Directions to Tucson

This page provides a comprehensive guide on how to get to Tucson from both domestic and international locations. Below, you will find essential flight information, airport comparisons, and clear driving directions for your trip.

Destinations: Choosing Your Airport

For attending the showcase, we highly recommend flying into either Tucson International Airport (TUS) or Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). These two airports provide the most practical access to the city.

While Tucson International Airport is the closest and geographically ideal, it may not always be the best choice during the peak of the gem show. High demand often leads to limited flight availability, crowded terminals, and a severe shortage of rental cars.

If flying directly into Tucson does not fit your schedule or budget, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is an excellent alternative. As one of the largest transportation hubs in the United States, PHX offers a vast array of domestic and international flights, better connection options, and a massive rental car center. The drive from Phoenix to Tucson is a straightforward one-and-a-half-hour trip via the interstate.

Read more: Rent-A-Car Guide

Recommended Connecting Flights

If you cannot find a direct flight to Tucson or Phoenix from your local airport, consider booking a connecting flight through major hubs such as Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Dallas/Ft. Worth (DFW), or Seattle (SEA). These airports maintain frequent and reliable daily connections to both TUS and PHX.

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Domestic Flights

You can find all necessary information regarding arrivals, departures, operating airlines, and travel cost comparisons through the official airport links provided below.

Domestic Airlines Serving TUS (Tucson)

There are 8 major airlines currently operating out of Tucson International Airport:

• Alaska Airlines
• Allegiant Air
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• United Airlines

For real-time schedules, please check the official flight information:
Flight Information for TUS

Domestic Airlines Serving PHX (Phoenix)

There are 18 airlines operating out of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, offering extensive domestic coverage:

For real-time schedules, please check the official flight information:
Flight Information for PHX

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International Flights

If you are traveling to Tucson from overseas, your best strategy is to look for nonstop international flights. For this requirement, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is your primary gateway.

International Flights to TUS

Tucson International Airport currently handles very limited to no direct overseas international flights. Travelers from outside the U.S. will almost certainly require a layover if flying into TUS.

International Flights to PHX

Phoenix Sky Harbor offers 23 nonstop international flights connecting directly from countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Mexico. Here is the official destination list:

List of International Flights (PHX)

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Driving Directions to Tucson

Below are the most efficient driving directions to the Tucson Convention Center (the venue of the Main Show) from both TUS and PHX airports.

From Tucson International Airport (TUS)

Estimated Drive Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.

1. Head north on South Tucson Blvd leaving the airport.
2. Merge onto I-10 West towards Tucson/Phoenix.
3. Take the Congress/Broadway exit (Exit 258).
4. Continue straight on the South Freeway frontage road.
5. Turn right onto Congress Street, heading east.
6. Turn right onto South Church Ave.
7. The parking lot will be located on the right side of the street just before you reach Cushing St.

From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Estimated Drive Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.

1. Exit the airport and merge onto I-10 East toward Tucson.
2. Stay on I-10 East for approximately 110 miles.
3. Take Exit 258 toward Congress/Broadway.
4. Turn left onto Congress Street, heading east into downtown Tucson.
5. Turn right onto South Church Ave.
6. The parking lot is located on the right side of the street before Cushing St.