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 A glimpse of the Sonoran Desert |
2021 North Kinney Road Tucson, AZ 85743 United States +1 520 883 1380 info@desertmuseum.org |
This world-famous museum is rather a zoo displaying the creatures of the surrounding desert in their natural habitats. Located in the middle of the Sonoran desert about a half an hour drive from the city center, it also provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The gift shop has an excellent selection of Sonoran desert souvenirs. This is a must for any visitor staying in Tucson for more than just one day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Schwab |
 Photo: Peter M. Jozwiak |
 Photo: Brian Dunnette  |
 Photo: Rory Dickinson |
 Photo: William L. Gotshall-Maxon |
 Photo: Raymond W. Cuprill |
 Photo: Rebecca Leutert |
 Photo: Travel with Bill and Kathy |
 Photo: Beverly E. Barton |
 Photo: Elwood Rose |
 Photo: Elwood Rose |
 Photo: Travel with Bill and Kathy |
 Photo: Rebecca Leutert |
 Photo: Jennifer Lorca Root |
 The history of open-pit copper mining |
1421 West Pima Mine Road Tucson, AZ 85629 United States +1 520 625 7513 http://www.mineraldiscovery.com/ amdcinfo@asarco.com |
Whether you're opposed to open-pit copper mine and its environmental consequences or not, visiting this facility will leave you more knowledgeable about what was once one of the main industries in the state of Arizona. The earth science exhibits and displays of historic mining equipment are quite impressive, and you might want to view the multimedia shows before going on a tour of ASARCO's Mission open-pit mine. Museum admission is free; tours are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for children ages five-12 and free for children four and under. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Earth on a small scale |
32540 S Biosphere Rd Tucson, AZ 85623 United States +1 520 896 6200 http://www.bio2.com Sales@bio2.com |
Visit the world's largest man made controllable environment and witness demonstrations labs, a human habitat and Earth exhibits. Watch scientists working under a big glass structure figuring out how the earth works. Restaurants, gift shops and a hotel and conference center are available. This world-famous research facility is located north of Tucson right off Oracle Road (Highway 77 to 79) at milepost 96.5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dennis Yang |
 Photo: Alicia Preston |
 Photo: Michael Quimayousie |
 Photo: Dennis Yang |
 Photo: karol miles |
 Photo: Martyn Overy |
 Photo: jason ryan |
 Photo: Martyn Overy |
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Family water fun |
8555 West Tangerine Road Tucson, AZ 85653 United States +1 520 682 2530 http://www.breakerswaterpark.com/ Steve@breakerswaterpark.com |
After a hot day of sightseeing, cool off in this huge water park at the outskirts of Tucson off Interstate 10. The special attraction here is the wave pool, which is as close to the ocean as it can get in Tucson. Your children will love the giant waterslides while you relax at the restaurant or in shaded areas the snack bar. The park is also available for group events. Special rates available for birthday parties and twilight (3pm-6pm) admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Wild Arizona |
1500 Highway 286 38 miles south of Three Points on Highway 286 Tucson, AZ 85601 United States +1 520 823 4251 x116 |
This grassy valley, just north of the Mexican border around Bobaquivari Peak (sacred mountain of the Tohono O'odham people), is home to a multitude of deer, antelope, javelina and many species of birds. Workshops on nature photography are offered at the visitors' center, as are guided tours. It's also a great place for mountain biking. There are some services available at the town of Arivaca, but be advised to bring your own picnic lunch. To get there, take Highway 86 from Tucson to Three Points, then AZ Highway 286 south for 38 miles to the turnoff, marked with the refuge sign. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Retreat to Coronado National Forest |
37 South COD Ranch Road Tucson, AZ 85623 United States +1 520 615 3211 / +1 800 868 5617 http://www.codranch.com staff@codranch.com |
Located in the northern foothills of the Catalinas, just off the Mount Lemmon exit in the mining town of Oracle, this historic ranch offers retreats and facilities for reunions, corporate events and weddings in a beautiful nature setting. Here is a good place to experience the grandeur of Coronado National Forest hiking or riding on horseback. Stay in a casita (old-style cabin) or book the ranch for a private party. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Canyons and cliffs |
11570 Oracle Road Tucson, AZ 85740 United States +1 520 628 5798 |
