Tucson, Arizona, located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, attracts travelers with its warm winter weather, vibrant culture and awe-inspiring landscapes. From museums and cultural centers to casinos, nightlife, and entertainment, Tucson offers a little bit of everything for visitors.
But the true allure of this area lies beyond the city limits. Venture into the Sonoran Desert, where you’ll find the iconic saguaro cactus, towering in cactus forests throughout this desert landscape. We’ll guide you through two impressive national park sites that will immerse you in the stunning desert wilderness. Additionally, we’ll spotlight a can’t miss air and space museum. We were completely fascinated with its expansive campus and remarkable exhibits.
Saguaro National Park: Tucson, AZ
Saguaro National Park is home to the impressive giants of the desert, the saguaro cactus. There are two sections of the park, the Rincon Mountain District (east) and the Tucson Mountain District (west). Both Districts boast hiking trails, camping, and scenic drives. Each distinct area is worth a visit and can easily be toured on the same day if you plan accordingly.
Tucson is a very biking friendly city, and you can also bike the scenic loops of both districts in the park.
- Rincon Mountain District: 8-mile paved loop- Cactus Forest Loop Drive
- Tucson Mountain District: 6-mile gravel loop- Bajada Loop Drive
We have visited Saguaro National Park twice now. Our first visit we spent hiking in the east district and taking the scenic drive. We must recommend the Freeman Homestead Trail, an easy 1-mile loop trail that takes you through a desert landscape full of saguaro cactus.
The trailhead is located off the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop drive. There are learning exhibits along the trail to read and learn about the homestead and its unique surroundings. The trail takes you close (but not too close) to the giant saguaro cacti that give this park its namesake. Take in the views of the desert and majestic mountains in the distance as the trail leads you through an impressive desert wash on the way back to the parking area.
The second time we visited the West District Visitor Center and toured the cactus garden. It was early spring, and the desert wildflowers were just starting to bloom!
Pima Air & Space Museum: Tucson, AZ
Throughout our travels, we’ve explored numerous air and space, rocket, plane, etc. museums. Yet none have rivaled the Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson, AZ. The vast collection of aircraft on display is absolutely astounding, not to mention the variety! According to the museum’s website, it’s one of the largest aerospace museums in the world and the largest non-government funded one in the U.S.
You can walk around for hours and still may not be able to see everything. It is a great place for a family outing. There is a restaurant onsite (the Flight Grill) that offers hot and cold food and beverages. There is also an outdoor patio seating area with a playground.
Chiricahua National Monument: Willcox, AZ
One of our favorite places to hike, Chiricahua National Monument! This park offers fantastic hiking and scenic landscapes, all with the grandness of one of the big national parks but without the crowds. Located in southern Arizona, it’s an accessible day trip destination from Tucson.
The park features over 17 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous and includes a couple that you can bring pets along. The Massai Point Nature Trail and Echo Canyon Grottoes trails were recommended to us by the awesome park rangers.
The park also offers birding, horseback riding, and historical sites like the Faraway Ranch. Don’t miss the scenic drive for breathtaking views and picnic spots. You can read more about this hidden gem in our post: How to Spend the Day in Chiricahua.
If you want to explore more of Tucson, we have included a list of other popular attractions and restaurants in the area.
Top Rated Attractions in Tucson:
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Pima Air and Space Museum
- Sabino Canyon
- Reid Park Zoo
- Mission San Xavier del Bac
- Saguaro National Park
- The Gaslight Theatre
- Tucson Botanical Gardens
- Kartchner Caverns State Park
Top Rate Restaurants in Tucson:
- Vivace Restaurant (Italian)
- Cup Café (American, Bar, Café)
- Frank’s Restaurant (Breakfast)
- Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen (Mexican)
- The Grill at Hacienda del Sol (American, International)
- Bobo’s Restaurant (American, Diner)
- Baja Café of Tucson (Southwestern, Breakfast)
- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar (Steakhouse)
We hope that this article inspires you to visit this vibrant southwestern city surrounded by incredible desert landscape. Happy travels!
