The Sonoran Desert, known for its dramatic beauty, envelopes the city of Tucson in Arizona with magnificent cacti – notably the gigantic saguaro, a powerful symbol of the American Southwest. But don’t let the word “desert” mislead you; mountain ranges in every direction offer scenic places to visit in Tucson, where you can bike, drive, and even ski, surrounded by amazing views. Read on to discover the best things to do in Tucson!
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Exciting Outdoor Activities in Tucson
1. Catalina State Park
This park covers all the best things to do in Tucson with hiking, bird watching, and biking. It’s home to more than 150 different species of birds. Plus, park facilities provide ample spaces for camping and picnicking.
2. Kartchner Caverns State Park
At this park, guided tours run for approximately an hour and a half and take visitors past some of the world’s most spectacular and colorful cave formations. Hiking paths, a Discovery Center, and 62 campsites are among the other amenities on offer here.
3. Sabino Canyon
Sabino Canyon is a popular, picturesque leisure location and one of the best places to visit in Tucson. Because it does not involve a trip into the mountains, it’s a favored, year-round strolling and picnicking destination.
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Don’t Miss Out On The Sports Scene in Tucson
1. El Tour De Tucson
El Tour de Tucson, which takes place every fall in Tucson, is one of the city’s most important annual events. The bike ride is a charity event that attracts around 9,000 bikers of all ages and abilities from across the country.
2. Mountain Park
This 20,000-acre park contains miles and miles of hiking paths. Taking a walk along one of them is among the best things to do in Tucson if you’re looking to experience breathtaking desert panoramas. And if that appeals to you, a trek up to Gates Pass will reward you with a lovely stone gazebo from which to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
3. Mt. Lemmon Ski Resort
Mt. Lemmon is a great way to shake off the summer heat and it’s among the recommended places to visit in Tucson for skiing and a sky ride. Ski runs are generally accessible from mid-December to April.
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Must Visit Museums in Tucson
1. Pima Air and Space Museum
Aviation buffs, this one’s for you! This is a great, family-friendly attraction that has been named one of the best places to visit in Tucson. The museum also gives kids a close-up look at some of the most historic aircraft in the country.
2. International Wildlife Museum
The International Wildlife Museum presents an impressive collection of stuffed and preserved animals that will fascinate visitors of all ages.
3. Center for Creative Photography
Art enthusiasts will want to tour the museum and archives at the Center for Creative Photography. It houses the work of photography legends, making it one of the best places to visit in Tucson.
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Cultural Places To Visit in Tucson
1. Santa Cruz River Park
Santa Cruz River Park covers all the best things to do in Tucson, including a very popular disc golf course (the oldest in town, incidentally). The Santa Cruz Farmers’ Market sets up shop here on Thursdays, selling the freshest local fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
2. Saguaro National Park
One of the best things to do in Tucson is to go to Saguaro National Park. It’s the only place in the world where the saguaro cactus, a symbol of Arizona that grows only in the Sonoran Desert, is protected.
3. Colossal Cave Mountain Park
There’s no end when it comes to the best things to do in Tucson! This dry cave, located east of Tucson in the Rincon Mountains, offers tours that highlight the cave’s long and fascinating history. Try a horseback trail ride or pay a visit to the museum to learn more about the local animals.
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Explore Popular Bars, Shopping Centers & Restaurants in Tucson
1. Commoner & Co.
You’ll remember (and want to return to) this popular brunch spot for a long time after you’ve left Tuscon! House specialties include the C&C Burger, made with brown sugar and pepper-cured pork belly. Moreover, it contains horseradish pickles, and a house dijon, all inside a home-baked Texas toast bun.
2. The Shelter Cocktail Lounge
This bar is one of the best places to visit in Tucson, especially for cocktail lovers. The Shelter is a quaint dive pub with classic décor including sparkling vinyl seats, vintage adverts, and JFK memorabilia that dates back to the time of the Cold War. Also, every day from 3pm to 8pm, the concrete, neon-lit pub offers a happy ‘hour’.
3. Lost Barrio
The Lost Barrio, as its name implies, is a small, colorful shopping district tucked away in a nondescript warehouse district south of the University of Arizona. This small but vibrant shopping district features 13 locally owned stores. These carry fine custom and imported furniture, accessories, jewelry, rugs, vintage clothing, and much, much more.
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