Armory Park

Armory Park is a historic 4-acre public park located in downtown Tucson, Arizona. Originally called Military Plaza Park, it dates back to the Presidio era when the military who guarded the Tucson Presidio were stationed in this area. The park was established in 1866 as Camp Lowell, a U.S. Army installation that provided military protection and brought financial benefits to Tucson residents.

In 1913, a portion of the former Camp Lowell site was deeded to the state for the construction of Arizona's first armory. The armory, completed in 1914, was a masonry structure with castle-like towers that featured a basement rifle range, a main floor for military drills, and an upper floor with offices. Although the armory building was demolished in 1975, the park retained its name.

Armory Park holds significant historical value and contains several monuments honoring those who served in various conflicts. These include memorials for the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, and the Mormon Battalion of 1846. The park also features two informational plaques, one depicting soldiers and their families at Camp Lowell, and another showing the original armory building.

Today, Armory Park serves as a neighborhood gathering space and recreational area for the Tucson community. It is situated directly across the street from the Children's Museum Tucson, making it a popular spot for families. The park also includes a community garden managed by Community Gardens of Tucson, providing local residents with an opportunity to engage in urban agriculture.