19 Best & Most Fun Things to Do in Downtown Tucson (AZ)

Downtown Tucson is a bustling neighborhood in Arizona that is filled with museums, parks, and a series of restaurants.

Whether you’re looking for a place to take your kids to for their next vacation or you just want a refined location where you can spend quality time, you’ll not be wrong planning your next trip to Downtown Tucson!

So, in order to map out an epic vacation to this part of the city, we’ve compiled a list of beautiful sites that will be worth your time upon your arrival.

Get a pen, sit back, and read through our 19 picks of the best and most fun places in Downtown Tucson, Arizona

Things To Do In Downtown Tucson

1. Fox Theater At Downtown Tucson

A top way to enjoy your vacation to Downtown Tucson is to catch a show at Fox Theater.

This performing art theater was established as far back as the 1st of April 1930, and it has since then been a favorite stop to several fun-seekers that are coming to this city.

If you’re here, you will enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and concerts. These include classical performances, ballets, jazz, and contemporary pop.

Most remarkably, the sitting area of this site is spacious. In fact, all the chairs are which make it more comfortable for visitors to sit for a more extended period.

Not just that, the ticket price to see a show is relatively low, and there’s an on-site Cafe with an excellent menu option.

Supposedly, during the intermission session, you can conveniently stay in its outdoor area and enjoy a nice bite!

In fact, if you love wines or beers, this attraction in Downtown Tucson also features many wine vendors.

This is obviously beyond a traditional studio; it’s just too unique!

It’s not so surprising that, since 2003, this destination has been consistently recognized as one of the most fantastic and fun sites in the United States.

Whether you plan to spend a shorter time in this destination or your whole vacation period, don’t conclude your exploration without catching a show here!

Address: 17 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

2. Old Town Artisans Of Downtown Tucson

Regardless of when you plan to come for a vacation in Downtown Tucson, you can’t be short of amazing sites to explore.

Whether you’ll be in this city during the summer or winter, Old Town Artisans is a great place to check out for nice antiquities, handmade crafts, and a series of collectibles.

What distinguishes these artworks from others that are obtainable elsewhere is the fact that the works here are not only from Arizona artists but from notable artists from all major cities in the United States.

Not just that, these works are with labeling, which makes it easier to navigate through for tourists.

In fact, if you’re looking for Tucson’s quality souvenirs, you can never be wrong to visit this awesome place.

Although, it’s important to state that, as distinct from other gift stores, pets are not permissible at Old Town Artisans.

Nonetheless, regardless of where you are in Arizona, it will be well worth a drive to see this ancient gift store!

If you are here, endeavor to come early so that you can beat the crowd!

Address: 201 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

3. The Veinte de Agosto Park

If you’re a parkgoer, Veinte de Agosto Park is all you need to make your vacation to Downtown Tucson more enjoyable!

Veinte de Agosto Park is a historic attraction that was named on the 20th of August 1775 when Mexico waged a war of independence against Spain.

Today, this ancient site features a hiking trail that is suitable for hikers, several historical monuments, and lots of beautiful spot areas where you can sit to enjoy some cool breeze.

Besides, the tour guides on site are so friendly, and their willingness to tell every traveler the city’s history is just so impressive.

Even if none of this meets your expectations, you can take a moment to stroll through this historic structure; it will surely be worth it!

Note this is a free attraction, and it’s accessible between 6:00 AM through 10:30 PM on all weekdays.

Address: 123 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

4. Tucson’s El Presidio Bed & Breakfast Inn

If you want to step back in time in order to experience western charm in a desert oasis, find time to check out El Presidio Bed & Breakfast Inn!

Although not typically an attraction, nevertheless, its unique offerings have changed the status quo. This has made several tourists that is coming to Arizona prioritize it on their bucket list.

Essentially, this destination boasts of 1876 Victorian architecture and features a nice room for safe lodging, an indoor swimming pool, and a handful of restaurants offering the best quality American and Canadian dishes.

Interestingly, all of its offerings are not pricey, unlike what’s obtainable elsewhere.

Even if you’re not here to lodge, it will surely be worth it if you can be here for a nice bite.

Address: 297 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

5. Tucson Museum of Art

The Tucson Museum of Art is an art institution and an art museum along the Presidio District in Downtown Tucson.

It’s a 74,000-square-foot attraction with over 8,000 objects and several art exhibitions.

Although, the establishment period of this insightful place dates back to 1924. Notwithstanding, it is one of the few art centers in Arizona that features a large proportion of United States contemporary artworks

Beyond that, this museum also has a wild variety of Latin American collections. This consists of pre-Columbian artworks that were produced by Native Americans before the Spanish conquest that happened in the sixteenth century.

In fact, if you’re looking for a site where you can explore the United State’s Medieval works of Art, you’ll never be wrong coming to this resourceful location!

