Old Tucson StudiosAbout Old Tucson Studios
Old Tucson Studios is a combined film studio and Western-themed attraction near Tucson, Arizona, originally built in 1939 as an outdoor movie set. It served as a production location for many Western films and television programs and later operated as a public historic and entertainment complex.
The site centers on a recreated Main Street set, stunt-show arena and exhibit spaces with film props and costumes. Programming historically has included staged gunfight reenactments, stunt demonstrations and guided walks across the sets.
Constructed in 1939 to support on-location filmmaking, the complex was used repeatedly by motion picture and television productions. Over time it evolved into a visitor attraction that interprets the history of Western filmmaking and the studio’s role in that industry.
Old Tucson Studios is located west of downtown Tucson, Arizona, adjacent to the city’s metropolitan area and accessible from Tucson via local roads.
- Built as a film set: The site was originally built as an outdoor film set in 1939 and later developed into a public attraction showcasing Western film history and live shows.
What to See#
- Main Street set: A recreated western Main Street that served as the primary outdoor set for numerous films and television productions and now forms the visitor-facing core of the site.
- Stunt Show Arena: An outdoor arena and stage area used for stunt shows and live-action demonstrations that accompany the site’s public programming.
- Museum and prop displays: Collections of props, costumes and set pieces from productions that used the studio; these are interpreted for visitors in exhibit spaces.
Best Time to Visit Old Tucson Studios
Visit in the cooler months to avoid Tucson's summer heat-many film-set walks are outside and exposed.
Weather & Climate near Old Tucson Studios
Old Tucson Studios's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 4°C to 38°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 4° - 18° | 11° | 26 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 5° - 20° | 13° | 23 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 7° - 23° | 15° | 23 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 10° - 27° | 19° | 8 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 15° - 32° | 24° | 5 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 20° - 38° | 29° | 7 mm | - | - | 3.3 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 23° - 37° | 30° | 57 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 22° - 36° | 29° | 60 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 20° - 35° | 27° | 36 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 14° - 29° | 22° | 30 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 8° - 23° | 15° | 18 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 4° - 19° | 11° | 31 mm | - | - | 2.5 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Old Tucson Studios
Old Tucson is located west of Tucson, Arizona; reachable by car from Tucson via I-10 and local highways. Check the official website for current visitor hours and event schedules.
Tips for Visiting Old Tucson Studios
- Check the official Old Tucson website or contact the park for current operating status and event schedules before traveling.
- Weekday visits are quieter and give better access to sets and small exhibits; themed events draw larger crowds.