Originally constructed in the 1930's as a film set, Old Tucson Studio has evolved into a family attraction. (Occasional filming still takes place here as well.) Unfortunately, recent financial troubles have meant that not all of the park's attractions are open, but it's still fun to visit. And although most of "The Young Riders" was filmed out at Mescal, they came to OTS for occasional filming as well.
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The view from Gates Pass, heading toward Old Tucson Studios. | |
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At the scenic overlook in Gates Pass. | |
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Saguaro here, saguaro there, saguaro everywhere. | |
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Tracy & Dee. | |
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Sameena, Tracy, & Dee. | |
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Be careful what you dare Sameena to do . . . | |
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Out front at OTS. | |
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The Town Hall and the gallows. | |
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Town Square. | |
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The hotel. | |
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Inside Town Hall there's a display that includes many of the productions filmed here. Included, of course, is this little show called "The Young Riders." | |
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Can danger be far behind when the Bounty Hunter shows up? (Shades of Jake Colter . . .) | |
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The Sheriff is there to keep order. | |
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The bounty hunter got on the wrong side of the law. | |
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The bounty hunter's prey. | |
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Death in Old Tucson . . . | |
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The guide says this building was used in a Young Riders episode -- can YOU identify it? | |
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Another view of the building above . . . | |
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Dee points out an important sign -- unfortunately, we didn't find any of the Young Riders there. | |
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The horse mural. | |
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Don't tick Sameena off -- she has a wicked right hook! (She actually took all 3 of them out with one punch!!!) | |
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Just can't take Dee anywhere! | |
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The old Mission set -- look familiar??? It played a part in a couple of Young Riders episodes. | |
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The water tower where Buck was held hostage in "Speak No Evil." | |
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Sameena and Tracy checking out the High Chapparal set -- this building also served as Fort Reunion in "End of Innocence." | |
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Pleasant thoughts, imagining the Riders in the bath house . . . | |
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Old West justice. | |
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Carting off the body after the hanging. | |
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The stage literally becomes a "stage" for an impromptu dance. | |
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The day wraps up with the stunt show at the Mission. Now what do you think is going to happen to the guy on the ladder????? | |
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Oooooooops! | |
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The banjo serenade on the way out. | |
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Mission San Xavier del Bac -- The White Dove of the Desert. One of Tucson's most famous sites, it's impressive even with the repair scaffolding. | |
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The cactus almost got Dee -- fortunately, we were able to rescue her at the last moment! |