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 A legendary shrine |
356 South Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 800 638 8350 http://www.visittucson.org |
There is an intriguing legend behind this shrine on Main Street near the old historic barrio, a story involving broken hearts and crimes of passion, but you'll have to read the plaque mounted on it to discover the tale. El Tiradito has been part of local folklore for a long time and is now a national historic site. Take a peek and make your own wish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lynn Price |
 Photo: Pam Shack |
 Photo: Big Lare |
 Photo: cardigan |
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A historic skyscraper downtown |
2 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
Built in 1929, this building has the distinction of being Tucson's first skyscraper, towering high over the one-level houses that gave Tucson its distinct Western town character. From 1935 well into the 1990s, it was known as the Valley National Bank Building until another, bigger corporation took over. Today, higher structures dominate the Tucson skyline, but this particular building, apart from its historic impact, still derives some charm from the tree-shaded brick patio on its south side, which is always welcome in the brutal Tucson summer. Visitors may enjoy free access to the lobby during business hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Clark |
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The heart of Mexican Tucson |
Near 100 South Stone Avenue (Between Interstate 10 and Stone Ave, Cushing and 17th Street) Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
This district was once considered the Mexican-American side of Tucson. It has been called Barrio Viejo or Barrio Libre since its Mexican inhabitants were more or less free to follow their own laws in the old days. That has changed, but the area has preserved its distinctly Mexican flavor with flat-roofed adobe (mud-brick) houses and roofs made from saguaro ribs and packed dirt (providing great insulation in the extreme Tucson climate). Some of Tucson's oldest structures can be found here and many of them nicely restored. Since most have been converted into private homes or offices, your visit will have to be confined to the exteriors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Peeples |
 Photo: David Scherer |
 Photo: Cheryl Cato |
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A typical Mexican home |
175 North Meyer Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 2333 |
Mexican-American families have continuously inhabited this house until it was incorporated into the downtown Museum of Art Historic Block in the 1970s. Named after its last resident, Maria Navarette Cordova, it has now become a Mexican heritage museum. Its rooms have been restored to the original style with a replica of the old Spanish garrison at this location on display. A good time to visit is during Christmas when folk art nacimientos, or nativity scenes, are shown inside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shara |
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Architectural preservation |
252 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
This beautiful Mission Revival style house in the El Presidio neighborhood downtown had been marked for demolition, as it was deemed too costly to repair. Built in 1905 for Annie Cheyney, widow of the postmaster, the building had been the object of much controversy between council members, city planners, and urban activists. Two El Presidio neighbors then quietly purchased the house until two out-of-town retirees and architectural preservationists stepped in and started restoring the structure to its turn-of-the-century style, at their own expense. Soon, the 4,000-square foot mansion will be restored to its old glory. The building is not accessible to the public; just drive by and see. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Some typical old Tucson architecture |
120 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 2333 |
This house is a fine example of 19th century Tucson architecture. The Fish House, named after a prominent Tucson businessman, is made from adobe, which is essentially dried mud and bricks, materials that have for centuries provided excellent insulation in the either cold or extremely hot climates of the Southwest. As is common in this style of architecture, the ceiling is laced with saguaro cactus ribs. The building presently houses the Tucson Museum of Art's Western Art collection. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An architectural gem, restored |
17 West Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 1515 |
This building, designed in 1929 by Los Angeles architect M. Eugene Durfee, once belonged to the chain of movie theaters showing Fox Studio productions, decorated with those Art Deco motifs that were typical of the movie houses of the period. After long years of falling into disrepair and neglect since 1974, it is now in the process of being renovated and revitalized, due to the much-publicized efforts of a group of conservationist citizens. If things go well, the theater will soon be reborn to its old glory, including neon marquee, Art Deco street facade, gold fluted columns and even the original organ pipes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elizabeth M. Adams |
