Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Tucson, Arizona. #Top Attractions

Spread the love!

Planning to travel to Tucson, Arizona? If you’re looking for the top attractions and fun things to do in Tucson, Arizona, look no further than Tucson, Arizona. Scroll down, and you’ll find our top travel suggestions for Tucson, Arizona, for the best places to visit in Tucson, Arizona. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.

4th Avenue

4th Avenue, Tucson, Arizona
4th Avenue is one of the best places to go in Tucson, Arizona

Located just northeast of downtown Tucson, Fourth Avenue is an important part of Tucson’s developing City Center.

In the beginning, the Avenue was a residential neighborhood, but it grew into the iconic Avenue, it is today.

It is surrounded by important historical structures and commercial buildings, making it a melting pot of the past and the present.

As a result of its central location, the District accommodated a wide range of people: college students, business people, and other people from the large community.

There are over 140 locally owned businesses along this bustling commercial street today, all of which cater to the needs of locals.

Take a stroll down 4th Avenue in Tucson, and you’ll see the city at its most varied.

Students, downtown employees, and visitors flock to this area to taste the city’s eccentric side.

There’s always something spectacular to view on 4th Avenue.

Address: N, 4th Avenue, Tucson, AZ

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum Tucson Arizona
Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, Arizona / Karen / Flickr

This zoo-museum hybrid, with its enormous size of 98 acres.

It’s a more natural environment than man-made structures. This means that the native animals are enjoying their natural habitat.

According to TripAdvisor, the Desert Museum is the top Tucson destination and one of the country’s top ten museums.

Most of the experience is outside, unlike most museums, so dress accordingly.

The Desert Museum is home to 4,892 animals representing 242 different species. 

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum opened its doors in 1952 and is hailed worldwide as a role model for interpreting and presenting native plants and animals.

Take a stroll through their Art Exhibit featuring animals going about their day.

If you have kids, they’ll get to enjoy a lot of the museum’s programs, like the indoor Aviation Adventures, and then watch animals in their habitats.

Enjoy this zoo-museum experience with or without kids!

Address: 2021 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743

Arizona State Art Museum

Arizona State Art Museum Tucson Arizona
Arizona State Art Museum, Tucson, Arizona / Kevin Dooley / Flickr

The Arizona State Art Museum is one of the top attractions in Arizona.

Visit the ASU Art Museum, where you’ll find the diverse lives of locals.

The Arizona State University’s Art Museum opened its doors in 1950 and has evolved into one of the world’s foremost institutions for contemporary art.

Tucson’s Arizona State Museum housed over a million pieces, mostly archaeological relics, from Arizona’s prehistory to modern history.

The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient American-Indian pottery and homeware to tools and toys. 

Making ASU Art Museum the oldest and largest anthropological study museum in the Southwest.

As one of the first institutions in the country to exhibit and collect works by Cuban and Cuban diaspora artists under her leadership, ASU Art Museum’s popularity soared from 1992-to 2010. 

The ASU Art Museum is always looking for new acquisitions that complement the museum. 

You can now see 12,000 objects that complement the museum’s image while supporting the ongoing exhibition schedule.

Address: 1013 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85721

Up for an adventure? Arizona has a lot to offer! Check out our travel guides on Scottsdale and Phoenix. Have a fun time on your vacation! Look out for more terrific things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona, and the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona.

B & B Cactus Farm

B & B Cactus Farm, Tucson, Arizona
B & B Cactus Farm is one of the best places to go in Tucson, Arizona

Cathedral of Saint Augustine, Tucson, Arizona / Bill Morrow / FlickrHow about a visit to a one-of-a-kind nursery?

B & B Cactus Farm is a Tucson, Arizona-based cactus nursery specializing in various cacti and succulents.

Cacti are fascinating and prickly plants and are not too challenging to take care of.

Most can survive as houseplants as they thrive even without green thumbs.

 Some varieties are even edible.

For over 30 years, B & B Cactus Farm has provided customers with these quirky plants. It is always eager to answer all your prickly plant questions.

Visit their 2 acres of cacti and succulents of all kinds in their greenhouses and landscape.

The B & B Cactus Farm in Tucson is a must-see if you believe that you’ll never see cacti that lovely.

A wide variety of ceramics is available for purchase at the Farm.

You can also stroll on their well-kept grounds for some peace and quiet.

Address: 11550 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85748

Cathedral of Saint Augustine

Cathedral of Saint Augustine Tucson Arizona
Cathedral of Saint Augustine, Tucson, Arizona / Bill Morrow / Flickr

How about attending the Sunday Mass at someplace special, ey?

