TUCSON

Tucson is located in a desert valley surrounded by mountain ranges on Interstate 10, just 115 miles south of Phoenix and 63 miles north of the Mexican border.  Tucson is a modern city and the second largest in Arizona, but still holds its Southwest charm.  It is Arizona’s oldest city, “Tucson” standing for “Old Pueblo”.  Tucson has great things to offer such as culture, climate, recreation, and lots of scenery.

Twelve thousand years ago, Tucson was settled by a tribe of indians called Paleo.  These indians were involved in agriculture, horticulture, and hunting.  A later tribe to inhabit the valley area from 600 through 1450 B.C. were also excellent potters.  Many of their artifacts have been found in Tucson along the riverbeds.  These indians came later and are known as the Hohokam Tribe.

In 1692, a Catholic Jesuit priest, Reverend Eusebio Kino was passing through the Tucson area on his way to California and founded the Mission San Xavier del Bac, one of the oldest missions in the country.  Later, when the Jesuits refused to honor the wishes of the Mexican government, they were required to vacate the mission.  After the Gadsen Purchase of 1853, a different Catholic order, the Franciscan order of priests restored the mission.

The Tucson area is one of the oldest inhabited areas in North America.  It is the second largest city in Arizona and in 2007 at the last census the area around Tucson accounted for over a million residents.  Today, it is one of the fastest growing areas in the country.  

Tucson is known for its mild winters.  The winter low is 41 degrees and the summer high is 99 degrees and therefore, is a hub for many great day trips in Southern Arizona.  The city is made up of an area of 195 square miles and is in a valley which is surrounded by five mountain ranges.  The highest point in the area is in the Santa Rita Mountains at approximately 9,450 feet.  Located on Interstate 10, Tucson is very accessible with many opportunities for day or weekend adventures within the city’s area.  The streets within the Tucson area are set in a grid which makes for easy navigation.  This is also the site for the University of Arizona which was founded in 1885.  Currently, the downtown area in Tucson is being renovated.  

Tucson offers one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors interested in outdoor adventure and nature, heritage and culture, arts and attractions, golf, and original Southwest-inspired dining.  With lodging at hotels, resorts, spas, guest ranches, and bed and breakfasts available to please all ages and preferences.  Tucson is truly the “Real Natural Arizona.”