20 Fun & Exciting Things to Do This Year in Tucson, Arizona
Looking for some things to do in Tucson, Arizona? This college town has plenty of outdoor activities and historic landmarks to explore. In this article, travel enthusiast Sarah McDonagh shares her favorite attractions and activities to add to your Tucson, Arizona itinerary.
Last updated: June 25, 2024
4 min read
Contents
Nestled in the Sonoran Desert and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, Tucson is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This popular southern Arizona city is an activity hub for the Grand Canyon state.
From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Tucson offers a plethora of attractions and activities to suit every interest. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or food enthusiast, here are some of the must-see attractions and things to do when visiting Tucson, Arizona this year.
Saguaro National Park
Peak Season
Late Fall to Early Spring
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Nature Enthusiasts, Desert Lovers, Hikers, Wildlife Photographers, Botany Enthusiasts
Home to towering saguaro cacti and diverse desert wildlife, this park is one of my all time favorites in the country. There are tons of trails to hike, or you can just take a scenic drive to enjoy breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Peak Season
Winter Months
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Nature Enthusiasts, Wildlife Lovers, Desert Explorers, Botanical Admirers, Birdwatchers
At the edge of the park’s entrance is an amazing museum that combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, offering you a unique opportunity to learn about the desert’s flora and fauna.
Old Tucson
Peak Season
Spring Months and Fall Months
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Western History Enthusiasts, Film Buffs, Cowboy Culture Aficionados, Family Visitors
Step back in time at Old Tucson, a Western film studio and theme park that recreates the spirit of the Old West. You can explore the movie sets, watch live entertainment, and experience fun Wild West reenactments.
Mission San Xavier del Bac
Peak Season
Winter Months
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
History Buffs, Architecture Enthusiasts, Religious Explorers, Cultural Admirers
Another great stop is the “White Dove of the Desert,” a stunning Spanish colonial mission located just outside Tucson. Admire the intricate architecture, beautiful frescoes, and rich history of this historic landmark.
Tucson Botanical Gardens
Peak Season
Spring Months
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Botanical Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Photographers, Garden Admirers
Here you can stroll through themed gardens, including a butterfly garden and a cactus and succulent garden, and enjoy tranquil ponds and winding pathways. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you want something more leisurely than a hike.
Mount Lemmon
Peak Season
June to August
Weather
Website
Address
People
Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Hikers, Cyclists, Rock Climbers, Photographers
On the hotter summer days, elevation is your best friend and Mount Lemmon is the perfect escape from the desert as it’s the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. A venture up here offers cooler temperatures and breathtaking views as you drive or hike through pine forests and alpine meadows.
Pima Air & Space Museum
Peak Season
December to May
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Aerospace Enthusiasts, Aviation History Buffs, Families With Curious Children
Aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Pima Air & Space Museum, one of the largest air and space museums in the world. Here you can find over 300 aircraft on display, including historic warplanes, vintage helicopters, and even a retired Air Force One.
Tucson Mountain Park
Peak Season
November to March
Weather
Website
Address
People
Hiking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Birdwatchers, Picnickers
Located west of the city, this park is perfect for experiencing the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert at Tucson Mountain Park. Hike, bike, or horseback ride on miles of scenic trails, and keep an eye out for desert wildlife, including javelinas, coyotes, and desert bighorn sheep.
Tucson Museum of Art
Peak Season
December to February
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Art Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Cultural Explorers, Museum Aficionados, Local History Admirers
The southwest has a rich artistic heritage, and the Tucson Museum of Art is a great place to delve in and explore exhibits featuring works by local and regional artists, as well as pre-Columbian and Spanish colonial art.
Sabino Canyon
Peak Season
September to November
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Nature Lovers, Hiking Enthusiasts, Wildlife Observers, Photography Aficionados
Located in the Coronado National Forest, you can take a tram ride or hike along the canyon floor, surrounded by towering cliffs, lush desert vegetation, and seasonal waterfalls. It’s a fun alternative to hiking or driving, especially if you’re looking for an activity to awe young kids.
Reid Park Zoo
Peak Season
March to May
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Animal Lovers, Families With Children, Nature Enthusiasts, Wildlife Photographers
Spend a day with the animals at Reid Park Zoo, home to over 500 animals representing 200 species from around the world. Explore exhibits featuring elephants, lions, giraffes, and more, and if you have kids there are tons of educational programs and interactive experiences.
Tucson Food Tours
Peak Season
November to March
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Foodies, Culinary Explorers, Gastronomy Enthusiasts, Cultural Enthusiasts, History Buffs
For all the foodies, Tucson Food Tours allows you to embark on a culinary adventure where you can sample delicious local cuisine and discover the city’s vibrant food scene. From traditional Sonoran Mexican dishes to innovative farm-to-table fare, Tucson offers something to satisfy every palate.
Fourth Avenue
Peak Season
October to March
Weather
Website
Address
People
Shopping Enthusiasts, Foodies, Art Lovers, Music Aficionados, Coffee Connoisseurs
Tucson’s eclectic Fourth Avenue is a lively street lined with funky boutiques, vintage shops, art galleries, and eclectic eateries. Here you can browse unique gifts, listen to live music, and soak up the bohemian atmosphere of this vibrant neighborhood.
Tucson Symphony Orchestra
Peak Season
Late Fall To Early Spring
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Classical Music Enthusiasts, Orchestra Aficionados, Cultural Explorers, Music Lovers
Experience the magic of live music with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, which offers a diverse range of performances throughout the year. From classical concerts to pops and chamber music, there’s tons of events to enjoy regardless of your taste.
Biosphere 2
Peak Season
March to May
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Science Enthusiasts, Environmentalists, Educational Seekers, Nature Lovers
If you have time and are renting a car, I highly recommend venturing out to the Biosphere 2, an iconic research facility located north of Tucson. You can take a guided tour of this unique structure, which was designed to replicate Earth’s ecosystems, and learn about ongoing research on climate change and environmental sustainability.
Titan Missile Museum
Peak Season
Winter Months
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
History Enthusiasts, Military History Buffs, Cold War Era Aficionados
Another historical stop, the Titan Missile Museum is a step back into the Cold War Era as it is home to a preserved Titan II missile silo. The museum offers guided tours of the underground facility where you can learn about the history of nuclear deterrence and the role of the Titan II missile in America’s defense strategy.
Tucson Ghost Tour
Peak Season
September to November
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
History Buffs, Paranormal Enthusiasts, Ghost Story Lovers, Thrill Seekers, Night Owls
You may not immediately think of Tucson as being haunted, but the city has quite a history of paranormal activity. Tucson Ghost Tour is a fun way to explore the city’s haunted history, hear chilling tales and visit historic hotels and eerie cemeteries. It’s a more unique way to explore the town if you are up for it!
El Presidio Historic District
Peak Season
Winter Months
Weather
Website
Address
People
History Buffs, Cultural Explorers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Outdoor Enthusiasts
The historic El Presidio neighborhood is where you’ll find beautifully restored adobe homes, charming courtyards, and vibrant murals depicting Tucson’s multicultural heritage. Visit the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum to learn about the city’s Spanish colonial history or just walk around the area and enjoy a nice brunch.
Tucson Craft Beer Scene
Peak Season
October to April
Weather
Website
Address
Phone
People
Craft Beer Enthusiasts, Beer Connoisseurs, Foodies, Socializers, Local Culture Explorers
Tucson has a booming craft beer scene with many local breweries and taprooms. Sample a variety of beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, and experience the creativity and craftsmanship of Tucson’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Barrio is my favorite so make sure to stop in there at a minimum!