Wall of the Presidio Museum
Mural inside the Presidio Museum
Blacksmith demonstration right next to the original cornerstone and pit house.
Waiting to begin
Entrance
Tucson Presidio Infantry Company
Living History Day! 10am - 3pm. Living History season continues at the Presidio.
Tucson Presidio Infantry Company
Tucson Presidio Infantry Company
Taken from website.
The pantry of yore
Tucson Presidio Infantry Company fire their muskets. Cover your ears!!
Steve S.
Mar 22, 2018
This is a reconstruction of an old fort in the downtown area of Tucson. It is a remnant of the entire fort which took up what is now a few city blocks and is one of the corner high walls. It's made of bricks that were of the same size and shape that were found as part of the excavation. Also discovered during the excavation was the support holes for a native 'Pit house'. And it is included as a separate display.Even though it's not an exact replica of the original (walls are not in the same place, some cement and steel rod was used) it's a great way to learn more about Tucson history.
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Trish L.
Apr 10, 2016
This is an amazing experience for the whole family. There's lots of hands on fun for everyone including tin-smithing, and eating. You'll also get to see live cannon and musket firings, a blacksmith making tools, cooks making bread and tortillas. My favorite part was talking with Mary about local plant life; what people aye then vs now and the origins of food is was really interesting!!If you're on the lookout for a fun afternoon, this is it!
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Isabella J.
Jul 29, 2013
Presidio San Agustin is certainly place that's unique to Tucson's history. While most of the original building is not all there and some of it is new construction, to recreate what it once was, the place is still cool and definitely worth a visit. In fact, archaeological excavations at the presidio site, at the corner of Court and Washington Streets in downtown Tucson, were completed in February 2006. It's especially a great spot for family outing. They host living history events and reenactments that are fun and entertaining. They also have a trust established to continue education and to raise awareness of southern Arizona's Spanish and Mexican heritage. They have a rad little gift ship of fun Arizona gifts too. Events range from living history events to luminaria festivals, food celebrations (think Tamales and Soldier Eats) and more! Visit their website for event updates.
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McKel M.
Aug 1, 2020
It's probably because of the virus that it wasn't as fun as it has been in the past. Free admission was great and they have very informative displays up. Not a lot to really do though bc of covid. Hoping to come back when things have reopened. Staff was so friendly
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Bilo H.
Jan 24, 2017
Best two hours and five dollars you'll ever spend to learn the history of southern Arizona.The history of Tucson dates back thousands of years. Native Americans grew food en mass along the banks of the Santa Cruz River. The Hohokam Indians were masters at channeling small amounts of water to irrigate crops and support human life.The Presidio San Agustin del Tucson was where it all began for the Europeans. In 1775 when Spain ruled the Arizona-Sonoran Desert region Lt. Gen. Hugh O'Conner built a fort (presidio) in Tucson to make it safe for folks to live here. The fort was the northernmost one built by New Spain to protect settlers from the raiding Apaches. Today's Presidio is a living museum with renactors and demonstrations of all the trades in place at the turn of the 19th century. Living History days on the second Saturdays of the month is the day to visit and see everything in action. On other days you can usually count on a docent to give you a tour of the fort. And don't miss the gift shop!The Presidio also offers a self guided tour of Tucson via its Turquoise Trail map you can get at the fort's reception desk. Follow the Trail and experience all of Tucson's history!If you're new to Tucson or a long term resident, the Presidio is a must stop!
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Dennis B.
Mar 19, 2017
I rented this Venue for a Birthday Party - We had about 40 people in attendance- their was room for more- I spoke with April and she took the time to make sure our party was a success . The tables and chairs that were provided were in good working condition.This is a great location for a gathering- party- wedding or meetingThanks again April and Amy
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Brianne H.
Apr 19, 2016
I recently visited the Presidio San Augustin del Tucson for the first time. I've lived in Tucson for years and had no idea what I was missing! The museum is a reconstruction of the original Presidio, which was a fort which protected both the Spaniards and the native Hohokam people. Sign boards tell the history of the fort and the Spanish colonization of the area. I visited on a living history day, which I highly recommend. Volunteers in costume brought the village to life as soldiers and townspeople. The theme on the day I visited was food, and they had demonstrations and samples of the types of food that would have been eaten by the Hohokam, as well as the Spaniards. There were also demonstrations of blacksmithing and antique weaponry, culminating in the firing of a cannon by a troop of soldiers. All of the volunteers were extremely knowledgeable and passionate, giving interesting and detailed answers to questions. The place is a bargain at $3 per adult. If you're interested in the history and culture of Tucson, this is an amazing place to visit!
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Isabel K.
Oct 13, 2013
What a cool find! After checking out TMY, we wandered in here by accident. I have always heard of the Presidio but I didn't know where it is. On the weekends, they have people dressed in costume and historic demonstrations. Signs throughout explain the layers of history for the site that date back hundreds of years. As a downtown resident, I love all the history of the area. For anyone that is also into the history and culture of downtown Tucson, this place is an absolute must!! Also great for kids as there are some really fun and interesting exhibits...
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Michelle B.
Apr 9, 2016
Fun times at the Presidio!!! I love the cannon, and love it even more when it goes off and car alarms in the area go off. That's just cool but there are lots of docents here to guide you around and tell you about some Tucson history. Definitely worth a visit. I cannot wait to go back.
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Nicole T.
Feb 1, 2025
We did one of the walking tours through Presidio, and I would definitely recommend them, whether you're a Tucson resident or visitor. There are several options. We did the mural one, and it was awesome!
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