Overview
Tucson (TOO-sawn), also known as the "Old Pueblo", is the second-largest city in the state of Arizona and the county seat of Pima County in the Sonoran Desert. It is at a higher elevation than nearby Phoenix and is correspondingly cooler. Although with half a million residents it is smaller than the capital city, its cultural life is just as vibrant.
24 sights · 21 things to do · 37 places to eat · 6 bars & cafés · 19 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Tucson
El Tiradito
El Tiradito is the only shrine to a sinner in North America. In the 1880s, a young man had an affair with his mother-in-law. When caught in the act, his father-in-law shot him and he stumbled from bed and ran out of the …
Sosa-Carrillo-Frémont House Museum
A remnant of Tucson's old barrio which survived and is now surrounded by the Tucson Convention Center, this historic adobe house was built in the 1870s.
Fort Lowell Museum
Fort Lowell was a US Army post, active in the late 19th century during the Apache Wars. Most of the adobe structures are now in ruins, but the commanding officers' quarters have been reconstructed and now house a small m…
San Pedro Chapel
A historic Sonoran-style adobe chapel, built in 1915 and on the National Register of Historic Places. Unfortunately the church is usually only open for special events, but it can be freely appreciated from the outside.
Pima Air & Space Museum
Features over 400 historic aircraft on an 80-acre (32 hectares) site with five hangars, three of them devoted to World War II. Veterans and volunteers are often on hand to answer any questions, and there are daily walkin…
Tucson Museum of Art
A museum complex housed in a collection of historic adobe houses, this museum hosts exhibits of regional contemporary art, as well as the Arizona Biennial. Its permanent collection of Latin American and pre-Columbian art…
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: Oct–Apr. Summer highs reach about 101°F; winter lows dip to about 40°F. Very hot (May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep) — plan outdoor time for mornings. Wettest: Jul and Aug.
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- TUS Tucson International Airport, Tucson — 6 mi away (major hub). Directions
- AZA Mesa Gateway Airport, Mesa — 88 mi away. Directions
* Concourse A: Southwest, Sun Country, United. * Concourse B: American Airlines/American Eagle, Alaska Airlines, Delta/Delta Connection. The airport is on the far southern end of the city. A taxi to central Tucson (University of Arizona area) will run about $25-30 and take 25 minutes. Bus services (Rt #11 and 25) to and from the airport is significantly cheaper but will take at least 60 minutes to/from downtown Tucson. Some people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) and then take a shuttle or rent a car and drive to Tucson (about 2 hours). American Eagle operate 1hr flights between Phoenix and Tucson. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
- Places to stay listed here: about $5–$155 a night (typical $25), from 13 listed prices.
- Typical meal: about $12 per person at listed restaurants.
- Estimated daily budget per person (room, two meals, local transport and an activity): budget ~$40, mid-range ~$80, comfortable ~$280.
Options are grouped as Budget, Mid-range, Splurge, Camping in the Sleep guide ↓.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning El Tiradito, Sosa-Carrillo-Frémont House Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson
- Lunch Coronet Restaurant
- Afternoon Children's Museum Tucson, Southern Arizona Transportation Museum
- Dinner El Minuto Cafe
- Evening Club Congress
Day 2
- Morning Mission San Xavier del Bac
- Lunch El Güero Canelo
- Afternoon Barrio Viejo
- Dinner BK Tacos
- Evening Barrio Brewing Company
Day 3
- Morning Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Lunch Teresa’s Mosaic Cafe
- Afternoon Old Tucson Studios
- Dinner Viva Burrito Co
- Evening O'Malley's Bar and Grill
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
As you can guess, Tucson is a veritable hub of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. But Tucson is an adventurous town (easily the most liberal metropolitan area in Arizona) and as a result of its diversity, has a vibrant culinary culture.
One noteworthy concoction unique to Tucson, Phoenix, and southern Arizona is the Sonoran hot dog. First developed in Hermosillo, Sonora, it consists of a traditional hot dog wrapped with bacon and then grilled. It is served in a bolillo (a Mexican roll) with pinto beans, onions, and tomatoes, and topped with mayonnaise, mustard, and jalapeños. The hot dog is traditionally sold from street carts, but several of the longer-established vendors now have sit-down restaurants, with branches scattered around Tucson.
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Tucson has always been a crossroads. Water was, until the onset of a severe drought in the late 1990s, relatively plentiful in Tucson, in spite of its location in the middle of a desert. This made it an important travel route, an agricultural center, and a communications nexus.
Tucson's history is ancient, with evidence of human occupation stretching back 10,000 years. Between 200 and 1450 CE, the Hohokam culture dominated the area – the Pima and Tohono O'Odham peoples that still occupy the area are descendants of the Hohokam. In 1699, Father Eusebio Kino, S.J., established the Mission San Xavier del Bac, southwest of present-day Tucson. Over the next 100 years, other missions were established in the area, but European presence was minimal.
It wasn't until 1775 that the Presidio of Tucson was created by Don Hugo O'Connor. At that time, it was the northernmost Spanish outpost in the New World. In 1821, Tucson became part of the new country of Mexico, and in 1853 it became part of the United States as a result of the Gadsden Purchase. In 1863, Arizona became a US territory, and by 1880, its population was around 8,000. In 1912, Arizona became the 48th state to enter the union.
