Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743 520-883-2702

Description: WEST TUCSON. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is one of Tucson's star attractions, with good reason. Part zoo, part natural history museum, and part botanical garden, the facility is set on 21 acres and is home to numerous animals that roam freely within invisibly-fenced enclosures. After checking out the exhibits in the main visitor center, wander along two miles of paved pathways, where you can catch sight of endangered species such as the Mexican wolf, thick-billed parrot, ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, and the Gila topminnow; and not-so-endangered critters like leafcutter ants, black bears, river otters, bighorn sheep, coatis, beavers, coyote, javelinas, black-tailed prairie dogs, termites and roadrunners. And don't miss the captivating cactus garden or the Hummingbird Aviary!
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Atturbury Bird and Animal Sanctuary

8280 E Escalante Rd, Lower Lincoln Park, Tucson, AZ 85730 520-748-2725

Description: EAST TUCSON. A 55-acre sanctuary situated right in the city ­ it's not only a haven for wildlife, it's a peaceful retreat for people, too. A mile-long loop trail passes all manner of desert plant life ­ mesquite, desert hackberry, fishhook barrel cactus and catclaw acacia to name a few ­ which harbor a wide variety of birds and other critters like cottontails and gila monsters. If you're planning to stroll through around midday, pack a lunch. The Desert Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden is an especially entertaining spot for a picnic.
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Biosphere 2 Center

32540 S Biosphere Rd, Oracle, AZ 85623 520-838-6200

Description: Biosphere 2 is a self-contained, man-made habitat that comprises all of the elements from Earth (Biosphere 1). It is a sealed glass and space frame construction with seven wilderness ecosystems. Today, Biosphere 2 is operated as a research station by Columbia University, which also maintains a branch of the university on the grounds. Guided tours take visitors through several of the biomes, as well as the biospherian's former living quarters and the technical rooms that control the various interior climates.
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El Presidio

Tucson, AZ 85701

Description: DOWNTOWN. El Presidio was Tucson's first neighborhood. The historic area is the site of the original walled fort of Tucson, built when the US Army established a presence here. Though none of the original wall remains, many of the original adobe homes and buildings still stand, and are occasionally showcased during home tours. Top attractions here include the Tucson Museum of Art, Old Town Artisans, and El Charro Restaurant. Bordered by West 6th, Sunset Park, South Arizona, and Freeway Street.
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El Tiradito

356 S Main Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

Description: DOWNTOWN. El Tiradito (The Wishing Shrine) has its roots back in the 1800s. A plaque at the site says a sinner is buried here in unconsecrated ground, but the legends surrounding this person are sketchy at best. Most seem to agree that an ill-fated love triangle was involved, but which point of the triangle is interred here will likely remain a mystery for all time. For years, folks have come here to say a little prayer, light a candle, and leave a milagro. Supposedly, if your candle is still burning in the morning, whatever you prayed for will come to pass. An interesting bit of trivia: El Tiradito is on the National Register of Historic Places, a designation which thwarted construction of a super highway right through the Barrio Historico.
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Mission San Xavier del Bac

1950 W San Xavier Rd, San Xavier District, Tucson, AZ 85746 520-294-2624

Description: AIRPORT. San Xavier is considered one of the finest examples of Mission architecture in this country. Founded by Father Eusabio Kino, today it serves as the parish church for the Tohono O'odham tribe and often hosts concerts. The elaborate interior has been carefully restored using techniques taught by experts from the Vatican in Rome. Numerous native artifacts are housed inside, including books, maps and photos. Tourists are welcome any time except during services. There is no admission charge, although a donation for the continued upkeep is appreciated.
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Reid Park Zoo

1100 S Randolph Way, Tucson, AZ 85716 520-791-4022

Description: EAST TUCSON. This well-planned, 17-acre zoo features all of your zoo favorites, including polar bears, jaguars, ostriches and much more. The Aviary exhibit, with its array of birds, is a popular destination, as is the South American exhibit. With more than 500 rare animals, the zoo is active in helping endangered species such as Siberian tigers and ruffed lemurs.
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St. Augustine Cathedral

192 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 520-623-6351

Description: DOWNTOWN. Construction on St. Augustine began in 1866, but it took a few years to complete. The cathedral is perhaps best known for its detailed cast stone façade, liberally decorated with signs and symbols, including some of desert plants and animals. Notable features inside include the crucifix in the vestibule, which was carved in Pamplona, Spain in the 12th or 13th century. The cathedral seats 1250 people, and the floor gradually slopes down toward the altar allowing everyone a good view. Sunday's 8 am mariachi mass is open to the public and is worth attending for a taste of local culture, and guided tours are offered by appointment.
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St. Philip's in the Hills

4440 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718 520-299-6421

Description: FOOTHILLS. Saint Philip's is one of the largest Episcopal churches in the country, and also one of the most beautiful. The views from its 12-foot arched window distinguish it from most houses of worship. The mission style building was designed in the 1930s by noted architect Josias Joesler, who wisely positioned the building to take full advantage of the majesty of the Catalina Mountains. Inside, there's a gallery that displays the works of local artists, and the church hosts numerous music performances throughout the year that are open to the public. Try to get a glimpse of the inner courtyard, an enchanting oasis that's perfect for thoughtful reflection.
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Tohono Chul Park

7366 N Paseo Del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704 520-742-6455

Description: FOOTHILLS. Tohono Chul Park is a wildlife refuge within the metropolitan area of Tucson. Covering 48 acres, the park is designed to educate visitors about this desert area via demonstration gardens, greenhouse and the unique geology wall. Visitors enjoy the pleasant tea room, the greenhouse shop and the small but informative museum.
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Tucson Botanical Gardens

2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712 520-326-9686

Description: NORTHEAST. Set in the heart of the city, the Tucson Botanical Gardens offers plenty of winding pathways taking visitors past floral exhibits, greenhouses, classrooms for instruction, and a superb exhibit on xeriscaping, a concept of planning yards and gardens using minimal water in the desert climate. Don't miss the iris garden, the herb garden, the unique tropical exhibit or the well-stocked gift shop.
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University of Arizona

811 N Euclid Ave, UA Visitor Center, Tucson, AZ 85719 520-621-5130

Description: DOWNTOWN. The University of Arizona campus is an excellent place for a scenic stroll, with groves of ancient olive trees and shaded pathways surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens full of palm trees and cacti. Start at the UA visitor center, where you can learn more about the campus and pick up a map. Highlights include the arts complex with its nationally known photo repository featuring the work of Ansel Adams, the Arizona State Museum, Centennial Hall, and the Flandreau Planetarium.
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