Tucson’s top tours pack in the city’s essential sights and experiences with no wasted time. For history buffs, the Historic Bike Tour reveals fascinating stories behind downtown’s landmarks. Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Taco Bike Tour, which hits local favorites most travelers never find. The Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour stands out as the best way to experience the iconic desert landscape – the electric assist makes the heat and hills manageable. For something unique, the Tucson Tirade Amazing Race combines sightseeing with fun challenges. Two practical favorites: the Guided Food Walking Tour for its excellent value and authentic eats, and the Mural Bike Tour for its perfect mix of art and exercise. Let’s look at the best tours in detail.
Key Points
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The Historic Bike Tour offers an insightful outdoor experience, covering Tucson’s history from bank robbers to Spanish settlers with a 98% traveler recommendation rate.
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The Tucson Origins Walking Tour explores the cultural heritage of Tucson with a focus on Indigenous and Spanish influences, led by a former National Park ranger.
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The Tombstone and Bisbee Experience provides a full-day small-group tour to the historic mining towns, featuring the Copper Queen Hotel and OK Corral gunfight reenactment.
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The Mural Bike Tour showcases 35 murals across Tucson’s diverse neighborhoods, with a 98% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
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The Tucson Tirade Amazing Race & Tour offers a high-energy, interactive exploration of historic downtown Tucson, combining adventure, learning, and camaraderie.
Historic Bike Tour in Tucson
Although Tucson is known for its stunning desert landscapes, the city also boasts a rich history that’s best explored on the Historic Bike Tour. With 98% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s no wonder it has earned a Badge of Excellence.
Over the course of the relaxed, small-group ride, participants can expect to discover Tucson’s past, from bank robbers to early Spanish settlers. The tour covers a variety of terrain, including quiet avenues and university bike lanes, culminating in a crossing of the unique 28-foot-long Rattlesnake Bridge.
Other highlights include the colorful adobe homes and shrines of Barrio Viejo, as well as stops at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum and Tucson Museum of Art. Guided by knowledgeable and friendly professionals, the Historic Bike Tour provides an insightful and enjoyable way to experience Tucson’s history and culture while enjoying the outdoors.
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Tucson Tirade Amazing Race & Tour
For travelers seeking a high-energy, interactive way to explore Tucson, the Tucson Tirade Amazing Race & Tour stands out. This innovative experience challenges participants to navigate the city’s historic downtown, solve clues, and complete exciting tasks in a fast-paced race format.
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and is designed for small groups, allowing for a personalized and immersive exploration of Tucson’s rich cultural heritage. Participants will visit iconic landmarks, engage with local businesses, and work together to overcome challenges that test their teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.
Rated 5/5 by previous participants, the Tucson Tirade Amazing Race & Tour offers an unparalleled way to discover the city’s hidden gems and experience its vibrant spirit.
With its combination of adventure, learning, and camaraderie, this tour is a must-try for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable Tucson experience.
Read our full review: Tucson Tirade Amazing Race & Tour Review
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Taco Bike Tour
The Taco Bike Tour in Tucson offers an exhilarating experience for foodies and adventure-seekers alike. This highly-rated tour allows participants to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene while enjoying the great outdoors.
Riders can expect to visit up to six local eateries, sampling a variety of authentic tacos, including the option to try a Sonoran hot dog.
The tour, which is suitable for moderate fitness levels, covers approximately 8 miles of cycling. Participants will be provided with bicycles, as well as dinner, beverages, and bottled water.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
With a maximum group size of 6, the Taco Bike Tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from previous travelers. While some have noted minor issues with cleanliness and communication, the tour’s guides have addressed these concerns and emphasized safety measures.
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Barrio Viejo Tucson Walking Tour Plus Historic Scott Avenue
One of the premier walking tours in Tucson, the Barrio Viejo Tucson Walking Tour & Scott Avenue with Guide takes participants on a 2-hour exploration of the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Covering 2 miles, this tour showcases the largest collection of mud adobe structures in the U.S. within Barrio Viejo, as well as the notable architecture along Scott Avenue.
Guests will learn about the construction and significance of Sonoran Row Houses, visit the El Tiradito Wishing Shrine, and discover the El Ojito Spring, a historical water source.
The tour also includes passing by landmarks like the St. Augustine Cathedral and Tucson Scottish Rite Cathedral.