Upon your arrival in Downtown Tucson, check through these beautiful works, and you’ll be happy doing so.

While coming, bear in mind that adults’ admission fees here cost $12, senior citizens ages 65 and above pay $10, while $7 is payable by college students.

Meanwhile, for children and active military men, the Downtown Tucson Museum of Art grants them free access!

With the exception of Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, you can conveniently plan your trip here between 10:00 AM through 5:00 PM.

Address: 140 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

6. The J. Knoxx Corbett House

The J. Knoxx Corbett House is a Spanish Mediterranean-style Mansion that was built in 1907 by David Holmes.

It’s an attraction that initially serves as a residence to the Corbett family. Today, this historic building houses lots of artifacts that reflect how Downtown Tucson was centuries ago.

Don’t forget, “the best way to know and understand people is to study their historical antecedents.”

If you are so desirous of learning about the predominant culture, lifestyle, and ravaging activities of this Arizona city over hundreds of years back, your visit to this lovely building will be golden!

Most Impressively, the on-site tour guides create an engaging scene that’ll allow every tourist to feel so relaxed.

Even if you’re not sure of the chronology of each of these artifacts, the eagerness of the staff to clarify facts is second to none!

Notwithstanding that, J. Knoxx Corbett House isn’t for profit maximization. Therefore, you’ll not pay any entrance fee before you can enjoy the best out of this monumental attraction.

While planning a visit here, do note that this site isn’t kids friendly.

So, if you’ll be in this gorgeous Arizona city, consider the list of other family-friendly attractions herein.

Equally worthy of note is that this historic landmark is only accessible on Wednesday between 10:00 in the morning through 2:00 in the forenoon.

If your visitation period to Downtown Tucson falls on a Wednesday, plan to spend a couple of minutes here. You’ll find here so entertaining and engaging if you do so!

Address: 180 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

Looking for something more thrilling to explore in Arizona? You may check out our top attractions in Show Low, Buckeye, and Tombstone! 

7. Children’s Museum Tucson

What’s greater than finding a relaxing location to take your kids to for their next vacation?

Of course, it’s a good deal for the little ones when they’re taken to a fun and engaging place!

Luckily, Children’s Museum Tucson presents loads of fun activities that’ll allow your kids to enjoy their vacation like never before.

From its immersive art to lots of music to several nature & educational exhibits, Children’s Museum Tucson is simply a paradise for the little ones!

It’s accessible all days of the week except Mondays, and a token fee of $5 is payable per child.

With that little entrance fee, each child on site will have access to snacks, drinks, and, sometimes, a whole lot of gifts to take home.

Not just that, the waitress that welcomes children and the entire guides that work here are so friendly.

They act just like old friends to every kid, which will, in turn, make them feel totally relaxed while playing with their counterparts.

In fact, for the grown-up ones on site, there are lots of engaging exhibits. While you’re patiently waiting for your kids to complete their adventure, you’ll not be left out with something engaging! Obviously, this is a true gem in Downtown Tucson!

Address: 200 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

8. Downtown Tucson’s Rocks & Ropes of Tucson, Inc

Among the fun activities you can get yourself into, Rock climbing isn’t only pleasurable; it equally has lots of health benefits.

For instance, while it will help you to increase your strength and grip, it will equally assist you in burning calories and enable you to have a sense of satisfaction.

Since you know these, would you love to engage in rock climbing adventures during your subsequent vacation to Downtown Tucson?

Considering its overwhelming health benefits, it’s not just imperative; it becomes so pertinent for you to do!

Upon your arrival in this Arizona city, head straight to Rocks & Ropes of Tucson, Inc!

It’s an area that allows every fun-seeker to climb rocks & bouldering and enjoy yoga adventure.

This 14,000-square-foot facility doesn’t only provide climbing adventure for experienced tourists but for all various skill levels.

There are versatile instructors on site who understands the peculiarities of various travelers, and they always adopt an inclusive approach to make it fun for all.

Although, unlike other seasonal fitness centers, this attraction features a handful of restaurants.

So, your option to get a scrumptious meal while on-site might be limited.

Whatever the situation might be, it’s just an activity that’ll give you a newer and richer vacation experience when next you’re in Downtown Tucson!

It’s accessible on Mondays through Fridays between 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

However, if you’ll be here on Saturday or Sunday, you can conveniently plan your trip here between 9:30 AM through 7:00 PM.

Address: 330 S Toole Ave #400, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

9. The Jacome Plaza

When you’re exhausted, there’s always that special place you should find solace!

For Downtown Tucson, Jacome Plaza provides solace to travelers and locals alike after their daily exploration.

Quite not popular with travelers in other regions in Downtown Tucson, but then, it features lots of shaded areas with several benches, which are so great for relaxing.

