Old Tucson Studios Acquisition Plan
Wild West Enterprise proudly announces its bid to acquire the operations of Old Tucson Studios, a historic film location and historical landmark for the people of Tucson.
A Living, Breathing, Grassroots Undertaking
Before anything else, we want to be transparent. Everything you’re about to read reflects our current vision, shaped by community conversations, cultural priorities, and the early stages of Wild West Enterprise’s effort to acquire and operate Old Tucson.
This entire project depends on county approval, regulatory processes, and the many moving parts of the acquisition. Because of that, these plans should not be taken as fixed promises; they are a living, breathing snapshot of where things stand today. As circumstances evolve, we will continue to re‑evaluate, reassess, and adjust with full transparency.
Old Tucson’s rebirth is a grassroots effort, and we want the community walking beside us every step of the way.
Wild West Enterprise is a Tucson‑rooted operations team dedicated to preserving, revitalizing, and reopening Old Tucson as a year‑round cultural landmark. Our leadership brings experience in operations, entertainment programming, financial modeling, and community engagement, all focused on restoring Old Tucson’s legacy while building a sustainable future.
Rob Loebl - Decades of experience in construction and the entertainment industry, Rob has worked at Old Tucson for years and his passion for it runs deep.
Jake Ainsworth - With 30 years of hospitality and business experience, Jake brings the structure needed to keep Old Tucson running lean and responsibly.
Benny White - A prolific performer, Benny has entertained Old Tucson patrons for years. His online success makes him the perfect person to make sure the Old West is finding a new audience.
Angie Ainsworth - Working at some of the best parks in the world, including Old Tucson, Knott's Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood, Angie brings an undeniable ability to bring world-class entertainment to Tucson.
Greg DeBenedetti - As the longest-tenured Old Tucson alum on the team, Greg brings invaluable experience, having seen the park at it's greatest.
Mission, Vision, and Values
It's important for you to know what we believe
Mission
Wild West Enterprise’s mission is to secure the operational rights to Old Tucson Studios and reopen it as a year‑round cultural landmark. We are committed to honoring its historic legacy while responsibly building a sustainable operation that supports local artists, strengthens the regional economy, and creates meaningful experiences for visitors of all ages.
Wild West Enterprise’s mission is to secure the operational rights to Old Tucson Studios and reopen it as a year‑round cultural landmark. We are committed to honoring its historic legacy while responsibly building a sustainable operation that supports local artists, strengthens the regional economy, and creates meaningful experiences for visitors of all ages.
Vision
We envision Old Tucson as a living, thriving Western destination, a place where film production, immersive entertainment, community events, and cultural education come together. Our long‑term vision is to restore Old Tucson as a national icon of Western storytelling while ensuring it remains accessible, relevant, and beneficial to the Tucson community for generations to come.
We envision Old Tucson as a living, thriving Western destination, a place where film production, immersive entertainment, community events, and cultural education come together. Our long‑term vision is to restore Old Tucson as a national icon of Western storytelling while ensuring it remains accessible, relevant, and beneficial to the Tucson community for generations to come.
Values
Our work is guided by four core values: core memories, community, heritage, and preservation. We strive to create unforgettable experiences that connect people to the spirit of the Old West, foster strong ties with the Tucson community, safeguard the site’s historic heritage, and preserve Old Tucson for future generations. These values shape every decision we make throughout the acquisition and reopening process.
Our work is guided by four core values: core memories, community, heritage, and preservation. We strive to create unforgettable experiences that connect people to the spirit of the Old West, foster strong ties with the Tucson community, safeguard the site’s historic heritage, and preserve Old Tucson for future generations. These values shape every decision we make throughout the acquisition and reopening process.
Why Old Tucson Matters
Old Tucson is more than a film set; it’s a living piece of Arizona history. For decades, it has been a place where families, filmmakers, performers, and visitors experience the spirit of the Old West. Our goal is to protect this legacy while modernizing operations to ensure long‑term viability.
Historic film heritage
Old Tucson has been the backdrop for hundreds of Western films and television shows, making it one of the most recognizable cinematic landscapes in America. Preserving this heritage ensures that Tucson remains a vital part of film history and continues to attract productions that celebrate the Western genre.
Local economic impact
For decades, Old Tucson has generated jobs, tourism revenue, and business for local vendors. Reopening operations means renewed opportunities for employment, hospitality growth, and a stronger regional economy that benefits the entire community.
Cultural preservation
The site is more than a film set; it’s a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of the Old West. Preserving Old Tucson safeguards a unique piece of Arizona’s identity, ensuring future generations can experience and learn from its history.
Tourism & community programming potential
Old Tucson has always been a destination for families, schools, and visitors from around the world. With year‑round operations, it can host educational programs, community events, seasonal festivals, and immersive entertainment that strengthen Tucson’s cultural fabric while drawing new tourism.
Transparency
Please read the the statement below regarding our commitment to transparency.
Wild West Enterprise is committed to keeping both the county and the community fully informed throughout the acquisition process. We have formally submitted our bid to operate Old Tucson Studios and are currently engaged in review with Pima County.
We pledge to share updates as they become available, publish key documents for public access, and maintain open communication channels. While certain details (such as final agreements and timelines) are still pending, our commitment to honesty and transparency remains constant.
Community Commitment
Our commitment is to reopen Old Tucson in a way that honors its past and serves the people of Tucson. We pledge to operate with transparency, prioritize local hiring, support local artists and performers, and maintain open communication with the community throughout the acquisition and reopening process.
Operational Roadmap
Site Assessment & Safety Review
We will carefully evaluate the grounds and facilities to ensure safety and compliance before reopening.
Infrastructure & Utilities Modernization
Critical systems like power, water, and communications will be updated to support year‑round operations.
Programming Development
Entertainment, stunt shows, and seasonal events will be designed to deliver immersive guest experiences.
Film Production Partnerships
We will reestablish Old Tucson as a working film set by partnering with studios and filmmakers.
Soft Opening Events
Community‑focused preview events will allow us to test operations and gather valuable feedback.
Full Year‑Round Operations
Old Tucson will reopen as a sustainable, year‑round destination blending history, entertainment, and culture.