Step back in time at the Presidio San Agustin Museum, a living history destination that recreates Tucson’s Spanish colonial roots. Located on the site of the original 1775 Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, this open-air museum immerses visitors in the culture, architecture, and daily life of early Tucsonans—complete with costumed interpreters, adobe structures, and authentic archaeological finds.

Recommended For

  • History and archaeology enthusiasts
  • Families and school-age children
  • Visitors interested in Spanish colonial heritage
  • Tour groups and walking tour participants
  • Architecture and cultural heritage travelers

What to Expect

  • Full-scale recreation of the original 1775 Spanish fort
  • Living history presentations with costumed interpreters
  • Authentic adobe buildings and a prehistoric Hohokam pit house
  • Hands-on exhibits, soldier demonstrations, and textile workshops
  • Walking tours through Tucson’s historic Presidio District

Historical Highlights

  • Founded by Spanish military in 1775 along the Santa Cruz River
  • Fortified adobe complex spanning 11 acres with defensive walls
  • Key site in Tucson’s founding and transition to U.S. territory
  • Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
  • Reconstructed northeast corner based on archaeological excavation (2007)

Exhibits & Architecture

  • Sonoran Row House: Siqueiros-Jácome home with courtyard, saguaro rib roofing, and adobe construction
  • Hohokam Pit House: 800 A.D. subterranean dwelling uncovered during excavation in 1954
  • Presidio Barracks: Displays on food storage, soldiers' quarters, cannons, and early trade
  • Interpretive Stations: Hands-on exhibits of weaving, candle-making, musketry, and colonial cooking

Guided Tours & Demonstrations

  • Docent-led Tours: 45-minute experiences highlighting early Tucson life and the presidio’s history
  • Turquoise Trail Walking Tour: 2.5-mile exploration of historic downtown and architectural landmarks
  • Presidio District Tour: Includes Tucson Museum of Art and the Old Town block
  • Blacksmithing & Musket Firing: Last Saturday of each month with hands-on participation

Themed Educational Tours

  • Textile Tour: Cotton and wool spinning, weaving demonstrations on historical looms
  • History of Medicine: Covers colonial healing practices and surgical tools
  • Daily Life Tour: Ideal for teens—showcasing youth roles, chores, and games
  • Children’s Hour: Ages 4–8 engage in gardening, roping, and period games

Visitor Information

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