Armory Park is a 4-acre public park located in Downtown Tucson, directly across the street from Children’s Museum Tucson.
The park’s name comes from the fact that there was a literal armory on the property during the 1800s and 1900s.
Originally called Military Plaza Park, Armory Park dates back to Presidio days, when the military who guarded the Tucson Presidio were stationed there. The soldiers were later moved to Ft. Lowell.
General Information
Where is Armory Park located?
Armory Park can be found at 222 S. 5th Avenue in Downtown Tucson.
When is the park open?
7:00am to 10:00pm daily
Why would I visit Armory Park?
- To remember the sacrifices of military men and women at the war memorials
- To attend an event: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Parade of Lights (during the holidays), All Souls Procession, etc
- To attend a class, dance, or social function at the Armory Park Center
How much does it cost to visit the park?
Admission to the park is free!
An annual Senior Activity Card (ages 50+) is available for use of the adjacent Armory Park Center. $25 for residents, $35 for non-residents.
What is the parking situation at Armory Park?
There is affordable metered parking on the adjacent streets, but no parking is dedicated solely to the park. Covered parking is not available.
Is there a streetcar stop near Armory Park?
Yes! There is a stop at Broadway and 6th Ave, which is just down the street from Armory Park.
What should I bring with me when I visit the park?
Water and snacks. Sun safety is encouraged. Prepare for a perfect day at the park with a hat, drinking water, and sunscreen.
What is the best season for visiting the park?
October thru April are ideal because the temperatures tend to be more moderate than in the summer months.
Who should I contact if I have a question, comment, or idea related to Armory Park?
For questions regarding the park, please contact Tucson Parks and Recreation at 520-791-4873. Business hours are from 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
PLAYGROUNDS
How many playgrounds are there at Armory Park?
None.
PICNIC AREA
How many tables are there at Armory Park?
The are six portable, wrought iron picnic tables.
Are trash cans available and easily accessible?
Yes.
Are there BBQ grills?
No.
Are there ramadas?
No.
Is there an on-site restaurant or cafe?
No.
All this playing is making us hungry. What restaurants do you recommend in the area?
You’re in luck! There are so many wonderful restaurant choices in the Downtown area! Below are our top recommendations within a 2 mile radius.
- Maynards Market, 400 N. Toole Ave (0.7 miles away) – dinner, Sunday brunch, indoor/outdoor
- Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails, 135 S. 6th Ave (0.8 miles away) – Modern American cuisine
- 47 Scott, 47 N. Scott Ave (1 mile away) – a neighborhood bistro featuring Modern American comfort food, brunch and dinner
- Reilly Craft Pizza, 101 E. Pennington St. (1 mile away) – lunch, dinner, beer garden, basement bar
Cafe Poca Cosa, 110 E. Pennington St (1 mile away) – “imaginative Mexican cuisine in an upscale, urban bistro setting” - Cafe a La C’Art, 150 N. Main Ave (1.4 miles away) – beautiful cafe on-property of the Tucson Museum of Art, indoor + outdoor seating
- The Fix Mac N Chz, 943 E. University Blvd (1.8 miles away) – mac & cheese options and inspired dishes
- Lerua’s Fine Mexican Food, 2005 E. Broadway Blvd (1.9 miles away) – tacos, tostadas, enchiladas, tamales, chimichangas, burros
How close is the nearest grocery store?
Need to stop in for a few necessities? Try Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market, which is 0.8 miles from the park.
How close is the nearest pizza delivery place?
Empire Pizza & Pub delivers and they are less than a mile from Armory Park!
SPORTS FIELDS
How many sports fields are there?
None.
ARMORY PARK CENTER
What is the Armory Park Center?
The Armory Park Center, immediately adjacent to Armory Park, is a 28,000 square foot community center. Built in 1975, the center offers numerous activities (mostly geared to ages 50+) including social services, dances, hobby classes, a nutrition program, and fitness classes.
The center has three meeting rooms, a multi-purpose room, a ballroom, a billiards room, a dining room, a fitness room, bocce courts, horseshoes, an outdoor performance area, and shuffleboard.
Are there dances at the Armory Park Center?
Yes! Dance lessons and open dancing are open to all adults and you will find both college students and seniors on the dance floor.
Every 3rd Saturday is hosted by USA Ballroom Dancing. A lesson is held between 7:30-8:00pm, followed by open dancing between 8:00-10:30pm. Only $3 for Armory Park Center members.
Every 4th Saturday is hosted by the Tucson Lindy Hop Society. A basic lesson in the Jitterbug is taught by Alex and Theresa from 7:00-8:00pm, followed by live music until 11:00pm. The band rotation varies upon availability. Past bands have included: Kings of Pleasure, Misbehavin’, and Tucson Swings! No partner is required. Cost varies between $10-$15, depending on the band. $2.00 discount for Armory Park Center members.
If line dancing is more your style, you can stop in on Fridays – beginning (1-2pm), intermediate (2-3pm), or advanced (3-4pm).
RESTROOMS
Are restrooms available? Where are they located?
Yes. Restrooms are located on the north side of the Armory Park Center building. Restrooms are open from 7:00am to 3:00pm daily.
Are toilet seat covers available?
No.
Is a family restroom available?
No.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
| Museum | NO |
| Cafe | NO – Children’s Museum is across the street |
| Public Pool | NO |
| Splash Pad | NO |
| Parks & Rec Facility | YES |
| Sports Fields | NO |
| Dog Park | NO |
| Walking/Biking Paths | NO |
| Lake | NO |
| Hiking Trails | NO |
| Art/Sculptures | Military Memorials & Murals |
| Garden | NO |
| Trees/Shade | SOME |
| Lighting | YES |
Check out our other Park Profiles!