Tucson is still a crossroads, with European, Native American, Mexican, and Asian cultures bumping into one another, in sometimes conflicting and sometimes compatible – but always interesting – ways.
Climate
Tucson has a hot desert climate with a long, hot summer and a mild winter. Fall and spring tend to be sunny and dry. If you're familiar with Phoenix weather, Tucson is slightly cooler and slightly wetter due to elevation and surrounding mountain ranges.
Summer has daytime high temperatures between 98 and 102 °F (37 and 39 °C) and low temperatures between 71 and 77 °F (22 and 25 °C). Average summer heat indices range between 97°F during the day and 77°F at night, though it's not unheard of to have heat indices to climb upwards to 110°F and not go below 85°F at night. Early summer is dry: low humidity and clear skies. By mid-summer the monsoons start, bringing higher humidity, cloudy skies, and frequent thunderstorms. The monsoon season officially starts on June 15, but the actual arrival of storms varies from year to year. Storms usually are scattered, with intense rainfall, thunder and lightning in one part of town, and completely storm-free elsewhere, then changing in a few hours. Flash floods are possible. Large areas of the city do not have storm sewers (the street becomes the storm sewer), flooding main thoroughfares. A few underpasses have "feet of water" scales to discourage motorists from driving through in a rainstorm. (See "Stay safe" section for more information).
Winter in Tucson is mild compared to other parts of the U.S. Average daytime highs range between 65 and 70 °F (18 and 21 °C) and lows between 40 and 44 °F (4 and 7 °C). Tucson typically averages three hard freezes per winter season, with temperatures dipping to the mid or low-20s (−7 to −4 °C), but this is typically limited to only a very few nights. Snow is rare but occasionally falls at the lower elevations at the city street level, and is quite common up in the Santa Catalina Mountains.
The sun is intense in Tucson year-round. Those who spend time outdoors need sun protection. And in the summer months, heat stroke is a serious concern for those spending their time outdoors.
Visitor information
Get in
By plane
* Concourse A: Southwest, Sun Country, United. * Concourse B: American Airlines/American Eagle, Alaska Airlines, Delta/Delta Connection. The airport is on the far southern end of the city. A taxi to central Tucson (University of Arizona area) will run about $25-30 and take 25 minutes. Bus services (Rt #11 and 25) to and from the airport is significantly cheaper but will take at least 60 minutes to/from downtown Tucson. Some people fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) and then take a shuttle or rent a car and drive to Tucson (about 2 hours). American Eagle operate 1hr flights between Phoenix and Tucson. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
By train
Arriving by train to Tucson is possible as the city is served by Amtrak via its triweekly Sunset Limited train between New Orleans and Los Angeles. This train also conveys Texas Eagle carriages, offering a direct route to and from Chicago. Eastbound trains arrive around 7:30AM while westbound ones arrive early evening. Notice however that delays are quite common.
By car
- Interstate 10 (I-10) is an east-west cross-continental route, coming from southern New Mexico to the east and from Phoenix from the northwest. While I-10 is an east-west route, it runs northwest-southeast between Tucson and Phoenix, then from Phoenix runs west towards California.
- Interstate 19 (I-19) is an intra-state route running south from Tucson, connecting it with Nogales, on the border US-Mexico with Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.
- & N Oracle Rd (AZ 77) is a north-south route, the south end starting in Tucson going north through Oracle and Globe, then concurrent with US 60 from Globe to Show Low, then to Holbrook and I-40. AZ 77 and 79 replaced this section of the (Historic) US 80 after US Route 80 was decommissioned west of Dallas, Texas. The Historic US 80 ran along the present day AZ 77 to Oracle Junction (north of Tucson) where it follows AZ 79 through Florence, to US 60 in Queen Creek.
- W Ajo Way/State Route (SR) 86 (AZ 86) runs east-west through southern Arizona, it's east end starting in Tucson, passing near Kitt Peak Observatory, through the Tohono O'odham Nation, and ending in the little town of Why at the junction with AZ 85, just north of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
By bus
There are multiple long distance bus lines and van shuttles serving Tucson from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, El Paso, Phoenix, Douglas, Yuma & Nogales in the U.S. and from Nogales, Hermosillo, Puerto Peñasco, Agua Prieta and Culiacán in Mexico. Each company has a stop for their own bus station in different parts of town that are far from each other.
Go Greyhound Lines, Autobus Americanos, Cruceros USA
Travels primarily on Interstate 10 (Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Phoenix, Tucson, Lordsburg, El Paso) and on I-8/10 (San Diego, Calexico, Yuma, Tucson and El Paso). Some variations of the route on I-10 may make additional stops in Quartzsite, Mesa, Casa Grande/Eloy, Benson, Wilcox, Deming and/or Las Cruces on I-10 in Arizona and New Mexico. Passengers transfer to other buses in Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and El Paso to get to additional cities in the U.S. Check schedules.
Get around
By public transportation
Go Sun Link Streetcar
A streetcar route which extends from the University of Arizona to the downtown area and the Mercado district. It has now been integrated into the Sun Tran public transportation system; the streetcar route map can be downloaded here. It is especially popular in the evenings for making the rounds between University and the night life on 4th Ave.
