PIMA COUNTY, (June 22, 2026) - American Heritage Railways, the company operating Old Tucson Studios, 201 S. Kinney Road, has indicated that it doesn't wish to execute the 10-year lease agreement option when the current term ends in April 2027.
County officials have met with representatives of American Heritage Railways and are actively discussing how they can move forward together.
“Both Pima County and American Heritage Railways share a deep and genuine appreciation for Old Tucson, and we remain committed to working collaboratively to determine the best path for its continued success,” County Administrator Jan Lesher wrote in a memo to the Board of Supervisors.
“We’ve met with them and are working to see how we can move forward,” said Diane Frisch, Pima County Attractions & Tourism director. “The bottom line is they love Old Tucson, and we love Old Tucson.”
The Halloween-themed Nightfall event and the holiday Yuletide celebration, both wildly popular, will continue as planned. Old Tucson is currently open, and all tours and other events are continuing as normal. County officials are encouraging visitors and residents to continue exploring all Old Tucson has to offer, from Ghost Tours to Summer Night Markets to studio tours and more.
County staff will continue to focus on the broader public interest in preserving and enhancing Old Tucson.
Old Tucson Studios, located between Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park, was built in 1939 and has served as the filming location for hundreds of classic western films and TV shows. Film greats such as John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and many more have worked there. The studio opened its doors as a theme park in 1960 and continues to offer tours, special events, and rides to guests.