Saguaro National Park: It’s impossible to ignore the elegance and stillness of Tucson’s vibrant landscape. Easily recognized, the cactus is the symbol of the desert, which to this day still represents the vastness and wonder of Tucson as a city. Cacti can grow as tall as trees, and while they are somewhat threatened by increasing development and planters, they still don the city as spiky green banners. A stroll in Saguaro National Park will show you just how beautiful this plant truly is. Hiking trails and observation points allow for unforgettable photo opportunities and forest picnics with unbeatable views. If you’re booking flights to Tucson for the joy of natural wonder, and are still aching for more, then consider renting a car and making the 350-mile trek to the triumphant Grand Canyon. The trip can last up to seven hours by car, so you may want to consider staying overnight.
University of Arizona: All those hoodie-wearing, book-toting, beer-drinking students might seem like they own the city, but what they’re really doing is taking advantage of all of Tucson’s amazing opportunities around every corner. Sometime during your Tucson travel, make a point to visit the University of Arizona’s campus, where buildings steeped in academia are paired with sprawling green space, all containing the city’s future innovators. Pay special attention to the University’s Museum of Art, which encompasses works spanning from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Famed pros like Rembrandt, Picasso, O’Keeffe, Warhol, and Rothko don the walls of this special collection.
Great Tucson Beer Festival: If you’re all about malt hops, barley, and a little carbonation, then book flights to Tucson to enjoy its annual Great Tucson Beer Festival, which takes place every September. Held in Tucson’s Electric Park Stadium, the festivities welcome people from all over the country. Beer loves sample from over 60 of the finest breweries in the southwest showcasing more than 200 different brews. Beer, snacks, and live music pack the place every year, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.
Spas: If you’re not a running, jumping, outdoorsy kind of traveller, there’s something more relaxing in Tucson: The perfect way to shake off your aches is to spend a luxurious day at one of the city’s most lavish spas. Some centre around health and fitness, and others master pure relaxation. Spend an hour immersing yourself in a decadent hot stone massage, or treat yourself to a facial, seaweed wrap, or all-over scrub to feel your best. Spend a peaceful day of solitude on your own, or pamper you and someone special by booking a spa day for two.