By car
I-10 and I-19 are the only freeways in Tucson, which has far fewer miles of freeway than other U.S. cities of its size. Since I-10 and I-19 mostly skirt the west and south sides, all east-west traffic and all east-side traffic is on surface streets.
Surface street travel can be slow during the workday, and even slower during rainstorms. Many older streets become completely flooded as they are the original "U-shape" where the entire street width is for rain drainage, instead of the modern typical street pitching down towards curbs. And several main surface streets have "reversible lanes", also dubbed "suicide lanes", where the center turn lane becomes an additional through traffic lane for peak hours. Watch the lane signals for proper usage, or you'll likely find yourself staring at the grill of another vehicle. Traffic direction typically alternates between morning and afternoon.
By bicycle
Tucson is a bike-friendly community, and has an extensive system of bike routes and paths (but is something you don't want to do in the summer unless you are experienced riding in very hot, dry weather).
In late 2017 the city launched Tugo Bike Share, a new public bike-sharing program, with 330 bicycles and 36 rental station scattered around the university district and downtown. Passes are available for one day ($8), one month ($18), or one year ($80), and allow unlimited use of the bikes for 30-minute intervals. Passes can be purchased at docking stations with a credit card, online with a credit or debit card, or with cash at any 7-Eleven, CVS, or Family Dollar stores (requires prior online registration). Bicycle stations with available bikes and docks can be found online or via the smartphone Cyclefinder app (iOS and Android).
By taxi
It is notoriously difficult to get around in Tucson by taxi, as you must usually reserve a cab hours in advance and contend with drivers who are often late, if they show up at all. As an alternative, ride-hailing services Uber and Lyft now both operate in Tucson, and are a decent alternative if you can't get a regular cab within a reasonable time frame.
See
Historic sights
See Barrio Viejo (Barrio Histórico)
One of Tucson's oldest neighborhoods, much of the barrio was destroyed when the Tucson Convention Center was built. There are many colorful adobe buildings housing shops, galleries, and residences. Best explored on foot.
See El Tiradito (The Castaway)
El Tiradito is the only shrine to a sinner in North America. In the 1880s, a young man had an affair with his mother-in-law. When caught in the act, his father-in-law shot him and he stumbled from bed and ran out of the house. He dropped dead on this spot, and because he had not confessed his sins, he could not be buried in the church yard. His family and friends interred him where he fell, but remembered him with candles and flowers. People still burn candles and leave offerings today. Best visited at dusk or after dark.
See Fort Lowell Museum
Fort Lowell was a US Army post, active in the late 19th century during the Apache Wars. Most of the adobe structures are now in ruins, but the commanding officers' quarters have been reconstructed and now house a small museum, with exhibits focused on military life on the frontier. The building also has a small gift shop.
Museums and galleries
See Pima Air & Space Museum
Features over 400 historic aircraft on an 80-acre (32 hectares) site with five hangars, three of them devoted to World War II. Veterans and volunteers are often on hand to answer any questions, and there are daily walking tours of the grounds. There is an onsite restaurant.
See Tucson Museum of Art
A museum complex housed in a collection of historic adobe houses, this museum hosts exhibits of regional contemporary art, as well as the Arizona Biennial. Its permanent collection of Latin American and pre-Columbian art is particularly noteworthy. There is a well-stocked shop in the lobby that is open during museum hours.
See Philabaum Glass Gallery & Studio
Tom Philabaum built his first glass studio in 1975, and opened the adjacent gallery in 1982. Together they represent one of the most enduring art endeavors of present-day Tucson. Visitors are able to watch the glass blowing process in the studio, and shop the impressive collection of contemporary glass art from artists around the country.
See De Grazia Gallery in the Sun Historic District
A collection of buildings on a 10-acre site, designed and built by well-known Arizona painter Ettore 'Ted' DeGrazia (1909-1982); the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A gallery showcases the artist's work in six permanent collections as well as special rotating exhibits, and a gift shop onsite sells good quality reproductions of some of his work. In early December the grounds also host the annual Fiesta de Guadalupe. The chapel is closed due to fire damage.
See Southern Arizona Transportation Museum
A small museum devoted to the history of the railroads in southern Arizona, housed in the historic Southern Pacific Railroad Depot. The star attraction is the Southern Pacific Railroad 1673 steam locomotive. Docents and volunteers available to answer questions about the locomotive on Saturdays. For other times, tours can be arranged upon request.
Parks and wildlife
See Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
More like Biosphere II than a walled institution, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is part zoo, part natural history museum and part botanical garden all in one Tucson attraction. From tarantulas to black bears, coyotes to scorpions, the museum-zoo is an entrancing and full-contact tribute to the Sonoran desert's wildlife (the wire fences are nearly invisible and the hummingbirds in the buzzing, walk-in aviary seem to think you are the attraction). Give yourself time to soak in the Southwest splendor and if time is all you have, the Museum is also on the fringes of Saguaro National Park, home to the world's largest forests of Saguaro cacti.
See Tohono Chul Park
"Tohono chul" means "desert corner" in the Tohono O'Odham's (desert people's) language, and this haven in the midst of Tucson's burgeoning north side offers a tea room, gift shop, bookstore, and art gallery in the middle of trails and gardens. There are extensive botanical exhibits explaining the native plants, and a wonderful plant-sale area in which to buy them for your own garden. Many kinds of desert birds are frequent visitors.
