I’m a former National Park Service professional with a background in cultural resources and historic preservation at NPS sites in Arizona and New Mexico. I’ve worked on both sides of the border in Ambos Nogales, and now co-direct Borderlandia—a bi-national nonprofit fostering public understanding of the U.S.–Mexico borderlands.
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.
4.99, · 191 reviews
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, · April 2025
Super informative and very engaging. Loved the passion and energy. Hope to return for more tours when we visit a little farther south!
Lindsey
, · March 2025
This tour was a highlight of our trip! I took the walk with my mom and my two teenage daughters and everyone thought it was great. Alex knows so much about the history, culture and architecture of Tucson and the region; he’s a super storyteller and guide; he kept everyone engaged. We learned a ton! Highly recommend.
Stephanie
United States
, · March 2025
Great tour. Alex was a knowledgeable & entertaininh
Karen
Amarillo, TX
, · March 2025
I have lived in Tucson, a couple of different times over the years and decided to take this tour to learn more about its origins. Alex exceeded my expectations and I plan to go on future tours with him!
Laura
Bulverde, TX
, · March 2025
Alex gave an excellent 2-hour tour of two Tucson neighborhoods touching on history, culture, food, architecture, and including great stories. We learned a lot. It's a great experience.
Julie
Oregon, WI
, · February 2025
The walking tour of Tucson way a fantastic experience. In 2 and a half hours we learned so much about the city and its history. It was especially interesting to learn about the different peoples of Arizona and the south to north migration over time. We would highly recommend this tour. It's a great value and an excellent way to get to know the Presidio District and its history.
Robert
United States
Things to know
Guest requirements
Guests ages 18 and up can attend.
Activity level
The activity level for this experience is moderate and the skill level is beginner.
What to bring
Water, Hat, Sunscreen, Camera, Comfortable walking shoes
Cancel at least 1 day before the start time for a full refund.
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From $50 / guest
From $50 per guest
Free cancellation
Tucson Origins Tour
4.99 · 191 reviews
From $50 / guest
From $50 per guest
Free cancellation
What you’ll do
Meet at casa cordova
Kick off the tour at a charming white adobe row house.
Explore the fortress
Walk El Presidio and learn about Tucson’s early origins.
Explore Barrio Viejo
Walk through Barrio Viejo and learn its deep-rooted stories.
Gastronomy insights
Learn how Tucson became a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
Tucson takeaways
Wrap up insights into Tucson’s vibrant identity.
Hosted in English
Where we’ll meet
La Casa Cordova
Tucson, Arizona, 85701
About me
Cultural heritage educator
I’m a former National Park Service professional with a background in cultural resources and historic preservation at NPS sites in Arizona and New Mexico. I’ve worked on both sides of the border in Ambos Nogales, and now co-direct Borderlandia—a bi-national nonprofit fostering public understanding of the U.S.–Mexico borderlands.
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.
Tucson Origins Tour
Walk El Presidio & Barrio Viejo to explore Tucson’s rich history and architecture.
Super informative and very engaging. Loved the passion and energy. Hope to return for more tours when we visit a little farther south!
Lindsey
, · March 2025
This tour was a highlight of our trip! I took the walk with my mom and my two teenage daughters and everyone thought it was great. Alex knows so much about the history, culture and architecture of Tucson and the region; he’s a super storyteller and guide; he kept everyone engaged. We learned a ton! Highly recommend.
Stephanie
United States
, · March 2025
Great tour. Alex was a knowledgeable & entertaininh
Karen
Amarillo, TX
, · March 2025
I have lived in Tucson, a couple of different times over the years and decided to take this tour to learn more about its origins. Alex exceeded my expectations and I plan to go on future tours with him!
Laura
Bulverde, TX
, · March 2025
Alex gave an excellent 2-hour tour of two Tucson neighborhoods touching on history, culture, food, architecture, and including great stories. We learned a lot. It's a great experience.
Julie
Oregon, WI
, · February 2025
The walking tour of Tucson way a fantastic experience. In 2 and a half hours we learned so much about the city and its history. It was especially interesting to learn about the different peoples of Arizona and the south to north migration over time. We would highly recommend this tour. It's a great value and an excellent way to get to know the Presidio District and its history.
Robert
United States
Things to know
Guest requirements
Guests ages 18 and up can attend.
Activity level
The activity level for this experience is moderate and the skill level is beginner.
What to bring
Water, Hat, Sunscreen, Camera, Comfortable walking shoes