Saguaro National Park

Desert with a cactus found nowhere else in the world

Save visits & photos across your bucket list — sign in to start.

No memories yet. Add your first visit to start a timeline.

Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

Named after the Saguaro Cactus which grows nowhere else in the world, Saguaro National Park is distinctly split between an East and West Region, separated by the city of Tucson.

Saguaro National Park is largely desert, with cactus that can live 200 years and reach 50 feet high, but it also features mountainous terrain reaching 8,000 feet above sea level. You’ll find more cactii in the West Region draw larger crowds than the mountains of the East Region but both sides have their fair share of trails, activities, and points of interest.

Top sites include Valley View Overlook, Signal Petroglyphs, Desert Discovery Nature Trail, Cactus Forest Loop Drive, and Mica View Loop.

USA > Arizona

Nature, Parks

Saguaro National Park

Memories

Guide

FAQ

Tips

Let's Hang Out