Downtown Tucson Audio Walking Tour: History & Architecture
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Explore Downtown Tucson’s rich history with this engaging audio tour led by an author and historian. Walk through the city’s historic mansions and homes, discovering how this vibrant neighborhood evolved from a prehistoric village into an architectural showcase featuring works by some of the Southwest’s top architects.
Produced by Jim Turner, a well-known Arizona historian and author of nine books on the state’s history, this tour offers fascinating insights at every stop. Whether you prefer to go at a quick pace or linger longer, you’re in control. The tour lasts about an hour, but you can take your time to absorb the stories and sights.
Enjoy unlimited access before and after your scheduled time, with options to experience the tour virtually from home. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about Tucson’s past. Just install the VoiceMap app, enter your unique code, and start your adventure whenever you’re ready.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Downtown Tucson audio tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, but you can go at your own pace and spend more time at each stop if you wish.
What do I need to participate in the tour?
You’ll need a smartphone with the VoiceMap app installed, headphones, and your unique access code provided after booking. The tour is offline-friendly once downloaded.
Can I do this tour from home?
Yes, there’s a virtual tour option available, allowing you to explore Tucson’s history from the comfort of your home.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for adults aged 6 to 99. It’s accessible for all fitness levels, and small children can ride in a stroller or pram.
What’s included in the tour?
You get lifetime access to the VoiceMap app in English, offline audio, maps, and geodata. The tour is private and can accommodate groups of up to 15 people.
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1 hour – 1 hour 15 min
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
- Lifetime access to this tour in English
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Not included
- Food/Drink
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
- Transportation
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Starts outside the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, once an 11-acre Spanish fort, where you’ll learn about daily life for early settlers in the late 1700s.
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Stop 2
Pass by Sonoran row houses made of adobe bricks, including Casa de Cordova, restored and dedicated by First Lady Betty Ford in 1974.
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Stop 3
View the so-called "mansions on main street," including the Tucson Museum of Art.
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Stop 4
Pass by Café a la C’Arte, known for its delicious pastries.
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Stop 5
See the J. Knox Corbett House, designed by architects Henry Trost and David Holmes, and learn about the innovative design of early 1900s mansions on Main Avenue.
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Stop 6
Walk past Christopher Franklin Carroll Centennial Park and hear stories about its history.
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Stop 7
Learn about the Franklin House and its original owners as you pass by.
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Stop 8
Pass by El Presidio Bed and Breakfast and hear about its past under different owners.
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Stop 9
The tour concludes in front of El Charro Café, Tucson’s oldest Mexican restaurant and home of the chimichanga.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Before starting, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This self-guided tour can be paused or restarted at any time, and you can proceed at your own pace. Detailed instructions for the starting point are available after downloading the app.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled less than 24 hours before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $8.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