 Photo: Anne Simmons |
 Photo: nycgay@gmail.com |
 Photo: ira cary blanco |
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History hidden in dirt |
471 South Stone Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
Dirt dug up during construction might always turn up some historic relics, and that's why earth underneath downtown structures is always carefully sifted and scrutinized. When this old adobe building was reconstructed in the 1970s, old handset type was found under the floor. More digging revealed that this was the office of a Spanish-language newspaper founded in 1878 by Carlos Velasco. It is now a National Register site. Access is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Strengthen your heart muscles |
110 South Church Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 6300 |
This is a regular public gym as well as a physician-owned cardiac rehabilitation center situated in downtown Tucson. Expect a variety of cardio equipment including rowing machines, stationary bikes and Nordic tracks to get your heart muscle in shape. They offer both machines and free weights. Jacuzzi, racquet courts, a wet and dry sauna and an indoor pool are also available. Power drinks are only sold at vending machines. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tucson info center |
110 South Church Avenue (La Placita Village) Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 1817 |
They're here to serve you, so stop by the MTVCB offices downtown, especially if you are a first-time visitor to Tucson, and let the friendly staff help you organize your visit to Tucson as efficiently as possible. Listen to their advice what to see and to do, pick up as many maps and brochures as you want, or let them help you organize your next convention. It's their job, and they love doing it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Space for the living arts |
191 East Toole Avenue (Sixth Avenue and Toole) Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 5019 http://www.moca-tucson.org |
The Museum of Contemporary Art, formerly known as the non-profit Toole Shed Studios Artists Collective, houses about 15 artists and includes meeting space, classrooms and private studios. Tucson artists have turned an ugly unused warehouse into an art center bustling with activity all day long, contributing their share to the Tucson downtown revival movement. With gallery owner Elizabeth Cherry now running the place, the museum is destined to be at the cutting edge of contemporary art. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A moving museum |
360 East Eighth Street (Fourth Avenue and Eighth Street) Tucson, AZ 85705 United States +1 520 792 1802 http://www.oldpueblotrolley.org |
For a taste of historic Tucson, take a ride on one of the track trolleys leaving from the University of Arizona's main gate (University Boulevard and Park Boulevard) on Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays. This all-volunteer "museum" has reinstated and refurbished the trolley system that was carrying passengers around downtown Tucson from 1906 to 1930. It has definitely given the city a return of its old charm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hecky villanueva |
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Arts, crafts and a beautiful courtyard |
186 North Meyer Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 6024 / +1 800 782 8072 http://www.oldtownartisans.com |
This is a place not to be missed when sightseeing in downtown Tucson. The old adobe structure in the historic Presidio district invites visitors to explore its shops, galleries and restaurants, or to just sit and relax in the wonderful courtyard shaded by palm trees. It's a kind of art shopping center catering to tourists eagerly looking for souvenirs from the Southwest; in fact, it offers everything from Navajo rugs to dried prickly pear jam. There is no admission fee. All stores and restaurants accept major credit cards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J Gregory Barnes |
 Photo: sillowet |
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The pink building that sticks out |
378 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
This building in downtown Tucson always catches the attention of tourists due to its pink exterior and eclectic architecture. It was actually built in 1902 according to the design of Chicago architect Louis Sullivan, with geometrical friezes, Sonoran-style drainpipes sticking out underneath the roof, and a facade that imitates the Spanish missions of the Southwest. Formerly the home of the Fraternal Order of Owls (as signified by the sculpted owl looking down on the street from the top level), the building is now a private residence. Your appreciation of the architecture will have to be limited to the outside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: IntangibleArts |
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Evoking Tucson's Spanish heritage |
115 North Church Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 882 0044 |
This courthouse, designed in 1928 in Spanish Colonial style, is a nice architectural homage to Tucson's Spanish-Mexican past. If you are downtown, take your time to stroll around and view the building from all sides. Explore the courtyard and its arcade, created by arches and columns, or sit by the cool water of the fountain. The best part of the complex is actually its glittering tiled dome in vaguely Moorish style. Finally, walk upstairs (security check required) to see the only remaining piece of the original Presidio walls displayed there. Access is free during office hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Tellez  |