The Tucson Roman Catholic Diocese’s mother church is the Cathedral of St. Augustine.

Founded in 1776, this holy building pre-dates Arizona itself and has persisted as a physical manifestation of the Catholic Church.

Now, it is one of the most photographed structures in the Southwest and serves as a prominent and essential representative of the architectural, cultural, and spiritual traditions that define this region.

While many waited for the building’s renovation, most anxious about the star of the makeover was the Pamplona Crucifix. 

A 600 years crucifix that was carved all the way from Spain. 

It stands 17 feet tall and weighs 2,000 pounds. 

The renovation is worth the wait, seeing the effort and care they pour into the sacred cross.

Religious or not, everyone could agree that the building looks magnificent.

You’ll have to see for yourself.

Address: 192 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

Deciding to travel to Arizona? Get the most out of your trip by adding Flagstaff to your travel plans. Discover the enjoyable things to do in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Colossal Cave Mountain Park  

Colossal Cave Mountain Park Tucson Arizona
Colossal Cave Mountain Park, Tucson, Arizona / K e v i n / Flickr

How about a visit to one of North America’s largest dry caves? 

After centuries of water erosion, the Colossal Cave eventually reached a dry state. 

It’s a time capsule of Arizona’s ancient geological formations.

When ranchers and homesteaders followed the westward migration of the 19th century. The Cave was rediscovered by Solomon Lick. In his search for his stray livestock. 

But the Cave is infamous for being a robber’s hideout. After pulling a job, rail robbers used the Cave as a hideout to escape law enforcement.

There are almost 5 kilometers of pathways within Colossal Cave Mountain Park caves.

To get to the Cave, you will have to hike for about 40 minutes to finish the half-mile-long guided stroll. 

It’s an excellent way for families to get a taste of everything the Cave has to offer. 

You’ll hear stories of railroad robberies, spooky ghost stories, and some facts about the Cave’s history and geology.

Address: 16721 E Old Spanish Trail, Vail, AZ 85641

FoodInRoot Farmers’ Markets

FoodInRoot Farmers' Markets, Tucson, Arizona
FoodInRoot Farmers’ Markets is one of the best places to go in Tucson, Arizona

This Farmer’s Market, based at St. Philip’s Plaza, is located at River Road and Campbell Avenue in the southeast. 

Architecture influenced by Venice, soaring Eucalyptus trees and stunning Sycamores, beautiful fountains, and cobblestone entryways characterize this renowned location.

It doesn’t matter if you visit on a Saturday or Sunday; you’ll be a part of an event that’s become a Tucson staple.

The Plaza is ideal for shopping, exhibits, restaurants, and even professional offices. 

It serves as a place for retail and dining destinations as well.

St. Philip’s Plaza also serves as a platform for live music performances and a place for private events as well.

Visit them on the weekends and join in on brunch and mimosas at their weekend market, which features over 100 artists and artisans.

Come and learn why Tucson’s St Philip’s Plaza has been the city’s most recognizable shopping and dining destination!

Address: 4280 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718

International Wildlife Museum

International Wildlife Museum Tucson Arizona
International Wildlife Museum, Tucson, Arizona / a rancid amoeba / Flickr

Let’s visit the International Wildlife Museum, where you can discover the wonderful world of natural history for yourself! 

It is a recreation replica of a French Foreign Legion fort in Chad, Africa.

It can be found on Speedway, five miles west of Interstate 10.

The International Wildlife Museum’s mission is to raise awareness of the importance of wildlife management and conservation.

They also aim to educate visitors about the wide variety of species found worldwide.

Established in 1988, the museum has around 400 species of insects, animals, and birds. 

Animals donated to the museum come from various sources, including government agencies and zoos. 

A handful of the collections are close to 100 years old.

This is a fantastic opportunity to get up and close with animals and learn about their adaptations, habitats, and conservation challenges.

After the exhibit, come and see their theater, which features a new wildlife film every hour.

Address: 4800 West Gates Pass, Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85745 

Lovin’ Spoonfuls

Lovin' Spoonfuls, Tucson, Arizona
Lovin’ Spoonfuls is one of the best places to go in Tucson, Arizona

Carnivores, step aside!

Since starting in 2005, Lovin’ Spoonfuls hasn’t stopped feeding Tucson’s growing crowd of vegans.

Even the meat-loving Tucson community is impressed with their exceptional vegan comfort food. 

Their food is 100 percent plant-based and is guaranteed to be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans. 

This is not the stereotypical menu filled with mushy food and salads.

