Discover the Wonders of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, an extraordinary fusion of natural history museum, zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden in Tucson's stunning desert landscape.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum blends stunning natural beauty with educational exhibits, making it a must-visit for any tourist in Tucson. Spanning 98 acres, this unique attraction combines a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, and natural history museum, offering an immersive experience into the rich biodiversity of the desert ecosystem. Visitors can explore a variety of habitats, from desert landscapes to wetlands, and observe an array of native wildlife, including majestic birds, playful otters, and iconic reptiles. The museum also features scenic walking trails, art exhibits, and interactive displays, making it an engaging destination for families and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, Arizona, 85743, US
- +1520-883-2702
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan to spend at least half a day to fully enjoy the exhibits and trails.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and see more active wildlife.
- Check the schedule for live animal demonstrations and ranger talks for an enhanced experience.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water, as the museum covers a large outdoor area.
- Don't miss the art exhibits, which often showcase local artists and themes inspired by the desert.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, take I-10 W from Tucson. Merge onto AZ-86 W towards Sells. Continue on AZ-86 W for about 12 miles, then turn right onto Kinney Rd. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum will be on your left at 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743. Parking is available on-site, and there is no additional cost for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum by public transit, take the Sun Tran bus #18 from downtown Tucson towards the West Side. Transfer at the 22nd Street and 6th Avenue stop to the #36 bus heading towards Ajo Way. Get off at the stop for Kinney Rd and then walk approximately 1 mile north on Kinney Rd to the museum. Please note that bus fares are typically $1.75 for a single ride, and check the latest schedules for any changes.
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Taxi/Ride-share
If you prefer a more direct route, consider using a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input the address '2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743' as your destination. The fare may vary based on your starting location in Pima County, but it is generally a convenient option for a faster journey. Expect to pay between $15 to $30 depending on traffic and distance.
Discover more about Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
1.7 km
Discover the tranquility and striking beauty of Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park, a perfect spot for picnics and nature exploration.
Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
2.6 km
Explore the stunning vistas and diverse wildlife at Brown Mountain Trail, a premier hiking destination in Tucson, Arizona, perfect for outdoor lovers.
Iron Door Mine
4.4 km
Discover the haunted tales and historical wonders of Iron Door Mine, an eerie adventure near Tucson, Arizona, rich in Old West lore.
Signal Hill Picnic Area
6.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park, where stunning desert views and peaceful picnicking await.
Signal Hill
6.6 km
Explore Signal Hill, a historical landmark in Tucson, AZ, home to ancient petroglyphs and breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert, blending history with natural beauty.
Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
9.9 km
Explore the stunning trails and natural beauty of Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona - a perfect outdoor escape.
Sarasota Trailhead
10.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sarasota Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona, a premier destination for hiking and outdoor exploration in the Sonoran Desert.
Hidden Canyon Trail
10.9 km
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Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
12.1 km
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Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
15.8 km
Explore the ancient cultures of the Southwest at the Old Pueblo Archaeology Center in Tucson, a captivating museum dedicated to archaeological heritage.
Orange Slice
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant Orange Slice sculpture in Tucson, Arizona, a colorful landmark that embodies the city's artistic spirit and cultural richness.
Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
16.4 km
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The SlaughterHouse
16.8 km
Experience spine-chilling thrills and immersive horrors at The SlaughterHouse, Tucson's premier haunted house attraction.
Sentinel Peak
16.9 km
Explore Sentinel Peak in Tucson for breathtaking views, a moderate hike, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Tucson's Largest Tree
17.5 km
Explore Tucson's Largest Tree, a historical landmark that embodies nature's beauty and the rich cultural heritage of Arizona.
Unmissable attractions to see
King Canyon Trailhead
0.5 km
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Red Hills Visitor Center
3.1 km
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Tucson Mountain District
3.1 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of the Tucson Mountain District, a natural wonder in Arizona's Saguaro National Park.
Gates Pass Trail
4.0 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Gates Pass Trail in Arizona, a perfect hiking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Old Tucson
4.5 km
Experience the essence of the Wild West at Old Tucson, a thrilling theme park filled with live shows, historic charm, and interactive adventures.
Desert Discovery Nature Trail
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the Desert Discovery Nature Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Tucson, Arizona.
Bajada Loop Drive
4.7 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Bajada Loop Drive in Saguaro National Park West, where iconic saguaros and unique wildlife await.
Valley View Overlook Trail
4.8 km
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Signal Hl Trl
6.5 km
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Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
6.7 km
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Tucson mountain park
7.3 km
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International Wildlife Museum
9.5 km
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Bowen Stone House
9.9 km
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Christopher Columbus Park
13.2 km
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Sweetwater Wetlands Park
14.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
0.1 km
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Signature Grill with Patio Dining
11.4 km
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Salud
11.4 km
Discover Salud: A culinary haven in Tucson blending American and Latin American flavors amidst stunning desert vistas.
In-N-Out Burger
14.3 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
14.8 km
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Agustin Kitchen
17.3 km
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Café à La C'Art
18.2 km
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El Charro Café Downtown
18.3 km
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JoJo's Restaurant
18.3 km
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El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria
18.5 km
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Coronet Restaurant
18.5 km
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Perche' No
18.5 km
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BATA
18.6 km
Experience innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients at BATA in Downtown Tucson - A true culinary adventure awaits!
Persian Room Fine Dining
18.6 km
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Nook
18.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
0.1 km
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Gifts Shop
4.5 km
Explore Tucson's vibrant gift shop for unique souvenirs and artisan crafts that celebrate the essence of Arizona's culture and creativity.
Buffalo Trading Post
8.6 km
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Cat Mountain Station
8.6 km
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Mercado San Agustin
17.3 km
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MAST
17.3 km
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Petroglyphs - A Tucson Emporium
17.3 km
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Why I Love Where I Live
17.5 km
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MESA Shop
17.5 km
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Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
18.1 km
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Rain Crow
18.2 km
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AntiqueModern Tucson
18.2 km
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La Tiendita
18.3 km
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Art House Centro
18.3 km
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Grant-Stone Shopping Center
18.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station Pub & Grill
13.6 km
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Li'l Abner's Steakhouse
14.1 km
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Casa Marana Beer · Wine · Spirits • Pizza
14.4 km
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Monsoons Tap & Grill
15.0 km
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Dragoon Brewing Company
15.2 km
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The Edge - A Tucson Bar
17.0 km
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Lazy V
17.1 km
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The Jackrabbit Lounge
17.9 km
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Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
18.4 km
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Brodies Dark Horse Tavern
18.4 km
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Tommy’s Saloon
18.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and friendly service at Tommy's Saloon, Tucson's go-to bar for locals and tourists alike.
Bar Crisol/Exo
18.5 km
Discover Bar Crisol/Exo in Tucson's Barrio Viejo for a unique blend of coffee and cocktails in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and local culture.
Nightjar
18.5 km
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Cobra Arcade Bar Tucson
18.7 km
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Tough Luck Club
18.7 km
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