Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Tucson
Arizona Travel Guide lists ten fun family things to do in Tucson, from museums and zoos to Wild West entertainment and hikes in a National Park.
1. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Explore the wonders of the Sonoran Desert at this world-renowned museum, animal habitat, and botanical garden. Kids will love seeing live animals like coyotes, javelinas, and hummingbirds up close, while interactive exhibits teach about desert ecology. The museum also features a stingray touch tank, a walk-in aviary, and scenic trails. With daily animal presentations and a playground, it’s perfect for families.
📍 2021 N. Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743
📞 (520) 883-2702
🌐 desertmuseum.org
2. Reid Park Zoo
Meet over 250 animals from around the world at Reid Park Zoo! Families can see elephants, lions, giraffes, and playful otters in naturalistic habitats. The zoo offers a splash pad for kids, a carousel, and seasonal events like Zoo Lights. Interactive keeper talks and feeding experiences make visits extra special. Affordable and well-shaded, it’s a great spot for a family outing.
📍 3400 E. Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716
📞 (520) 791-3204
🌐 reidparkzoo.org
3. Tucson Children’s Museum
A hands-on paradise for kids under 10, this museum features imaginative play zones like a grocery store, art studio, and climbing structures. Little ones can explore a giant bubble station, a mini construction site, and a music room. Special toddler areas ensure even the youngest visitors have fun. Rotating exhibits keep the experience fresh for repeat visits.
📍 200 S. 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701
📞 (520) 792-9985
🌐 childrensmuseumtucson.org
4. Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
Blast off into space at Flandrau’s immersive planetarium shows, featuring dazzling astronomy displays. The science center has interactive exhibits on geology, optics, and physics, plus a mineral gallery with glowing rocks. Kids can touch a meteorite, experiment with light, and watch live science demos. Evening telescope viewing (when available) adds extra excitement.
📍 1601 E. University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85719
📞 (520) 621-7827
🌐 flandrau.org
5. Tucson Mountain Park & Gates Pass
Hike, picnic, and enjoy breathtaking desert views at this scenic park. Trails like the Yetman Trail are family-friendly, and Gates Pass offers stunning sunset vistas. Look for wildlife like roadrunners and jackrabbits while exploring the saguaro-studded landscape. Bring binoculars for birdwatching or just enjoy a relaxing desert picnic.
📍 8451 W. McCain Loop, Tucson, AZ 85735
📞 (520) 724-5000
🌐 pima.gov/tucsonmountainpark
6. Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
Step into a world of tiny wonders at this unique museum featuring intricate dollhouses, miniature scenes, and fantasy dioramas. Kids will marvel at tiny trains, fairy tale castles, and historical replicas. Interactive exhibits let them create their own mini-masterpieces. The museum’s magical atmosphere captivates all ages.
📍 4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr, Tucson, AZ 85712
📞 (520) 881-0606
🌐 theminitimemachine.org
7. Tucson Botanical Gardens
Stroll through beautifully curated gardens showcasing desert plants, butterflies, and art installations. The Butterfly Magic exhibit (seasonal) is a hit, but year-round, families can explore the Zen garden, a sensory garden for kids, and shady pathways perfect for a relaxing walk. Special events like flashlight nights and scavenger hunts add extra fun. The gardens also offer educational programs about desert conservation and sustainable gardening.
📍 2150 N. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712
📞 (520) 326-9686
🌐 tucsonbotanical.org
8. Trail Dust Town
This Wild West-themed family entertainment center features a miniature train, a carousel, and stunt shows. Kids can pan for gold, ride a mechanical bull, and enjoy Pinnacle Peak’s famous cowboy steakhouse. The old-timey shops and photo ops add to the fun.
📍 6541 E. Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715
📞 (520) 296-4551
🌐 traildusttown.com
9. Saguaro National Park
Discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert among towering saguaro cacti. The park’s scenic drives (East & West districts) offer easy stops for short hikes like the Cactus Forest Trail. Junior Ranger programs engage kids with fun activities, and sunset views are unforgettable.
📍 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail (East) / 2700 N. Kinney Rd (West)
📞 (520) 733-5153
🌐 www.nps.gov/sagu
10. Tohono Chul Gardens
Immerse your family in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at Tohono Chul, a serene 49-acre garden with walking trails, art exhibits, and wildlife sightings. Kids will love the Children’s Ramada, a hands-on exploration area, while the whole family can enjoy seasonal butterfly exhibits, birdwatching, and shady picnic spots. The on-site café serves delicious treats, and the gift shop offers unique desert-inspired souvenirs. With rotating art installations and nature programs, and free guided walks, every visit feels fresh and engaging.
📍 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704
📞 (520) 742-6455
🌐 tohonochul.org
OUR PICK OF THE GUIDES
From that blues bar you haven’t visited yet to the desert hike you keep meaning to plan, experience something new right here at home with Moon 52 Things to Do in Phoenix & Tucson.
