- Hours: Open daily but hours vary by season. Check to be sure they're open before going on a holiday
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended
- Cost: Admission fee, AAA, senior citizens and military discounts
- Location: 25 miles south of Tucson, directions below
- How Long: Basic tour lasts 1 hour
- Best Time to Visit: Any time of the year
In the midst of the Cold War, Titan Missile Complex 571-7 near Tucson, Arizona, went on alert July 15, 1963. One of 54 sites spread across the United States, it was built to last ten years, but it stayed armed and ready to fire for over twenty, its missiles loaded with propellants and nuclear warheads, hidden in an underground silo. Fortunately, the Cold War ended without nuclear incident, and the silos were phased out. In 1986, this site was converted into a museum.
What to expect at the Titan Missile Museum
The tour route goes down 55 perforated metal stairs, and you must wear flat-soled walking shoes to avoid injury. Special tours can be arranged for those who have limited mobility and need an elevator.The Basic Tour: A short video describes the Titan Missile program, then a volunteer guide leads a walking tour from the visitor center past several outdoor exhibits that illustrate how the missiles were fueled. After viewing the Titan silo through a glass window above it (installed as part of the disarmament agreement so it can be viewed from a satellite), the group enters the Titan complex. The walking tour is outside, and there is no shade. On a hot day, even though it's a short walk, hat, sunscreen, and water are highly recommended.
After going downstairs, the tour enters the control room by the same route the Titan crews used. Tour guides explain how the control room functioned, the detail safeguards taken to prevent unauthorized entry and to verify the order to fire.
The museum also offers several specialty tours, including full moon tours, an overnight experience and a longer, top to bottom tour. On Tuesdays, tour guides are former crew members.
Technically curious adults, former military personnel and those who remember the Cold War may enjoy the Titan Missile Museum. Children and young people may need some background explanation before they arrive to make sense of what they see.
Getting to Titan Missile Museum
Titan Missile MuseumThe Titan Missile Museum is about 25 miles south of Tucson off I-19. Take exit 69 west 0.1 mile to the entrance.
1580 W. Duval Mine Rd.
Sahuarita, AZ
520-625-7736
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