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
Hike to tranquility at Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park: desert views, peaceful picnicking, and a touch of CCC history.
Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
2.6 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert on Brown Mountain Trail: panoramic views, diverse cacti, and a rewarding hike in Tucson Mountain Park.
Iron Door Mine
4.4 km
Explore the haunted Iron Door Mine near Tucson, where legends of lost gold and the Old West come alive.
Signal Hill Picnic Area
6.5 km
Discover ancient rock art and scenic beauty at Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park West.
Signal Hill
6.6 km
Explore ancient Hohokam rock art and panoramic desert views at Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park West, a window into Arizona's past.
Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
9.9 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert with accessible trails and stunning views at Feliz Paseos Trails Park in Tucson, Arizona.
Sarasota Trailhead
10.4 km
Explore Tucson Mountain Park's trails from this convenient trailhead, perfect for hiking, biking, and experiencing the Sonoran Desert's beauty.
Hidden Canyon Trail
10.9 km
Escape into the Sonoran Desert on this accessible Tucson trail, offering scenic views and a peaceful hiking experience.
Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
12.1 km
Explore scenic desert trails at the Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead, a gateway to Tucson Mountain Park's natural beauty.
Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
15.8 km
Explore ancient cultures and archaeological treasures at Tucson's Old Pueblo Archaeology Center. Discover the Southwest's captivating past.
Orange Slice
15.8 km
A whimsical and vibrant public art installation in Tucson, celebrating local history and creativity with a giant orange slice.
Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District
16.4 km
Explore the Cocoraque Butte Archaeological District, a historical landmark in Arizona that reveals the stories of ancient cultures amidst stunning desert landscapes.
The SlaughterHouse
16.8 km
Experience Tucson's ultimate haunted attraction: a terrifying journey through themed mazes and live horror at The SlaughterHouse.
Sentinel Peak
16.9 km
Hike, explore, and witness breathtaking views from Tucson's iconic Sentinel Peak, a landmark steeped in history and natural beauty.
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
Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of King Canyon Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona – a hiker's paradise in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Red Hills Visitor Center
3.1 km
Explore the iconic Saguaro National Park at the Red Hills Visitor Center, your gateway to Arizona's stunning desert landscapes and unique ecosystems.
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
Explore the breathtaking views and family-friendly hiking experience at Valley View Overlook Trail in Tucson, Arizona.
Signal Hl Trl
6.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history along Signal Hill Trail in Arizona, a must-visit destination for every outdoor enthusiast.
Gates Pass Scenic Lookout
6.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of Gates Pass Scenic Lookout, a must-visit scenic spot in Tucson, Arizona.
Tucson mountain park
7.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Tucson Mountain Park, a natural haven in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
International Wildlife Museum
9.5 km
Discover the International Wildlife Museum in Tucson, Arizona, where wildlife conservation comes to life through fascinating exhibits and educational experiences.
Bowen Stone House
9.9 km
Discover the enchanting Bowen Stone House on the Yetman Trail, where history meets breathtaking desert landscapes in Tucson, Arizona.
Christopher Columbus Park
13.2 km
Explore the lush landscapes and recreational facilities of Christopher Columbus Park in Tucson, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and family fun.
Sweetwater Wetlands Park
14.4 km
Explore Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Tucson’s hidden gem for nature lovers, featuring scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and peaceful surroundings.
Essential places to dine
Ironwood Terraces Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience delightful American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking desert views at Ironwood Terraces Restaurant in Tucson.
Signature Grill with Patio Dining
11.4 km
Discover exquisite American and continental cuisine at Signature Grill in Tucson, featuring stunning patio views for an unforgettable dining experience.
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
Savor delicious burgers and fries at In-N-Out Burger in Tucson—a must-visit for every food lover exploring Arizona.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
14.8 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Tucson - where comfort food meets country charm.
Agustin Kitchen
17.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Agustin Kitchen in Tucson - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Café à La C'Art
18.2 km
Discover Café à La C'Art in Tucson: A unique blend of art, culture, and delicious American breakfast fare awaits you!
El Charro Café Downtown
18.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Charro Café Downtown in Tucson – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
JoJo's Restaurant
18.3 km
Experience vibrant dining at JoJo's Restaurant in Tucson - where delicious cuisine meets live music in an inviting atmosphere.
El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria
18.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mezquite Grill & Taqueria in Tucson - where every dish tells a story.
Coronet Restaurant
18.5 km
Discover Coronet Restaurant: A Culinary Delight in Tucson’s Historic Barrio Viejo Offering Unique American Dishes.
Perche' No
18.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Perche' No in Tucson - where tradition meets creativity in every dish.
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
Discover authentic Persian flavors at Tucson's premier dining destination, where culinary artistry meets rich cultural heritage.
Nook
18.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Nook in downtown Tucson—where every meal is a cozy retreat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ironwood Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Tucson at Ironwood Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every visitor.
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
Explore Buffalo Trading Post in Tucson, AZ for unique clothing and local treasures, reflecting the rich culture and artistry of the Southwest.
Cat Mountain Station
8.6 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Cat Mountain Station: a unique gift shop, antique store, and art gallery in Tucson, Arizona.