Priced at $35 per person with a group size limited to 10, this tour receives excellent 5/5 ratings for its knowledgeable guide, value, and overall experience.
Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Barrio Viejo Tucson Walking Tour is a must for those seeking to enjoy the city’s rich history.
Read our full review: Barrio Viejo Tucson Walking Tour Plus Historic Scott Avenue Review
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Tucson Origins Walking Tour
Expanding on the insights gained from the Barrio Viejo Tucson Walking Tour, the Tucson Origins Walking Tour offers visitors a deeper dive into the city’s cultural heritage.
Led by a former National Park ranger with expertise in historic preservation, this 2-hour tour explores the El Presidio and Barrio Viejo districts, highlighting Tucson’s Indigenous, Spanish Colonial, and Mexican influences that have shaped its UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour provides an intimate experience at $50 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, as well as the requirement of a moderate fitness level, ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Judging from the overwhelmingly positive reviews, the tour’s engaging guide, depth of historical knowledge, and immersive exploration of Tucson’s rich culture make it a must-do for visitors seeking to understand the city’s origins.
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Downtown & El Presidio Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Tucson’s historic heart, the Downtown & El Presidio Tour immerses visitors in the city’s storied past. This 2-hour walking tour covers 2 miles, showcasing the city’s founding as a walled Spanish Colonial Presidio.
Guests will discover historic architecture, visit the Spanish Colonial Revival-style Pima County Courthouse, and explore mansion homes and historic Sonoran Row Houses. The tour also highlights tales of notorious figures like John Dillinger, whose presence is still felt in the preserved Dillinger Courtroom.
Strolling through Plaza de la Mesilla and past the iconic Fox Theatre, the tour concludes at Jacome Plaza, where visitors learn about downtown department store tycoons.
Limited to just 10 participants, this tour offers an immersive and personalized experience, with rave reviews praising the guide’s depth of knowledge, humor, and relatability.
Accessible and with a free cancellation policy, the Downtown & El Presidio Tour provides an excellent value for those seeking to uncover Tucson’s rich history.
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Tucson Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Tucson, the Tucson Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a delectable journey through the city’s diverse flavors.
With a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group tour (maximum 12 travelers) explores locally-owned restaurants and specialties in downtown Tucson. Guests can expect to sample a variety of dishes, including cochinita (slow-roasted pork), fresh empanadas, Sonoran hot dogs, apple-filled mini chimis, and handcrafted tea.
The tour also provides insights into the cultural influences that have shaped Tucson’s cuisine, as well as opportunities to visit landmarks. Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour includes food samples and a knowledgeable guide.
Positive reviews praise the food quality, guide expertise, and relaxed atmosphere. Suggestions for improvement include more historical context and food variety.
Priced from $85 per person, the tour is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness levels.
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Tucson: Guided Historical City Tour With Transportation
Travelers seeking to uncover Tucson’s rich history can embark on the Tucson: Guided Historical City Tour with Transportation. This 3-hour tour starts at Park Place Mall, offering a convenient meeting point.
The tour includes visits to the iconic Mission San Xavier del Bac, a 45-minute guided tour of the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, and a brief stop at the University of Arizona.
Along the way, a live guide provides insightful storytelling about Tucson’s past, from the 1700s Mission San Xavier del Bac to the origins of the Presidio San Augustine del Tucson. Participants can expect to learn about the city’s rich history, including the significance of the University of Arizona’s Old Main building.
The tour includes entry into the Presidio Museum, bottled water, and transportation. Priced at $75 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to check availability and book in advance.
While not suitable for those with mobility impairments, the tour offers a flexible reservation policy with a pay-later option.
Read our full review: Tucson: Guided Historical City Tour With Transportation Review
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Friday; The Tour Too Tough to Die – Tombstone/ Bisbee
This full-day small-group tour from Tucson takes travelers to the historic mining towns of Bisbee and Tombstone. With a maximum of 13 travelers, the experience provides a personalized adventure in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Travelers can explore the charming town of Bisbee, known for its unique antiques and collectibles, and tour the iconic 1902 Copper Queen Hotel.
The tour then heads to Tombstone, the town “too tough to die,” where visitors can experience the re-enactment of the famous gunfight at the OK Corral. Other highlights include a guided tour of the Queen Mine and a included lunch.
