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Pima County Historic Courthouse: A Tucson Landmark

Explore Tucson's history and architecture at the iconic Pima County Historic Courthouse, home to heritage and visitor attractions.

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The Pima County Historic Courthouse in downtown Tucson is an iconic Spanish Colonial Revival-style building dating back to 1929. Once the heart of county government, it now houses visitor attractions and event spaces, making it a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Pima County Historic Courthouse

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with events.
  • Check the schedule for events in the courtyard, such as free music performances.
  • Explore the nearby El Presidio neighborhood for local cafes and shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Joel D. Valdez Main Library, cross N Stone Ave and walk west along W Alameda St. Turn right onto N Church Ave. The Pima County Historic Courthouse will be on your left. This is a short walk within the downtown area. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    The Pima County Historic Courthouse is accessible via Sun Tran bus routes. Several routes connect to the Ronstadt Transit Center (RTC), a central transportation hub. From the RTC, the courthouse is a short walk north on N Church Ave. A single Sun Tran bus fare costs $1.75.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the Pima County Historic Courthouse. The El Presidio Parking Garage is directly behind the courthouse, with entrances on W Alameda St and Pennington St. The Public Works Parking Garage is another option, located a few blocks away at 50 W Alameda St. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $2-$8 for a few hours.

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Discover more about Pima County Historic Courthouse

The Pima County Historic Courthouse, located in the heart of downtown Tucson, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Designed by Roy Place and completed in 1929, this Spanish Colonial Revival-style building served as the main county courthouse for 86 years. Its elegant blue-tiled dome has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region. Throughout its history, the courthouse has been a backdrop for numerous wedding proceedings and home to various county departments. It gained national attention in 1934 when it briefly held notorious gangster John Dillinger and his gang. The courthouse has also appeared in several Hollywood films, adding to its allure. Today, the Pima County Historic Courthouse is home to the Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center, Pima County Administration, Visit Tucson, and the University of Arizona Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum. Visitors can explore exhibits, admire the architecture, and stroll through the courtyard, which often hosts events and performances. The courthouse also houses a tourist information center, making it a great starting point for exploring Tucson. The courtyard is a popular spot for lunch breaks, meetings, and enjoying live music. Free music performances are often held on Fridays. The building is open to the public most days, offering a glimpse into Pima County's past and present.

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