Old Tucson Western Town Arizona Day Trip

“The Old Tucson attraction has a new operator that plans to operate the site as a theme park and filming location.” Check their website for current hours and attractions. Currently, a miniature train on the site looks like it came from the now-closed Bonnie Springs Ranch near Las Vegas.  American Heritage Railways are the new operators of the attraction.

There’s no better way to experience the ‘Wild, Wild West than a visit to Old Tucson Western Town. Movies that were filmed at Old Tucson number in the hundreds. Clint Eastwood, Kirk Douglas, Jack Palance, John Wayne, and many more have all walked the streets of Old Town Tuscon, Arizona.

Old Tucson brings back the old American west, visible in its rustic railroad depot, buildings, saloons, and movie sets. The town was initially built in 1939 by Columbia Pictures for the movie Arizona. Today some filming still goes on, but it’s mainly used as a western-themed tourist attraction with shows, rides, and historic movie sets.

Things to do in Old Tucson

Take a historical tour through the Old West.

Hop on to a tour that takes you through the 75-year-old history of films in Old Tucson. The best parts of the tour take you to spots where many a western classic was filmed. Check out the Old Tucson Story Museum, which showcases an incredible history of movies in the region, including costumes worn by the stars and locations where movies were filmed.

Old West Shows in Tucson

A great way to explore the town’s remarkable history is through the Old West Shows that will grip you from start to finish. Enjoy a heady dose of gunfights and stunt shows based on the typical Wild West theme. Serenade to musicals that feature the local Folklorico and the Can-Can dances, or laugh your head off at Old Western cowboy comedy.

Rides and Games Old Tucson

There are plenty of games to enjoy. Try out the miniature antique car that you can drive around. Jump on board the C.P. Huntington Train that takes you through Old Tucson while you hear about the history and landscape info. Try your hand at shooting with a real Colt 45 revolver. Get spooked at the Iron Door Mine, and watch out for hidden jumpers!

Stagecoach Adventures

Enjoy a unique view of the town from aboard a horse-drawn stagecoach. Even better, book yourself a trail ride that takes you through the beautiful desert filled with saguaro cacti, among other stunning panoramic views of the desert.

Food in Old Tucson

Barbecue meals are the best in Old Tucson. Try out mesquite-grilled barbecue at Big Jake’s Bar-B-Q. All meats are smoked onsite. Ribs, chicken, and beef finished in Big Jake sauce make Jake’ a ‘smoking hot’ joint. Quench your thirst at the Grand Palace Saloon while you enjoy live performances. And if you are craving wings and pizza, head to Pony Express.

Shopping in the Wild West

Pick up an old-fashioned sweet treat from Phoebe’s Sweet Shop, or choose a mining kit from the Toltec Mine shop. If you’re a western classic movie buff, visit the Dog Jake Western Store (named after the famous John Wayne movie) filled with cowboy merchandise. The Corner Store stocks Wild West-inspired wallets and purses.

For Native American jewelry, rugs, and pottery, Olsen’s Mercantile is your best bet. Round off your shopping with a stop at Old Tucson’s Print and Photo Emporium, where you can dress up as your favorite cowboy or cowgirl character and have some fun with photographs! A great way to capture fun memories of your Old Tucson visit.

Getting There

Old Tucson Studios is located on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona. Address 201 Kinney Rd, Tucson, Arizona. Website. Old Tucson is an easy day trip from Phoenix. One hundred nineteen miles, two hours travel time.

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