See Tucson Botanical Gardens
This beautiful oasis in the heart of Tucson was the home of Bernice and Rutger Porter. Dating to the 1920s, the earliest buildings on the property were constructed of adobe bricks made right on site. True to the vision of Mrs. Porter, Tucson Botanical Gardens is a place of beauty, inspiration and education about the natural world.
Outside of town
See Mission San Xavier del Bac
The "White Dove of the Desert" is a Tucson mission. Pure white and pristine against a hot desert backdrop, and still heady inside its elaborately colored and muraled interior from centuries of supplication, the Mission San Xavier del Bac was finished in 1797 when Arizona was still New Spain. It has been cleaned and restored by professional art conservators who worked with and trained members of the community.
See Old Tucson Studios
Ever notice that Hollywood's Old West, the backdrop for the gun-slinging and cryptic comments of Hollywood's Western icons – Wayne, Eastwood, Douglas and Newman – has much in common with the Wild West of today's Tombstone and Geronimo? They've all been filmed at the Old Tucson Studios, which were built in 1939 for the making of the William Holden film Arizona. Still an active film, TV and commercial set, it's also a nostalgia-themed park, with main drag shootouts, corseted can-can dancers, educational shows, pre-Prohibition saloons, restaurants, and gift shops.
Do
Performing arts
Do Leo Rich Theater
The venue for concerts sponsored by the Arizona Friends of Chamber Music, and Tucson's primary space for ballet, theater, and musicals. Tickets can be purchased online.
Do Tucson Music Hall
The home of Tucson Symphony Orchestra and the Arizona Opera. Tickets can be purchased online.
Do Carnival of Illusion
The Carnival of Illusion Parlour Show presents national quality magic in an intimate setting at the Historic Scottish Rite in downtown Tucson, and is limited to 125 guests. The hosts are the National Recipients for Excellence in Magic and have performed as house entertainers at the world's top resorts, for Fortune 100 CEOs, to the 200 Most Powerful Women in America.
Festivals and events
Do Tucson Gem & Mineral Show
For two weeks every winter, the world meets in Tucson as it becomes a bustling, international marketplace of buyers and sellers at the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase. The "Gem Show" is much more than a single event at one location. Rather, there are thousands of participants and attendees at nearly 50 sites around town. Dozens of shows take place at the same time – in giant white tents, at hotels and resorts and at exhibit halls. There's something for everyone at the many open-to-the-public shows – from gold and diamonds to granite bookends and glass beads – and from fine specimens of dinosaur fossils to opals dug from the Australian Outback.
Do Tucson Modernism Week
October. Annual festival celebrating Tucson's legacy of mid-century modern architecture and design, centered around the mid-century modern convention center and its Garrett Eckbo-designed plaza. Events include a vintage market where numerous vendors sell everything mod, from suits and ties to designer furniture to cool retro gadgets; a car show displaying mostly mid-century cars and trailers; various lectures on architecture; and tours of various mid-century modern homes around Tucson. Prices vary by event; the market and car show are free, but most lectures require tickets.
Do All Souls Procession (All Soul's Weekend)
One of the largest festivals in Tucson and based on the Mexican holiday 'Día de los Muertos' (Day of the Dead), the highlight is a 3-mile parade beginning at dusk. Very colorful, with participants dressing in traditional or creative costumes. Takes place annually on the first Sunday in November.
Do La Fiesta de Guadalupe
This annual event celebrates Mexico's patron saint, the Virgin of Guadalupe, and features performances by mariachi bands, folklorico dancers, Yaqui dancers, and Spanish flamenco guitar. Booths sell crafts and souvenirs, as well as southwestern-style food and beverages.
Do Winterhaven Festival of Lights
An annual event in the Winterhaven subdivision north of Fort Lowell Road displaying a huge Christmas light festival involving several dozen homes in the subdivision. The festival starts in the middle of December, ending a few days before New Year's Day. The event is very popular, and traffic to the event is always very congested.
Do Summer Car Shows
Tucson's dry climate makes it an ideal location for classic car restoration. There are community organized car shows at various locations and times.
Sports and outdoor activities
Do Arizona Wildcats
The city's highest-profile sports teams are those of the University of Arizona, members of the Big 12 Conference alongside 15 other schools located mostly in the middle and inland western states. While the school fields teams in 21 sports (nine men's and 12 women's), the biggest draws are (as at most major schools) football and men's basketball. The latter is a very tough ticket, considering the Wildcats' consistent regional and national success in that sport for the last 30 or so years.
Do Catalina State Park
On the northwestern edge of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this park covers 5,500 acres (2,200 hectares) and has eight multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, of varying difficulty. Other popular activities include picnicking, wildlife viewing and birdwatching, with over 170 avian species identified in the park. A small shop at the visitor center carries such items as snack, water, sunscreen, maps, and books.
Do Tucson Mountain Park
This minor mountain range to the southwest of the city has an excellent trail network for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The park has many healthy stands of saguaros. The higher-elevation trails provide beautiful views, and are a popular place to photograph sunsets.
