors. The free parking is a dirt lot that is about a 10-15 min walk to the entrance. There is a “tram” which is a truck towing some carts. The line is so long you’re better walking. You can pay to park closer. We got there at 11 and with parking and walking we got inside within 30 min. Not too crowded if you show up early. I’d recommend the infield pass if you want to see the garages and cars. Kids tickets are way cheaper and they have a veterans discount.
Ben L — Google review
My wife and I got tickets to the ALLY Curve suite for both days. We are spoiled by the accommodations that the raceway puts on. The track is owned by NASCAR. NASCAR's attention to detail is impeccable. Our tickets allowed us to go pretty much anywhere we wanted to. We will be back for a fourth year. We recommend this place if you're a racing fan. Championship races are held here in November. We are on a waiting list to get tickets for that weekend.
Rick A — Google review
Foodieland was the attraction today. 150 food booths. At least 40 merchandise booths. Eclectic assembly of food and fun.
Roberto Hendy — Google review
We attended the Nascar Championship and thought 2 1/2 hrs was lots...it wasn't. Plan your trip accordingly as there were bottlenecks everywhere for General Parking. The venue itself was great and they move folks from the parking lots to the raceway efficiently and we had a great time. If you on the hill or around turn three you will be in the sun for the duration of the race, plan accordingly.