Set amidst the desert of Arizona, the city of Tucson offers an adventure like no other. Here, you will have the opportunity to partake in several activities that will take your breath away. That holds true for the characteristic Sabino Canyon camping expeditions, DeGrazia Gallery observances, or even the Catalina Mountain hiking trails. But that is not all.
Tucson brings to light a perfectly balanced mix of experiences that hail from the urban and the rural areas. It will also give you the chance to marvel at its state-of-the-art University of Arizona, learning a thing or two at the many museums and observatory, or even try your hand at hiking through Sentinel Peak. Whatever your adventure, we are certain you will find something worthy over here.
So, settle in and join us for the ride in this desert city. We are certain you will have a pleasant experience – one that you can take home with you and hold on to for the time to come.
Go hiking at Sabino Canyon
Sabino Canyon is a majestic canyon that finds its home nestled amidst the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest. The canyons are both found towards the northern side of Tucson, Arizona, United States.
The canyon and trails make for a popular option for tourists to partake in recreational activities such as camping, walking, hiking, riding, or even mountain biking. When you are here, you can also enjoy the other breathtaking sights the canyon has to offer. These include large waterfalls nestled amidst Sabino Creek along with minor bridges constructed over them.
Also, be sure to look out for the unique and characteristic wildlife like the mountain lions, deer, and javelina the area hosts.
By Megan McCormick, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, United States | Timing: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/sabinocanyonvc?share | Phone Number: +15207498700
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a desert museum located in the heart of Arizona. They run the desert museum with a singular aim that is to ‘inspire people to live in harmony with the natural world by fostering love, appreciation, and understanding of the Sonoran Desert.’ To do that, the desert museum is home to several different art exhibits, wild webinars, animal training seminars, saving species seminars, etc.
Address: 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743, United States | Timing: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/azdesertmuseum?share | Phone Number: +15208831380
Explore the urban gardens at Tucson Botanical Gardens
The Tucson Botanical Gardens are highly regarded as one of the best Tucson attractions to look out for. After all, the Tucson Botanical Gardens are one of the best secret gardens in the entirety of the US. And for good reason! The Tucson Botanical Gardens find their home nestled amidst the historic Porter property, and that is only where the adventure begins.
Once you step into the Tucson Botanical Gardens, you come across a deeply captivating foliage that brings together a collection of mature trees and expertly cultivated specialty gardens of native plants. These include the breathtaking Cactus & Succulent Garden, Barrio Garden, and Herb Garden.
Be sure to check out the enormous collection of tropical butterflies available in Cox Butterfly & Orchid Pavilion along with the tours, classes, and art exhibits in the garden.
Address: 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712, United States | Timing: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/TucsonBotanical?share | Phone Number: +15203269686
Saguaro National Park
The Saguaro National Park is one of the most breathtaking Tucson attractions. The park provides a thrilling escapade complete with a plethora of different flora and fauna.
At the park, you will get the opportunity to come across unique and rare sights such as the globally renowned Giant Saguaro which stands proudly as the symbol of the American West. This cactus is so rare that they are found only in a relatively small part of the entire US. That is why they receive great protection at the Saguaro National Park located in Tucson, Arizona.
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By Burley Packwood, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/55Et1VWjTnLr4DGC7 | Phone Number: +15207335153
Tohono Chul Garden Bistro
One of the best things to see in Tucson, the Tohono Chul brings together a breathtaking ensemble of Gardens, Galleries, and Bistro. It offers a rich and diverse experience that aims to enrich the lives of people by offering all visitors the opportunity to connect with the world of nature, art, and culture amidst the warm Arizona desert. Perfectly nestled amidst the Sonoran Desert, Tohono Chul also gives visitors the chance to marvel at the natural beauty of the desert and inspire wise stewardship of the natural world.
Address: 7366 N Paseo Del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704, United States | Timing: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/PWKLUVkcykWeNwP18 | Phone Number: +15207426455
Reid Park Zoo
Reid Park Zoo is a non-profit organization that is run by animal lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in line with one simple mission. The mission behind the Zoo is to ‘create inspiring memories for all by connecting people and animals to ensure the protection of wild animals and wild places.’
And the Zoo & Park certainly lives up to that in good spirit. After all, the zoo & park brings together a diverse range of flora and fauna and puts them to the forefront with awareness programs, educational courses, supervised interactions, and trainings.