Located about 12 miles north of the city on Arizona Highway 77 (Oracle Road), this park affords the best views of the canyons and domes of the Catalina Mountains. A multitude of birds, snakes and lizards inhabit the lower regions, while deer and bighorn sheep roam the high country. The park offers an interpretive trail of an ancient Hohokam village. Picnicking and camping are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angela Wagner |
 Photo: Paige Laase |
 Photo: Jennifer Lorca Root |
 Photo: Laura Song |
 Photo: garibaldicu |
 Photo: Paul Steele |
 Photo: The Artist Formerly |
 Photo: Anne Canright |
 Photo: David Mintz |
 Photo: Mikhail Siskoff |
 Photo: Matt Townsend |
 Photo: Richard Oed |
 Photo: davidb8701 |
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Community and art collide |
10501 East Seven Generations Road Tucson, AZ 85747 United States +1 520 885 6930 / +1 888 224 8266 http://www.civano.com/ getinfo@civano.com |
For a unique architectural and environmental experience, visit this community. An innovative team of homebuilders, environmentalists, solar scientists, artists and ordinary citizens put their minds and hands together to create this new-world community with old-world charm.Several model homes are open to the public. Begin a self-guided tour at the Neighborhood Center and embrace the concepts of sustainability along tree-lined streets where pedestrians stroll. View ancient pueblo art and interior design. Enjoy beehive fireplaces, water features and rich colors of earth, sky and desert flowers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Be a cowboy for a day |
6255 North Diamond Hills Lane (West of Old Tucson Studios) Tucson, AZ 85793 United States +1 520 682 8594 |
This is a place that offers more than just trail rides; it's a 16,000-acre working ranch where you actually look after the cattle when going out on horseback and have a cookout with the cowboys at the end of the day. This ranch is located in the middle of the desert near Old Tucson Studios, but owner Jesus Avisu will give you directions if you call to make a reservation. It is USD 30 for a two-hour trail ride; prices for other attractions like sunset rides and hayrides vary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cave with a hidden treasure |
16711 East Colossal Cave Road Tucson, AZ 85641 United States +1 520 647 7275 http://www.colossalcave.com info@colossalcave.com |
Here's a piece of Western lore—a dry limestone cave with a real outlaw history. The tour guide at Colossal Cave Mountain Park, will point out the impressive formations and crystals, but won't tell you where the gold is hidden. There are many steps to climb but it's consistently cool inside even when temperatures hit the 100 degree mark. Visit the on-site library and museum, cafes and gift shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barbee Lazarus |
 Photo: Electronic3y3 |
 Photo: Yong-yee |
 Photo: Mae Marcaida |
 Tucson's equivalent of the Hollywood Bowl |
100 Country Club Road (Reid Park) Tucson, AZ 85716 United States +1 520 791 4079 (Tucson Parks & Recreation) |
This is a great occasion to combine an afternoon picnic at Reid Park with an evening of music. During the summer months, Tucson's fine orchestras perform their annual outdoor concerts at the DeMeester Center in the park. Beginning in May, the Tucson Pops Orchestra presents its annual Music under the Stars concert, featuring mostly light classical and Broadway hit tunes, followed by another concert series in September. All performances are free. Call for exact dates and times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The energy experts |
2601 East Airport Drive Tucson, AZ 85706 United States +1 520 626 3322 http://ag.arizona.edu/azaqua/e... |
As Tucson receives more sunshine per year than any other city in the U.S., this is the place for research on the use of solar energy. Located conveniently next to the airport, the Environmental Research Lab features a solar oasis as well as educational exhibits on homebuilding in the desert, particularly energy-saving cooling and heating technology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A spectacular view of Tucson |
Gates Pass Road Tucson, AZ 85743 United States |
For a panoramic view of Tucson and its surrounding mountain ranges, drive uphill west on Speedway Boulevard, which turns into Gates Pass Road. Stop at Gates Pass, at the apex of the road, and enjoy the desert and mountain vistas from the parking lot at the side of the road, particularly at sunset. Be aware that this is a narrow winding road frequently used by bicyclists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Garry Wilmore |
 Photo: dtjohnnymonkey |
 Photo: Thomas Stapelberg |
 Photo: Gina Franco |
 Photo: Stephen Gale, M.D. |
 Photo: Andrew Gainer |
 Photo: John Banks |
 Photo: Justin Brockie |
 Photo: ryan and alyssa |
 Photo: Kosta Tombras |
 Photo: Tandy Penn |
 Photo: foxts |
 Photo: Connie Hirsch |
