Old Tucson Nightfall is one of the many iconic events in the Old Pueblo. It combines the best of theater and showmanship with the Wild West spirit that Old Tucson inspires so, so well. If, like me, you haven’t been in a few years, be sure to gather some friends together and visit Old Tucson Nightfall next Halloween!
When and Where is Old Tucson Nightfall?
To get to Old Tucson Studios, drive on West Ajo Way and take a right on S. Kinney Road. You can also take Speedway to W. Gates Pass Road, depending on where you are in town. Enjoy the scenery for a bit and you’ll see the famed Old Tucson Studios stretched out in front of you, among the hills and cacti.
Old Tucson Studios is always a great time, with amazing shows, interactive exhibits, and the feel of an old western town. However, Nightfall brings a little different feeling to the once sleepy town. Running every evening for over a month, starting on September 29th and going until Halloween, each night brings a new opportunity to experience a Good ‘Ole Horror Show!
What Can I Expect in Old Tucson Nightfall?
The first thing that caught me off guard about Old Tucson Nightfall was the sheer scale. I didn’t remember Old Tucson Studios being so immense! Once inside, there are activities and spectacles as far as the eye can see. Nightfall incorporates both the back and front movie studio lots, offering a ton of space for the festivities.
The next thing that struck me was the amount of attractions being offered up. It’s impossible to see everything in one night! There is just so much to do and experience, from the haunts to the scary stagecoach ride, that you really have to go to see for yourself.
What Are The Stage Shows Like?
There are a ton of shows going on at different times, so be sure to check with your schedule to make sure you get to everything you want. I recommend the Stage Saloon Horror Show, which was a real blast. I took it as an amalgamation of the Rocky Horror Picture Show and Dr. Who, it was exciting and campy and very, very funny.
Another show that struck me was in the back lot, set in front of a diner entitled “Eddies”. It was a slick production, complete with excellent makeup and cinema-worthy special effects. It was also disturbing. Like, don’t bring your kids disturbing. I found it odd that there were no disclaimers before the show, even though different attractions had signs posted alerting parents when their discretion is advised.
PRO TIP – Catch the show if you can, but leave the kiddies to wander around elsewhere.
Is There Anything to Eat in Old Tucson Nightfall?
Thanks to the full restaurant at Old Tucson Studios, there is plenty to eat and drink in Old Tucson Nightfall. The most popular fare was the Roasted Corn and the Sausage on a Stick. I am usually not one to wait around in a line while there are activities happening all around me, but the Roasted Corn alone was worth it. There are also numerous food stands set up throughout the park. So you don’t have to go to far to find your next Sausage-on-a-Stick!
What Else is in Old Tucson Nightfall?
There is too much to fit in this article. You get the haunted stage coaches, you get the spooky western gun fights, with people flying off buildings and huge explosions. There is a winding, dusty trail in the back lot, haunted with all types of ghouls and goblins. And that’s just the beginning!
Get out to Old Tucson Nightfall next Halloween season to see what all the fuss is about. If, like me, you haven’t been in a few years, prepare to be amazed. Just watch out for the kiddies, there is some scary stuff in Nightfall at Old Tucson!
Have a great day,
TonyRay 🙂