Address: 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/41aMctUtXd55vXDQ8 | Phone Number: +15207913204
Visit the historic Spanish Mission: San Xavier del Bac
The Spanish Mission: San Xavier del Bac stands proudly as one of the most characteristic Tucson attractions. It is a historic Spanish Catholic mission that finds its home nestled amidst the southern side of downtown Tucson, Arizona on the Tohono O’odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation. The mission came into existence in the year 1692 and has since stood as a mark of breathtaking Spanish Colonial architecture.
By Packbj, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/zUZg46WsDreqFucd8 | Phone Number: +15202942624
Pima Air & Space Museum
The Pima Air & Space Museum is run as a museum for creative and technological innovation in aim with one mission – ‘Creating unlimited horizons in aerospace education through the preservation and presentation of the history of flight.’ The museum brings together numerous people and faculties across different fields to defend this mission. This is primarily seen in two charters – the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame and Arizona Aerospace Foundation.
Address: 6000 E Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85756, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/PimaAirAndSpace?share | Phone Number: +15205740462
Old Tucson Studios
One of the best places to visit in Tucson Arizona, Old Tucson Studios are historical studios that stand as American movie studios and theme parks. You can find this breathtaking and versatile theme park towards the western side of Tucson, Arizona, adjacent to the highly revered Tucson Mountains and close to the western portion of Saguaro National Park. Old Tucson Studios came into existence in the year 1939 and has since held an important position in the hearts of all people in Tucson, Arizona.
Address: 201 Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/r7XLVcq6MqUJypRN9 | Phone Number: +15208830100
Sentinel Peak Park | “A” Mountain
Sentinel Peak, popularly referred to as ‘A’ Mountain, is a prominent landmark found along the Tucson Mountains on the west side of Downtown Tucson.
Sentinel Peak receives an enormous crowd every day that consists of people who come here to bask in the Arizona desert, go for lovely long hikes, and enjoy the sunset views the area has to offer.
Another crowd favorite that people enjoy doing at the peak is spending their time lounging near the neighboring Santa Cruz Valley. Beautiful and breathtaking, it has something in store for all kinds of travelers.
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By Bill Morrow, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 1000 Sentinel Peak Rd S, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States | Timing: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/f1CGYMkSXbcft3Qc6 | Phone Number: +15207914873
Kitt Peak National Observatory
The Kitt Peak National Observatory must be a must-visit attraction on your list if you enjoy space and all that it has to offer. After all, the Kitt Peak observatory supports the most diverse collection of astronomical observations that enjoys a special focus on nighttime optical and infrared astronomy and daytime study of the Sun.
By Packbj CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: AZ-386, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 04:00 pm, Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Kitt Peak National Observatory is closed to all visitors until further notice. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Nopzzz5TQH4Ux9tZ8 | Phone Number: +15203188726
Cathedral of Saint Augustine
Located in Tucson Arizona, the Cathedral of Saint Augustine forms the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson. It is a breathtaking cathedral that stands as a mark of the religious, cultural, and historical implications of the area.
Address: 192 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Bczg6ug9a7ufDtjY7 | Phone Number: +15206236351
Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a majestic highway that takes you through 27 miles up from the northeast edge of Tucson to the heights of Mount Lemmon which stands proudly at over 9000 feet. Along the way, you come across picturesque sights of the Sonoran Desert, Canadian conifer forest, Coronado National Forest, and a plethora of other camps and trails.
Address: E Ski Run Rd, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iCzcaTDmmHNq1vor6
Tumamoc Hill
Tumamoc Hill provides a 5.0 kilometer (3.1 mile) walk across the west of A Mountain and downtown Tucson. The hill provides moderate intensity walking trails where you stumble upon a beautiful collection of desert wildflowers and breathtaking views amidst the hill. This indulgent hill-based trail primarily comes to use for hiking, walking, running, camping, and even nature trips which give you the chance to bask in the lap of nature as you lounge about the hill.
Address: Tumamoc Hill Rd, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States | Timing: 4:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sAP7FRFbgswBPaKr7
Go on a Horseback riding tour
If you are wondering what to do in Tucson that will be an extraordinary experience, it is this. One of the most characteristic things to do in Tucson, Horseback riding has rightfully earned a name for itself in the years that have passed. After all, horseback riding perfectly completes your adventure in the American Wild West in line with sands, sunset, and saguaros.
