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Christopher Columbus Park: A Northwest Tucson Oasis

Explore outdoor fun at Christopher Columbus Park in Tucson: fishing, sports, dog park, and historical exhibits await!

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Christopher Columbus Park, a sprawling recreational area in northwest Tucson, offers a diverse range of activities from fishing and boating on Silverbell Lake to sports fields and a dedicated dog park. Originally named Silverbell Park, it was renamed in 1990 to honor Christopher Columbus.

A brief summary to Christopher Columbus Park

Local tips

  • Bring bread to feed the ducks at Silverbell Lake, but be mindful of other wildlife like ants, spiders, and snakes.
  • An urban fishing license is required for fishing in Silverbell Lake.
  • Visit the dog park, but be aware that it is closed for maintenance on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 1 PM.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Christopher Columbus Park via public transportation, use the Sun Tran bus system. From various points in Tucson, take Route 6 (West Tucson). Depending on your starting location, you may need to transfer to Route 5 or Route 10 to reach N Silverbell Rd. Get off at the stop nearest to 4300 N Silverbell Rd, from where it is a short walk to the park entrance. A single ride on Sun Tran costs $1.75.

  • Ride Share

    If using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, enter Christopher Columbus Park as your destination (4300 N Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745). The fare from most locations in Pima County typically ranges from $10 to $25, depending on traffic, distance, and time of day.

  • Car

    When driving to Christopher Columbus Park, head towards the intersection of I-10 and I-19. From I-10, take exit 259 for I-19 N towards Tucson. Continue on I-19 N for about 4 miles and take exit 99A to merge onto W Valencia Rd. After about 2 miles, turn left onto S 6th Ave. Continue on S 6th Ave for about 2 miles until you reach W Ajo Way. Make a right onto W Ajo Way and continue until it merges onto N Silverbell Rd. Turn left onto N Silverbell Rd, and the park will be on your right. Look for the entrance at 4300 N Silverbell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745. Parking is available on-site.

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Discover more about Christopher Columbus Park

Christopher Columbus Park is a large and versatile park located in northwest Tucson. The park's centerpiece is Silverbell Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. Two Anza interpretive exhibits line the west side of the lake, marking the Anza Expedition's Historic Turquisin Camp (Campsite #18). Beyond the lake, the park features a wide array of recreational facilities. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the Little League baseball field and soccer fields. A dedicated dog park provides a space for furry friends to play, and RC model airfields cater to aviation hobbyists. The park also includes picnic areas with public grills and benches with shade ramadas, making it ideal for family outings. Christopher Columbus Park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM, offering a welcoming environment for early morning walks, daytime activities, and evening strolls. The park provides ample parking. In February 2025, the park was renamed to honor Danny Lopez, a revered Tohono O'odham educator and elder.

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