Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center: Gateway to the Desert
Discover Southern Arizona's heritage, culture, and natural beauty at this downtown Tucson visitor center, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
The Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center, located in the historic Pima County Courthouse in downtown Tucson, serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the region. Discover Southern Arizona's diverse culture, history, and natural beauty through interactive exhibits, a theater, and helpful resources.
A brief summary to Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center
- 115 N Church Ave, Tucson, Downtown, Arizona, 85701, US
- +1800-638-8350
- Visit website
Local tips
- Don't miss the interactive exhibits that provide insights into local history and culture.
- Ask the staff for personalized recommendations to enhance your visit to Southern Arizona.
- Visit the gift shop for unique, locally crafted souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
The Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center is located in downtown Tucson, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From the Joel D. Valdez Main Library, simply cross N Church Ave to reach the Pima County Historic Courthouse. From the Presidio Museum, walk southeast on N Court Ave, then turn right onto W Alameda St, followed by a left onto N Church Ave. The Visitor Center will be on your right. Admission is free.
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Public Transport
The Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center is conveniently located on the Sun Tran bus route and one block from the Sun Link streetcar. Several bus routes serve the downtown area. From the Downtown Transit Center, take the Route 1 or Route 3 bus, which stops near the Visitor Center. Tucson public transit is currently fare-free. Check the Sun Tran website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available in the El Presidio Parking Garage directly behind the Southern Arizona Heritage and Visitor Center. Other nearby parking options include the Public Service Garage and the Public Works Garage. Parking fees vary by garage. As an example, the rates at the El Presidio Parking Garage are typically around $2 per hour.
Discover more about Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Tucson
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Discover Tucson and Southern Arizona: History, culture, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights await in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Pima County Historic Courthouse
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Discover Tucson's history and architectural beauty at the iconic Pima County Historic Courthouse, home to museums and visitor information.
The Tucson Presidio Trust for Historic Preservation
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Discover Tucson's rich history at The Tucson Presidio Trust, where engaging exhibits and immersive experiences await every visitor.
El Presidio Plaza
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Discover Tucson's historic charm at El Presidio Plaza, a vibrant downtown park with gardens, art, and a glimpse into the city's past.
Exchange at the Presidio - The Mormon Battalion Enters Tucson
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Explore the historic Exchange at the Presidio in Tucson, where the Mormon Battalion's legacy comes to life amidst rich cultural experiences.
Old Town Artisans | Downtown Tucson Shops
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and experience Tucson's history in a charming 19th-century adobe setting at Old Town Artisans.
Allande Footbridge
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Walk across history on the Allande Footbridge, a tribute to Tucson's Presidio commander and a link between the past and present.
La Casa Cordova
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Step back in time at La Casa Cordova, Tucson's oldest adobe home, within the Tucson Museum of Art's historic block.
Father Kino Monument
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J Knox Corbett House
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Step back in time at the J. Knox Corbett House, a Mission Revival gem in Tucson's El Presidio Historic District. Temporarily closed for restoration.
Garcés Footbridge
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Historic Bates Mansion
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Steinfeld Mansion
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Wyatt Earp Shot Frank Stilwell Marker
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Armory Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Southern Arizona Heritage & Visitor Center
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JFK Statue
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Explore Tucson's JFK Statue, a poignant tribute to a great leader blending history, art, and the vibrant culture of downtown.
Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum
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Explore Tucson's past at the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, a historical gem showcasing the city's rich Spanish colonial heritage.
Veinte de Agosto Park
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Explore Veinte de Agosto Park: Tucson's lush city park offering relaxation, recreation, and a taste of local culture in the heart of downtown.
Fox Tucson Theatre
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Tucson Museum Of Art
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Discover the Tucson Museum of Art, where centuries of artistic heritage meet the vibrant culture of the Southwest.
Borderlands Brewing Company
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Borderlands Brewing Company, Tucson's premier brewery, offering craft beers, dog-friendly spaces, and community events.
Sosa-Carrillo-Frémont House
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St. Augustine Cathedral
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Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of St. Augustine Cathedral, a historic landmark in Tucson, Arizona.
Carnival of Illusion
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Southern Arizona Transportation Museum
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Tucson, AZ - Virtual Railfan LIVE
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Children's Museum Tucson
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Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson
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Discover the innovative contemporary art scene at MOCA Tucson, where creativity meets community in the heart of Arizona.
Hotel Congress
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Essential places to dine
JoJo's Restaurant
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Perche' No
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Café à La C'Art
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Nook
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El Charro Café Downtown
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Raptor Canyon Cafe
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Experience delicious breakfast and lunch at Raptor Canyon Cafe in downtown Tucson - where flavor meets affordability.
The Monica
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Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink
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BATA
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Penca
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Elliott's on Congress
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HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery
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Experience flavorful American cuisine and delightful ice cream at HUB Restaurant & Ice Creamery in downtown Tucson.
Maynards Kitchen & Bottle Shop
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Cup Cafe
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Charro Steak & Del Rey
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art House Centro
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La Tiendita
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Desert Vintage
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Willow's Bazaar Boutique
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Proper Shops
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Templeton's
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Sixth Avenue Antiques
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Tucson Thrift Shop
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Clay & Cloth
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The Other Side
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Hippie Gypsy
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Arizona Poppy
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Sonoran Rosie
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Everest Souvenirs
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Generation Cool
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tough Luck Club
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Cobra Arcade Bar Tucson
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Batch
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John Henry’s
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Juniper - Tucson
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HighWire Tucson
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Playground Bar and Lounge
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Owls Club
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The Royal Room
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Royal Room, Tucson's favorite bar with eclectic decor and a welcoming atmosphere.
Good Oak Bar
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The Funky Monk
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O’Malley’s Bar & Grill
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The Hut
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Hi Fi Kitchen Cocktails
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Portal Cocktails
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lust DWTN
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Zen Nightclub
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The Century Room
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Royal Hookah Lounge
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IBT's Bar + Food
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Discover Tucson's vibrant nightlife at IBT's Bar + Food, where American cuisine meets karaoke fun in a welcoming gay bar atmosphere.
Curves Cabaret
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Club 4th
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TD's Showclubs
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Unleash the nightlife fun at TD's Showclubs, Tucson's premier adult entertainment venue, featuring captivating performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Hush Social Club
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Bojangles Night Club
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TD's Showclubs East
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Love Cabaret
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The Maverick King of Clubs
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Whiskey Roads
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