Be sure to look out for tour organizers and companies such as Houston’s Horseback Riding, Tucson Mountain Stables, Saguaro Stables, Rockin’ Star Ranch, etc.
By StellarD, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park finds its home among the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains, Arizona. Over there, the Catalina State Park provides homage to a variety of desert-based flora and fauna that call the park their home.
That includes more than 5000 saguaros and a collection of green landscapes that spans over 5500 acres of foothills, canyons, and streams. This makes Catalina State Park the perfect destination for camping, picnicking, bird watching, desert hiking, and mountain climbing.
Address: 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85737, United States | Timing: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/catalina-state-park-tucson?share | Phone Number: +15206285798
DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum
One of the finest Tucson attractions, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum features a series of buildings scattered through a natural desert setting that comes together to present an artistic manifestation and architectural construct brought to light by Ettore DeGrazia.
DeGrazia Gallery has six permanent collections of artworks that document a gallery of the various historical events and native cultures that have been a characteristic mark of the Southwest. That is perhaps why DeGrazia Gallery has such a special place among the hearts of those from Arizona.
Address: 6300 N Swan Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/DeGraziaGallery?share | Phone Number: +15202999191
Colossal Cave Mountain Park
The Colossal Cave Mountain Park offers an experience like no other. This unique Tucson attraction is complete with unique escapades, thrilling adventures, and lots of fun and frolic. At the park, you will get the opportunity to dabble in unique adventures such as the Wild Cave Tour and Ladder Tour. Both of those perfectly bring together the experience that the Colossal Cave Mountain Park has to offer.
The park is family friendly, provides an insight into the rich history of the Colossal Cave Mountain Park, and introduces you to its unique geological offerings. As you explore the park further with a bit of hiking, you will also come across enchanting cave formations (such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone) and an intriguing variety of wildlife.
Address: 16721 E Old Spanish Trail, Vail, AZ 85641, United States | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Reb3sL6a5DWzT9449 | Phone Number: +15206477275
Franklin Auto Museum
The Franklin Auto Museum is one of the finest things to do in Tucson. It was founded by Thomas Hubbard to provide a space for the preservation and expansion of cars, Indian artifacts, and other facilities that he deemed complementary to the established southwestern site and architecture. Over the years the museum has grown in leaps and bounds to house a fantastical collection that brings together unique and integral pieces of history.
That includes an enormous Franklin automobile collection, an extensive library of Franklin Company research materials, an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, a historical abode home, and a museum.
Address: 1405 East Kleindale Road, 3420 N Vine Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 04:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/mTNce5T82D5h4oti9 | Phone Number: +15203268038
Garden of Gethsemane
Garden of Gethsemane features Christian-themed gardens that offer a pictorial representation of the last supper, the birth of Christ & crucifixion. Located just west of downtown Tucson, the Garden of Gethsemane is one of the best things to do in Tucson AZ.
Address: 602 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/p21PM9AQXoziUAXQ7 | Phone Number: +15207914873
El Presidio Historic District
The El Presidio Historic District presents an experience like no other. It encompasses the site where the City of Tucson was established as a Spanish military fort in 1775. A variety of tours take place across the year to offer an insight into what life in the Presidio was like for soldiers, military personnel, and other residents. Over the years that have passed, the El Presidio Historic District has grown to become a venue of national and cultural importance.
By Daquella manera, CC BY 2.0, Link
Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/urgAwV2XdCK1mosS6
Biosphere 2
Science like never before. The Biosphere 2 facility is one of the most fun things to do in Tucson. After all, Biosphere 2 is an American Earth system science research facility that offers an exclusive experience that takes you behind the scenes in the world of science.
Biosphere 2 serves multiple purposes that strengthen its role as a place for scientific discovery, research, and innovation. That includes Biosphere 2’s position as a laboratory for controlled scientific studies, an area for scientific discovery and discussion, and an integral institution for public education.
