Old Tucson Studios

Westerns Filmed at Old Tucson Studios

Old Tucson Studios was founded in 1939, when over 50 buildings were constructed on the then-vacant site for the production of the film Arizona. Since then more than 300 films and television series have been shot here, earning it the nickname Hollywood in the Desert.

Old Tucson Studios hit its stride in the Western heyday of the 1950s and ’60s, with such films as 3:10 to Yuma, Gunfight at the OK Corral, The Lone Ranger and the Lost City of Gold, El Dorado and Hombre. Tombstone and The Quick and the Dead were among the studio’s popular films of the 1990s.

Several hit TV series were also filmed here, including Bonanza, Little House on the Prairie, and High Chaparral, whose ranch house survived a fire in 1995 which destroyed many original buildings.

The Old Tucson Story Museum near the entrance displays old movie posters, photographs, news clippings, costumes and memorabilia from its many famous productions.

Where to Eat and Drink at Old Tucson Studios

Three restaurants serve meals at Old Tucson Studios. Big Jake’s BBQ features barbecue items, sandwiches and salads; Phoebe’s Wagon Wheel Pizza serves pizza and salads, while Rosa’s Mexican Grill & Cantina offers fry bread, Indian tacos and other Southwest specialities, including Margaritas.

For snacks, the Big Scoop Ice Cream Shop also sells delicious homemade fudge, pastries, coffees and teas. Or belly up to the bar at the Grand Palace Hotel & Saloon for a cool drink and savory snack.

How to Visit Old Tucson Studios

Old Tucson Studios is located west of Tucson on S. Kinney Road. Normal operating hours are 10am to 4pm. Admission is $16.95 for ages 12 and above, and $10.95 ages 4-11.

The park is generally open daily year-round, except major holidays, but always check the calendar on the Old Tucson Studios website in advance. All or part of the set may be closed for filming or media productions, and the site is occasionally closed for private events. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often open for limited operations and tours only, and many of the shows and attractions will not be available.