 Photo: Jack Tomlinson |
 Photo: wbegody1 |
 Photo: Sabina |
 Photo: Christine Graham |
 Photo: Steve Moore |
 Photo: Eben Rauhut |
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Seeing the sights of Arizona |
3900 West Flying Diamond Tucson, AZ 85742 United States +1 520 572 1660 http://www.gwtours.net gwtours@flash.net |
This company offers tours of the city of Tucson as well as Southern Arizona. The staff picks up tourists at hotels and resorts in vans or coaches depending on group size and provides step-on guides if requested. Reservations are required. Destinations include Bisbee, Tubac, Tombstone, Saguaro West, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Mission San Xavier and Nogales. Prices vary for a three-hour city of Tucson tour to a day trip to Bisbee and Tombstone. Call or check the company's website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Off-Roading in the Desert |
12200 East Tanque Verde Road Tucson, AZ 85749 United States +1 520 977 6615 http://www.hummertoursoftucson... info@hummertoursoftucson.com |
Hummer Tours of Tucson is here to provide you with a fun and unique way to see and explore beautiful Southern Arizona. Whether you are visiting the area, or call the Sonoran Desert home, Hummer Tours of Tucson can find an adventure perfect for you. They offer many different trails to choose from ranging from easy trails to take in the scenery to some of the most rugged terrain that will put your Hummer and its off road capabilities to the test. Prices start at USD99 with tours lasting one to eight hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Walk on the wild side |
4800 West Gates Pass Road Tucson, AZ 85745 United States +1 520 629 0100 |
Located on the scenic Gates Pass Road surrounded by stately saguaros, this wildlife museum invites visitors to take a grand tour of the fauna of the earth. African antelopes share their space with big polar bears here, looking very much alive. Apart from stuffed animals, the museum also features wildlife films, dioramas, and interactive computer games. Group rates are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jonathan Shotwell |
 Photo: Leslie W |
 Photo: Sarina McCoy |
 Photo: Jonathan Shotwell |
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Family Water Fun |
3551 San Joaquin Road Tucson, AZ 85735 United States +1 520 883 8340 |
A Disney-type theme park around water... bring the kids, let them fly down those water slides till they get real tired (they won't have any trouble falling asleep that night) while you relax at the picnic table. And don't forget to bring plenty of suntan lotion; there's no shelter from the blazing Arizona sun once you get into the water. Go to the spacious ramada for shade and food services. Admission: $8.95. Inquire about group rates on weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Kitt Peak National Observatory |
Highway 86 and Junction 386 (12 miles from this point, atop Kitt Peak) Tucson, AZ 86534 United States +1 520 318 8726 http://www.noao.edu/outreach/kpvc outreach@noao.edu |
Southern Arizona's clear skies are ideal to host the world's largest observatory. Located 56 miles southwest of Tucson on top of a rugged mountain range, Kitt Peak features the world's largest collection of telescopes and frequently contributes to important astronomical discoveries. The observatory is open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: motionblur |
 Photo: Todd Blackwell |
 Photo: anais sonder |
 Photo: Jeff Medkeff |
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Birds, bears and bobcats |
Exit 63 off Interstate 10 End of 16-mile paved road Tucson, AZ 85747 United States |
This riparian area in the Santa Rita Mountains 38 miles south of Tucson is a bird watcher's paradise. More than 200 species of birds have been spotted here, sharing their habitat with such unusual animals as javelinas, coatamundis and mountain lions. An 11-mile round trip hike takes you from sparse desert vegetation at the bottom of the canyon to green pinion and juniper forests near the top of Mt. Wrightson. Bring plenty of food and water, as there are no services along the trail. The lower portion of the canyon offers a popular picnic spot for Mexican-Americans and large families. Take the Continental (63) exit from I-19, then follow the signs. Access is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Holly H |
 Photo: Jordan |
 Photo: ccantor |
 Photo: Michael Frans |
 Photo: Bill Brymer |
 Photo: jworley |
 Photo: Mick Jeffries |
 Photo: Kristina |
 Photo: Dell Thornhill |
 Photo: Andrew Goss |
 Photo: R. S. Walker |
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Say hello to the fitness revolution! |
5000 East Via Estancia Miraval Tucson, AZ 85739 United States +1 800 363 0819 (Toll Free) / +1 520 825 4000 http://www.miravalresort.com/s... miravalprebook@miravalresort.com |
