Local Attractions

We encourage you to explore the variety of attractions that Tucson has to offer while you're in town. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or cultural experiences, Tucson has something for you!

Here are some popular things to do in or around Tucson:

• Saguaro National Park:
  Explore the stunning landscapes of Saguaro National Park, known for its giant saguaro cacti. Hiking trails provide opportunities to experience the Sonoran Desert.
• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum:
  Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
• Mission San Xavier del Bac:
  Discover the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial mission known as the "White Dove of the Desert."
• Old Tucson Studios:
  Experience the Old West at Old Tucson Studios, a western movie studio and theme park featuring historical buildings, live performances, and entertainment.
• Tucson Botanical Gardens:
  Enjoy the tranquility of Tucson Botanical Gardens, featuring a wide variety of plants, themed gardens, and seasonal exhibits.
• Pima Air & Space Museum:
  Explore the Pima Air & Space Museum, one of the largest aerospace museums in the world, showcasing historic aircraft and spacecraft.
• University of Arizona Campus:
  Stroll through the University of Arizona campus, visit the Arizona State Museum, and explore the vibrant atmosphere of this educational institution.
• Mt. Lemmon:
  Take a scenic drive to the top of Mt. Lemmon via the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway, offering breathtaking views as you ascend the Catalina Mountains then stop at a local favorite, The Cookie Cabin, as you explore the small town of Summerhaven.
• Tucson Museum of Art:
  Visit the Tucson Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of art from different time periods and cultures.
• Fourth Avenue:
  Explore Fourth Avenue, a lively district with eclectic shops, boutiques, cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
• Sabino Canyon:
  Hike or take a tram tour through Sabino Canyon, known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. Ventana Canyon offers a daily shuttle and a guided hike for its guests.
• Reid Park Zoo:
  Enjoy a day at Reid Park Zoo, home to a variety of animals from around the world.
• Catalina State Park:
  Hike the trails of Catalina State Park, offering scenic views of the Catalina Mountains and opportunities for birdwatching. 
• Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab:
  This 90-minute tour provides a unique opportunity to learn how innovative engineering and optical technology melds with manufacturing techniques to produce the largest and most advanced giant (8.4 meters / 27 ft)  telescope mirrors in the world on the University of Arizona campus.
• Tohono Chul Gardens & Galleries:
  Embrace the authentic beauty of the Sonoran Desert year-round at Tohono Chul, Tucson’s charming crossroads of nature, art, and culture.

Please also visit to Visit Tucson for a comprehensive list of things to do.

Dining

Tucson is also known as a city of gastronomy and thus, has many excellent culinary experiences. Check out Tucson Foodie for suggestions on some of the best places in town.

Public Transportation

The Tucson streetcar offers easy access to and from the University of Arizona campus and downtown Tucson. For more information on the Tucson Streetcar, please see here.