Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Tucson, Arizona

Tucson is situated in Pima County within the state of Arizona. As the second largest city in Arizona, following Phoenix, it boasts a population exceeding 500,000. This city is also the proud home of the University of Arizona and embodies the essence of the Sonoran Desert.

The location lies north of the US-Mexico border and is profoundly shaped by its surrounding desert environment. Visitors to Tucson will encounter stunning architecture, verdant gardens, and a diverse array of desert flora and fauna. Additionally, the city proudly offers a plethora of delicious Mexican-inspired culinary dishes and beverages.

Tucson serves as a land of opportunities for exploration, and as an Arizona resident and enthusiastic traveler of my home state, I am inclined to present the most remarkable attractions that Tucson has to offer.

1. Head for the desert at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum has long been a subject of admiration, and my initial visit did not disappoint.

Spanning an impressive 98 acres, this museum includes an aquarium, zoo, botanical garden, natural history museum, and art gallery, located just west of Tucson.

This institution is dedicated to enhancing visitor knowledge of the diverse flora and fauna native to the Sonoran Desert, home to over 200 species of desert wildlife and more than 1,000 varieties of plants.

As one of Arizona’s most frequented attractions, the museum welcomes over 400,000 visitors annually. Its exhibitions provide both historical and contemporary insights into wildlife and plant ecosystems, with displays such as ‘Rivers to the Sea,’ ‘Cat Canyon,’ and ‘Life on the Rocks.’

For dining needs, the museum features several eating options, allowing guests to refresh themselves after touring the complex. The gift shops on site also present wonderful opportunities to take home a piece of the desert.

2. Hike the Sabino Canyon

Located just north of Tucson, the Sabino Canyon is nestled within the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest. The canyon features stunning trails, breathtaking scenery, and numerous hiking opportunities.

Despite being set in a desert, Sabino Creek is nearby, showcasing picturesque waterfalls that can be traversed via bridge. Visitors preferring not to hike have the option of utilizing a tram service that stops at nine various locations throughout the canyon.

For those less inclined to trek, consider bringing a camera to capture some scenic views ideal for sharing on social media. Alternatively, enjoy the bookstore on-site, which offers a selection of gifts and souvenirs commemorating your visit.

3. Explore the trails of Saguaro National Park

As part of the United States National Park System, Saguaro National Park is divided into two distinct sections east and west of Tucson. It encompasses portions of the Rincon Mountains, Tucson Mountains, and the Sonoran Desert.

The park derives its name from the indigenous saguaro cactus, which is prolific in the area, enabling close encounters with this iconic plant family during the many available hikes.

Upon my visit, I was struck by the towering saguaro cacti, recognized universally as symbols of the American West. Their immense and gnarly presence instilled a sense of humility, reminding me of my connection to nature.

Marked hiking trails cater to all levels of fitness and endurance; however, park authorities caution against long hikes in remote areas during the summer months due to elevated temperatures.

4. Become a botanist at Tucson Botanical Garden

As an avid traveler, I am perpetually drawn to natural surroundings, which is why I made it a point to immerse myself in the serene atmosphere offered by the Tucson Botanical Gardens.

This sprawling 5-acre complex features 16 individual gardens, each meticulously curated to provide refuge for visitors seeking respite from their busy lives.

Themed gardens highlight the best of Arizona’s flora, including a children’s garden, a Zen garden, and a butterfly garden. Additionally, a gallery within the complex showcases rotating exhibitions and installations focused on botanical themes native to the Arizona region, featuring an array of desert plants.

The Tucson Botanical Garden offers an enriching experience for families, as it integrates fun and educational activities. Visitors may bring their refreshments or delight in the offerings at Edna’s Cafeteria as well.

5. Walk on the wild side at Reid Park Zoo

Founded in the 1960s, Reid Park Zoo spans over 20 acres, housing more than 500 animal species. The zoo is organized into four distinct zones, showcasing a diverse range of wildlife, from bears to elephants and giant tortoises.

Veterinarians are on-site to ensure optimal care for the animals, and Reid Park Zoo remains a beloved institution within the local community, supported by fundraising efforts to further enhance animal welfare.

6. Explore Tohono Chul Park

Tohono Chul, translating to Desert Corner, derives its name from the Tohono O’odham indigenous community of Arizona. The park encompasses a museum dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and educating visitors about the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

With the Santa Catalina Mountains as a stunning backdrop, guests can appreciate the botanical gardens, a riparian habitat, geological displays, and discovery trails.

Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, Tohono Chul invites exploration of greenhouses, galleries, and its garden bistro. Don’t forget to visit the museum shops for unique souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

7. Learn all about aerospace at the Pima Air & Space Museum

Recognized as one of the largest air and space museums globally, the Pima Air & Space Museum boasts an impressive collection of over 300 aircraft and spacecraft across more than 80 acres of land.

This museum operates without government funding and has evolved from modest beginnings in the 1970s, when it started with only 48 aircraft, into the prominent facility it is now.

For those intrigued by the history of the United States Air Force, this museum presents a comprehensive historical tour, including a replica of a control tower on its premises.

8. Get spiritual at San Xavier del Bac

Located in downtown Tucson, San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Catholic Mission situated on the Tohono O’odham San Xavier Indian Reservation. Named after Francis Xavier, a Christian missionary acknowledged as a co-founder of the Jesuit Order, this mission was established in the 18th century.

Esteemed for its magnificent Spanish colonial architecture, it is open to the public daily and attracts over 200,000 visitors each year, many considering the mission a pilgrimage. Managed by Franciscan members of the Christian community, it offers visitors a tranquil atmosphere within one of Arizona’s oldest European structures.

9. Raise your sights at Sentinel Peak

Situated southwest of Tucson, Sentinel Peak is located within the Tucson Mountains. Despite common misconceptions that it is a dormant volcano, its geological history is volcanic, dating back approximately 20 million years.

For those seeking adventure, the peak offers excellent hiking and trekking opportunities, providing stunning views overlooking Tucson Valley and the city itself.

10. Step onto a movie set at Old Tucson Studios

For enthusiasts of classic Western films, a visit to Old Tucson Studios is a must. Constructed adjacent to the Tucson Mountains, these studios served as sets for iconic films such as Little House on the Prairie, Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, and Arizona.

Old Tucson has since been transformed into a theme park, allowing visitors to embark on guided tours rich with historical context, supplemented by live-action performances featuring gunfights and stunt displays.

During my visit, I was transported back to the golden age of Arizona. I had the opportunity to connect with fellow travel aficionados and capture memorable photos together, all while enjoying meals from the nearby restaurants, as outside food is not permitted.

11. Enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation at the Cathedral of Saint Augustine

Located on Stone Avenue, the Cathedral of Saint Augustine serves as a Roman Catholic church affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson. The church features distinctive sloped floors, providing all congregants (with a capacity exceeding 1,000) a clear line of sight to the altar and a crucifix crafted in Pamplona, Spain.

Noteworthy elements include stonework displaying the coat of arms of Pope Pius XI, in addition to intricately carved depictions of indigenous plants native to the Arizona Desert.

12. Star gaze at Kitt Peak National Observatory

For those passionate about astronomy, Kitt Peak National Observatory offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the night sky.

Perched atop Kitt Peak in the Quinlan Mountains, this observatory houses the largest and most diverse collection of astronomical instruments in the world, including 24 telescopes.

Depending on your interest in celestial phenomena, visitors may choose between daytime or nighttime tours. The daytime tour recounts the history of the observatory and the evolution of telescopes, while the evening tour begins at sunset, giving participants a chance to gaze at the stars through telescopes situated over the Arizona Desert.

13. Work up a sweat hiking Tumamoc Hill

Known as a ‘butte,’ Tumamoc Hill is located to the west of Tucson and is primarily utilized as a transmission station due to its elevated position. It accommodates radio, television, and public safety transmitters in addition to an astronomical observatory equipped with telescopes for monitoring the cosmos.

This hill attracts numerous visitors keen on hiking, although the terrain can be challenging and is recommended primarily for experienced hikers. For those who make the ascent, educational tours and lectures on the local ecological significance and history of the butte are available.

14. Go off-road at Mount Lemmon

At an elevation exceeding 9,000 feet, Mount Lemmon is the summit of the Santa Catalina Mountains, featuring an observatory utilized for research. A highway crosses the mount, offering visitors scenic panoramic views during their drive.

For those seeking a more rugged expedition, consider venturing onto the ‘Back Side’ of the mount, situated on the northern side, where off-road vehicles and motorcycles can be enjoyed.

15. Enjoy a moment of tranquility at Kennedy Lake

Located within J.F. Kennedy Park in Tucson, Kennedy Lake spans 10 acres and is well-known for its diverse fish populations, including rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and carp.