Aside from being a relaxation center, Jacome Plaza is also a little distance walk from other notable attractions in this city of Arizona.

In fact, if you appreciate spending quality time with nature, you’ll love every minute spent here.

Amazingly, it’s not for profit making. That suggests that you don’t have to empty your wallet before you have the best out of this spot.

If you are here, come with your friends and some bottle of wine, you’ll have the feel of this city’s charm!

Note that there are no parking lots in this attraction. So, I suggest you park at a nearby location so that you’ll not be stranded during your trip!

Address: 101 N Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

10. Trampoline Park At Tucson

A visit to Trampoline Park is another top way to enjoy your vacation in Downtown Tucson.

The Trampoline Park allows every adult and energetic kid to enjoy jumping.

Of course, jumping increases oxygen circulation to tissues and also ensures the stimulation of metabolism.

There is a lot of technological equipment here that doesn’t only make this adventure fun but highly safe.

If you crave to do something exceptional during your subsequent exploration of Downtown Tucson, endeavor to begin your sightseeing tour here.

The admission fee is affordable, the best equipment is in place, and there are many free parking spaces.

Address: 330 S Toole Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

11. El Charro Cafe Of Downtown Tucson

The El Charro is a long-standing Mexican cafe with a colorful vibe offering a wide variety of Tucson-style Mexican dishes.

From mini chimes to tamales to enchiladas and several other insanely delicious foods, El Charro Cafe of Downtown Tucson has been hailed as one of the best restaurants in Arizona!

If you are in this Downtown, don’t constitute an exception to the list of meticulous travelers coming for a nice bite here.

The food is not only delicious, but its quantity is also impressive at the price they’re being offered.

Despite being built in 1896, the ambiance and atmosphere of this charming restaurant are just so e exceptional and meet up with contemporary realities!

In fact, this amazing spot has lots of nooks and crannies – both indoor and outdoor seating, including numerous bar areas.

So, you’ll not only get a delicious meal; you’ll equally enjoy the best-crafted beer!

How about the conduct of the waiter? It’s just so great! All you have to do is to make an order, and within a few minutes of doing that, everything is set for you!

In case you consider it worth being here, it’s accessible between 11:00 AM through 8:30 PM.

Address: 311 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

12. The Etherton Gallery

The Etherton Gallery is an art gallery in Downtown Tucson that commemorates ancient and modern-day photography in a historic building.

Of a truth, “the painter constructs, the photographer discloses!”

A trip to the Etherton Gallery in this city of Arizona will undoubtedly reveal many interesting occurrences of the United States in a pictorial form.

Whether you’re a history buff or cultural enthusiast, you’ll have so many pictorial reflections that’ll catch your attention here!

In fact, if you’re in need of beautiful historical pictures to beautify your interiors, you can never be short of the best option at Etherton Gallery!

Most remarkably, the cost of these various pictures is inexpensive.

Whenever you plan to be here, endeavor it doesn’t fall on a Sunday or Monday because Etherton Gallery doesn’t grant access to tourists on these two days!

Address: 340 S Convent Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

13. Alene Dunlap Smith Garden

The Alene Dunlap Smith Garden is a beautiful landmark in Downtown Tucson that is dedicated to Alene Dunlap.

Being a neighborhood conservationist, historic preservationist, and community leader who lived between 1920 to 1980, this city considered his series of activities and named this destination after him.

Upon your visit to this attraction, with its beautiful trees and sculptures, this garden will provide you with a peaceful, quiet, and relaxing atmosphere.

Besides, this location’s blue tiles are so lovely, and whether you’re in this downtown during the summertime or winter season, this quiet place is synonymous with where you can safely call home.

Beyond its shaded areas suitable for relaxation, this beautiful city park in Tucson also features a beautiful play area for kids.

There, kids can play, jump, and run. Despite being a little area, Alene Dunlap Smith Garden offers something engaging, enjoyable, and fun for everyone!

If you’re considering a place where you can spend little time after some hustle and bustle of the day, this is a perfect option worth considering!

Address: 355 N Granada Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

14. Tuckson’s Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway

Also referred to by the locals as “Catalina Highway” or simply “the Sky Islands Scenic Byway,” Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is a breathtaking region that originates at the northeastern edge of Tucson.

Its height is about 9,157 feet, and it’s regarded as one of the most scenic drives in Downtown Tucson.

With the many pullouts you’ll encounter in this lovely place as you go from desert to forest, it’s certain you’ll find this destination so exciting and engaging.

Its several easy stops along the way will also make your tour through this scenic territory so inclusive.

Along the way, you can take pictures, and without anything more, its spectacular and beautiful sights are in itself enough to give you a richer vacation experience.

In fact, within the shorter time, you’ll spend here, you will find its many microclimates so fun.