This spa offers massage and hydrotherapy suites, an entire range of facial as well as Asian body treatments, and a full service salon. Ayurveda, acupuncture, Chi Nei Tsang, Shiatsu, Jin Shin Jyutsu and Trager are the more ancient relaxation techniques you can avail of. Ancient methods intertwined with a modern approach help you achieve deep levels of relaxation and self-awareness. What more could you ask for? Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The jewel in Tucson's crown |
1950 West San Xavier Road Tucson, AZ 85746 United States +1 520 294 2624 |
This attraction is to Tucson what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, except it's more ancient. Founded in 1700 by the Spanish missionary Father Kino, 10 miles south of what is now downtown Tucson on the Tohono O'odham Indian reservation, San Xavier del Bac is considered one of the finest examples of Mexican folk baroque architecture. Indian crafts shops and a cafe are nearby. The parish is still active, so please be respectful of religious activities when visiting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Barry Williams |
 Photo: John Mulhouse |
 Photo: Jim Frazier www.jimfrazier.com |
 Photo: Gérard Menut |
 Photo: Lucian Teo |
 Photo: David Wolf-Hudson |
 Photo: Ed Finn |
 Photo: J. Novak |
 Photo: Alyson Hurt |
 Photo: David |
 Photo: Annette Colombini |
 Photo: Keith Last |
 Photo: andrei deev |
 Photo: Desiree Istifan |
 Photo: Warren Lynn |
 Photo: Colin McNamara |
 Photo: Mike Laven |
 Photo: Jose Borelli |
 Photo: Diana Moon |
 Photo: Beverly Robertson |
 Photo: Wendy Sue |
 Photo: Elise Ann Wormuth |
 Photo: Christine Acebo |
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The height of Tucson's scenic landscape |
Catalina Highway Tucson, AZ 85619 United States +1 520 624 1817 (Convention & Visitors Bureau) |
See Tucson from a birds-eye view. Take Catalina Highway 30 miles through the Coronado National Forest, where giant Saguaro cacti tower and a variety of desert vegetation blooms year around. Stop at the Seven Cataracts and Windy Pointe Vista for scenic views of untamed mountain landscape surrounding the distant lights of Tucson. Visit Ski Valley. The lift operates year-round offering visitors a ride to the sky. Follow signs to Summerhaven, and browse the rustic shops or book a cozy Mount Lemmon cabin. Make a day of it! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kurt Neurauter |
 Photo: Geoff Stearns |
 Photo: mikiedoggie |
 Photo: Kent Abercrombie |
 Photo: Brett Kotlus |
 Photo: Thomas Stapelberg |
 Photo: Carl Ekman |
 Photo: Taylor D |
 Photo: Eric Durr |
 Photo: John Chedsey |
 Photo: Frank Kloos |
 Photo: Cassie Hough |
 Photo: Michael Whitfield |
 Photo: Ling Seow Kang |
 Photo: Jayant Pratap |
 Photo: corey knafelz |
 Photo: Andrew Myers |
 Photo: mps6006 |
 Photo: John |
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Ski-lift rides, summer and winter |
10300 Ski Run Road (Mount Lemmon) Tucson, AZ 85619 United States +1 520 576 1321 |
The ski lifts on Mount Lemmon in the Catalina's north of Tucson are open all year; serious business in the winter, fun in the summer. In recent winters, snowfall has been erratic leading to permanent complaints from business owners on the mountain, but the Ski Valley and the adjacent little town of Summerhaven is always a nice getaway from the hot and harsh desert climate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Wes Noonan |
 Photo: serac |
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Western-themed Theme Park |
201 South Kinney Road (I-10 south to Speedway exit; drive west following the signs) Tucson, AZ 85735 United States +1 520 883 0100 http://www.oldtucson.com/ afriend@oldtucson.com |
Referred to as "Hollywood in the Desert," Old Tucson Studios is the most famous movie studio in the world. Plan to take the entire family and spend an entire day immersed in the "Old West" theme. Take care, you might run into bandits while strolling the streets or witness a bank robbery in progress. More than 350 movies have been filmed in this studio, now home to commercial photography, film and television productions. Admissions: adults $14.95; kids $9.45; under 4 are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chinky Liban |
 Photo: Evan Agee |
 Photo: Jerome Berner |
 Photo: Cara-Mia |
 Photo: Beate Hartvigsen |
 Photo: Julia Ryan |
 Photo: Bernita, BreAnna, Bianca, & Posh Adventure |
 Photo: Bert |
 Photo: shrike_ecm |
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A taste of the Old West |
201 South Kinney Road Tucson, AZ 85735 United States +1 520 883 0100 http://www.oldtucson.com afriend@oldtucson.com |
Located west of Tucson in the grandeur of Saguaro National Park, this Western theme park is world-famous as a movie location. It's a fun place for adults and children alike, with plenty of mock gun fights, games, restaurants and shops to keep you entertained all day; and don't forget your kids will love you forever if you take them there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Vowell |
