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Best 5 Family Friendly Places to Visit in Tucson, Arizona

Lobo, Ok Corral, Old Tucson Studios, Petroglyphs, Saguaro

Are you planning a trip to Tucson, Arizona, with your family? Will it be your first time visiting the area? If so, I’d like to recommend five great places that are well worth a visit. Each one is a place that I have been to with my family on a previous occasion. With that said, here’s a passing glance at each one:

Old Tucson Studios

The Old Tucson Studios is one of the first places that I’d recommend visiting. Over the years, it has been the filming site for many major Hollywood productions. One of the first was the film “Arizona.” Other notable productions that were shot on site include “Gunfight at the OK Corral”, “Rio Lobo” and episodes of “Little House on the Prairie.” In my book, it’s all that history that makes it a special place to visit. It is located outside of town on South Kinney Road and is open seasonally. Admission prices tend to start at around $11 per person.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Next on my list is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Personally, I enjoyed the desert views, the exhibits and the walking trails. One of my favorite parts of the museum is the Cactus Garden. In my opinion, the best time to visit is in April when the organpipe cacti start to bloom. Other super exhibits include the Cat Canyon and the Earth Sciences Center. It is located on North Kinney Road and is open daily, year round. Admission fees vary throughout the year but tend to start at $4 per person.

Saguaro National Park West

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If you didn’t get your fill of cacti at the museum, you may want to consider making your way to the Saguaro National Park West. One of the things that I love most about the park is the Signal Hill Picnic Area. It offers a look at petroglyphs, which I just find fascinating in general. I’d also suggest visiting in early spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. To me, it is just breath-taking to see the desert awash in color. The park is located on Cactus Forest Drive and its open year round. A modest $10 vehicle entrance fee is typically charged.

International Wildlife Museum

Another family friendly destination that I would recommend visiting is the International Wildlife Museum. There are a lot of things to do on site. I got a kick out of the Mythological Wildlife exhibit and the Wildlife Theater. It is located on West Gates Pass Road and hours of operation very. The price of admission generally starts at $3 per person.

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Last on my list of recommendations is the Mission San Xavier del Bac. I chose it for inclusion because I enjoy looking at old architecture, paintings and sculptures. If you ask me, it is truly a beautiful building that deserves extensive exploration. Its hours of operation vary and guided tours are available at select times.

Source: Personal Experience

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