Do Tucson Arena
The venue is part of the Tucson Convention Center, though it isn't Tucson's largest indoor arena (that would be the Arizona Wildcats' McKale Center). It hosts a number of events throughout the year including local events, concerts, Monster Truck shows, and circus performances. It has been the home for the Tucson Roadrunner American Hockey League (AHL) team.
Learn
Place University of Arizona
Founded in 1885, the University of Arizona is the state's original land-grant university. Today, it hosts nearly 40,000 students, with nationally pre-eminent programs in astronomy, planetary science, optical sciences, pharmacy, business, fine arts, and basketball. One unusual thing is the Tree Walk, a self-guided tour to almost a hundred rare trees on campus.
Buy
Gifts
Shop San Xavier Plaza
A few stalls here sell friendship bowls (beautifully painted ceramic bowls) made by the Tohono O’odham.
Shop Silver Sea Jewelry
In business since 1993, the store offers sterling silver jewelry at competitive prices, with interesting little figurines (fantasy, Gothic, Egyptian, skulls) and a variety of gifts. The helpful owner Lizzie can help you find the perfect goodie, including limited supply Stardust and Cake label jewelry.
Books
Shop Bookmans Entertainment Exchange East
Practically a Tucson institution, the original branch opened on Speedway over 30 years ago. Besides used books, they also have used CDs, DVDs, video games, etc. All branches have free Wi-Fi and electric vehicle charging stations, and permit pets in the store.
Outdoor goods
Other
Shopping centers
Eat
As you can guess, Tucson is a veritable hub of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. But Tucson is an adventurous town (easily the most liberal metropolitan area in Arizona) and as a result of its diversity, has a vibrant culinary culture.
One noteworthy concoction unique to Tucson, Phoenix, and southern Arizona is the Sonoran hot dog. First developed in Hermosillo, Sonora, it consists of a traditional hot dog wrapped with bacon and then grilled. It is served in a bolillo (a Mexican roll) with pinto beans, onions, and tomatoes, and topped with mayonnaise, mustard, and jalapeños. The hot dog is traditionally sold from street carts, but several of the longer-established vendors now have sit-down restaurants, with branches scattered around Tucson.
Budget
Eat Beyond Bread Central
Amazing sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, made from ingredients that are as fresh as possible. (In addition to baking bread daily, the restaurant also roasts its turkey and beef on site.) They also have an espresso bar and pastries. A nice place for lunch, but watch out – it's very popular, and you may have to wait in line. Alternately, you can pre-order your meal for pickup online. Average sandwich (hot & cold) costs around $6-6.50, chips included.
Eat Birrieria Guadalajara
A hole-in-the-wall Mexican diner frequented by the Hispanic workers and Gringos in the know. All the standard Mexican fare, but an unusual emphasis on caldos or soup. Birria is shredded beef in its own broth – this place makes the best!
Eat Bison Witches
Features tons of different sammies that are huge and will fill you up. Bread bowl soups are another popular choice at this deli/bar and is a college student's dream of a chill place to hang out and get in on some great drink specials. Thursdays is a great night for hanging out here.
Eat BK Tacos (BK Carne Asada and Hot Dogs)
Very popular, specializes in Sonoran hot dogs, tacos, and other classic Mexican dishes.
Eat BK Tacos (BK Carne Asada and Hot Dogs)
A second branch of the very popular restaurant.
Eat Char's Thai Restaurant
It's not always easy to find good Asian restaurants in the desert, but this hole in the wall has to be near the top of anyone's list of favorites. Owned and operated by former residents of Bangkok, the restaurant has a huge selection of tasty curries and noodle dishes. The lunch specials are a great value; takeout available.
Eat Eegee's
A Tucson chain of sub shops, you shouldn't leave Tucson without trying this place. Popular for their frozen slushie-snowcone combo (locally referred to simply as Eegees), they have piña colada, strawberry and lemonade flavors year-round and a unique flavor of the month. Eegee's are also known for their fries, which you can order with ranch dressing (ranch fries), marinara sauce (pizza fries) and fries with chili (chili cheese fries). They also offer pretzels, cookies, chips and sub sandwiches. There are a total of 26 branches in the Tucson area.
Eat El Güero Canelo
One of Tucson's most famous restaurants, primarily known for their Sonoran hot dogs. Offers a large selection of Mexican dishes. They have some of the best carne asada in the Southwest! Takeout available at all locations.
Eat Guillermo's Double L Restaurant
Solid Mexican food, with good atmosphere and prices.
Eat La Indita Restaurant Mexicano
Wonderful food and ambiance, a real gem. Also offers Native American dishes and many vegetarian options. Delivery and takeout can be ordered online.
Eat Mi Nidito
Authentic Mexican food with excellent margaritas. Dinner for two with margaritas is about $30.
Eat El Molinito
A local favorite with great Mexican food, has been in Tucson for at least 20 years and has great service. Known for their frozen margaritas. Try their beans and carne asada tacos on a soft flour tortilla. Three other branches are on Ina Road, Pantano Road, and Oracle Road.
Eat Pat's Chili Dogs
An old time drive-in (carhop service however does not exist – you must walk up to the order window). Lunchtime is packed with Tucsonans ordering chili and cheese dogs in the state. French fries made from fresh potatoes on site, with lots of hot sauce.