 Photo: Brenda Nichols |
 Photo: Alan Kroll |
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An emerging artists' colony |
Highway 77 Tucson, AZ 85623 United States +1 520 896 9322 (Chamber of Commerce) janderson@oracleford.com |
This former mining town, about 40 miles north of Tucson, has rapidly become another destination for art tourists. It's not a complete art colony like Tubac, but you'll find several shops along the main road featuring the work of local artisans, and there are more interesting things to do and see there than first meets the eye. Some of these interesting things include Columbia University's Biosphere 2, Peppersauce Canyon, the Arcadia Ranch Museum for local artifacts plus several Mexican restaurants. This town is definitely worth a trip. Take Oracle Road north to the fork at Oracle Junction, then turn right on AZ Highway 77. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Schile |
 Photo: Clioe |
 Photo: Edward M. Barrett |
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Hug a horse, feed the chickens |
6611 North Taylor Lane (20 miles west of I-10, Ina Road exit) Tucson, AZ 85743 United States +1 520 682 8009 |
Enjoy horseback riding and goat hugging offered by owners Connie and Al Kazal on their ranch in the rugged foothills of the Tucson Mountains. Bring your children, lots of film and a picnic basket including plenty of bread, (to feed the chickens). But be sure to call ahead for reservations. Take pictures of your kids hugging the horses and feeding the goats. Grandparents are known to enjoy this kind of stuff, too. Visit the gift shop before you leave. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Flying machines on display |
6000 East Valencia Road Tucson, AZ 85706 United States +1 520 574 0462 http://www.pimaair.org |
This institution is totally dedicated to the preservation of the history of flight, be it commercial, military, or interplanetary. The museum opened in 1976 with just 75 aircraft and has now grown to more than 250 on display. Its newest addition is the Northrop F-5B "Freedom Fighter". Be prepared to spend the entire day if you, or someone in your party, is a flight buff. Exhibits rotate, and special events and conferences are scheduled regularly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Wiley |
 Photo: Devin Ford |
 Photo: Willie Stark |
 Photo: David Rubinson |
 Photo: mikiedoggie |
 Photo: Miguel Navrot |
 Photo: Sky Hi |
 Photo: Sajin K |
 Photo: Derrick Mealiffe |
 Photo: Marc Basilla |
 Photo: Mark Patel |
 Photo: Michael Berch |
 Photo: Ash Mehta |
 Photo: Barnkat |
 Photo: Barnkat |
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A desert canyon gem |
End of Magee Road Tucson, AZ 85737 United States |
Pima Canyon rivals Sabino Canyon in grandeur, and it just never gets as crowded. From the parking lot at the end of Magee Road, the trail takes you into a pristine high-desert canyon that seems to be hundreds of miles from any urban area. You're likely to see most of the birds common to the Sonoran Desert such as cardinals, rock wrens and band verdins, but the real treat for any hiker is to watch the silhouette of a golden eagle soaring above the cliffs; if you're really lucky, you might even spot some Bighorn Sheep high on the rocks above you. You can turn around anytime, or decide to continue the strenuous hike all the way up to Mt. Lemmon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Tenen |
 Photo: Maggieness |
 Photo: Andrew Young |
 Photo: Christopher Moran © |
 Photo: David Boswell |
 Photo: John Togasaki |
 Photo: Laura Hulse |
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A family outing |
100 Country Club Road 22nd Street and Country Club Tucson, AZ 85716 United States |
Reid Park is definitely the best place in town for a family picnic. There are lots of places to roast your weenies, spread the blankets and open those jars of potato salad to the sound of the zoo animals nearby. Playgrounds with more and improved play equipment, party ramadas and public artworks are all around you. With good timing, you may even catch one of the popular DeMeester Outdoor Concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Linda Doughty |
 Photo: Holly B. Brown |
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Polar bears in Tucson...? |
1100 South Randolph Way Tucson, AZ 85716 United States +1 520 791 3204 |
While not being in the major league of zoos, this is still one of the major attractions in the city. Due to its relatively small size, the zoo can be explored at a leisurely pace in less than two hours. The animals are on display in pleasant natural settings. Chances are you will envy the two polar bear cubs as they happily float in ice-cold water while you're chafing in the 90+ degree Tucson summer heat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter M. Jozwiak |
