Tucson is a city located in southern Arizona, known for its rich history and unique blend of cultures. It is home to the University of Arizona, a top-tier research institution with a vibrant campus life. Tucson boasts a warm, arid climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Santa Catalina Mountains and Saguaro National Park. Tucson is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals celebrating the city’s diverse heritage. Finally, Tucson is famous for its delicious Sonoran-style cuisine, which blends traditional Mexican flavors with local ingredients and influences.
15. Tucson Food Tours
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Tucson Food Tours is a fun and tasty way to explore the city’s culinary scene. The company offers guided walking tours of Tucson’s historic downtown and university neighborhoods, where visitors can sample local dishes and learn about the city’s food culture. The tours also include visits to local markets and food artisans.
14. The University of Arizona Museum of Art
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The University of Arizona Museum of Art is a museum that features a collection of artwork from around the world. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from ancient times to the present day. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
13. Tucson Museum of Art
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Tucson Museum of Art is a museum that features a collection of artwork from the American West and Latin America. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and photographs, as well as artifacts from the region’s Native American cultures. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
12. Colossal Cave Mountain Park
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Colossal Cave Mountain Park is a park that is home to a cave that was discovered in 1879. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave and learn about its history and geology. The park also features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a butterfly garden.
11. Tohono Chul Park
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Tohono Chul Park is a 49-acre park that features gardens, art exhibits, and nature trails. The park is home to several species of plants and animals that are native to the Sonoran Desert. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, such as art shows and concerts.
10. Biosphere 2
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Biosphere 2 is a unique research facility that was built in the 1980s. The facility was designed to be a self-contained ecosystem, with its own atmosphere, water, and plant and animal life. Visitors can take guided tours of the facility and learn about the research that takes place there.
9. Sabino Canyon
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Sabino Canyon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The canyon features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a tram that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the canyon. The canyon is also home to several species of wildlife, such as the desert bighorn sheep and the black bear.
8. Reid Park Zoo
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Reid Park Zoo is a 24-acre zoo that is home to over 500 animals from 100 different species. The zoo features exhibits such as the African savanna, the South American rainforest, and the Asian elephant habitat. Visitors can also take guided tours and attend animal presentations.
7. Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
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Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a scenic drive that takes visitors through the Santa Catalina Mountains. The drive features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing.
6. Old Tucson Studios
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5. Tucson Botanical Gardens
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The Tucson Botanical Gardens is a 5.5-acre garden that features a variety of plants that are native to the Sonoran Desert. The garden also has several themed gardens, such as a butterfly garden and a cactus and succulent garden. The garden also hosts several events throughout the year, such as concerts and plant sales.
4. Mission San Xavier del Bac
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Mission San Xavier del Bac is a historic Catholic mission that was founded in 1692. The mission is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork. Visitors can take guided tours of the mission, attend mass, or explore on their own.
3. Pima Air & Space Museum
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The Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the largest air and space museums in the world. The museum has over 300 aircraft on display, including vintage planes, military aircraft, and space vehicles. Visitors can take guided tours of the museum or explore on their own.
2. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
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The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum all in one. The museum is home to over 230 animal species and 1,200 plant species that are native to the Sonoran Desert. The museum also features indoor and outdoor exhibits, as well as daily animal presentations.
1. Tucson Food Tours
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Saguaro National Park is a national park that encompasses 91,000 acres of the Sonoran Desert in Tucson, Arizona. The park is known for its iconic saguaro cactus that can grow up to 60 feet tall and can live up to 200 years. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing
Summary
As you can see, Tucson has a lot to offer everyone. If you are looking to do more in the surrounding area, check out other weekend trips from nearby Tucson, Arizona.
These areas are perfect for a quick day trip or a long weekend getaway. Explore our favorite things to do or peruse some pre-built itineraries.
