Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: A Living Desert Experience
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert! A fusion of zoo, botanical garden, and museum in Tucson, Arizona. Open 365 days a year.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, located just west of Tucson, Arizona, is more than just a museum; it's a zoo, botanical garden, aquarium, and natural history museum all rolled into one. Showcasing the diverse plant and animal life of the Sonoran Desert, it offers an immersive experience across its 98 acres.
A brief summary to Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, Arizona, 85743, US
- +1520-883-2702
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as 85% of the museum is outdoors and involves walking on natural desert terrain.
- Visit during the cooler months (October-May) for the most comfortable experience.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to protect yourself from the desert sun.
- Check the museum's daily schedule for live animal presentations and demonstrations.
- Consider renting a stroller, wheelchair, or electric scooter if needed, as the museum covers 98 acres.
Getting There
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Driving
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is located on the far west side of Tucson, adjacent to Old Tucson and Saguaro National Park West. From downtown Tucson, take W Speedway Blvd west, then turn onto N Kinney Rd. The museum will be on your left. Parking is free. Note that the drive from most parts of Marana takes approximately 30-35 minutes. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in the parking lots.
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Public Transport
From downtown Tucson, the best way to reach the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum using public transportation is to take the Line 3 bus to the Pima College West Campus, and then take a taxi to the museum. The bus fare is approximately $2, and the taxi fare from the college to the museum will cost around $26-$33. The total trip takes about 54 minutes.
Discover more about Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area
1.7 km
Hike to tranquility at Mam-A-Gah Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park: desert views, peaceful picnicking, and a touch of CCC history.
Brown Mountain Trail Picnic Area and Trailhead
2.6 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert on Brown Mountain Trail: panoramic views, diverse cacti, and a rewarding hike in Tucson Mountain Park.
Iron Door Mine
4.4 km
Explore the haunted Iron Door Mine near Tucson, where legends of lost gold and the Old West come alive.
Signal Hill Picnic Area
6.5 km
Discover ancient rock art and scenic beauty at Signal Hill Picnic Area in Saguaro National Park West.
Signal Hill
6.6 km
Explore ancient Hohokam rock art and panoramic desert views at Signal Hill in Saguaro National Park West, a window into Arizona's past.
Feliz Paseos Trails Park Trailhead
9.9 km
Explore the Sonoran Desert with accessible trails and stunning views at Feliz Paseos Trails Park in Tucson, Arizona.
Sarasota Trailhead
10.4 km
Explore Tucson Mountain Park's trails from this convenient trailhead, perfect for hiking, biking, and experiencing the Sonoran Desert's beauty.
Hidden Canyon Trail
10.9 km
Escape into the Sonoran Desert on this accessible Tucson trail, offering scenic views and a peaceful hiking experience.
Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead
12.1 km
Explore scenic desert trails at the Richard E. Genser Starr Pass Trailhead, a gateway to Tucson Mountain Park's natural beauty.
Old Pueblo Archaeology Center
15.8 km
Explore ancient cultures and archaeological treasures at Tucson's Old Pueblo Archaeology Center. Discover the Southwest's captivating past.
Orange Slice
15.8 km
A whimsical and vibrant public art installation in Tucson, celebrating local history and creativity with a giant orange slice.
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 Tucson's ultimate haunted attraction: a terrifying journey through themed mazes and live horror at The SlaughterHouse.
Sentinel Peak
16.9 km
Hike, explore, and witness breathtaking views from Tucson's iconic Sentinel Peak, a landmark steeped in history and natural beauty.
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
Explore Petroglyphs, a Tucson emporium featuring handcrafted gifts, unique home goods, and local artistry in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
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
Discover Rain Crow in Tucson: where local art meets exceptional coffee in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
AntiqueModern Tucson
18.2 km
Explore AntiqueModern Tucson for a unique blend of vintage and modern treasures that reflect the artistic spirit of the Old West.
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
Explore the Grant-Stone Shopping Center in Tucson, AZ, a vibrant retail hub filled with diverse shopping and dining options for every tourist.
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.
