Top 15 Attractions and Activities in South Tucson, AZ

Considered a suburb of the larger City of Tucson, South Tucson operates as a distinct municipality with a population slightly exceeding 5,000 inhabitants.

Both South Tucson and Tucson are situated in the southern part of Pima County, with South Tucson often described as “The Pueblo Within a City.” It is not surprising that the city is rich in Mexican influences, evident in its cuisine, architecture, attire, and cultural practices.

The nearby University of Arizona, along with numerous national and state parks and remarkable historic sites, renders it an appealing destination, particularly for history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking respite from harsh winters in their home states.

Below are 15 activities to engage in while visiting South Tucson.

1. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Spanning nearly 100 acres and featuring over 200 species of animals, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, located on North Kinney Road in Tucson, is the premier location to immerse oneself in the natural habitat, flora, and fauna native to the expansive Sonoran Desert.

The museum boasts over 1,000 species of indigenous plants, as well as animals including coyotes and a mountain lion for those inclined towards wildlife.

Most of the museum consists of outdoor trails that require some walking; hence, there are several dining options on-site to take a break and rejuvenate.

Operating hours are seasonal, and admission fees are quite affordable.

2. 191 Toole

As college towns, both Tucson and South Tucson are home to an abundance of trendy and eclectic live music venues, with 191 Toole being among the most renowned, named after its street number.

According to their website, they are considered the second-best live music venue in the nation, though the identity of the top venue is not disclosed.

Featuring a diverse lineup of performers from various locales, their schedule frequently updates, so it is prudent to consult their events calendar to determine who will be performing during your visit.

The box office opens one hour prior to performance times, and due to limited parking, it is advisable to arrive early if possible.

3. Children’s Museum Tucson

Situated on South 6th Ave in Tucson, the Children’s Museum offers an excellent opportunity to escape the intense sun, enjoy a delightful experience, and learn simultaneously.

Admission is reasonably priced, and the museum showcases a wide array of science-related exhibits and activities that will captivate and entertain young visitors.

Housed within the historic Carnegie Library, guided tours are also available.

This non-profit establishment is open daily, except on Mondays. Children under one year of age can enter without charge, making it a great venue for family fun.

4. Hotel Congress

Located on Congress Street in Tucson, Hotel Congress has been the venue for the annual Dillinger Days weekend and Dillinger Speakeasy for nearly 90 years.

This iconic event, which cannot be found elsewhere, includes delicious food, whiskey tastings, live music, and a plethora of period-appropriate costumes and activities that transport participants back to Tucson’s Old West era.

Proceeds from this event support local fire departments that frequently encounter budgetary constraints.

The event tends to sell out quickly and occurs during the third week of January, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly and secure tickets early.

5. Santa Cruz River Walk Path

Similar to its larger counterpart to the north, Tucson presents a wide variety of paths and trails that wind through the city and accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians.

The Santa Cruz path notably aligns with the Santa Cruz River, and recent improvements have completed its connection between the north and south sections.

The Santa Cruz segment is located in the western part of Tucson and is part of a loop encompassing nearly 60 miles surrounding the city.

Numerous clearly marked entry points are available, and access to the trail is complimentary.

6. Sea of Glass Center for the Arts

Situated within a historic building dating back to the 1930s, the Sea of Glass Center for the Arts is considered a hidden gem that will undoubtedly please visitors.

The venue, located on 4th Avenue, maintains the large, vaulted ceilings characteristic of the era.

With a diverse schedule ranging from art exhibitions to dance performances and contemporary to classical music, the venue possesses something for everyone, complemented by a state-of-the-art lighting and sound system that enhances every aspect of the performances.

Numerous bars and restaurants in the vicinity provide excellent options for refreshments before or after the show.

7. Reid Park Zoo

Managed by the City of Tucson, Reid Park Zoo showcases a variety of captivating animals from exotic regions, alongside a team of professional caretakers ready to share knowledge with visitors.

The general admission fee is quite economical, and visitors can easily spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the myriad exhibits.

To ensure comfort, numerous shaded seating areas are available, providing suitable spots to relax with a refreshing drink while observing the animals’ antics.

The zoo occasionally hosts special events, which may provide unique experiences for attendees.