 Photo: Jonathan Allan |
 Photo: Anna McElheny |
 Photo: southwest girl |
 Photo: indiHJ |
 Photo: Maynard |
 Photo: myshineyredcar |
 Photo: blindbanjodjim |
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Commemorating Tucson's past |
200 Sixth Avenue Tucson Children's Museum Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
This is the earliest work of public art in Tucson. Situated in front of what is now Tucson's Children's Museum, it was created in 1920 by San Francisco architect Bernard Maybeck and artist Beniamino Bufano, then transported to Tucson by train. Designed in a neoclassical style to fit the neoclassical building next to it, the monument commemorates the days of Tucson's rugged pioneers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Location of the old fortress |
255 West Alameda Street (West of Pima County Courthouse) Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
In 1775, the Spanish army staked its claim to this land (now the state of Arizona) by building the fortress, or presidio, which would soon become the center of Tucson. Both the Spanish and the fortress are long gone now, and all that's left of the presidio is a plaque reminding visitors of the events hundreds of years ago. It's a park now, used for fiestas and other celebrations, surrounded by tall 1970s style office buildings. There's not much history left here aside from the Pima County Courthouse, but it's still a nice place to rest and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Hadel |
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A panoramic view of Tucson |
Sentinel Peak Road Tucson, AZ 85745 United States |
The locals commonly refer to this high elevation peak, just west of downtown, as "A" Mountain because since 1915, University of Arizona students have whitewashed the letter "A" on its eastern slope. Its history, however, goes much further back: it was at the foot of this mountain that the earliest traces of human settlements in the Tucson area were found. The top of the mountain offers one of the best panoramic views of the Tucson basin, as well as a few BBQ grills. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lasertrimman |
 Photo: Kevin Vocht |
 Photo: Ray Rafidi |
 Photo: David Fulmer |
 Photo: Jennifer Casey |
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Controversial piece of art |
101 North Stone Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
Sonora is presently the most controversial piece of public art in Tucson. Since its installation in 1991, the painted steel structure in front of the main library downtown has elicited hostile responses from residents as well as very mixed reviews from the media. According to artist, Black, the concept was taken from Tucson's natural environment, reflecting the serrated peaks of the Sonoran desert and the cascading streams in Sabino Canyon, yet some people do not appreciate the stark contrast to the austere architecture of the library building in both style and color. You'll just have to go and see for yourself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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19th-century Tucson lifestyle |
151 South Granada Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 622 0956 |
This is one of Tucson's oldest adobe houses, built around 1880 and home of the Carrillo family for over 90 years. Located on the grounds of the Tucson Convention Center downtown, the house has been restored using period furniture of the 1880s, featuring exhibits of Tucson lifestyles in the 19th century. Admission is free, but reservations are required for walking tours, which are only offered on Saturdays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Church steeped in Hispanic culture |
192 South Stone Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 623 6351 |
As the biggest Catholic church in the city, this is one of the most splendid architecturally with its high interior, tall windows and dome. Built in 1896, and renovated in 1967, it is a particularly imposing sight during late evening hours. Services are held Sundays at 6:30a, 8a, and 5:30p. A special attraction is the colorful Mariachi mass Sundays at 8a, delivered in Spanish; your chance to get a taste of Tucson's rich Hispanic heritage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mmichels02 |
 Photo: Kacy |
 Photo: Jake Yeagley |
 Photo: Bobbie Newman |
 Photo: 0ccam |
 Photo: Rocky Berlier |
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A most noble mansion |
300 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States |
Built in 1900 and bought by Tucson department store owner Abert Steinfeld in an upscale downtown district formerly known as Snob Hollow, this amazing mansion is a fine example of architect Henry Trosts's passion for the Mission Revival style. Note the arched portico and tiled roof, features reminiscent of the Spanish missions of Northern Mexico and the American Southwest, and take a minute to rest in the cool, shaded courtyard. Access is free. Today, the building houses several private offices, which limits your visit to the outside view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Seat of cattle baron's empire |
