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Tucson, Arizona

The world's largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert. Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O'odham Reservation, is home to 22 optical and two radio telescopes representing dozens of astronomical research institutions. The National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO), funded by the National Science Foundation, oversees site operations on Kitt Peak.

Explore the Visitor Center exhibits and gift shop to learn about astronomy. Take a tour and discover how astronomers use telescopes to unlock the mysteries of the Universe. Visit the National Solar Observatory exhibit gallery and watch scientists operate the world's largest solar telescope.

Guided Tours last approximately 1 hour and are led by trained docents who know the history and interesting facts regarding each telescope. Normally, the tours go to the following telescopes; 10am the world's largest solar telescope, 11:30 the 2.1 meter telescope and 1:30 the 4 meter Mayall Telescope (tour last 1.5 hours). Tour locations are subject to change due to maintenance and safety issues.

Docent-lead tours run daily 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. Self-guided also available. Open daily. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st.

NIGHTLY STARGAZING: Join us for a special experience and use the Visitor Center 16-inch telescope to observe spectacular objects in the night sky. This program is limited to 20 participants and requires reservations made well in advance. This unique program runs daily and is weather-dependent. Explore your Universe!

Attractions and Upcoming Events

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Discover Tucson's legendary landmark of art and architecture created by Ted DeGrazia. See Southwestern paintings, ceramics, bronzes, serigraphs, lithographs and more by the world-acclaimed artist. Explore the 13-room adobe gallery, Mission in the Sun, and cactus courtyard on a 10

Tucson, AZ Arts

Old Town Artisans

Located in the El Presidio Historic District is the little city block of Old Town Artisans. The 150 year old adobe building has 6

Tucson, AZ Arts

Flandrau Observatory

Stop by after sunset to view the heavens through our 16-inch cassegrain telescope. An expert astronomer/

Tucson, AZ Observatories

Titan Missile Museum

The Titan Missile Museum is the only publicly accessible Titan II missile site in the nation. When you visit the Titan Missile Museum, you travel through time to stand on the front line of the Cold War. Tours are offered of this actual missile site, the only one of 54 such silos preserved as a <

Tucson, AZ Museums

Sabino Canyon Tours, Inc.

Experience the beauty of one of the most unique Southwestern desert canyons on a Sabino Canyon tram ride. Sabino Canyon is a natural desert oasis located in Tucson's Coronado National Forest and is home to spectacular desert landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Tucson, AZ Excursions

Things to do near Tucson, AZ

Tucson Museum of Art & Historic Block

Cochise Lakes

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The Train Depot

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Ghost Towns

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