Photo Credit: UA Bookstores
The UA Bookstores are no ordinary bookstores. Offering UA spirit wear, gift options, school supplies, technology, accessories, and books galore, this extensive Tucson bookstore network brings you Arizona-themed gear for the whole family.
With 8 locations in the Tucson area, the UA Bookstores capture the spirit of Tucson and of Arizona’s most beloved university!
GENERAL INFORMATION
Where are the UA Bookstores located?
The flagship location sits in the heart of the UA’s Student Union building at 1209 E. University Blvd.
There are 7 other supporting locations around town as well:
- At Arizona Health Sciences Center: 1501 N. Campbell Ave. #1116
- At Sierra Vista: 1140 N. Colombo Ave.
- At Main Gate: 845 N. Park Ave. #155
- At McKale: 1721 E. Enke Dr.
- Downtown: 44 N. Stone Ave.
- Wildcat Threads: 1400 E. 6th St. (Inside the UA Rec Center)
- At Park Place Mall: 5870 E. Broadway Blvd.
Hours?
The hours vary per location.
Flagship Location at the Student Union
- Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-7:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am-6:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm
- Sunday: 11:00am-5:00pm
At Arizona Health Sciences Center
- Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED
At Sierra Vista
- Unknown
At Main Gate
- Monday–Friday: 9:00am–7:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am–7:00pm
- Sunday: 11:00am–6:00pm
The A-Store At McKale
- Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am – 2:00pm
- Sunday: CLOSED
Downtown
- Monday – Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday & Wednesday: 11:00am – 2:00pm
- Saturday & Sunday: CLOSED
Wildcat Threads:
- Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 8:00pm
- Saturday: 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Sunday: CLOSED
At Park Place Mall
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 9:00pm
- Sunday: 11:00am – 6:00pm
What kind of items are for sale?
The UA Bookstores carry textbooks, other books, school supplies, Wildcat fanwear, snacks, technology, accessories, and other UA paraphernalia, but a few of the locations only offer more specific products.
The location at the Arizona Health Sciences Center caters specifically to health science students at the UA, so it offers medical supplies and health science textbooks in addition to general UA school supplies and snacks for hungry college students.
The A-Store at McKale is your destination for official UA sports merchandise and is decked out with four high-definition TVs to make sure students never miss a second of any game!
Wildcat Threads features athletic footwear and UA gear from top athletic brands such as Under Armour, Nike, and Colombia. You can also pick up other workout essentials here such as yoga mats, locks, water bottles, headphones, and more!
Are the prices good?
Prices are definitely on the more expensive end of clothing, but they are reasonable for collegiate spirit wear.
The same rule goes for the other merchandise. You pay a little more than you normally would in order to support the UA!
Are the UA Bookstores good places for children?
If you have children or teens, there is spirit wear for them, too!
Ultimately, the UA Bookstores are tailored to fit the needs of UA students, but kids also love supporting their city’s beloved university in anticipation of the day when they could become a Wildcat too.
Of note: The flagship location and the Main Gate location offer monthly “character storytimes” for young children. Meet & greet with favorite book characters like Corduroy, Lyle Crocodile, and Madeline.
I’m a teacher. Are there any discounts?
There are no discounts for teachers, but the UA Bookstores does support UA professors by incentivizing their shopping experience. Additionally, the UA Bookstores nearly always offer discounts on the majority of their products to UA students, faculty, and staff.
What about free WiFi?
The flagship location in the Student Union has free WiFi and a large technology center where students can go to research, do homework, or just relax.
Do any of the locations have a cafe?
None of the locations have an actual café, but the Student Union location does sit in the same building as a Starbucks.
That being said, each of the UA Bookstore locations are within walking distance of great dining options.
Are there event spaces or party rooms at any of the locations?
The multi-story Student Union location has an event center on its lower level, which is available to be rented out. It is commonly used for conferences and seminars, but can also be used for other gatherings.
What is the parking situation?
Again, parking varies between locations. There should be no shortage of free parking spaces at the Park Place Mall location or the Sierra Vista location, but parking can be a little tight downtown and near the University. Street parking spots can be found, but if you prefer no-fuss parking, the UA garages are probably your best best – especially during the collegiate school year.
The University issues paid parking permits to UA students, UA employees, and UA business affiliates.
What should I bring with me?
Cash/Credit card to pay for UA parking and all your UA merchandise!
Are bathrooms available?
Yes.
EVENTS
Can I have a birthday party or office party at the UA bookstores?
Perhaps at the Student Union location! However, the Student Union’s event center is in relatively high demand so make sure to book it some time in advance.
MISCELLANY
Are the UA Bookstores active on social media?
Yes!
What else do I need to know before I visit?
One other awesome thing about the UA Bookstores is the enormous way that they give back to the University of Arizona. Every purchase recirculates money into the UA community and nearly 80% of all UA Bookstore employees are UA students.
That’s about it! Enjoy the UA spirit and Bear Down!
