Background

Cele Peterson Rose Garden: A Tucson Oasis

Discover Tucson's fragrant oasis: Stroll through hundreds of rose varieties at the Cele Peterson Rose Garden in Gene C. Reid Park.

4.6

Located within Gene C. Reid Park, the Cele Peterson Rose Garden is a serene escape showcasing over 200 rose varieties in a meticulously landscaped setting. It's a beloved spot for leisurely strolls, relaxation, and special occasions.

A brief summary to Cele Peterson Rose Garden

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring (March-April) or fall (September-October) for the most vibrant blooms.
  • Check for closures before visiting, as the garden is closed annually from December 1st through March 31st for pruning.
  • Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the tranquil garden setting.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various locations in Tucson, take the Sun Tran bus route 7 or 17. Route 7 drops you off close to Gene C. Reid Park. Check the latest schedules and plan to board the bus heading towards Reid Park. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the garden within Reid Park. A single ride on Sun Tran typically costs $1.75.

  • Walking

    If you are already within Gene C. Reid Park, follow the paved paths towards the center of the park. The Cele Peterson Rose Garden is located near the Miko's Corner Playground Dog Park and the Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center. Look for signs directing you to the rose garden. The garden is easily accessible by foot from most areas within the park.

  • Parking

    If driving, enter Gene C. Reid Park from 22nd Street between Country Club and Alvernon and follow the road to the parking areas near the Reid Park Zoo and Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center. A new parking lot has been constructed north of the Zoo and ARC. From the parking lot, follow the walking paths south towards the rose garden. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Cele Peterson Rose Garden

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Cele Peterson Rose Garden

The Cele Peterson Rose Garden, nestled in the heart of Tucson's Gene C. Reid Park, offers a tranquil retreat into a world of floral beauty. This garden boasts over 200 varieties of roses, presenting a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances that evolve with the seasons. Created in 1960 as a test garden in partnership with the University of Arizona, the garden was renamed in 2019 to honor Cele Peterson, a Tucson business owner and philanthropist. Peterson was known as a style icon, businesswoman, and passionate advocate for children’s education and well-being. The garden's design features planting beds radiating from a central gazebo, creating a picturesque setting for visitors. Meticulously landscaped pathways wind through the flower beds, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. Benches are placed throughout the garden, offering spots to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Visitors can explore educational signage to learn about rose species and gardening tips. The garden is a popular venue for weddings and photography sessions, with its fragrant roses and well-maintained greenery. The garden is open daily, with the most impressive blooms typically occurring in March-April and October-November. Note that the rose garden is closed annually from December 1 through March 31 for pruning and cleaning.

Popular Experiences near Cele Peterson Rose Garden

Popular Hotels near Cele Peterson Rose Garden

Select Currency