Even though no overt combat took place during the Cold War, it was still a highly influential era in world history. Right here in Arizona, there’s a museum dedicated to the war—specifically, the Titan II missiles that were stored at Air Force bases across the U.S. Whether or not you’re a history buff, the Titan Missile Museum in Arizona is an important piece of history that’s worth visiting.

If you’re a war buff, history enthusiast, or just someone who loves to explore new places, the Titan Missile Museum in Green Valley just outside of Tucson, and it belongs at the top of your bucket list.
TripAdvisor/Ritch G.
It’s the last remaining Titan II missile site from the Cold War, offering visitors a rare peek into the state-of-the-art technology used to prevent an all-out nuclear cataclysm.
Three Air Force bases (one each in Kansas, Arkansas, and Arizona) received 18 Titan II missiles each, for a total of 54. The units were deployed in early 1963, and all were on alert by December of that year.
TripAdvisor/craigbennett1960
Sporting more reliable and longer-lasting propellants, a shorter launch time, and increased accuracy, the Titan II was a massive upgrade from its predecessors.
While the original plan was a 10-year deployment, the Titan II program ended up lasting almost double that amount of time.
TripAdvisor/Bill J.
It was finally deactivated in 1982, shortly after President Reagan launched the Strategic Forces Improvement Program. This initiative sought to replace the Titan II missiles with more modernized alternatives
The other two missile sites no longer exist, but Arizona's is still standing.
TripAdvisor/craigbennett1960
It’s now a National Historic Landmark and one of the most fascinating history museums in Arizona, ensuring the Cold War era won’t just live on in dusty old textbooks.

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If you’d like to visit the Titan Missile Museum, two different tours are offered.
Wikimedia Commons / Jeffagoldberg at English Wikipedia
The 45-minute guided tour provides the most in-depth experience, taking you 55 feet underground into the missile complex. You’ll visit the launch control center, watch a simulated takeoff, and even get an up-close look at the missile itself.
In addition to (or instead of) the guided tour, guests can also poke around on the surface of the complex.
Wikimedia Commons / Aspersions at the English language Wikipedia
That’s where you’ll get to see the alarm systems, marvel at the engine, and enjoy a spectacular view of the missile from up above. Visitors who cannot descend and climb 55 metal stair steps and stand for 45 minutes should opt for this tour instead of the guided experience.
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState
I found the self-guided walking tour just as interesting as the guided underground tour.
When I visited, I took so many Titan Missile Museum photos. I'd never been to a museum like this or even seen a missile up close. This Cold War museum in Arizona is a fascinating look into that uncertain period of time and I urge everyone to visit
Melissa Mahoney/OnlyInYourState
The museum is open seven days a week and hours vary by season. From October through May, it is open from 9:45 a.m. until 5 p.m. From June through September, it is open from 9:45 p.m. until 3 p.m.
TripAdvisor/cameleon01
The only days the museum is closed is Thanksgiving and Christmas. Current ticket prices for admission to the Titan Missile Museum in Arizona can be found on the website. As tour space is limited, you may want to book your tickets online ahead of time to guarantee your spot.

Take a look at this video of a Titan Missile Museum tour by @12NewsAZ:

Make sure to stop by the gift shop before heading out! It has all sorts of cool Titan II memorabilia, as well as educational items, T-shirts, and other knick-knacks. The museum also has an antenna that guests can use to operate their HAM radios. How neat!

Visit the Titan Missile Museum’s website and give the Titan Missile Museum’s Facebook page a follow to learn more. Have you ever been to the Titan Missile Museum in Arizona? If so, tell us all about your experience in the comments!

For another fascinating Arizona history trip, check out the site of the legendary O.K. Corral Gunfight. And if you’d like to take a history tour in Southern Arizona, check out the Tucson Origins Walking Tour on Viator.

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Historic Places In Arizona

Melissa M. | December 14, 2023

What are some other fascinating history museums in Arizona?

With the state’s storied history, there are plenty of fascinating history museums in Arizona. Here are a few:

 

What are some of the most historic towns in Arizona?

Among the most historic towns in Arizona are the following:

  • Jerome, AZ was founded in the late 19th century as a mining town.
  • The Southern Arizona town of Bisbee was founded in 1880 and was also a mining town.
  • In 1879, Tombstone, Arizona was founded. With its Wild West history and home to outlaws and gunfights in its heyday.

Discover more historic towns in Arizona.

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