8. Saguaro National Park

The saguaro cactus serves as one of the most iconic symbols of the American Southwest.

Growing up to 40 feet in height, saguaros can live for hundreds of years and weigh significant amounts.

Saguaro National Park, encompassing nearly 100,000 acres, is one of the premier locations to observe these magnificent desert dwellers.

A visitor center is available at the park, which is advisable to visit before exploring the desert, as the various trails may be daunting without proper orientation.

It is essential to remain hydrated and consider your footwear to ensure comfort during your hike.

9. Franklin Auto Museum

For those with a passion for classic automobiles or simply an appreciation for history, the Franklin Auto Museum is a destination not to be missed during your time in South Tucson.

Located just a few miles from Tucson, the museum highlights vehicles produced by the Franklin Automobile Company, a lesser-known manufacturer that operated for three decades during the early 20th century.

The exhibits include authentic vehicles, photographs, and original product and sales literature, providing fascinating insights into the past.

The museum is closed during the summer months, so verifying their schedule prior to your visit is recommended.

10. Mission San Xavier Del Bac

Revered as the White Dove of the Desert, the Mission San Xavier Del Bac stands as a remarkably evocative Roman Catholic Church amidst the Sonoran Desert, near Tucson International Airport.

With architectural elements reflecting Spanish, Mexican, and Renaissance styles, it provides a striking contrast against the surrounding arid landscape and azure skies.

Mass services are conducted weekly for those interested in participation, or visitors may choose to explore the museum and gift shop, which are generally open most days.

Admission to the mission is complimentary, but donations are appreciated and contribute to the preservation of this remarkable establishment.

11. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

If you, like many others, were unaware that Tucson is home to one of the leading museums dedicated to miniatures worldwide, it may come as a surprise.

Established by a couple with a shared passion for miniatures in the 1930s, their first collectible was a miniature furniture set designed for dollhouses.

However, the museum itself did not open until later decades, when they began collecting specific pieces for the vision they had of establishing a museum.

The museum aims to provide engaging and interactive experiences for visitors, with much of its collection being one-of-a-kind due to its distinctive focus.

12. Tucson Botanical Gardens

Although the Sonoran Desert is an extensive and arid expanse extending from Arizona into Mexico, it hosts an astonishing diversity of plants, trees, and cacti that many visitors find beautiful.

The paths meandering through the Tucson Botanical Gardens are filled with flora that also attract a variety of desert wildlife, including hummingbirds and desert tortoises.

The gardens feature an area specifically designed for children’s exploration and a miniature city replica equipped with electric trains.

Please note that the museum closes during parts of the year, so it is advisable to check in advance to ensure availability during your visit.

13. El Conquistador Water Tower

Tucson’s El Conquistador Water Tower resembles structures that one might find in medieval Spain or a Moorish desert setting.

This distinctive Tucson landmark, positioned near Broadway and Randolph Streets, was originally part of a luxury hotel bearing the same name that was among Tucson’s finest establishments in the 1930s.

Designed by a local architect, the construction of the hotel and its accompanying water tower concluded in the late 1920s.

Aside from its striking architectural design, the water tower is renowned for the metal weather vane atop it, featuring a depiction of an old prospector riding a mule.

Although the hotel has since been demolished, the water tower remains open for public visitation.

14. Arizona State Museum

Situated on the picturesque campus of the University of Arizona, the Arizona State Museum boasts an exceptional collection of exhibits and artifacts that collectively narrate the rich history of the region, much of which dates back to its territorial days before statehood.

Admission fees are remarkably low, and the museum serves as an ideal location to spend a couple of hours away from the outdoor heat while enjoying the bliss of air conditioning.

Many exhibits focus on the various Native American tribes indigenous to the area, displaying unique items such as baskets, blankets, and pottery, all specific to the tribes that created them.

15. Hike the Tumamoc Hill Trail

Covering just under 3 miles, the Tumamoc Hill Trail is easily reachable from downtown Tucson and presents a moderately challenging hike.

The majority of the trail is paved, making it suitable for young children; however, due to the extreme summer conditions in Tucson, visits are best scheduled from October to March or May.

Being located on university property, the trail remains open at night and offers a splendid opportunity to witness sunsets from elevated viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the city below.

The trails are free to access, with ample parking available at public garages close to the university.