Best Things To Do in Tucson, Arizona

Are you looking for what to do in Tucson?

PLACES TO SEE

Tucson’s multi-cultural appeal lies in its historic buildings, downtown area and its secret, natural hiking pathways which make for inspiring views and fantastic pictures!

Start your stay by exploring the museums in the city which speak of the stories of the past and revel in the culture and art of Arizona. TheArizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, the Pima Air & Space Museum and the International Wildlife Museum are simply Tucson’s history in a nutshell and are well worth a day long visit.

Visit the University of Arizona which is one of the oldest educational structures in western United States or see the stars light up the sky at the Kitt Peak National Observatory. The Davis-Monthan Air Force Boneyard where military aircrafts are stored post World War II is simply one of those place you must not miss!

Take the next three days to explore its gorgeous Madera Canyon, Catalmina State Park, Saguaro National Park and the majestic Sabino Canyon and end your evening with a walk around Old Tucson where you can admire its 19th century buildings and ambience.

The tourist-staples like the Fourth Avenue and the San Xavier Plaza all make for beautiful strolls around the city while its urban entertainmentcenters like the Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Center, The Gaslight Theatre and its many Escape rooms- all are perfect for a fun family experience.

Wrap up your stay with a horseback ride at one of Tucson’s many ranches and experience the love of country-living. However, if you are an adventure junkie, do take a Hot Balloon ride which offers stunning views of the city and the dessert.

Foodies’ love the multi-cuisine palate of Tucson and when in the city gorge on some classic Mexican dishes like Salsa and Enchiladas or try other Italian and American favorites.

Get tipsy on a beer tasting spree by visiting Tucson’s Brewing companies- and you are sure to leave the city a little more happy!

Below we have a list of things to do in Tucson and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Tucson getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Tucson with confidence.

Tourist Attractions in Tucson

Here is the list of things to do in Tucson and tourist attractions in city.

  1. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

    Museum, Wildlife Sanctuary , Aquarium

    The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museumconsists of over 97 acres of land and most of its ‘exhibits’ are located in the outdoors-giving you a rare peak of over 230 animals, reptiles, insects, birdsand amphibians which are native to Arizona. The museum also has an Aquarium with fishes that arenative to this part of the world and asalt-water gallery that showcases marine life in the Gulf of C...Read more
  2. Sabino Canyon

    4.8 (486 Votes)
    Sabino Canyon

    Outdoors, Canyon, Bird Watching

    The Sabino Canyon is a recreation center which consists of some of the most spectacular natural sights and hiking trails in Tucson. A favorite local weekend spot, you will find people hiking, biking, walking, horseback riding or simply immersing themselves in photography, bird watching or simply exploring the wildlife of the canyon. No private vehicles are allowed here but you can opt for a loc...Read more
  3. Pima Air & Space Museum

    4.8 (323 Votes)
    Pima Air & Space Museum

    Museum, Military Museum, Memorial, Specialty Museum

    The Pima Air & Space Museum was opened in the 1970’s and is spread across over 80 acres of land and is home to around 3000 historical aircrafts and planes. The museum is world’s largest non-government funded aviation and space museum. Highlights include: World War II exhibits Wright Flyer 787 Dreamliner Tram Tours and Walking Tours offered daily 390th Memorial Museum If you lo...Read more
  4. San Xavier Del Bac

    4.8 (467 Votes)
    San Xavier Del Bac

    Church, Religious Site, Architecture

    The Mission San Xavier del Bac is the oldest preserved European structure in Arizona. The church was founded in late 17th century but was completely constructed by the late 18th century. The architecture of the church along with its intricate interiors including mural art, statues and its classic clay brick, stone and lime mortar structure, makes it’s a fine example of classic Spanish Col...Read more
  5. Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway

    Outdoors, Off Beaten Path, Hiking Trail, Scenic Drive

    The Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway’s paved road takes you to the upper regions of the Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range and is a picturesque route with roadways carved through rocky terrains and forest that merge with the Desert. The whole Byway takes you to beautiful camping places or even places where you can stop by and have a picnic. The diverse wildlife and nature along with hiking ...Read more
  6. Tohono Chul

    4.7 (327 Votes)
    Tohono Chul

    Museum, Park

    Tohono Chul encompasses the natural habitat of the Sonoran Desert and takes care of a wide variety of flowers, trees, birds and bees. The park has a ‘adopt-a-bee’ program where you can be a part of the park’s many eco-friendly plans. For nature-lovers, the place ispeasant towalkaround and notice the butterflies and hummingbirds. The art galleries present in the gardens are per...Read more
  7. Reid Park Zoo

