Tucson, Arizona, known for its desert landscapes, historic sites, and unique Southwestern culture, also has its share of abandoned places that reveal hidden aspects of its past. From decaying military bases to forgotten schools and theaters, these sites provide a haunting look into Tucson's evolution. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places in Tucson for urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike.
1. Valley National Bank Building
Once a bustling hub of business, the Valley National Bank Building in downtown Tucson has been left abandoned for decades. The mid-century modern architecture, broken windows, and crumbling interior make it a haunting relic of Tucson’s financial past. While the building is occasionally explored by urban adventurers, redevelopment has been on hold for years, allowing decay to continue.
2. Boneyard (Aircraft Cemetery)
The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base is home to the world-famous Aircraft Boneyard, where thousands of retired military aircraft are stored. Although it is not completely abandoned, parts of the boneyard, where planes have been left to rust and decay, offer a surreal, post-apocalyptic landscape. These old jets, bombers, and helicopters provide a unique view of military history, and guided tours are available to explore some sections.
3. Ghost Town of Ruby, Arizona
Just outside Tucson, the Ghost Town of Ruby is a once-thriving mining town abandoned in the 1940s after its silver and gold mines were depleted. The crumbling buildings, abandoned mining equipment, and empty jail cells offer a haunting experience for those interested in Arizona’s mining history. Ruby’s isolation in the Sonoran Desert adds to the eerie atmosphere of this forgotten town.
4. The Barrio Viejo Neighborhood (Abandoned Sections)
While Barrio Viejo is an iconic historical district known for its colorful adobe homes, some areas remain abandoned and untouched. These decaying adobe structures, with crumbling walls and overgrown courtyards, offer a glimpse into Tucson’s Mexican-American heritage. The area has seen efforts toward preservation, but the abandoned sections evoke a nostalgic feel of the neighborhood’s once-thriving past.
5. The Pioneer Hotel (Abandoned Sections)
Once one of Tucson’s grandest hotels, the Pioneer Hotel was the site of a tragic fire in 1970 that claimed the lives of 29 people. Though the hotel has since been partially renovated, parts of the building remain abandoned and off-limits. The eerie hallways and empty rooms in the upper floors serve as a haunting reminder of the hotel’s tragic history and have attracted ghost hunters and urban explorers alike.
6. Old Tucson Studios (Abandoned Sections)
Old Tucson Studios was once a popular movie set and tourist attraction, known for its Western film sets. After a fire destroyed parts of the site in 1995, some sections were abandoned and left to decay. The empty, weather-beaten buildings and silent streets evoke the feel of an old Western ghost town. While the studios have reopened for tours, some areas remain inaccessible and in disrepair.
7. The Deserted Marana Airfield
The Marana Airfield, located just outside of Tucson, was originally used as a training base for World War II pilots. While parts of the airfield remain in use, large portions have been abandoned, with rusting hangars, decaying control towers, and empty runways stretching out into the desert. This vast and eerie location offers a fascinating look into Arizona’s aviation history.
8. Empire Ranch (Abandoned Sections)
Located just southeast of Tucson, Empire Ranch is a historic ranch that dates back to the 1870s. While parts of the ranch are preserved as a museum, several buildings and areas on the property remain abandoned. These empty bunkhouses, old barns, and decaying corrals provide a haunting glimpse into life on the frontier. The isolation of the ranch enhances the abandoned feel of its forgotten sections.
9. Tucson Inn Motel
The Tucson Inn, built in the 1950s, was once a popular mid-century modern hotel catering to travelers along old U.S. Route 80. After years of operation, it was left abandoned, and its neon sign, cracked parking lot, and empty rooms now stand as a relic of the golden age of motels. The property has become a popular spot for photographers and urban explorers fascinated by retro Americana.
10. Rillito Race Track (Old Sections)
The Rillito Race Track, located just north of downtown Tucson, was once a bustling horse racing venue. While it is still operational, several older sections of the track, including stables and grandstands, have been left to decay. These abandoned areas, with their rusting fences, overgrown fields, and empty stands, offer a glimpse into Tucson’s rich equestrian and sporting history.
Conclusion
Tucson’s abandoned places provide a unique look into the city’s history, from its early days as a mining town to its mid-century architectural and cultural icons. These decaying structures tell the stories of growth, decline, and change, offering a hauntingly beautiful exploration experience. As always, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when visiting these sites, as many are dangerous or off-limits. For those who explore responsibly, Tucson’s abandoned places offer a captivating journey through the city’s hidden past.