Eat Viva Burrito Co
A local fast food chain known for its large, tasty breakfast burritos, as well as tacos and enchiladas. Has a drive-thru. There are a total of six branches in Tucson.
Mid-range
Eat El Charro Café
Opened in 1922, El Charro is the oldest continuously-operated, family-owned Mexican restaurant in the United States. The food is classic Southwestern, with more Sonoran influences than many Tucson restaurants.
Eat Cup Cafe
Unusual, eclectic mix of Indian, Thai, Japanese, American and Mediterranean food, easily the most interesting restaurant in Tucson. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and some vegan options. On a nice day you can sit outside.
Eat Guadalajara Original Grill
A popular, fun and entertaining Mexican restaurant featuring live mariachis 7 nights per week, fresh salsa made table-side, and homemade tortillas. A great place to go with friends to enjoy the lively and homey atmosphere. The restaurant runs culinary tour of Mexico, and features dishes from different states of Mexico each month that are fun to try. Dinner time includes roaming mariachi singers.
Eat Guadalajara Fiesta Grill
Mexican cuisine, four restaurants around Tucson.
Eat El Minuto Cafe
Authentic Sonoran cuisine in an adobe house in the barrio, open since 1936. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but do order the mole if they have it on the day you are there. The carne seca is superb and the chiles rellenos are magnificent. Make sure to sample the fresh, made-on-the-premises tortillas. Combine this with a visit to El Tiradito, which is nearby.
Eat North Italia
Italian in heritage, but extremely experimental. Dishes range from pizzas to pasta to steak, and are normally in the range of $19-$25 (others depend on market prices).
Eat Rosa's Mexican Food Restaurant
Excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food in this family-owned and operated storefront restaurant. Rosa's salsa is consistently voted one of the top three in Tucson by the readers of the Tucson Weekly. The food is heavy on the meat and cheese, with buttery tortillas and delicious refried beans. Main course $7-$10.
Eat Sushi Ten
A popular Japanese sushi house.
Eat Takamatsu
Takamatsu concentrates on Japanese and Korean dishes where it's common to order sushi. Also, you'll notice that there is habachi-style cooking.
Eat Teresa’s Mosaic Cafe
This long-established family-owned restaurant serves authentic Sonoran Mexican cuisine, and they make their own tortillas onsite. The albóndigas (Mexican meatballs) are especially recommended.
Eat Vero Amore
This is a certified pizzeria that hand-makes their mozzarella, and has the finest ingredients from Italy. Their pizza crust is crispy and chewy, and the prosciutto caprese salad, margarita pizza, and capricciosa pizza are all recommended.
Eat Vivace Restaurant
Vivace is an upscale restaurant that focuses on and serves Italian dishes. Casual dress. The establishment is spacious, and the atmosphere is enhanced by flowers at the tables. Table talk requires you to speak up a bit here. Also, you'll notice that there is an open kitchen.
Eat Yamato Japanese Restaurant
Highly regarded sushi and Japanese.
Eat Cadillac Chaparral Restaurant (The Cadillac Grill)
Bar and restaurant on Hwy, very very casual, can hold a crowd. Can be a bit slow, if busy. Known for its inexpensive steaks and burgers.
Splurge
Eat Arizona Inn
Serving an American fare, this is a fine dining facility. Expect the average mains to cost in the range of $20 to $30. Architecturally, the restaurant is in an historic structure. The restaurant has a southwestern U.S. style decor. The interior is enhanced by prints and flowers at the tables, and the lighting is set quite dim. This is a white tablecloth restaurant, and the fireplace adds to the atmosphere and mood here. The establishment has several dining rooms. It has a romantic atmosphere.
Eat Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Fleming's is known for its prime steak and elegant, cherry wood atmosphere. Its wine list features over 100 wines available by the glass. This steakhouse also offers bar menu specials until 7PM.
Eat The Grill at Hacienda del Sol
Mobil four-star American-style grill featuring (Fall 2004) swordfish, Angus beef, buffalo sirloin, lamb, Scottish salmon, and other mains. Reservations are recommended, and can be made online.
Eat Mr. An's Teppan Steak, Sushi, & Seafood
Eat Coronet Restaurant
New American dinner restaurant with cocktails and wine in a hip building. Features various takes on classic dishes such as Belgian waffles and chowder.
Drink
Tucson has an active wine community, with many retailers, restaurants and wine bars regularly offering scheduled wine tasting events. Cochise County, southeast of Tucson has many wineries, some of which welcome visitors.
The majority of Tucson's nightlife for young and old is in three small areas of the town near the University of Arizona, all within walking distance to each other. The three are: 4th Avenue, University, and Downtown. Tucson nightlife tends to start later than nightlife in other areas of Arizona, such as Phoenix or Scottsdale. Expect bars and clubs to be sparsely populated until approx 10-10:30PM on an average weekend night.
4th Avenue stretches from University ave in the north to downtown Tucson in the south (only about ½ mile long). This stretch of 4th Avenue is the main nightlife strip of Tucson and filled with bars and restaurants of all varieties on each side of the street.
The downtown Tucson area just south of 4th Avenue tends caters to a nicer and wealthier crowd and is home to many of Tucson's higher class restaurants and cocktail bars, as well as the famous Club Congress.
