Tucson Gem & Mineral Show
Photo Courtesy of Thrillist
The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show has drawn visitors from around the world to Tucson for over 60 years. The show, hosted by the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, began in 1955 at a local elementary school. From there it moved to a Quonset hut at the Tucson Fairgrounds and in the 1970s expanded to occupy exhibit halls and sections of the arena at the Tucson Community Center. After the Tucson Convention Center opened in 1990, the show found a new and larger home.
Showcasing spectacular precious gems and stunning mineral formations, the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show has drawn over 1,000 gem and mineral dealers from across the US and internationally as exhibitors. Nonprofit mineral and earth sciences organizations are invited to exhibit at no cost, staffing their own booths to meet the public to share information. Attendees include professional gemologists, hobbyists, and members of the general public who come to view gems, jewelry, and extraordinary special displays of rare gems and minerals from museum and private collections.
The Blenman Inn is ideally situated to provide a home base for Gem and Mineral Show visitors. Our downtown Tucson location is just a three-minute walk from the convention center. After a long and exciting day viewing exhibits, return to The Blenman Inn for rest and relaxation. We’ll help you select location restaurants and direct you to Tucson’s many other historical and recreational attractions.
The Inn itself is a part of Tucson history: built in 1878 and restored using original doors, paneling, and trim, The Blenman Inn welcomes you with hotel-like service in a B&B type setting. Some rooms feature private patios, and a dip in the pool or a soak in the hot tub are perfect ways to wind down after a busy day of exhibits or sightseeing.
The next time you plan to visit the southwest, don’t miss your chance to visit Tucson and stay with us at The Blenman Inn. Gem and Mineral Show attendees and exhibitors find a welcome respite the crowds and noise of large chain hotels here in this elegant, San Francisco-style Victorian home. We look forward to your stay with us!