 Photo: James Burke |
 Photo: James Burke |
 Photo: Evette WhoKnows |
 Photo: Karl Brandt |
 Photo: Krista |
 Photo: James K Steele |
 Photo: Darlene Boucher |
 Photo: Heather Kittredge |
 Photo: Mario Estrella |
 Photo: John Morgan |
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A park in the desert |
2700 North Kinney Road (Westside) Heidi Schewel 3693 South Old Spanish Trail (Eastside) Tucson, AZ 85743 United States +1 520 749 7720 http://www.saguaro.national-pa... |
Designated in 1994 and covers Tucson from two sides, Saguaro National Park gives protection to native and animals and plants, most prominently the stately Saguaro cactus is a well-known icon of the Arizonan and Mexican deserts. Both locations have loop roads for driving and cycling, visitor's centers, bookstores, hiking trails, picnic areas and exhibit centers. The Westside park also has a remarkable ancient petroglyph site. Rangers offer special interpretative hikes on request. There is no admission fee for the Westside; however, the Eastside park charges for per car. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Shandro |
 Photo: Matt Peeples |
 Photo: JMG |
 Photo: jrrosenberg |
 Photo: Derek DeVries |
 Photo: Lee Harkness |
 Photo: Kenny Stuck |
 Photo: Theo Albers |
 Photo: Leone |
 Photo: Lyle Ford |
 Photo: Philip J. Monahan |
 Photo: spauldi1 |
 Photo: Hsien-wei Wayne Peng |
 Photo: Roxane Velozo |
 Photo: Jonathan Reinink |
 Photo: Russell Schuetz |
 Photo: Adam Delezenne |
 Photo: Candace B. Paulman |
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A quiet desert retreat |
8001 North Scenic Drive (Pima Farms Road and North Scenic Drive) Tucson, AZ 85653 United States +1 520 744 2375 |
A beautiful garden in a serene desert landscape, this retreat has been set up by the non-profit All Creeds Brotherhood for all faiths to come meditate. You can drive out for a quiet walk or rent the sanctuary facilities for private gatherings. Call and ask to speak to Chuck Koestler for details. If you are in a group of 20 people or more, please call him in advance to make arrangements for visiting. Access is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Southwest on the eastside |
Santa Fe Square and Galleria (At Tanque Verde and Sabino Canyon) Tucson, AZ 85715 United States |
This pleasant shopping area on Tucson's east side, designed in Santa Fe adobe style and surrounded by a cobblestone road, offers several galleries and gift shops, most of them specializing in Southwestern art and accessories. Also featured is an upscale restaurant and a playhouse. If you're tired of noisy, sterile shopping malls and want to see beautiful architectural design, then this an inspiring environment to do your souvenir shopping. Most businesses here take all major credit cards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Milian |
 A retreat in the hills |
14200 Fish Canyon Road Tucson, AZ 85637 United States http://www.santaritabbey.org/i... |
This monastery of the Trappist order occasionally serves as a place of spiritual retreat for visitors. Located in the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains near the town of Sonoita, it offers a place for both quiet solitary meditation and attendance of the church services. Accommodation and light food is provided. Spiritual books are available at the gift store. To get to the abbey, take I-10 east to exit 281 (Sonoita/Patagonia); after 21 miles, turn into Garden Canyon Road, then turn right at the fork about one mile down that road. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Guided tours with cowboys |
1220 South Alvernon Way 22nd Street and Alvernon Tucson, AZ 85711 United States +1 520 579 9330 info@tucsondeserttours.com |
The tour guides here dress up as cowboys, carrying guns and other indispensable western paraphernalia, to make your trip as authentic as possible. Travel to wild places on rough roads in an open jeep, while the guides explain, to the best of their knowledge, the geology and archaeology of the country. Destinations are Reddington Pass and Mount Lemmon in the Santa Catalina Mountains, plus Windy Point during the summer months for a first-hand experience of the monsoons that lash the area in July and August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daina Dajevskis |
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Tucson therapy |
2727 West Club Drive Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa Tucson, AZ 85742 United States +1 520 877 2367 / +1 520 877 2302 http://www.omnihotels.com/spas... |
