
Things to Do in Tucson, Arizona
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, world-class dining and resorts, or unbelievably beautiful desert scenery, Tucson has a bit of everything. It's known for its lively arts scene, cultural diversity, and unique Southwestern history. And don't forget the 350 days per year of sunshine! No matter what your travel tastes, there are lots of things to do in Tucson, Arizona.
Tucson Attractions
If you love the great outdoors, Tucson is a desert paradise. There's the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Sabino Canyon, Gates Pass, Catalina State Park, Agua Caliente Park, and Tucson Mountain Park – and that's just to name a few places where you can see unspoiled desert nature at its finest. In town you'll find the hidden treasure of Tohono Chul Park and the Tucson Botanical Gardens. These places offer activities like hiking, camping, picnicking, and horseback riding.
Tucson has lots to offer if you're into culture and history. There are historic landmarks like the Fox Theatre in Tucson's downtown district and old mission churches like Mission San Xavier del Bac. Check out local art at the Tucson Museum of Art and the Temple of Music & Art. Wander the historic Mexican district of Barrio Historico, or learn about the area's contribution to flight at the Pima Air and Space Museum.
Outside of town there are other great Tucson attractions. You can take a tour of Old Tucson Studios, a theme park where westerns are filmed. Not too far you'll find Tombstone, where you can see Old West gunfights. Don't worry – they're staged!
Tucson Restaurants
Downtown you'll find over 50 Tucson restaurants that serve all kinds of dishes from around the world. Tucson calls itself the 'Mexican Food Capital of the United States' and it boasts some of the most popular Mexican places in all of Arizona. In fact, it's the birthplace of the chimichanga. Lindy's on 4th does everything possible with the classic American burger and you can find restaurants that serve the classic Sonoran hot dog, a regional specialty. Tucson restaurants offer everything from food trucks to award-winning fine dining.
Tucson Shopping
Tucson shopping offers a nice mix of big shopping centers and quaint boutiques. With everything from the upscale shops at La Encantada to discount shopping at the Foothills Mall outlet shops, you can find excellent shopping at all price ranges.
The Tucson Calendar of Events
The Tucson calendar of events offers a variety of things to do all year around. At the Mexican Baseball Fiesta four teams from Mexico's Pacific Coast League play in town. Nightfall at Old Tucson is a Halloween festival every weekend in October where the whole town gets invaded by ghouls and monsters. There are film festivals, farmer's markets, live music events, art shows, cultural festivals, sports events, harvest celebrations and more.
Tucson Golf Courses
You'll also find excellent Tucson golf courses like La Paloma golf course. Tucson boasts a number of unique and highly-acclaimed miniature golf courses that the whole family can enjoy.
Tucson is a vibrant community in the Sonoran desert that has a bit of everything – desert scenery, historical attractions, nightlife, award-winning dining, and year round festivals. There are lots of things to do in Tucson!
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