Tucson

Tucson, Arizona's second largest city, sits in a valley surrounded by five mountain ranges and the tall saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert. With over 350 days of sunshine per year, Tucson draws visitors to hike in Saguaro National Park and observe wildlife at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The city's culinary scene, influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican traditions, led to Tucson's recognition as the United States' first UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Exploring Tucson's Natural Surroundings

The Sonoran Desert landscape defines Tucson, with the city nestled among saguaro-covered hills and rugged mountain ranges. Saguaro National Park flanks Tucson on the east and west, protecting large areas where the tall, multi-armed cacti grow. You can drive the scenic loop roads through the park or hike trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes. At the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, you'll encounter native wildlife like javelinas, mountain lions, and coyotes in naturalistic habitats, while learning about desert ecology.

Tucson's Culinary Scene

Tucson's status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy highlights its 4,000-year culinary heritage and the continued use of native ingredients in modern cuisine. You'll find creative uses of cactus, mesquite, and chiltepins (wild chili peppers) on menus throughout the city. Try Sonoran hot dogs, a local specialty featuring a bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, and various sauces. For upscale Southwestern cuisine, head to Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails, where James Beard Award-winning chef Janos Wilder crafts innovative dishes. The 23 miles of Mexican restaurants along 12th Avenue, known as "The Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food," showcase Tucson's proximity to Mexico and long-standing Hispanic influences.

University of Arizona and Downtown

The University of Arizona occupies a 380-acre campus near downtown Tucson, bringing a youthful energy and cultural events to the city. You can stroll through the campus to admire its mix of historic and modern architecture, or catch a Wildcats game at Arizona Stadium. The university contributes to Tucson's arts scene, with venues like the Centennial Hall hosting performances throughout the year. Downtown Tucson has undergone revitalization in recent years, with the introduction of a modern streetcar line connecting the university area to the historic districts. Fourth Avenue, just north of downtown, is lined with vintage clothing stores, independent bookshops, and local restaurants popular with students and residents alike.

Tucson's Past and Present

While Tucson's recorded history dates back to the late 18th century, the area has been inhabited for thousands of years. You can explore this long history at sites like the Mission San Xavier del Bac, an ornate Spanish colonial church nicknamed the "White Dove of the Desert." The Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum recreates the original Spanish colonial fort that marked Tucson's founding. For a look into more recent history, visit the Pima Air & Space Museum, home to over 350 aircraft and spacecraft. Each February, Tucson hosts the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, the largest event of its kind in the world, drawing over 65,000 visitors.