Address: 32540 S Biosphere Rd, Oracle, AZ 85739, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6Ld1CeNLhxu3nZWXA | Phone Number: +15208386200
Tucson Museum of Art
The Tucson Museum of Art connects art to life through its plethora of interactive exhibits, inspirational artwork, and heart-rendering collections. These collections spread across a variety of genres to offer a holistic picture into the view of art. That includes notable collections on American Art, Asian Art, Contemporary Art, European Art, Folk Art of the Americas, Latin American Art, Modern Art, Art of the American West, and Indigenous Art.
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By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 140 N Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5qHghCHeMRtdYnsZA | Phone Number: +15206242333
Buy Fresh at Farmer’s Market
Who doesn’t love a good farmer’s market? Good deals, great products, and even better service – farmer’s markets are here for the win. And in Tucson, they form an integral part of their culture and their weekend scenes. Here, you will come across a variety of indoor and outdoor farmers’ markets that set up shops to sell unique artifacts and collectibles or even handmade goods and memorabilia. Be sure to look out for the Heirloom Farmers Market, Santa Cruz Rivers’ Farmers Market, Oro Valley Farmers Market, etc.
By Nhl4hamilton, Public Domain, Link
Enjoy the western vibe at Gaslight Theatre
The Gaslight Theatre is a ‘Musical Melodrama Theatre’ based out of Tucson, Arizona. Voted as one of the best theatres in the entire state of Arizona and one of the best things to do in Tucson Arizona, Gaslight Theatre packs a punch of entertainment for the entire family. This spreads across action-packed movies, family-friendly musicals, tons of comedies, and a whole lot of romance.
Address: 7010 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85710, United States | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/yvJpQot7wwZfBQmN8 | Phone Number: +15208869428
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is a public university found in Tucson, Arizona. It is a highly sought-after university which consistently ranks highly among global university rankings. It is one of the highest-ranked research universities in the United States that is known for its research quality, innovation inspiration, dedication to accessibility, and academic excellence.
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By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1400 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States | Timing: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/F4NE2cN6fSFcD4gU8 | Phone Number: 5206213641
Wander into the Mercado San Agustin
If you are wondering what to do in Tucson AZ, this is it. Mercado San Agustin, popularly referred to as Mercado District, offers a unique downtown Tucson experience complete with superb buildings, ecstatic shopping, and eating options, and a rich cultural history that marks the district. Here, you will come across a vibrant neighborhood brought together in the heart of downtown Tucson amidst contemporary architecture and experiential settings.
By Heparina1985, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 100 South Avenida del Convento, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States | Timing: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/mercadosanagustin?share | Phone Number: +15204611107
International Wildlife Museum
One of the best places to visit in Tucson, the International Wildlife Museum is a non-profit organization ‘dedicated to increasing knowledge and appreciation of the diverse wildlife of the world as well as explaining the role of wildlife management in conservation.’ Ever since its inception in the year 1988, the museum has been home to a unique collection of more than 400 species of insects, mammals, and birds from around the world.
By Chanel Wheeler, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 4800 West Gates Pass, Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/WildlifeMuseum?share | Phone Number: +15206290100
Chill at the Casa Film Bar
Casa Film Bar offers a unique amalgamation between the world of films and food with culinary concoctions available from across the world. Here, you will come across a fantastical collection of some of the finest, most delicious food available in all of Tucson. Be sure to look out for the crowd’s favorite food truck options Curry Pot, Fat Noodle, Culinary Graduate, Black Market BBQ, etc.
Address: 2905 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85716, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/fRGhT2kRifovHtmQ6 | Phone Number: +15203266314
Tucson Children’s Museum
The Tucson Children’s Museum is an interactive museum that offers a plethora of fun, play-based experiences that offer hands-on learning in the heart of Southwest Arizona. Spread across an area spanning 17,000 square feet, Tucson Children’s Museum offers an experience like no other. Here, children will get the opportunity to partake in a variety of fun activities, educational experiences, and exploration of the 11 indoor exhibits here.
Address: 200 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States | Timings: Tuesday – Friday: 9:00am to 4:00pm, Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am to 4:00pm | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/ChildrensMuseumTucson?share | Phone Number: +15207929985
They say that the most breathtaking sights cannot be spoken about, they can only be felt. We believe that holds for Tucson. A jewel based across the desert setting in the heart of Arizona, Tucson offers adventures and escapades that can only be experienced by the heart. So let yourself free and give yourself the chance to experience all that the jewel of Arizona has to offer.
