Explore the Rich History at Fort Lowell Museum
Discover Tucson's rich military history at Fort Lowell Museum, where exhibits bring the past to life in a scenic desert setting.
The Fort Lowell Museum, located in the heart of Tucson, Arizona, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the Southern Arizona frontier. Once a critical military installation during the 19th century, Fort Lowell played a vital role in the region's history, particularly during the Apache Wars. Today, the museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that narrate the stories of the diverse groups that lived and worked in the area, including soldiers, Native Americans, and civilians. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved grounds, which include remnants of the original fort structures and informative displays that enhance the understanding of this historical site. What sets Fort Lowell Museum apart is its commitment to providing an interactive experience for guests. The museum often features live demonstrations, such as blacksmithing, which bring history to life and engage visitors of all ages. Families will find plenty to do, as the museum offers activities designed to educate and entertain young minds. Special events and educational programs are regularly scheduled, making each visit a potentially unique experience. As you stroll through the museum's exhibits, take the time to appreciate the stunning desert landscape that surrounds the area. The museum is not only a place of learning but also a beautiful setting for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a family-friendly outing, a visit to the Fort Lowell Museum is sure to enrich your understanding of Tucson's past and its cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months to enjoy the outdoor exhibits comfortably.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events and live demonstrations.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the museum's scenic outdoor areas.
- Plan your visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
A brief summary to Fort Lowell Museum
- 2900 N Craycroft Rd, Tucson, Old Fort Lowell, Arizona, 85712, US
- +1520-885-3832
- Visit website
- Thursday 9 am-2 pm
- Friday 9 am-2 pm
- Saturday 9 am-2 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Saguaro National Park, start by exiting the park and head west on E. Valencia Rd. Continue on E. Valencia Rd for about 5 miles until you reach S. 6th Ave. Turn right onto S. 6th Ave and continue for another 3 miles. Merge onto I-10 N toward Tucson and take exit 257 for Craycroft Rd. Turn left onto Craycroft Rd and continue for about 2 miles. The Fort Lowell Museum will be on your right at 2900 N Craycroft Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Fort Lowell Museum via public transportation, take the Sun Tran bus service from Saguaro National Park. First, you will need to get to the nearest bus stop, which may require a short taxi or rideshare trip. Once at the bus stop, take Route 11 (which may vary, so check the current schedule) towards the east side of Tucson. After several stops, transfer to Route 4 at a major junction that heads north towards Craycroft Rd. Stay on Route 4 until you reach the stop closest to 2900 N Craycroft Rd. From there, it’s a short walk to the museum. Be sure to check the bus schedule for any fees, typically around $1.75 for a single ride.
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Rideshare
Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option to reach Fort Lowell Museum. Simply open the app, set your pickup location (either from within Saguaro National Park or nearby), and enter the destination as 'Fort Lowell Museum, 2900 N Craycroft Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712'. The ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Fares can vary based on demand but expect to pay around $15-25 for a one-way trip from the park.
Attractions Nearby to Fort Lowell Museum
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The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
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Trail Dust Town
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Rillito River Park
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Tucson Desert Art Museum and Four Corners Gallery
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Tucson Botanical Gardens
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Brandi Fenton Memorial Park
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Alvernon Park
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Valley of the Moon
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Rio Vista Natural Resource Park
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Himmel Park
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Reid Park Zoo
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Giraffe Encounter
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Gene C. Reid Park
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Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium
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Steward Observatory (University of Arizona)
Landmarks nearby to Fort Lowell Museum
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San Pedro Chapel
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Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson
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Labyrinth
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El Con Tower
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Coit Museum of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
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Cele Peterson Rose Garden
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University of Arizona's Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory
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The Jacobson House
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Postal History Foundation Inc
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Happiness is Submission to God House
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Old Fire Station #2
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Paul Bunyan Statue
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Rattlesnake Bridge
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The Historic Y
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La Iguana Art Gallery