    4.6 (251 Votes)
    Reid Park Zoo

    Zoo

    The Reid park Zoo is one of the favorite family places in Tucson especially if you love animals or simply want a place where children can learn while they have fun. The zoo is home to Elephants, Grizzly Bears, Snakes, Peacocks, a variety of Birds, Zebras, Giraffes, Lions, Gazelle’s, Foxes and other animals which are well cared for. There are activities arranged at the zoo for visitors. Hi...Read more
  8. Tucson Botanical Gardens

    4.7 (223 Votes)
    Tucson Botanical Gardens

    Botanical Garden

    The Tucson Botanical Gardens offers a beautiful variety of trees and plantsand arranges special events for children and adults alike. From the Aloe Alley which is a shaded pathway, to the Bird Garden where you can see Hummingbirds and Cardinals among other colorful birds, to the Butterfly garden and Greenhouse, the place celebrates the ecology of the gardens. Highlights include: Children&rsquo...Read more
  9. Gates Pass

    4.8 (221 Votes)
    Gates Pass

    Scenic Drive, Nature

    The Gate Pass is the gateway to the Tucson Mountains and consists of a scenic route which overlooks the whole city of Tucson. This gate was started in the late 19th century by Thomas Gates as a shortcut to reach the Tucson Mountains. The pass has been featured in many popular TV series and is one of the ‘must-sees’ if you like small road trips. If you love photography, carry a camer...Read more
  10. The Gaslight Theatre

    4.8 (147 Votes)
    The Gaslight Theatre Image
    ©

    Entertainment, Theatre

    The Gaslight Theatrehas a history of almost 4 decades of entertaining the locals and is popular for its musical drama shows including superhero drama, comedy classics and spoofs which will tickle your funny bone. If you are looking for no-brainer entertainment, grab a ticket here and see some of the most funny shows in Tucson. The place is a common haunt for youngsters but is a must no matter w...Read more
  11. University Of Arizona

    5 (192 Votes)
    University Of Arizona

    Educational Site

    University of Arizona is one of the oldest Universities in the US and was founded in 1885. The iconic college today has one of the top football teams in Arizona and opens its door for its visitors to experience the Visitorcenter, History tour and the favorite Public Art tour. The university has framed the youth of not just Tucson but also Arizona and a tour of its campus will surely give you a ...Read more
  12. Madera Canyon

    5 (164 Votes)
    Madera Canyon

    Outdoors, Trail, View Point, Hiking Trail

    The Madera Canyon offers a number of natural trails for hiking and is home to over 200 species of birds- making it a favorite place for bird-watching. The canyon itself is loved for its variety of terrain – from desert grassland to its dense mountain forests. The place is apt for a small trek and a picnic here with family and friends is ideal especially during the summer season. If you ar...Read more
  13. DeGrazia Gallery In The Sun Historic District

    Art Gallery, Museum, Specialty Museum

    Designed and built by Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia- a renowned artist from Arizona, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun showcases popular work of the artist himself. The open air museum with its rustic stone building is home to over 15,000 DeGrazia original art works including oil paintings, water paintings, sketches, lithographs, sculptures, ceramics and jewelry. Highlights include; The gift...Read more
  14. Houston's Horseback Riding

    4.7 (243 Votes)
    Houston's Horseback Riding

    Outdoors, Adventure

    The Houston's Horseback Riding arranges horse-back tours through the trails of the Sonoran desert and the Saguaro National Park. The place also arranges horse-riding classes for children and is loved for its rustic yet interactive tours and lessons. If you love horses or are simply looking for an un-tourist way to explore the natural trails in Tucson, a visit here is simply a start to a fabulou...Read more
  15. Tucson Mountain Park

    4.7 (133 Votes)
    Tucson Mountain Park

    Outdoors, Trail

    Most of the Tucson Mountain Park is a part of Saguaro National Park and has been the shooting location for a number of old-west, cow-boy movies. The whole terrain is loved for its hiking trails and intimate spots where you can truly feel one with nature. Highlights include: Tumamoc Hill known for its sunset and sunrise views. Yetman Trail that covers the Sonoran Desert terrain. King Canyon Tra...Read more

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  • what is there to do in Tucson Feb 28 - March 4

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    • Besides the things to do listed above on this page, if you wish to attend events in Tucson then your options are Asian Lantern Festival on 28th Feb at Reid Park Zoo, Tucson Peace Fair & Music Festival on 29th Feb at Armory Park, and Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival from March 1-4 at Leo Rich Theater. You will have to search online to know more about these events individually.    

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  • what is there to do in Tucson on week of may 18 thru may 25

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    • Here are the top places that you can visit in Tucson - 

      • Reid Park Zoo. They host summer safaris on weekends. You can check that. 
      • Pima Air & Space Museum
      • Trail Dust Town. 
      • Tucson Botanical Gardens
      • You can visit Rillito Park Farmers Market on Sundays. 
      • If you have a whole day to spare, you can attend the Willcox Wine Country Spring Festival on 19th May. 

       

      The other tourist attractions and things to do listed on the same page above are also great to explore.

       

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