Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Step back in time at Arizona's oldest Spanish Presidio, exploring its museum, excavated ruins, and historic buildings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Arizona's oldest Spanish Presidio, exploring its museum, excavated ruins, and historic buildings.
"A gem for kids and adults alike, rich in information and history."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Reading Glasses
Lots of fascinating facts and maps to peruse in the museum exhibits. :eyeglasses:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arizona's First Printing Press
Museum
See the historic press that printed Arizona's first newspaper, the Weekly Arizonian. A true piece of frontier journalism history!
Excavated Presidio Site
Archaeological Excavation Area
Witness an actual archaeological excavation, offering a tangible connection to the park's Spanish colonial past.
Rojas Row House
Rojas House
Step into the 1880s Rojas family home for an authentic glimpse into Sonoran life and a century of family legacy.
One-Room Schoolhouse
Schoolhouse
Experience a bygone era with fascinating chalkboard lists and a tangible feel for early 20th-century education.
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Reading Glasses
Lots of fascinating facts and maps to peruse in the museum exhibits. :eyeglasses:
Check for Events
The park hosts special events like Fourth of July celebrations and ghost hunts. :calendar:
Support the Gift Shop
Purchasing items helps fund park preservation. :gift_heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the grounds and museum. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Your Reading Glasses
Lots of fascinating facts and maps to peruse in the museum exhibits. :eyeglasses:
Check for Events
The park hosts special events like Fourth of July celebrations and ghost hunts. :calendar:
Support the Gift Shop
Purchasing items helps fund park preservation. :gift_heart:
Explore the Trails
Hike the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Trail nearby. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tubac Presidio State Historic Park for its rich history, well-presented museum exhibits, and the engaging glimpse it offers into past lives. The dedicated volunteer staff are frequently highlighted for their knowledge and passion. While the excavation site being closed was a disappointment for some, the overall experience is considered well worth the modest admission fee.
"My most recent experience was actually for a Fourth of July celebration they were having so it was quite separate from the museum, though that was open. The Presidio and Rotary put on a special event from 10-12 and I must say, they knocked it out of the park! There were games for the kids, music, food, treats, donkeys to pet, a fly over, and the fire department turned the hose on the kids (in a good way!). It was very entertaining and a perfect way to celebrate the birth of our nation. The museum, grounds, gallery and one room school house, which I've visited a couple times before and plan to go back again, are rich in information and history. It's a gem for kids and adults alike."
Shanna
"I thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The museum was very impressive; a large collection of a variety of artifacts that are very neatly displayed with clear descriptions and identifications. A more pleasant experience than some much larger museums we’ve visited. There are several areas with displays that encourage visitors to touch objects, a nice touch. In the meeting building we could touch the carriage and feel the tension in the suspension, first time we’ve seen that be allowed! The paintings in the meeting building were beautiful. Would love to have purchased the $15 book contains shots of the paintings, but they were sold out. The Rojas house was fascinating. Allowed us to get a real feel for life in the 50s-60s. We were disappointed that the excavation area was closed. The $7/person fee was worth it, a good contribution for a museum that doesn’t receive money from the state. We bought a book in the gift shop, an easy way to further contribute. The volunteers obviously care a great deal about the Presidio and are proud to share it with the public. I highly recommend a visit. Bring your glasses as there are lots of fascinating facts to read and maps to peruse. The chalkboard lists in the schoolhouse were a fascinating glimpse into a different era; they provided some chuckles too!"
Jennifer Higdon
"Rich with history, this is a great option for a field trip day for kids and adults alike."
Tabitha Yates
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is located in Tubac, Arizona, about an hour's drive south of Tucson. Take I-10 West to Exit 236 for AZ-83 South towards Patagonia/Nogales. Continue on AZ-83 S, which will merge into AZ-82 W. Turn left onto Frontage Rd/Old Nogales Hwy, then turn right onto Tubac Rd. The park will be on your left.,
Yes, there is easy parking available at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.
Absolutely! Tubac Presidio State Historic Park makes for an excellent day trip from Tucson, offering a rich historical experience.
Public transportation options to Tubac Presidio State Historic Park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park.
The most common route from Tucson involves taking I-10 West and then following AZ-83 South. Always check current traffic conditions before you depart.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is $7 per person. This fee is crucial for supporting the park's preservation as it does not receive state funding.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the $7 fee is considered a good value for the experience.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Arizona State Parks website or call ahead before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during special events.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the park, many areas are generally accessible. The museum and grounds offer a good experience for most visitors.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include Arizona's first printing press, an excavated presidio site, the historic Rojas Row House, and a one-room schoolhouse.,,
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Yes, the park features a museum with a large collection of artifacts, neatly displayed with clear descriptions.,
Some areas have displays that encourage visitors to touch objects, offering a more interactive experience.
While not always explicitly advertised, volunteers are often on-site and eager to share their knowledge about the park's history.
Yes, it's considered a gem for kids and adults alike, with interactive elements and historical exhibits that can engage younger visitors.,
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park itself does not have a restaurant, but the town of Tubac offers several dining options.
For dining recommendations in Tubac, consider checking out local favorites like Elvira's, Wisdom's, or Abe's, as suggested by visitors.
Picnic areas may be available, but it's best to confirm with park staff upon arrival.
During special events, food and treats are often available.
Tubac offers a variety of cuisines, often with a Southwestern or Mexican influence, reflecting the region's heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, the excavated presidio site, and the surrounding desert landscape offer excellent photographic opportunities. The Rojas House and schoolhouse are particularly picturesque.,
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides the most flattering light for capturing the park's historic architecture and natural beauty.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks. Please check with park management for specific regulations before flying a drone.
Yes, photography of the archaeological excavation is permitted, allowing you to capture a unique glimpse into history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
The park's commitment to preservation and rehabilitation ensures that these historical narratives are well-maintained and accessible. 🎨 Art & Culture Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Arizona's Past
The park preserves the footprint of this significant colonial outpost, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts unearthed from the site, providing insights into the lives of soldiers, settlers, and indigenous peoples who inhabited this region centuries ago.,Beyond the presidio itself, the park showcases other vital historical structures. The Rojas Row House, built in the 1880s, offers a vivid portrayal of Sonoran domestic life, having been occupied by the Rojas family for over a century.
The park is also home to Arizona's first printing press, a significant artifact that played a crucial role in disseminating information during the territory's early days.,
This press, which printed the Weekly Arizonian, represents a pivotal moment in the development of journalism in the region. The ongoing preservation and rehabilitation efforts, often funded by grants and visitor support, ensure that these historical treasures remain accessible for future generations to learn from and appreciate. Experiencing Tubac: Beyond the Presidio
For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail runs through Tubac, offering opportunities for scenic hikes along the Santa Cruz River.
This trail provides a chance to connect with the natural beauty of Southern Arizona and reflect on the historical journeys of explorers and settlers. The proximity to other historical sites, such as Mission San Jose de Tumacacori, further enhances the region's appeal for history buffs looking to immerse themselves in the area's rich heritage. Tubac also hosts various events throughout the year, ranging from art festivals and holiday celebrations to unique gatherings like ghost hunts.,
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