Everything You Have to Do When You Visit Tucson

In Tucson, it’s hard to escape the glow. That’s quite alright—why would you want to? During the day, the sun’s golden hue is a perfect backdrop for outdoor expeditions. In the evenings, the clear night sky illuminates the Sonoran Desert beneath. 

Tucson is the premier destination for adventurers, astronomy connoisseurs, Mexican food aficionados and many more outdoor enthusiasts. Its warm climate makes the city the ultimate region for year-round outdoor activities. Explore and discover in those wide open spaces or get your well-earned rest and relaxation on a patio sipping a margarita. Here are some top options and experiences to dig into in America's biggest small town.

In 2023 the National Park Service and DarkSky International certified Saguaro National Park as the ninth (there are now 12) Urban Night Sky Place, a distinction that champions sites near or in large urban areas that aim to provide an “authentic nighttime experience.” Suffice it to say, Tucson’s clear skies, minimal light pollution, and high-altitude mountain ranges make the area a world-class astrotourism destination. 

Stargazers can partake in guided programs and telescope viewings at esteemed observatories like the Kitt Peak National Observatory and the University of Arizona’s Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter. Also, at places like Oracle State Park and Kartchner Caverns State Park, locals and tourists rub shoulders for unforgettable star parties. 

Whether you’re an expert or just getting started with the hobby, Tucson has hiking trails for every skill level—from easy-going nature walks to challenging mountain ascents. Popular locations include Sabino Canyon (located in the Santa Catalina Mountains and the Coronado National Forest) and the aforementioned hot spot for night sky viewing Saguaro National Park. Out on hikes, be sure to keep an eye on the breathtaking desert flora and fauna from cacti species to our avian friends like roadrunners. However, be alert and stay safe—snakes and wild cats roam this terrain too. 

If you feel like soaking up knowledge about desert ecology and history, guided Jeep tours and visits at places like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum—a nearly 100-acre fusion of a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum and aquarium—are a must. 

There’s a reason why so many people around the world revere Tucson as a cycling destination. 

The year-long warm weather and bike-friendly culture are definite selling points, but Tucson’s infrastructure has hundreds of miles of bike lanes and trails, including The Loop, a 131-mile trail system that provides unlimited options for road, mountain and gravel riding. For mountain biking, try rugged trails at places like Tucson Mountain Park and or pedal along the Arizona National Scenic Trail. And for spectators, the El Tour de Tucson, one of the largest road cycling events in the U.S., takes place every November. Thrillseekers may want to check out 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo, one of the country’s wildest mountain bike races—which takes place over 24 hours. 

When you’ve got your fill of ground adventure, try taking it to the skies. The Sky Islands of Coronado National Forest offers top-of-the-line climbing opportunities. Head to Mt. Lemmon for more than 2,700 climbing routes and can get as high as 9,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert floor. Out at the Cochise Stronghold’s rugged terrain take in towering pink granite domes and spot Peregrine falcons in their natural home. 

In 2015, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) designated Tucson as the first City of Gastronomy in the U.S. because its food history dates back further than 4,000 years (the longest in the United States!). In the Old Pueblo, you’ll find no shortage of restaurants with fresh locally sourced ingredients that celebrate desert flavors and America's Best Mexican Food. Hundreds of authentic and delicious Mexican Food restaurants are spread about town. No matter where you end up, you get hit with mouthwatering authentic flavors, including the local favorite you won’t find anywhere near as delicious any place else in the world, the Sonoran Hot Dog—a bacon-wrapped and grilled hot dog, topped with pinto beans, pico de gallo, mayonnaise and mustard. 

Tucson is where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you’re gazing at the stars, backpacking across the desert, biking in the mountains or inhaling a Sonoran Dog, Tucson is a must-visit destination in the Southwest and one the the most culturally rich cities in the world.

Plan your trip to Tucson today.