Mercado San Agustin
17.3 km
Discover the heart of Tucson at Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant market filled with food, art, and local culture in a welcoming atmosphere.
MAST
17.3 km
Explore MAST in Tucson for a unique selection of handcrafted jewelry, home goods, and leather items that showcase local artistry and culture.
Petroglyphs - A Tucson Emporium
17.3 km
Explore Petroglyphs, a Tucson emporium featuring handcrafted gifts, unique home goods, and local artistry in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Why I Love Where I Live
17.5 km
Discover the heart of Tucson at Why I Love Where I Live, your one-stop shop for unique gifts, clothing, and local artisan treasures.
MESA Shop
17.5 km
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Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC
18.1 km
Explore Tucson's hidden gem for rock and mineral enthusiasts at Norcross - Madagascar (US) LLC, a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Rain Crow
18.2 km
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AntiqueModern Tucson
18.2 km
Explore AntiqueModern Tucson for a unique blend of vintage and modern treasures that reflect the artistic spirit of the Old West.
La Tiendita
18.3 km
Explore La Tiendita, Tucson's charming gift shop offering local crafts and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of the Southwest.
Art House Centro
18.3 km
Discover unique art and gifts at Art House Centro, a vibrant cultural hub in Tucson, AZ, celebrating local creativity and craftsmanship.
Grant-Stone Shopping Center
18.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station Pub & Grill
13.6 km
Experience a vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at The Station Pub & Grill in Tucson.
Li'l Abner's Steakhouse
14.1 km
Experience the best of Tucson dining at Li'l Abner's Steakhouse, where delicious steaks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Casa Marana Beer · Wine · Spirits • Pizza
14.4 km
Experience the best of Tucson at Casa Marana, where delicious pizza and a vibrant bar atmosphere come together!
Monsoons Tap & Grill
15.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Monsoons Tap & Grill in Tucson, where American grill classics meet a casual atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Dragoon Brewing Company
15.2 km
Discover the finest craft beers and local flavors at Dragoon Brewing Company in Tucson, Arizona.
The Edge - A Tucson Bar
17.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Edge in Tucson, featuring live music, karaoke, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Lazy V
17.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lazy V in Tucson, AZ, where karaoke meets pool in a fun and affordable setting.
The Jackrabbit Lounge
17.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and live music at The Jackrabbit Lounge, Tucson's premier grill and bar destination for an unforgettable night out.
Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ
18.4 km
Experience the best of Tucson’s barbecue culture with a vast selection of beers and a welcoming atmosphere at Brother John's Beer Bourbon & BBQ.
Brodies Dark Horse Tavern
18.4 km
Experience Tucson's local flavor at Brodies Dark Horse Tavern, where delicious grill dishes and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
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
Discover Nightjar, Tucson's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet historic charm in the heart of Barrio Viejo.
Cobra Arcade Bar Tucson
18.7 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and craft drinks at Cobra Arcade Bar in Tucson, where nostalgia meets nightlife in a vibrant atmosphere.
Tough Luck Club
18.7 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Tough Luck Club, a cocktail bar that offers innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TD's Showclubs
17.4 km
Unleash the nightlife fun at TD's Showclubs, Tucson's premier adult entertainment venue, featuring captivating performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Curves Cabaret
17.9 km
Discover the excitement of Curves Cabaret, Tucson's favorite adult entertainment club, where vibrant performances and a lively atmosphere await you.
Whiskey Roads
17.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Tucson at Whiskey Roads, where delicious grills meet a lively bar atmosphere, perfect for any occasion.
Lust DWTN
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant Tucson nightlife at Lust DWTN, a rooftop night club with stunning views and unforgettable music.
Zen Nightclub
18.8 km
Dive into Tucson's nightlife at Zen Nightclub - a vibrant venue offering electrifying music, dance, and a lively atmosphere for all party enthusiasts.
The Century Room
19.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms of jazz at The Century Room, Tucson's premier jazz club, offering live music and an intimate atmosphere.
IBT's Bar + Food
19.1 km
Discover Tucson's vibrant nightlife at IBT's Bar + Food, where American cuisine meets karaoke fun in a welcoming gay bar atmosphere.
Royal Hookah Lounge
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Royal Hookah Lounge in Tucson, where flavorful hookahs and lively entertainment create unforgettable evenings.
Club 4th
19.6 km
Experience Tucson's vibrant nightlife at Club 4th, where music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere make for unforgettable nights out.
Bojangles Night Club
21.2 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Bojangles Night Club, where live music, dancing, and great vibes await you every night.
The Shelter Bar
24.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Shelter Bar, Tucson's top cocktail lounge, offering a unique selection of drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
Hush Social Club
24.8 km
Discover Tucson's nightlife at Hush Social Club, where vibrant music, stylish ambiance, and social connections come alive.
TD's Showclubs East
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tucson at TD's Showclubs East, the premier adult entertainment venue for unforgettable performances and exhilarating atmosphere.
Love Cabaret
28.2 km
Discover an electrifying nightlife experience at Love Cabaret, Tucson's premier destination for dance, music, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Maverick King of Clubs
29.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at The Maverick King of Clubs, a top live music venue in Tucson, Arizona.