The tour starts at 8:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point near the Park Place Mall in Tucson.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable activities, though some note time constraints and additional costs. The tour boasts a 4.6-star rating based on 45 reviews, with a Badge of Excellence awarded, making it a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive historical adventure in southern Arizona.
Read our full review: Friday; The Tour Too Tough to Die – Tombstone/ Bisbee Review
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Tucson: How the West Was Won Guided Tour
The Tucson: How the West was Won Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Tucson’s historic landmarks and the surrounding region. Priced at €94.93 per person, the 8-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Tucson’s past, visiting key sites like the Mission San Xavier del Bac and the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum.
The tour is limited to 13 participants, ensuring a personalized experience led by an English-speaking guide.
The highlight of the tour is the 3-hour visit to Tombstone, where participants can enjoy the town’s boom mining era. They’ll explore saloons, the Bird Cage Theatre, and witness a reenactment of the famous OK Corral.
The tour provides air-conditioned transportation and complimentary bottled water, ensuring a comfortable experience. However, it isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.
Based on 3 reviews, the tour has received an outstanding 5/5 rating, praised for its informative guide and enjoyable itinerary.
Read our full review: Tucson: How the West Was Won Guided Tour Review
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Historical Guided Tour in Tucson
What better way to experience Tucson’s storied past than through the Historical Guided Tour? This 4-5 hour tour takes small groups of up to 13 travelers on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history.
With 93% of travelers recommending it, the tour features visits to must-see sites like the Presidio Museum and St. Augustine Cathedral, accompanied by engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides.
Reviewers praise the tour’s interactive nature, allowing visitors to ask questions and gain unique historical insights. While some noted issues with tour delays and communication, the overall experience is highly rated at 4.6 out of 5.
The air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and included lunch add to the convenience. First-time visitors to Tucson will find this tour an excellent introduction to the city’s heritage.
Though some suggest extending the duration to cover more sites, the current offering provides a solid foundation for understanding Tucson’s fascinating past.
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Tuscon: Rancho De Los Cerros Horseback Riding Tour
Explore the historic Rancho de Los Cerros in Tucson, where a horseback riding tour immerses visitors in the area’s breathtaking natural beauty. Priced from £80.93 per person, this guided tour allows you to discover Catalina State Park and Coronado National Forest, with stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and iconic saguaro cacti.
The tour lasts for 1 day and includes a live English-speaking guide, as well as access to the ranch grounds. Participants can explore the property, which dates back to the 1800s, at a leisurely pace.
However, there are some weight restrictions, with a maximum of 240 lbs for safety reasons, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 or individuals over 230 lbs.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 62 reviews, the Rancho de Los Cerros horseback riding tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Tucson. Travelers have praised the stunning scenery and the courtesy of the staff, though some have suggested a faster pace and more varied trails.
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Tucson – Behind the Scenes Tour
How can visitors uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Tucson on the Behind the Scenes Tour? This 3-hour excursion provides an intimate glimpse into the city’s past and present through a series of stops led by the knowledgeable guide, Priscilla.
The tour, which accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, explores Tucson’s Barrio Historico, El Tiradito Shrine, and the iconic Hotel Congress. Along the way, participants can savor local cuisine like Mexican hot dogs and tacos, culminating in a visit to a taco shop recommended by Food and Wine Magazine.
Travelers praise Priscilla’s enthusiasm and ability to engage all age groups, while the tour’s format – with participants driving their own cars – allows for a COVID-safe experience.
With wheelchair accessibility, stroller-friendly surfaces, and a printed list of recommendations, this tour caters to a wide range of visitors seeking an immersive and memorable encounter with Tucson’s rich tapestry of history and culture.
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Tucson: Guided Food Walking Tour With Tastings
Visitors can embark on a guided food walking tour to uncover Tucson’s rich culinary heritage. The 3-hour tour, priced at €77.02 per person, takes participants on a journey through downtown Tucson, with stops to sample classic Mexican pastries, Sonoran dogs, elote pizza, tamales, tres leches, and ice cream.
The tour is limited to 10 participants and is conducted in English.
