Old Tucson is a historic movie studio and mini theme park on the far west side of Tucson. Built in 1939, the Old West town has been the setting of more than 300 movies and television shows – including “Arizona,” “Rio Brave,” “El Dorado,” “Three Amigos,” “Bonanza,” “The Mark of Zorro” and “Tombstone.”
“Little House on the Prairie” starring Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert also was filmed at Old Tucson, 1977-1983.
On-site attractions included in your admission fee include a small movie history museum, gun fights and stunt shows, can-can musicals in the saloon, antique cars, a miniature train, wild west carousel, historic film tours, living history presentations, a musical presentation, and the iron door mine adventure. For additional fees, you can shoot “the gun that won the West” at Dead-Eye Dan’s Shooting Gallery, take a stagecoach ride ($3/adult, $2/child, free for ages 6 and under), or pan for gold ($2/person).
GENERAL INFORMATION
Where is Old Tucson located?
On the far west side of Tucson.
The address is: 201 S. Kinney Road, Tucson.
What are the hours?
FOR OCTOBER
Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 10:00am to 4:00pm.
FOR NOVEMBER
Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Open DAILY for Thanksgiving week (closed on Thanksgiving Day).
FOR DECEMBER
Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Open DAILY, beginning December 18.
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Why would I visit Old Tucson?
- To experience a slice of “old west” history
- To take pictures with fun backdrops…in-studio or with your own camera
- To see a stunt show
- To ride the carousel, train, and/or antique cars with your kids
- To attend a birthday party, business mixer, or other special event
How much does it cost?
General Admission is $17.95 for adults (ages 12 and up) and $10.95 for children (ages 4-11). Children 3 and under are free.
All park shows and tours are included in the admission price. Select games, food, stagecoach, and trail rides are available for an additional fee.
* Discounts are available for senior citizens and military personnel.
Can I purchase a membership instead?
Old Tucson offers a Wagon Wheel Season Pass ($49.95) that provides special perks – including:
- Unlimited daytime admission to Old Tucson during regular operating hours (subject to availability due to film productions and/or private events).
- Admission discount for guests accompanied by a Wagon Wheel Season Pass holder – $5 off adult and $3 off child admission.
- 20% Merchandise discount in park-run shops (excludes products offered by outside vendors).
- 20% Food & Beverage discount in park-run outlets (excludes alcohol and products offered by outside vendors).
- Admission to Special Events (excludes Nightfall).
How much time should I allot for my visit?
Depending on the ages of the people in your party, your visit will likely take approximately two hours.
What should I wear?
Old Tucson is mostly outdoors so dress accordingly. Light, breathable clothing with a hat and sunscreen in the summer; similar clothing for the rest of the year. ;)
What should I bring with me?
Water bottles and a camera are recommended.
Are bathrooms available?
Yes.
What are the most and least crowded times of day to visit Old Tucson?
Mid-day is typically the most crowded.
DINING
Is outside food allowed? Are picnic tables available?
Outside food is not permitted.
What dining venues are available on-site?
There are four different food options at Old Tucson.
- Pony Express Pizza & More serves up pizza, wings, grilled sandwiches, burgers, and fries. A big slice of pizza is $4.50.
- Big Jake’s Bar-B-Q is exactly what the name claims – barbecued ribs, chicken, and beef, plus baked beans and all the fixins. Plates come with 2 side dishes and sandwiches come with 1 side dish. Side dishes vary day to day, but include beans, potatoes, salad, chips, cole slaw, corn, etc. Sandwiches start at $9.50 and Platters start at $12.50.
- Grand Palace Hotel & Saloon. Snacks in the Grand Palace range from $1.50 to $5.50. Items available include candy bars, hot pretzels, popcorn, and nachos.
- The Golden Gate Creamery is your stop for ice cream (12 flavors) and milkshakes. A single scoop is $2.95. Milkshakes are $4.50.
What restaurants are located NEAR Old Tucson?
Not many! Your best bet is to eat on-site, pack snacks to tide you over, or head home immediately after your visit.
If you want to dine out, you’re looking at a 15-20 minute drive. We recommend Teresa’s Mosaic Cafe at 2456 N. Silver Mosaic Dr. (7.1 miles away) or Agustin Kitchen at 100 S. Avenida del Convento (10.3 miles away).
PORTRAITS
Is there a western-themed portrait studio (with costumes) on-site?
Yes. There is no sitting fee. Prices for photos vary based on the number of people, photo size, and whether the portrait is black and white or color.
BABIES & KIDS
What ages would be best suited for a visit to Old Tucson?
All ages are welcome. We visited with our three young children (6, 3, and 6 months). All three enjoyed seeing the sights and riding the carousel/cars…though the younger two were frightened by the live action shows.
Should I bring a stroller?
Yes. A stroller or carrier would be a good idea if you have little ones.
Complimentary strollers are available for use by guests, but note that they are “quite rustic” and do not provide shade.
Is there a designated area for mothers to feed their babies?
No, but there is outdoor seating throughout the park.
Are changing tables available?
Yes – in the men’s and women’s restrooms.
Is there a children’s menu in any of the restaurants?
Yes. Big Jake’s and the Pony Express both have children’s menus.
Big Jake’s Bar-B-Q: $5.95 – chicken tenders, corn dog, or BBQ sandwich with one side and a refillable drink during meal.
Pony Express: $5.00 – hamburger or hot dog with one side.
Are highchairs available in the dining area?
Yes.
EVENTS
Can I have my wedding or other event at Old Tucson?
Yes. Old Tucson has a variety of unique settings to choose from – Heritage Plaza, Grand Palace Hotel & Saloon, El Vaquero, The High Chaparral, and Stage 2.
Wedding venue costs vary based on number of guests, set-up needs, etc. Outside caterers are not allowed, but wedding cakes may be brought in.
MISCELLANY
Is Old Tucson on Facebook and Twitter?
Yes!
What else do I need to know before I go to Old Tucson?
That just about covers it. Have a great time! Feel free to leave any additional questions in the comments and we’ll respond ASAP.
