Tucson, Arizona: Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum

We happened to be passing by the rodeo grounds and noticed a sign stating that the museum was OPEN! Of course, we were compelled to check it out. The man inside said it was "Free." Well, if it's free it's for me, so we entered what we later learned was the hangar for the first municipal airport in the US (1919). Lindbergh stopped there on his way across the Atlantic, and they have photos to prove it. This gem houses a huge collection of old stagecoaches, conestoga wagons, buggies, surreys (with the fringe on top), buffalo soldier tack, pictures, and other western memorabilia. Everything was clean and well organized. The man who led us in was a docent who presented a marvelous tour that highlighted their prized attractions: Maximilian's inaugural carriage and a white child's hearse.

The museum is only open Jan. & Feb. during the time of Tucson's Rodeo ("The Longest Non-Motorized Parade in the World") which is another attraction unto itself. However, private tours can be arranged (per the brochure). There are plans to open it year-round though, so best to check first. Donations are accepted.