If you’ve got enough time during your journey to this city in Arizona, be sure to come and spend 30 minutes or an hour here.

Address: 300 W. Congress St. Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

Looking for something more enjoyable to explore in Arizona? You may check out our top attractions in Yuma, Gilbert, and Scottsdale!

15. Catalina State Park

Do you love nature, and you’ll love to spend quality time in a nature-rich attraction when next you’re in Downtown Tucson?

If your answer is affirmative, we suggest you plan to spend two hours or more at Catalina State Park!

Particularly, Catalina State Park is along Santa Catalina Mountains. It was established in 1979, and as of today, it is home to almost 5,000 desert plants and saguaros.

Moreover, this land boasts about 5,500 acres of canyons and foothills that provide opportunities for hikers to hike and campers to enjoy camping and bird watching.

It doesn’t end there; this park is equally home to over 150 species of birds and animals.

With its 3,000 feet elevation level, no fun-seeker or equestrian wouldn’t also find this awesome site boring!

Note this recreational center is accessible all days of the week between 5:00 AM through 10:00 PM.

Address: 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85737, United States

16. Pima Air and Space Museum

Unlike other attractions herein, the Pima Air and Space Museum requires little description due to its popularity.

Even beyond Downtown Tucson, it’s wildly known as the largest non-government-funded aerospace center in the world.

It’s a favorite stop in Arizona that presents nearly 300 aircraft spreading over 80 acres.

Additionally, the Pima Air and Space Museum has since 1991 been the home to the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame.

In fact, among the selected aircraft available here that you’re not likely to see anywhere include the North American F-107, Boeing 787, Martin PBM Mariner, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, and a host of others.

If you are interested in learning more about the aviation history of the United States, you’ll definitely have a whole lot of exhibits to explore here.

Don’t forget, “vacationing isn’t about jumping from one park to another; it involves learning something new.”

With absolute certainty, you’ll enjoy learning this rare aspect of history if you have a stop here!

The Pima Air and Space Museum is open all weekdays between 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM all weekdays.

Address: 6000 E Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85756, United States

17. Reid Park Zoo At Downtown Tucson

Established in 1967, the Reid Park Zoo is a 24-acre attraction that is owned and managed by Downtown Tucson.

This zoo features more than 500 different animals, including a spectacled bear, Aldabra giant tortoise, and grizzly bear, among several others.

If you love animals, find time to be here when next you’re in Downtown Tucson.

It’s not established to maximize profits, so it doesn’t cost a dime to enjoy the best out of this beautiful attraction.

Although, donations are something required to foster its continuance operation. Nonetheless, it’s just a little dollar which wouldn’t affect your budget!

While coming, we suggest you come early because parking might be so tricky if it’s getting late.

Address: 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716, United States 

18. The Rincon Mountain Visitor Center

Ordinarily, a visitor center should be a location where information is sourced and not an attraction where you’ll see what’s enjoyable.

For Downtown Tucson, its visitor’s center isn’t only where you can get resourceful information about this city’s major attractions; it’s equally an awesome place where you’ll have access to quality souvenirs and historical books and enjoy quality time seeing lots of beautiful animals.

Besides, there are knowledgeable tour guides right here whose mission is to ensure that every traveler coming to this city of Arizona enjoys their time.

Whether you’re planning a holiday trip to this downtown or you just want to spend a few days, this is a perfect way to begin your sightseeing tour!

Address: 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, United States

19. The International Wildlife Museum, Downtown Tucson

The history of humans is interesting, but then, have you tried studying the history of animals?

If you haven’t, endeavor to do so during your next trip to Downtown Tucson.

Interestingly, the International Wildlife Museum features enough exhibits more than what you’ll need to have a perfect grasp of the past of these creatures!

This museum is a delightful place that is dedicated to increasing the appreciation and knowledge of the diverse world’s wildlife as well as providing adequate information about the essence of wildlife management in conservation.

It was founded in 1988, and as of today, it highlights more than 400 species of birds, mammals, and insects from around the globe.

Incredibly, some of its numerous collections are above 100 years old!

Your visit to this resourceful attraction is a perfect opportunity to gain a better understanding of these various species and also have an up-close encounter with these animals.

While on sight, if you’ll not be in a hurry to leave, its many educational programs will also worth your time!

Note this attraction is accessible all days of the week with the exception of Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

For the admission fee here, the entrance fee for adults costs $10, senior citizens & Military men pay $7, while children of ages 4 – 12 pay $5.

However, kids of 3 years and below enjoys free admittance!

Address: 4800 West Gates Pass, Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States

Final Remarks

Now that you have seen the list of beautiful attractions that awaits your arrival, what’s delaying you from planning your trip here?

Obviously, there should be nothing! Stand up, pay for your flight, and don’t forget to use the above recommendations to narrow down your itinerary.

Wish you a safe trip ahead!