Tucson’s Historic, Player-Friendly Golf Destination
El Rio Golf Course is one of Tucson’s most historic public golf destinations, dating back to the 1930s and serving as the original site of the PGA’s Tucson Open. It’s also the venue where Babe Didrikson Zaharias famously Monday‑qualified into the 1945 Tucson Open, a milestone that adds to El Rio’s enduring legacy in Arizona golf history.
El Rio operated as a country club until 1968, when the City of Tucson acquired the property and opened it as a public golf course. Today, this historic Tucson golf destination offers a classic, walkable layout with tight fairways, small greens, mature trees, and two lakes. The layout stretches over 6,400 yards from the back tees, nearly 5,400 from the forward tees, and includes Junior tees just under 4,700 yards, making it a welcoming and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Driving Range Hours & Practice Facilities
El Rio provides a convenient and affordable place to practice, with a full driving range, putting green, and short‑game areas. Whether you’re warming up before your round or sharpening your skills, our practice facilities are open daily and designed for golfers of every level.
Driving Range Hours: View El Rio’s driving range hours below. Hours are subject to change based on weather, maintenance, and operational needs from First Tee – Tucson.
Explore the Course: Hole‑by‑Hole Video Guide
Take a virtual tour of El Rio Golf Course with our hole‑by‑hole video series. Each video highlights the layout so you can plan your round before you arrive. It’s a great resource for first‑time visitors, returning players, and anyone wanting a deeper look at one of Tucson’s most historic golf courses.