3 Days in Cacti Heaven (Tucson, Arizona)

Saguaro National Park (East and West)

Saguaro National Park is divided into East and West parks, with Tucson separating the two parks. The East park receives slightly more annual rainfall, and you will notice how that impacts the cacti as the saguaros on this side of the park are slightly larger and more ‘classic’ looking with their arms.

The West park provides breathtaking views of the valleys and features more uniquely-shaped cacti.

No matter which park you go to, you are sure to see a variety of desert wildlife. When the sun sets, the desert comes to life. Both parks are located far enough beyond Tucson that you will get to witness some incredible stargazing while taking in the sounds of critters and may even get lucky enough to witness the white flowers blossoming on the saguaro that open in the darkness (typically seen in late May through June).

Desert Museum

Just a short drive from Saguaro National Park West is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. This museum is ranked as one of the top 10 in the world, and for good reason. The museum covers an expansive amount of land that acts as home to 100s of desert dwellers. The museum is spread throughout a loop where you will see everything from coyotes to stingrays (yes, really!) If your visit is during the summer months, be sure to go for a visit after dark for a completely different experience (only available on select dates).

San Xavier Bac Mission

This mission is located on the Tohono O’odaham Nation. Its white domes can clearly be seen from miles away as they starkly contrast the desert landscape. Go inside to view the amazing wood carvings that line the walls and ceiling of this working church. Stop by next door for a museum of the mission and gift shop. Climb the hill outside to get a view of Tucson and visit the grotto. If you are visiting on the weekend, be sure to arrive hungry. There are Tohono O’odaham food vendors that give you a unique taste of their culture.

4th Avenue Shops

Get a feel for the funkiness that Tucson has to offer with the shops and restaurants that line 4th Avenue. The shops are perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind souvenir or window shopping. This street backs up to the University of Arizona, so you may find yourself wandering onto their impressive campus.

Old Town Artisans

These shops form a U-shape around a patio that is used for live entertainment. You will find original artwork from those who love Tucson. It’s the perfect place to take home a piece of the desert.

Mount Lemmon

The route to get to Mount Lemmon is one of the most scenic highways in the southwest as you wind your way up to the peaks of the Santa Catalina Range. Beyond the breathtaking views, it is also a reprieve from the heat of the desert and even boasts of a ski resort in the winter months!

Pima County Historic Courthouse

Just in case you haven't’t gotten your fill of the Spanish architecture around Tucson, you’ll want to visit the Pima County Historic Courthouse. You’ll go through the gardens at the entrance before experiencing the outdoor courtyard. Located within this historic building is a comprehensive visitor center and coffee shop. This landmark is just steps away from Old Town Artisans.

Pima Space & Air Museum

If you have any interest in airplanes, this is the place for you. The museum is home to an airline graveyard due to the dry climate in Tucson. This covers 80 acres and is home to over 400 historical aircrafts.

The Loop

The loop is the nickname for the bike path that ‘loops’ around Tucson. It is 131 miles long and there are plenty of bike rental shops around the city if you want to ride for a portion or all of this loop. The city itself is quite bike-friendly, and this loop adds one more reason to pack your cycling gear.

Day trip

If you can’t get enough of the desert, take a day to drive down to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. It’s about two hours west of Tucson. At this national monument you’ll find Organ Pipe Cacti that get their name from looking like the pipes of an organ. You won’t find these cacti around Tucson, so it’s worth the drive if you want to see even more cacti.

Tucson is located just an hour north of the border town, Nogales. If you want to make your trip international, you can drive or walk across the border and enjoy Mexico for the day.

Tucson was the first city to receive the designation of UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the US making it the perfect foodie destination.

El Charro Cafe - Home of the Chimichanga: If you love a crunchy, cheese chimichanga this is the place for you. The family that runs this restaurant is credited with creating this delicious Mexican dish. There are several locations, but the downtown location is the original and just steps away from the old town artisans.

Zio Peppe: This gastronomy gem features a unique blend of Italian and Sonoran flavors. You’ll find traditional Italian dishes (think pizza & pastas) with a twist. It’s a truly unique experience for your taste buds.

Bata: This spot is for diners with an adventurous flair. The menu is ever-changing based on what is in season. They only use items found within 400 miles, and is vegetable heavy, but I can assure you, you won’t be left wanting more.

El Guero Canero - home of the Sonoran dog: For more than 30 years, El Guero Canero has been the top place to feast on Sonoran Dogs, a local delicacy of Tucson. Their hot dogs are anything but ordinary - they come bacon wrapped topped with beans, grilled & fresh onions, tomato, mayo, mustard and jalapeno sauce all served on a split top roll. If that wasn’t enough for you, you can top your dog with even more goodness at their topping bar.

Rollie’s Mexican Patio: This establishment gives off diner vibes, but the cuisine is anything but basic. Their menu has it all from spicy dishes to sweet drinks & desserts, all with a modern twist on classic Mexican flavor.

Eegee’s: Nothing quite compliments a day in the desert like a refreshing Eegee. This is what the fruit, slush-like beverages are called at the native Tucson chain. Pro-Tip you can select multiple flavors like Mango & Pina Colada for your own custom treat.

Cup Cafe Hotel Congress: Located within the historic Hotel Congress this is not only a great place to get a bite, but you have an excuse to take in the historic architecture found within the hotel. The menu itself is full of local ingredients that bring their menu to life. But be warned, no matter how big your sweet tooth is - you won’t be able to reset the dessert carousel that features their house-made sweets.

Batch Whiskey & Doughnut: Have you ever been sipping on a whiskey and thought to yourself, “a doughnut would go great right now?” If so, Batch Whiskey & Doughnut is for you! They have an extensive whiskey and cocktail menu and serve hand-crafted doughnuts with a rotating glaze on the weekends. Other small bar snacks are available.