Fort Lowell Park

A Step Back in Time

Perched on the grounds of the former Fort Lowell, a U.S. Army post that stood from 1873 to 1891, this 65.1-acre park blends history, nature, and recreation in a way that feels uniquely Tucson.

The Fort Lowell Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into frontier military life, showcasing how soldiers and their families lived during the late 19th century. As you wander the grounds, you'll spot remnants of the old fort with informative plaques that tell their stories - no history textbooks required.

Here's a cool historical tidbit: Lieutenant Walter Reed once called Fort Lowell home. He later went on to make the groundbreaking discovery that mosquitoes transmit yellow fever and malaria, a revelation that eventually made the Panama Canal possible. Talk about a legacy!

Natural Oasis

The park's duck pond with a fountain functions as a mini ecosystem where turtles sun themselves on rocks while ducks paddle nearby. If you're lucky, you might spot a kingfisher diving for lunch, an elegant egret, or a flock of American wigeons depending on when you visit.

Bird enthusiasts, bring your binoculars! Yellow warblers, vermilion flycatchers, and Cooper's hawks are just a few of the species that make appearances during the year.

An old pecan grove provides welcome shade and connects you to the area's agricultural roots. For a more wild experience, the Pantano Wash area hosts desert scrub birds and native wildlife in their natural habitat.

Don't forget to take in the mountain views that frame the park - they're particularly breathtaking as the sun sets, painting the sky in vivid desert hues.

Get Moving

Need to stretch your legs? A 1.5-mile jogging path loops around the park, offering a scenic route for your daily exercise. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the baseball and softball fields (some lit for evening games), tennis courts, and sand volleyball courts.

The park's picnic ramadas make ideal spots for gatherings - just reserve one through Tucson Parks and Recreation if you're planning something special.

Dog owners, you're in luck! The spacious grassy areas provide plenty of room for your four-legged friends to play. And if you're looking to center yourself, stop by the duck pond on Saturday mornings around 9:30 AM when Tai Chi practitioners gather. Newcomers are always welcome!

Kid-Friendly Fun

The recently upgraded playground area is a hit with the younger crowd, featuring modern climbing structures, slides, and swings for various age groups. Parents will appreciate the partial shade structures that make playtime possible even on warmer days.

The thoughtfully designed playground includes inclusive elements for children of all abilities - local therapists even recommend it as an excellent place for kids to develop both gross and fine motor skills.

Cool Off

When the Tucson heat cranks up, the park's public swimming pool offers sweet relief. With diving boards and lap lanes that rarely get overcrowded, it's a peaceful place to take a dip.

For the little ones, a splash pad operates from April 1 through October 31, providing a fun way to cool down that's especially popular during those scorching summer months.