Discover the Wonders of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Experience the enchanting blend of nature, art, and wildlife at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a must-visit destination in Tucson, Arizona.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a must-visit for tourists seeking an immersive experience in the unique desert ecosystem. This natural history museum combines a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden to showcase the diverse wildlife and flora of the Sonoran Desert, offering visitors an engaging insight into this remarkable region.
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 your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through various exhibits and gardens.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the stunning landscapes and wildlife provide excellent photo opportunities.
- Check the schedule for live animal presentations and talks to enhance your visit with educational experiences.
- Visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs and local artisan products to remember your trip.
Getting There
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Car
From Saguaro National Park, head west on the main park road towards West Tucson. Merge onto I-10 N and continue for about 9 miles. Take exit 257 for Speedway Blvd and turn left onto Speedway Blvd. Continue on Speedway Blvd for about 5 miles until you reach Kinney Rd. Turn right onto Kinney Rd and follow it for about 3 miles. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum will be on your left at 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743. Parking is available on-site; there may be an entry fee for the museum.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum via public transportation, you will need to take a Sun Tran bus from Saguaro National Park to downtown Tucson. Board bus route 8 (East Broadway) towards the downtown area. Once at downtown Tucson, transfer to route 34 (Mission Road) and ride until you reach the closest stop to the museum. Note that this may involve a short walk from the bus stop to the museum entrance. Make sure to check the current bus schedules, as they may vary. There will be a fare for the bus ride.
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
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Hidden Canyon Trail in Tucson, Arizona, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers.
Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
12.1 km
Explore the stunning desert landscapes and diverse wildlife at Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead in Tucson, Arizona, a hiker's paradise.
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
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 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
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
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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
Discover the essence of Tucson at MESA Shop, where unique home goods meet local craftsmanship in a charming shopping experience.
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
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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.
