Garden of Gethsemane Guide

The Garden of Gethsemane is a public sculpture garden located just west of Downtown Tucson.

Situated next to the Santa Cruz River on West Congress Street, this peaceful garden was created to house the sculptures of artist Felix Lucero. As the story goes, Felix was stationed in France during WWI when he made a promise that he would devote the rest of his life to creating religious works.

The garden - which is popular for weddings, quinceañeras, and small parties - is lit and has electrical outlets, a water fountain, and a kneeling bench.  

The Garden of Gethsemane is currently closed to the public for improvements and will reopen in April 2024.  The improvements are being paid for with funding from the Salvatore Initiative Project and consist of concrete flatwork repair, painting, and landscaping renovations.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Where is Garden of Gethsemane located?

Garden of Gethsemane can be found in Downtown Tucson at 602 W. Congress Street.

What are the hours?

The garden is open from sunrise to sunset.

Why would I visit the Garden of Gethsemane?

• To admire the sculptures
• To sit down in a quiet space to write, read, or paint
• To think and/or pray

How much does it cost?

Free.

What is the parking situation?

There are a handful of parking spots at the entrance of the garden and along the street.

What is the nearest streetcar stop to the Garden of Gethsemane?

The closest Sun Link Streetcar stop is #2.

What should I wear?

The Garden of Gethsemane is outdoors so dress for the weather.

What should I bring with me?

You may want to bring a water bottle, snacks, sketchpad, or a journal.

Are bathrooms available?

No.

What is the best season for visiting the Garden of Gethsemane?

Because the garden is outdoors, October thru April are likely to provide the optimal environmental experience. That said, you can certainly enjoy the garden in the middle of the summer too, depending on the forecast and time of day.

Which days of the week are the most and least crowded?

Due to its small size, this garden doesn't tend to draw large crowds. On the Saturday morning that we stopped in, we were the only visitors.

DINING

Is outside food allowed? Are picnic tables available?

As far as we could tell, it would be fine to bring in snacks. Be sure to pick up and dispose of all litter afterward. There are also picnic tables directly outside the garden gates.

What dining venues are available on-site?

None.

What restaurants are located NEAR the Garden of Gethsemane?

There are a plethora of outstanding dining options within 2 miles. Try:

• Agustin Kitchen, 100 S. Avenida del Convento (0.2 miles away) - farm-to-fork, indoor + outdoor dining, brunch, salads, burgers, oysters, beer + wine
• Cafe a La C'Art (at Tucson Museum of Art), 150 N. Main Ave (0.6 miles away) - brunch, lunch, pastries, indoor/outdoor seating
• Reilly Craft Pizza & Drink, 101 E. Pennington St. (0.9 miles away) – pizza, pasta, drinks
• Hub Restaurant & Ice Creamery, 266 E. Congress St. (1.2 miles away) – burgers, salads, sandwiches, pasta, beer, wine, cocktails, outdoor seating, homemade ice cream
• Maynards Market, 400 N. Toole Ave. (1.1 miles away) – soups, salads, sandwiches, steak, fish, vegetarian
• Cup Cafe, 311 E. Congress St. (1.1 miles away) – indoor & outdoor seating, breakfast, lunch, dinner

BABIES & KIDS

What ages would be best suited for a visit to the Garden of Gethsemane?

All ages.

Should I bring a stroller?

A stroller is not necessary - unless you plan to walk elsewhere.

Is there somewhere I can nurse/feed my baby?

There are several benches immediately outside the garden entrance.

Are changing tables available?

No.

EVENTS

Can I have my wedding at the Garden of Gethsemane?

Yes. Call 520-791-4873 Ext. 0 to inquire about rates and deposits. Note that alcohol is not permitted.

MISCELLANY

What else do I need to know before I go to the Garden of Gethsemane?

That just about covers it. Have a great time!