Visitors can stroll around the lake, taking in the beautiful scenery. Additionally, opportunities for boating and fishing are available for those interested in catching some of the lake’s famous residents.

16. Splash some cash at Foothills Mall

Foothills Mall is an expansive indoor shopping destination located in Casa Adobes in northwestern Tucson. With over 90 retail outlets, visitors may indulge in shopping, while those uninterested in retail can enjoy a 15-screen cinema complex or dine at one of the eight on-site restaurants. Spanning an impressive retail area of over 700,000 square feet, this mall indeed accommodates a variety of preferences.

17. Go spelunking at Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Discovered in the 19th century, Colossal Cave Mountain Park comprises a comprehensive cave complex featuring over 5 kilometers of passageways within its depths.

Adventurous visitors can traverse cave trails boasting a consistent temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) year-round, discovering the remnants of dwellings once occupied by Apache Indians. For those preferring to remain above ground, Colossal Cave Mountain Park also presents numerous choices, including two museums, notable sculptures, picnic sites, horseback riding, and camping areas.

18. Explore DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum

The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum can be characterized as an outdoor museum boasting an array of exhibits and historic constructions spread across the desert, founded by architect Ettore DeGrazia.

The structures are widely admired for their architecture, which employs traditional building methods and materials, such as cactus flooring. Visitors can roam the grounds while exploring various buildings, including a ceramics studio, a ghost house, a nun’s residence, and more.

During my visit, I perceived the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum as an expansive masterpiece of installation art nestled within the desert landscape. The gallery provides inspiration and visual delight.

19. Get away from it all at the Garden of Gethsemane

This park, located on the west bank of the Santa Cruz River, remains open throughout the day, providing a leafy oasis for those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life under the shade of its trees.

The Garden of Gethsemane features various sculptures depicting biblical scenes, creating an atmosphere conducive to quiet contemplation and peace. Furthermore, it is renowned for housing the largest eucalyptus tree in Tucson.

20. Find your fortune gold panning

For those aspiring to return home with a bit of extra cash, why not consider an experience in gold panning? I recommend connecting with the Desert Gold Diggers club to explore areas reputed for gold deposits in the Arizona Desert. You can either pan for gold directly from a water source or utilize tools such as rakes and picks to sift through the earth in search of a prized nugget.

21. Get wild in the town of Tombstone

Located just outside Tucson, the town of Tombstone was once a flourishing hub due to its rich silver deposits. Although its fortunes have waned, a visit offers a glimpse into a genuine ‘wild west’ location that was once part of a feared Apache territory, attracting gunslingers and prospectors alike. This nostalgic town preserves elements of its historical charm for those interested in the past.

22. Sample some Mexican food

No visit to Tucson would be complete without savoring its array of authentic Mexican cuisine. Locals frequently assert that Tucson boasts some of the finest Mexican food north of the border.

The city’s culinary offerings span 23 miles, with many beloved establishments having been passed down through generations, focusing on traditional home-style cooking. Options abound, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and numerous lesser-known specialties, catering to every level of spice preference.

23. Quench your thirst at one of Tucson’s breweries

Tucson has gained notoriety as a locale for the freshest locally brewed beers. Regardless of your level of expertise in beer tasting, the quality of locally crafted brews is sure to satisfy your thirst after a long day in the desert heat.

Recently, a variety of traditional and modern microbreweries have emerged, providing insights into the brewing process. Most rewarding, however, is the opportunity to sample the delicious end products.

24. Take a trip to Fort Lowell Museum

Established in 1873, Fort Lowell served as a United States Army post until its deactivation in 1891. Over time, much of the original structure fell into disrepair before being restored into the Fort Lowell Museum, which visitors can explore today.

Operated by the Arizona Historical Society, this museum highlights military life during the fort’s operational years. It is also part of a larger complex that includes Fort Lowell Park, which features a pond, swimming pool, game fields, and sports facilities.

25. Explore your creative side at the University of Arizona Art Museum

Art enthusiasts need look no further than the University of Arizona Art Museum to satiate their artistic cravings in Tucson. Managed by the University of Arizona, this venue includes a permanent collection boasting over 6,000 exhibits spanning all areas of the art spectrum, including sculptures, textiles, prints, and drawings. The artwork on display is wide-ranging, with particular emphasis on both European and American art.