On the outskirts of Tucson, the Titan Missile Museum is one of Arizona’s most intriguing museums. Until the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty in 1987, the United States had 54 similar defensive sites across the country. Today, this site is the only one remaining open to the public, converted into a museum and national historic landmark with the approval of the Soviet Union. Learn about the panic experienced during the Cold War by visiting the Titan Missile Museum and see the enormous missile that could be fired from the location.
The only way to visit the museum is by signing up for a guided tour. A variety of options await you, including adventurous overnight tours that provide insight into the grueling tasks missile technicians were responsible for. Join a tour guided by former crew from the missile base to learn first-hand from those who would have been responsible for firing the nuclear warheads if called upon.
Standard tours last 1 hour and take in the entire missile site, including the control centre and the silo that houses the lone Titan II that remains on site. No longer active, the missile had to be cut open and left outside under satellite surveillance by the Russians for an entire month before it could be kept as an artifact of the conflict. Enter the missile silo for a 6-story view of the 103-foot (30-metre) warhead. Descend 55 steps beneath the ground to reach the control centre. Hold on as you sit through a simulated missile launch.
Afterward, purchase souvenirs from the Titan Missile Museum gift shop. Buy clothing, informative books and scale models of the Titan II Missile.
The Titan Missile Museum is located near Sahuarita, just a 30-minute drive from central Tucson. Free parking is available on-site. Book a tour in advance or arrange one upon arrival. The site charges an admission fee. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
