Old Tucson Studios

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The Streets of Old Tucson Pixabay Public Domain

Old Tucson Studios

One of the most entertaining, educational, and extremely authentic spots in all of Tucson can be found here, at the iconic spot known as the Old Tucson Studios. This hotspot (literally, don't forget you're in the desert!) is a movie studio and theme park all in one, not to mention an excellent spot to honor the history and culture of this desert region. This area is technically located just west of the city of Tucson, running adjacent to the Tucson Mountains, close to the western portion of Saguaro National Park. Groups typically spend up to 4 hours total here, the spot more like a mini-city than one attraction.

This is the only spot in Arizona ‘where the Old West comes alive’, the spot in which over 300 different movies and shows were filmed, mostly older yet highly recognizable Westerns. Coming to this old set is like time traveling back to the 1850s, a built-in history lesson without even thinking about it. See the spots where films such as Winchester ‘73 and Rio Bravo were shot, the rich film history here officially considered to be ‘Arizona’s premier location for a Western experience’.

There are also more rides, games, and tours onsite here than you can count, trust us, we’ve tried. Enjoy a living history presentation, sign up for a historic tour, take in a show, or even take part in any possibly-happening special events during your visit. The Arizona Sonora Western Heritage Foundation brings about several different and fun programs that teach more about the people and cultures that once called this region home, as well as the Mexican American war-torn statehood of Arizona in general. The Old West spirit here will even offer your group the chance to see the Old Tucson Story Museum, featuring onset specials from The Little House on the Prairie and Bonanza. After you’ve seen all the gunfights, stunt shows, and cowboy vs sheriff saloon shootouts you can handle head to the Grand Palace Saloon or Pony Express Pizza and Wings for a delicious lunch or any of the other 9 onsite shops and eateries.