The University Ave area of Tucson starts on University/Euclid on the west and runs several blocks until it ends into the school. It is approximately a 10-minute walk along University Avenue from the 4th Avenue area. Like 4th Avenue, University contains a strip of bars, stores, and restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes and ages (not just college kids).
Drink Barrio Brewing Company
Popular microbrewery near the train tracks that meander through downtown Tucson. Built into a former industrial warehouse, the interior features high ceilings and concrete floors while the long patio outside faces the train tracks and provides a view of the Downtown skyline. $3 pints during happy hour and a good happy hour food menu.
Drink Bison Witches
At the heart of Tucson's 4th Avenue historic district, Bison Witches is a funky little bar and restaurant that serves amazing sandwiches, has a large selection of beer and has great margaritas. Bison Witches is always full but the wait for a table is never more than 15 minutes. At night, it can get crowded now that the back patio has been remodeled into an outdoor bar.
Drink Club Congress
If you feel like dancing, this is the place to go. It's in the historic Congress Hotel, where you'll find three bars and one dance floor, featuring techno dance beats and live bands. Call ahead to see who's playing.
Drink Kon Tiki
A Polynesian-themed bar with fruity, Cruzan-laden concoctions that's been in Tucson since 1963. Don't mind the snake behind the bar, the servers are nice and there is no cover. A reasonable place to drink, as $10 can get you feeling quite good. The Scorpion here is a must--but it is illegal to drink one by yourself, so be sure to arrange for a designated driver. Weekends can be very busy.
Drink O'Malley's Bar and Grill
The largest and liveliest bar on 4th Avenue. Pool tables, indoor and outdoor areas, and opens a large dance floor in the back later at night. Live music or DJs on the weekends. Expect a line and a large crowd here after 10PM on Friday and Saturday. Drink specials throughout the week during the day. Attracts both the college and local crowd.
Drink The Surly Wench Pub
While a popular hangout for the local punk and LGBT crowd everyone is welcome. When bands are playing a $5 dollar cover is often charged. The Wench has two pool tables, an air hockey table and a lot of fun decor to peruse. They also often play B movies on a big screen over the entrance.
Sleep
Budget
Some motels on West Miracle Mile Road and south of 3000th block of North Oracle Road tend to be cheaper, run-down motels. Good deals can be found, but one probably wouldn't want to take one's family to these. This area is a legacy of the pre-freeway auto courts, 1937 to 1965, called Miracle Mile. A number of the old motor lodges remain. If you need a room for $25 this is the place to start looking.
Stay Hotel Congress
This historic hotel was the site of John Dillinger's arrest. The rooms are small, but have a funky, historic feel.
Mid-range
Splurge
Stay The Arizona Inn
This charming and classic 1930 resort was built by Isabella Greenway, Arizona's first woman to serve in the U.S. Congress (1933-1937). Colorful stucco casitas and suites ramble through meticulously, groomed grounds. The Arizona Inn has won top awards from Zagat and Condé Nast, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Stay The Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
There are a total of 398 rooms on three floors. There are two pools, five restaurants, a spa, running path, hiking trails, and there are many species of birds right outside your room on the side that looks out to the mountains. There are also two 18-hole golf courses nearby the hotel. There is free access to Sabino Canyon via a van; however, complimentary WiFi to their guests is not offered. Expect average daily rates for their standard rooms to cost $250 per night during the summer and convention seasons. Typically most guests are retirees without grandchildren - younger guests with children tend to stick out like a handful of sore thumbs.
Stay Tanque Verde Ranch
Guests at this dude ranch, founded in 1868, have a choice of getting daily massages or hitting the trail by horse or foot. Located on 640 acres in the foothills of the Rincon mountains east of Tucson, the ranch offers horseback riding, tennis, guided hiking, mountain biking and nature walks, all included in your nightly rate.
Camping
Stay Tucson Mountain Park, Gilbert Ray Campground
Secluded, quiet, county-run RV Park. 30 amp electric only, water and dump station available on the grounds. No reservations taken, honor system payments. Used mostly by out of state snowbirds during the winter, worth looking at to put up adventuresome guests on a budget or those travelers with a desire to see the night sky only a few miles out of Tucson. No showers. Note: rattlesnakes are not uncommon in the park.
Stay safe
- If you go walking in the desert parks, or on your own, learn desert-safety tips. Take water, always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to get back, and if you have a cell phone, take it with you and have it on. It's disturbingly easy to get lost in the desert. Also, watch for snakes and bugs, as a few are dangerous to your health. When hiking, for example, rattlesnakes are easy to come across. When putting your slippers on in the morning, scorpions can be an unpleasant surprise.
- Midtown (specifically the section along Alvernon Road between Grant and Ft. Lowell) and the south section of the city (in the general area between I-10, I-19, and Valencia) are not the safest places to be – but there are no real attractions in these areas anyway. Downtown is heavily occupied until 2AM when the bars close. If you are downtown after 2AM, be cautious. While murder rates are fairly low, they are violent and sometimes random. There is gang activity but for the most part it is directed against rival gangs. There are many homeless people downtown. The center city is heavily populated by the "young and restless", so it may seem a spooky to more conservative travelers due to the dirt and noise the youngsters create.
