Keepers of Tucson’s Heritage
Tucson Presidio Museum
Historic walking tours, demonstrations, heritage and exhibits
SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
LLinAPRIL
A re-creation of the Spanish fort built in 1775, the Presidio Museum allows visitors to experience Tucson’s history first hand. On docent-guided tours, you’ll discover how Tucson residents lived before air conditioning and cell phones. Visitors enter through an 1860s Sonoran Row house. See the remains of a 2,000 year old pit house and learn about the lives of early Native Americans in the Early People’s Park.
UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Included with admission or free with a membership.
Native Nations Day
April 18, 2026
10 am – 3:00 pm
Click for more information!
This family friendly event celebrates 4,000+ years of indigenous history and culture in the Tucson area through art, performance, and food!
Event Schedule:
10:00 am Welcome followed by a Blessing from Samuel Fayuant from the Tohono O’odham Nation Cultural Affairs Office.
10:15 am Songs From the Wa:k Cekṣañ Royalty
11:00 am Presentation: The Significance of the Deer Dance to the Yaqui (Yoeme) People with Brandon Varela, Director of the Old Pascua Museum and Yaqui Culture Center.
12:30 pm Old Pascua Deer Dance
Demonstrations and vendors may include flintknapping, basket-making, jewelry-making, wood carving, pottery, and more!
Don’t forget the frybread with savory and sweet toppings!
20th Anniversary of the Turquoise Trail Walk
April 19
8:30 am – 12:00 pm
Register here for the free walking event or upgrade for $25 for a commemorative t-shirt and Brandylion drink voucher (mimosa, bellini, or tea).
Marking the 20th Anniversary of the Turquoise Trail. This fun-filled community walk is for all abilities! Young families, walkers, runners, seniors, history lovers…all are welcome for a joyful 2 1/2 mile stroll through downtown Tucson celebrating healthy living, community and our rich heritage – all in one!
For more information, click here!
Tours and Workshops at the Presidio Museum
Public Art Walking Tour
April 18
10 am – 12 pm
$20/member
$35/general
Celebrate Tucson’s rich history and vibrant public art scene on this guided 1.5-mile walking tour through downtown. Beginning at the Tucson Presidio Museum, the tour explores a variety of murals and public art—including several new works that honor Tucson’s 250+ year history.
Death After Dark Walking Tour
April 18
7 pm – 9 pm
$20/member
$35/general
Take an after-dark tour of downtown Tucson that explores some of the city’s most memorable deaths. From executions to suicides, and gunfights to tragic accidents, this 2-mile tour takes you back in time to uncover the city’s most fascinating tragedies.
Members’ Book Club
April 26
1 pm
FREE for members!
April’s book is Solito by Javier Zamora.
A memoir by Javier Zamora recounts the author’s perilous, nine-week solo journey at age nine from El Salvador to the United States to reunite with his parents, detailing the harrowing experiences of boat trips, desert treks, and encounters with strangers who became a found family, all while navigating the challenges of migration from a child’s perspective.
Turquoise Trail Walking Tour
May 2
10 am – 12:30 pm
$20/member
$35/general
Explore Tucson’s rich history on a guided walking tour along the Turquoise Trail, a 2.5-mile loop through Downtown marked by a painted turquoise line. Your guide will share stories of Tucson’s early days, historic buildings, and the people who helped shape the city’s legacy. Pre-registration is required.
The Tucson Presidio Museum is a member of
