Tubac: This Little Known Artsy Arizona Town is Calling
Just one hour south of Tucson you can spend the day exploring over 100 art galleries, studios and shops. See the oldest mission in Arizona, and the second oldest schoolhouse in the state.
We took a road trip to southern Arizona just to check out one of the oldest communities in this state.
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History Buffs and Artists: Tubac Arizona
Tubac is not a well-known place in Arizona, but this artsy town should be on your list.
Historic Art Village of Tubac
With over 100 art galleries, studios, and shops the Village of Tubac has something for everyone.
Tumacacori National Historic Park
One of my personal favorite historical places in Arizona is the mission at Tumacacori. San José de Tumacacori Mission is the first church in Arizona territory.
This church was built in 1691 on the east side of the Santa Cruz River. It was then moved to it’s current location in the mid 1700’s. It is in amazing condition.
How to Get to Tumacacori
Tumacacori is one hour south of Tucson. From Tucson take Interstate 10 East to Exit 260/Interstate 19. Drive for about 40 miles and take Exit 34 to Tubac. Drive to the Interstate 19 frontage road for just over two miles. The State Park is at 1891 I-19 Frontage Rd.
To learn more about Tumacacori
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
The Spanish Army built Fort Tubac in 1752 to protect the nearby settlements. It was one of the stops on the Royal Road that connected more than 21 missions from Mexico to California.
The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is Arizona’s first state park and is home to Arizona’s second oldest schoolhouse. The Old Tubac Schoolhouse was built in 1885 with mudbrick. Originally the floors were dirt.
At its peak more than 130 students were enrolled for one school year. Additions were made to the school over the years. Eventually the school house was stuccoed.
This school is on the National Historic Registry. The oldest schoolhouse in the state is near Payson in Strawberry, Arizona.
For more information on Tubac visit the Tubac Chamber of Commerce website.
