Tucson Gem and Mineral Show® - Event Guide

tucsons-gem-mineral-show

The acclaimed Tucson Gem and Mineral Show® is held every year on the second full weekend of February (starting with a Thursday). It has set the standard for gem and mineral shows and is now the "largest, oldest, and most prestigious gem and mineral show in the world." The Show is open to the public.

There are an estimated 250 retail dealers sharing the Exhibition Hall and the Arena areas of the Tucson Convention Center throughout the weekend. An unparalleled variety of mineral, fossil, jewelry, lapidary crafts, and related publications are presented under one roof.

The show is sponsored by the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, a local organization committed to studying and advancing earth sciences.

Proceeds from the Show remain in the Tucson economy and are used to support mineral knowledge and appreciation.

*Note that the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show® is part of the citywide Tucson Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Showcase.

Tucson Gem Mineral Show

GENERAL INFORMATION

What are the dates for the 2025 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®?

The dates are February 13-16, 2025.

Where is the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show® located?

The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show® is held at the Tucson Convention Center at 260 S. Church Ave in Downtown Tucson.

What are the hours?

  • Thursday, February 13: 10:00am-6:00pm
  • Friday, February 14: 10:00am-6:00pm
  • Saturday, February 15: 10:00am-6:00pm
  • Sunday, February 16: 10:00am-4:00pm

Why would I go to the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®?

  • To purchase and/or admire gold, silver, diamonds, and other gems.
  • To view private and museum collections from around the world.
  • To get your kids interested in earth science and geology.
  • To attend a lecture or seminar. Held Thursday through Saturday in the Crystal Ballroom and Turquoise Ballroom at the Tucson Convention Center. Free of charge and open to the public.

How much does it cost?

Admission is $13 per day per adult. Children 14 and under are free with a paying adult.

Are there discounts for seniors or military members?

Friday is often Military (active & retired) and Senior Citizens Day (62 and older). Receive $2.00 off the regularly priced ticket (cannot be used with any other discount).

What is the parking situation?

Parking is available at the Tucson Convention Center, at several adjacent lots, and on the street (toll).

What should I wear?

Tucson temperatures in mid-February are generally in the 50s-70s with blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Wearing short sleeves, skirts, dresses, and sandals are certainly acceptable - but you'll definitely want to pack lightweight sweaters and pants for the cooler evenings and early mornings.

What should I bring with me?

Bring water.

Are bathrooms available?

Yes.

DINING

Is outside food allowed at the Tucson Convention Center?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the convention center. That said, there are PLENTY of outstanding dining venues within a 1-mile radius (see below).

What dining venues are available on-site?

A limited selection of snacks and drinks are available for purchase on-site, but we encourage you to venture into the downtown area for some great eats and fun photo opps.

What restaurants are located NEAR the Tucson Convention Center?

Our top picks within a 1-mile radius include:

Feel free to tweet us at @TucsonTopia for more recommendations around town!

Remember that you can hop on the Tucson Streetcar to easily get around the downtown and university area.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

What else should I do while I'm in town for the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®?

Don't miss the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum - beautiful scenery and fun for all ages!

We also recommend Sabino CanyonSaguaro National Park East & West, Trail Dust Town, and La Encantada Shopping Center.

BABIES & KIDS

Can kids attend the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®?

Yes! There is a Jr. Education Area of the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show® at the TCC. Kids can walk through a maze of educational experiments, go on a mineral scavenger hunt, and take home a variety of clearly identified specimens.

Activities for kids will be taking place on Friday (2pm-6pm), Saturday (10am-6pm), and Sunday (10am-4pm).

Children, ages 14 and under, receive free admission to the show with a paying adult.

Should I bring a stroller?

The Tucson Convention Center is stroller-accessible and wheelchair-accessible. That being said, the City of Tucson website states that "Most events do not allow baby carriages or child strollers in the venue. Strollers can be checked-in at designated Administration/Guest Services Offices."

Is there a designated area for nursing moms?

No.

Are changing tables available?

Yes - in the restrooms.

MISCELLANY

Is the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show active on social media?

Yes. You can follow the Tucson Gem & Mineral Society on Facebook and Twitter.

We also recommend that you follow TucsonTopia on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for the inside scoop on Tucson hotels, restaurants, and activities.

What else do I need to know before I go to the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®?

That just about covers it. Have a great time!

TucsonTopia contains both paid and non-paid mentions of businesses and organizations in and around Tucson, Arizona. Any reference made here to local businesses, services, classes, etc. is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. We encourage you to do your own research before participating in an event or engaging with a local business or organization. The intent of TucsonTopia is to provide ideas for family-friendly activities, events, and resources. Participants assume all risks for any activities they engage in. TucsonTopia is not responsible for any injuries or problems that may arise from partaking in any of these events and activities.
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