The tour utilizes Tucson’s modern streetcar to explore the historic downtown area, where participants witness local and national creative artistry while paying homage to the city’s time-honored traditions. Knowledgeable local guides lead the tour, sharing the history of the venues and the transformation of Tucson from a farming village to a vibrant community.
Positive traveler feedback highlights the expertise of the guides and the quality of the food.
The tour operates rain or shine, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance is available for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, making the experience more accessible.
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Private Mt. Lemmon Rock Climbing Half-Day Tour in Arizona
This private half-day rock climbing tour on Mt. Lemmon in Arizona offers an exhilarating experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 6 reviews, the tour provides private transportation to and from the climbing location, and all necessary safety equipment, including climbing shoes, harnesses, and helmets.
The tour meets at Le Buzz Cafe in Tucson, and the guide will contact participants upon arrival. Fitting the safety gear takes around 15 minutes before heading to the climbing site.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate fitness level is required.
Priced from $200 per person, with variation based on group size, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and it’s a private tour, ensuring your group participates exclusively.
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Oasis Tour of Tucson
The Oasis Tour of Tucson offers visitors a captivating half-day journey through the stunning landscapes of the Coronado National Forest, culminating at the highest point of the Santa Catalina Mountains. This 5-star rated tour, with 60 reviews and 100% recommendation, provides an immersive experience led by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, Timothy.
Guests embark on a scenic drive, stopping for picture-taking and light hiking, all while equipped with provided binoculars to enhance their view of the diverse geography. The tour’s comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant journey, while the informative audio commentary and engaging interactions with the guide offer valuable insights into the local history, biodiversity, and culture.
The final stop at a ski resort town on Mount Lemmon presents opportunities for snacks and souvenirs, capping off the tour. Visitors are advised to check the temperature forecast, as the summit can be significantly cooler than the city of Tucson below.
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Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour
For those seeking a unique and eco-friendly way to explore Saguaro National Park East, the Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour offers a captivating experience.
This 8-mile paved loop trail allows small groups of up to 8 travelers to discover the Sonoran Desert’s stunning landscape and diverse flora and fauna. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants learn about the park’s distinctive saguaro cacti and wildlife while enjoying a comfortable, electric-assisted ride.
The tour includes breaks and a stop at the Visitor Center, where travelers can rest and refuel before concluding at Saguaro Corners for snacks.
With a badge of excellence and 96% of 188 reviews recommending the experience, this tour is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Saguaro National Park East.
The tour’s accessibility, flexible booking, and free cancellation policy make it an appealing option for adventurous travelers of various fitness levels.
Read our full review: Saguaro National Park East E-Bike Tour Review
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Mural Bike Tour
What better way to explore Tucson’s vibrant public art scene than the Mural Bike Tour? This highly-rated 8.5-mile guided bike tour showcases an impressive 35 murals across diverse neighborhoods, including Downtown, Dunbar Spring, Armory Park, 4th Avenue, and Barrio Viejo.
With 98% of travelers recommending the tour and a Badge of Excellence, it’s clear this is a must-do activity for anyone interested in Tucson’s culture and art.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the city’s traditions and the local artists behind the murals. The flat terrain makes this an accessible option for most fitness levels, as long as you don’t have any serious medical conditions.
The tour includes use of a bicycle and bottled water, and it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Just be sure to book in advance, as the group size is capped at 8 travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a lowest price guarantee, the Mural Bike Tour is an excellent way to discover Tucson’s vibrant public art.
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Tucson Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Designed to provide an engaging and educational exploration of Tucson’s historical landmarks, the Tucson Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game invites participants on an interactive adventure.
Priced from $24.50 per person, the tour operates daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with visitors meeting at 115 N Church Ave in downtown Tucson. Guests access the scavenger hunt challenges via their smartphones, embarking on a private tour where only their group participates.
The tour is accessible, welcoming service animals and accommodating strollers and wheelchairs, while also being conveniently located near public transportation.
Bookings can be made with a reserve now, pay later option, and cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on one review, the Tucson Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game is praised as an excellent way to explore the city’s historical sights in a fun and engaging manner, best experienced earlier in the day for maximum exploration time.
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The Sum Up
Tucson offers a diverse array of tours that cater to various interests. From historic bike tours to taco bike tours and Saguaro National Park e-bike adventures, visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant murals, and stunning natural landscapes. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to uncover the unique charm and history of Tucson.