- Tucson has one of the highest rates of vehicle theft in the USA, and there are a few locations in the city you're more likely to have your car/truck stolen at than at any other place in the town, such as the Walmart on 1650 W Valencia Rd and the Park Place mall. Higher vehicle theft rates are due in part to larger pickings of a metro area and in part to the proximity to Mexico, where vehicles can be across the border often before the owners know they are missing.
- Parking and towing enforcement ramps up in the University campus area, especially during weekends of home football games.
- During the monsoon season (usually in the months of July - September), Tucson does experience flash flooding. Under no circumstances should you attempt to drive across a flooded road that is barricaded. If your vehicle becomes stranded in your attempt to cross the barricaded road: you will be issued a traffic citation by the police under the 1995 "stupid motorist law" (Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-910), fined in the amount of $2000, and ordered to pay for all rescue costs (usually $1500 or more – and that doesn't include the towing expense either). Also, if you knowingly drive a vehicle into a flooded road that is barricaded with a child under the age of 16, you may also be charged with a class-1 misdemeanor charge of child endangerment (Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 13-3619 - per each child in the car) in addition to the previously mentioned penalties if your car becomes stranded.
Stay healthy
- Newcomers to the southwest often hear about a lung infection called Valley Fever (a fungal disease – the proper medical name is coccidioidomycosis). Although it's rare to contract this disease, it should be taken seriously as it is difficult for most doctors to accurately identify it (a blood test called a coccidioidal must be done to accurately diagnose this illness), and it takes weeks for the symptoms to fully develop for an experienced doctor to recognize them. Exposure to very dusty conditions (ATV riding in the desert, construction, getting caught in a sudden dust storm) increases the opportunity to become infected. It is recommended to wear a face mask if you intend to be exposed to dusty conditions, and strongly recommended if you have a lung disease or temporarily suffering from pneumonia. There is no cure for this disease, only long term treatment. For acute symptoms patients may be prescribed an antifungal drug such as fluconazole.
- Take precautions for sunburn and heat stroke. This cannot be emphasized enough if you plan to make a trek in the desert mountains. It's easy to sunburn and windburn out in the desert, and the UV rays are very strong. It is recommended to use sunscreen with at least a UV protection rating of 30 or higher. Be mindful of the extreme heat when hiking in the mountains during the summer months to avoid suffering from heat exhaustion or possibly dying from heat stroke.
- Mosquitoes can be bad after a monsoon (usually in the months of July - September), so consider wearing mosquito repellent with a high concentration of DEET to reduce the risk of acquiring diseases typically transmitted by these annoying insects.
- Care should be taken when you decide to ride a motorcycle or ATV in the desert, so you don't get injured by running into or brushing against the "jumping cholla" cacti. Wearing thick protective clothing, helmets, and gloves while riding are an absolute must. These are very prickly cacti with stems that detach with little or no effort, also the cacti spines are very painful to remove from your skin once contact is made.
Go next
- Nearby Tucson is Saguaro National Park, the most dense forest of the iconic cactus of the American West. The park has two unconnected units to the east and west of Tucson.
- For cooler weather, you can make a day trip from Tucson up into the Santa Catalina Mountains and Mt. Lemmon (elevation over 9,000 ft, with snow in the winter). The mountains offer a number of hiking trails for all skill levels, as well as opportunities for horse riding, mountain biking, camping, and even downhill skiing.
- Further afield is Phoenix to the north, if you want "more city" than Tucson, which can be done as a day trip from Tucson, or you can move your base of operations from Tucson to Phoenix.
- For more cooler weather, further north from Phoenix along I-17 is Sedona, Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park. These destinations are a bit of a stretch as day trips from Tucson.
- Heading south is Nogales, with named cities on both sides of the US-Mexico border – Nogales (Arizona) and Nogales (Sonora).
- Southeast is Bisbee, which makes for a pleasant day trip. The Copper Queen has great food and historic accommodation.
- Along the way to Bisbee is Tombstone – visit the famous old west boom town to see "haunted" theaters, graves of famous outlaws, and reenactments of the famous O.K. Corral shootout. For more serious Old West history, be sure to visit the Cochise County Courthouse museum. A must for any trip to southern Arizona.
- North is Oracle, via Oracle Road (Arizona State Route 77). Along the way is Biosphere 2. Higher, Cooler, wetter, greener. Has Oracle State Park. Bedroom - artist community. Interesting people. Beautiful drive. Several overnight options (from motels to dude ranches) and restaurants. Two lively bars. Wonderful vistas of the north side of the Santa Catalina Mountains and Mt. Lemmon ski slopes. Borders Catalina National Forest (hiking, etc). Access to Arizona Trail. 'Back road to Mt Lemmon' starts in Oracle. Interesting history (Buffalo Bill, Gold Mining, Dude Ranches, et al). Main drag not much to look at but lots of hidden gems. See life in an unusually rich small Arizona town.
Nearby
Santa Catalina Mountains
Park · 16 listings · 18 mi away
Saguaro National Park
Park · 14 listings · 24 mi away
Green Valley
City / town · 12 listings · 25 mi away
Oracle
City / town · 14 listings · 30 mi away
Madera Canyon
Rural area · 7 listings · 32 mi away
Benson
City / town · 24 listings · 38 mi away
Altar Valley
Rural area · 4 listings · 39 mi away
Sonoita
City / town · 8 listings · 40 mi away
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