13,000 square feet of luxury in 13 tranquil rooms is what this spa has to offer. Herbal treatments, facials, wraps and a plethora of other treatments is meted out by swift and efficient attendants. An accompanying fitness center with Cybex equipment, saunas and whirlpools is on hand for more indulgence. Get fit with some aerobics or tai chi, or just relax with the yoga classes on offer. Treatments include nail and hair care in the salon, skin procedures and a unique hot-stone massage. Attend the one-on-one training sessions for beauty tips and emerge a new person, brimming with confidence! The spa services are included in the Omni Tucson Resort rates, while an admission fee is charged to other patrons, in addition to the service charges. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hashani Spa Overlooking Tucson Mountain Park |
3800 West Starr Pass Boulevard Tucson, AZ 85745 United States +1 1520 791 6117 http://www.hashanispa.com hashani.spa@marriott.com |
Hashani Spa is secluded in the Sonoran Desret Borders and opens out to a cactus forest. It is a combination of beauty and health with ancient healing techniques in a luxurious and pampering environment. The signature treatment is the Cupping Therapy which is an ancient Chinese Purification technique to improve circulation and to relieve pain. Other than massages, you can also hike, ride a mountain bike or stroll through the magnificent desert on the rocky trails. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A day in the Tortolitas |
9040 North Oracle Road Tucson, AZ 85737 United States +1 520 742 1943 http://www.sunshinejeeptours.com sunshinejeeps@aol.com |
This company takes visitors on open jeep tours into the Tortolita Mountains, northwest of Tucson to see the wildlife and archaeology of that rugged terrain. You'll be riding in a 4-wheel drive jeep on bumpy gravel roads, but that's the only way to get there. The guides will take desert critters like snakes and tarantulas on the trip for you to view and touch. Trips usually feature a barbecue at the end of the day. Such a deal! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ballistic missile on display |
1580 West Duval Mine Road Tucson, AZ 85629 United States +1 520 625 7736 |
Here's a museum south of Tucson that must surely be considered unique; a chilly reminder of the Cold War. Go underground and see one of the old Titan ballistic missiles, watch the roll-back silo door open, follow operations at the launch control center, and watch demonstrations of countdown procedures. Tours begin every half hour. To get here, go south on Interstate 19 and take exit 69 to the Duval Mine Road and follow the signs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Farol Tomson |
 Photo: The Horror |
 Photo: Charles P. Everitt |
 Photo: Tom Adams |
 Photo: Todd Lappin |
 Photo: Kevin Bentley |
 Photo: Barbara Brady |
 Photo: Gregory LaBorde |
 Photo: Sputnik |
 Photo: sunshine indoors |
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Off road southern Arizona |
1665 South Craycroft Road Tucson, AZ 85711 United States +1 520 747 0323 |
Trail Dust Adventures specializing in jeep trips to the Tortolita Mountains and the Reddington Pass east of the Catalina Mountains. These are ecology tours run by very knowledgeable tour guides concentrating on the fauna, flora and people of the mountains and deserts of Tucson. Water and soda are provided and special arrangements can be made for barbecues and picnics. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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What's behind those conveyor belts? |
7250 South Tucson Boulevard Tucson, AZ 85706 United States +1 520 573 8100 http://www.tucsonairport.org |
Curious to find out what's going on behind those closed doors and baggage claims at the airport? Take one of the guided tours of Tucson's International Airport, offered every Wednesday at 9am and Saturday at 9:30am. Among other things, the tour guides will show you items that the weapons security guards have confiscated during inspections. You may also sign up for a tour of the Airport Fire Department and the Air Traffic Control Tower (for ages 13 and up). Call +1 520 573 4868 for group reservations. All tours are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: james mccloskey |
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Wildflower Festival |
7633 North Paseo del Norte (Tohono Chul Park) Tucson, AZ 85704 United States +1 520 742 6455 http://www.tohonochulpark.org marketing@tohonochulpark.org |
Every spring, the tireless volunteers of Tucson organize a one-day wildflower festival as a fund-raiser for Tohono Chul Park ("desert corner" in the Tohono O'odham language), a lovely desert oasis in Tucson's northwest. Visitors can explore the park in its peak wildflower season, look at exhibits of wildflower art, taste foods from local restaurants, and listen to jazz. There is also an auction of the park's garden treasures. Be advised to call ahead for reservations. Review © 2007, Wcities |