Background

The Dunbar Pavilion: A Legacy of Resilience and Culture

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Tucson's Dunbar Pavilion, a landmark of African American heritage and community empowerment.

4.6
A question is required

The Dunbar Pavilion in Tucson, Arizona, stands as a testament to the city's African American history. Originally the segregated Dunbar School, it now serves as a vibrant community and cultural center, hosting educational programs, arts initiatives, and community events that honor its past and foster growth.

A brief summary to The Dunbar Pavilion

Local tips

  • Check the Dunbar Pavilion's event calendar for upcoming cultural events, workshops, and performances.
  • Explore the historical exhibits within the Pavilion to learn about the legacy of the Dunbar School and its impact on Tucson's African American community.
  • Take advantage of the free on-site parking available to visitors.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Tucson, head northwest on N Stone Ave towards W 6th St. Turn left onto W 2nd St and continue straight. The Dunbar Pavilion will be on your right at 325 W 2nd St. Walking from downtown Tucson to the Dunbar Pavilion takes approximately 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Tucson downtown area, take the Sun Tran bus route 6 or route 16. Get off at the stop near 2nd Street and 4th Avenue. Walk west on 2nd Street for about 3 blocks. The Dunbar Pavilion will be on your left at 325 W 2nd St. A single ride on Sun Tran costs $1.75.

Unlock the Best of The Dunbar Pavilion

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about The Dunbar Pavilion

The Dunbar Pavilion, located in the Dunbar Spring neighborhood of Tucson, Arizona, is more than just a building; it's a living monument to the resilience and cultural richness of the African American community. Established in 1918 as the Dunbar School, it was Tucson's first and only segregated school for Black students, a direct consequence of Jim Crow laws that mandated racial segregation in education. Named after the esteemed African American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, the school became a focal point for the Black community, providing quality education despite limited resources and serving as a hub for social and cultural activities. Despite facing numerous challenges, including inadequate facilities and a lack of resources, the dedicated teachers and parents ensured that the children received a good education. The school fostered a strong sense of unity and togetherness, instilling in its students a deep sense of pride and community. In 1951, Tucson schools voluntarily desegregated, and Dunbar School was integrated in 1952, being renamed John Spring Junior High School. However, this didn't immediately guarantee equal access to education for African American students. The school eventually closed in 1978. In the 1990s, the Dunbar Coalition, comprised of alumni and community members, purchased the abandoned school from the city for $25 with the aim of transforming it into an African American museum and cultural center. Today, the Dunbar Pavilion stands as a vibrant hub for education, arts, and cultural programs. It hosts a variety of programs and initiatives, including educational partnerships, arts and culture events, and community engagement activities. The Pavilion is home to organizations such as the Visual and Textile Arts of Tucson, Kore Press, the Tucson Black Film Club, and the Dunbar Barber Academy. It also offers space for community events, workshops, and performances, ensuring that the legacy of Dunbar continues to inspire cultural preservation and community empowerment. The Dunbar Pavilion offers free on-site parking for visitors.

Popular Experiences near The Dunbar Pavilion

Popular Hotels near The Dunbar Pavilion

Select Currency