150 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 2333 (Tucson Museum of Art) |
This house was one of the centers of Tucson's upper-class social scene in the 19th century. It was formerly the home of cattle baron Hiram Sanford Stevens, and it was here where he shot his wife and killed himself after his cattle business went awry. (His wife survived, though, since the bullet ricocheted off a comb in her hair). After those unfortunate incidents, happier times came to the house with the arrival of the upscale Janos restaurant from 1970 until recently, when Janos was evicted to make room for the Tucson Museum of Art next door to expand, an act which has caused much controversy among Tucsonans. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Tucson home of the Muses |
330 South Scott Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 884 4875 |
Patrons of the arts, demanding a proper environment for classical concerts in Tucson, helped raise most of the money necessary to build this imposing concert hall in 1927. The main building is home to a 600-seat theater, mainly used by the Arizona Theatre Company. There is a small Temple Gallery on the second floor; the south wing contains a nice cafe, with a cabaret theater right above it, while the north wing holds a gift shop offering theatrical and musical souvenirs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Mecca for the arts |
125 South Arizona Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 9977 http://www.tucsonartsdistrict.... |
The Tucson Arts District Partnership is working to transform the formerly distressed Tucson downtown area into a cultural hub. This non-profit organization has helped local artists find studio space downtown and restored dilapidated historic buildings, thereby transforming the streets around Congress into attractions for visitors from out of town. Staff members also organize studio tours and art walks during fall, winter and spring, as well as the popular Downtown Saturday Night festival. Call the TADP office for art walk and tour schedules. Most tours are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aaron Wagner |
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Tucson Children's Museum |
200 South Sixth Ave Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 792 9985 http://www.tucsonchildrensmuse... |
Located in downtown Tucson, the Tucson Children's Museum offers interactive exhibit areas that allow children to explore and discover for themselves in galleries that include Dinosaur Canyon, the TCM Bakery and Farmer's Market, Wee World, the ZOOMzone, the Ocean Discovery Center, and others. Please visit the website for dates and times of daily featured activities. Admission: Adults: USD7.00, Senior citizens and children (2-18) USD5.00. Guided and general group rates are available to groups of ten children or more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Monica Gessner |
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Center for the performing arts |
260 South Church Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 791 4101 http://www.ci.tucson.az.us/tcc/ |
This is Tucson's main venue for the performing arts, home of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and the Arizona Opera, as well as the locale for pop music concerts, sports events and major trade conventions. A typical result of 1970s style urban renewal, it is only mildly interesting (stylistically) compared to the old adobe buildings that were bulldozed to make room for what now stands. However, some abstract sculptures and fountains outside the complex provide food for the art lover's imagination. There are three performance venues- Tucson Arena, Tucson Music Hall, and the Leo Rich Theater. See their website for a list of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Will Gelnaw |
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More than a museum |
140 North Main Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 624 2333 http://www.tucsonarts.com |
The Tucson Museum has moved from exhibiting mostly traditional Western art to contemporary and experimental, with a large section devoted to pre-Columbian artistry of the American Southwest and Mexico. The museum shop features works by some of Arizona's most talented artists. Docent tours may be scheduled by calling +1 520 696 7450. Children under 12 and members are admitted free of charge and it's free for all on the first Sunday of the month. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jessica Michallet |
 Photo: Gwyneth Fatemi |
 Photo: tikkitoes |
 Photo: Fun with Dot & Ken |
 Photo: Grant Wiggins |
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Puppet shows and parades |
111 East Congress Street Tucson, AZ 85701 United States +1 520 770 1533 |
Tucson Puppet Works has quickly become one of the centers of activity in the Downtown Arts District. It is run by a collective of puppeteers who provide entertainment for adults and kids alike in regular puppet shows. Come to see the Puppet Church Sundays and experience a different kind of Sunday service, or join the All Souls Parade to watch the masks and costumes dancing around downtown. Puppeteering workshops are available. The art space at the gallery is reserved for fine art, usually featuring groups of local artists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: skulltits skulltits |