With a pleasant, homey atmosphere, they strive to make everyone’s visit as comfortable as possible.

Lovin’ Spoonfuls is a family-owned restaurant business serving large portions of its food to the people. They are the pioneers of the vegan scene in Tucson.

The pandemic could not even stop their growth.

You won’t miss the meat even if you for their Southwest Burrito with its vegan chorizo. That’s how good their food is!

Their vegan bakery will prove that not all food with animal products is better.

You don’t even have to be vegan to enjoy their food.

Address: 2990 N Campbell Ave #120, Tucson, AZ 85719

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Mission San Xavier del Bac Tucson Arizona
Mission San Xavier del Bac, Tucson, Arizona / Ken Lund / Flickr

Are you a Christian? Then you might want to consider this church heavily inspired by Spanish design.

As one of the most evocative examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the United States, San Xavier del Bac serves as a white beacon against the desert.

This white mission church is located on Arizona’s Tohono O’odham San Xavier Indian Reservation. 

This ‘white dove of the desert is the oldest surviving European building in Arizona.

It is also a designated National Historic Landmark.

At first glance, you can tell that it is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture, including exquisitely crafted murals, sculptures, and carvings throughout.

It is also probably the only structure you’ll find in Arizona that boasts its Baroque architecture and design.

The church also hosts a sale for local or native food on Sundays.

Does it clash against the Wild West charm of the desert, but in Tucson? It somehow works.

Address: 1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746

Old Tucson

Old Tucson Tucson Arizona
Old Tucson, Tucson, Arizona / Thomas / Flickr

You’re immediately transported back in time when you visit the Old Tucson Studios.

Well, at least in terms of what we’re used to seeing in the media.

Located in Tucson Mountain Park, just west of Tucson, this is a beautiful place to spend time with your family. 

With over 300 westerns filmed at Old Tucson Studios. There’s no wonder why the image of the West is this iconic filming site. 

Take advantage of the scenic trip across the Sonoran Desert’s abundant vegetation, and then head straight to the studio to enjoy Western life.

Old Tucson also focuses on historical re-enactment, even if it’s not authentic. We still live for the cheesy acts. 

Throughout the day, gunfights occur in the streets (they’re fake, don’t worry), and saloon ladies wave their handkerchiefs to entice pedestrians into their establishments.

You’ll either feel like a cowboy or an A-List celebrity starring in a West-themed movie.

Address: 201 Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735

Pima Air & Space Museum

Pima Air Space Museum Tucson Arizona
Pima Air Space Museum, Tucson, Arizona / Andrew Thomas / Flickr

The Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the best things to do in Arizona.

Let us dive into the world of aerospace and aircraft!

Located in Tucson, Arizona, Pima Air & Space Museum is the country’s biggest nonprofit aerospace museum.

The museum was founded to preserve antique airplanes in 1976. 

Among its many aircraft are the SR-71, the world’s tiniest biplane, and other private, military, presidential and commercial planes and spacecraft dating back to the dawn of aviation.

The museum’s expansive collection of aircraft has made it an internationally famous tourist attraction. 

In addition to the 125,000 square feet of interior exhibits in six hangars, there are 80 acres of open space for exploration.

The place is so huge. Some people took 2 days to see everything in the museum.

The Women in Flight Gallery, flight simulator, and perfectly-maintained aircraft are just a few attractions to offer.

It is a sanctuary for anyone remotely interested in aviation. 

Address: 6000 E Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ 85756

Presidio San Agustin del Tucson

Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, Tucson, Arizona
Presidio San Agustin del Tucson is one of the best places to go in Tucson, Arizona

Presidio San Agustin del Tucson perfectly represents Tucson at its developing stage.

Established in 1776, Presidio San Agustin Museum was built to recreate the Tucson Presidio’s Northeast Bastion. 

The re-creation is based on historical and archaeological information and documents studied for accuracy.

Even the whole place uses traditional materials to show life from before perfectly.

Visitors can relive the lives of Tucson’s earliest residents. Early Native Americans, Presidio dwellers, and Territorial Period settlers.

The docent tour will give you details and facts about them.

Experience a 150-year-old traditional Sonoran Row house, the archaeological ruins of a pit house, and the historic Presidio wall. 

Various days of the week are designated for re-enactments and demonstrations so that you can fully immerse yourself in Old Tucson.

They’ll surely enjoy the exhibits and re-enactments if you have kids!

Address: 196 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

Reid Park Zoo

Reid Park Zoo Tucson Arizona
Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, Arizona / Kevin O’Brien / Flickr

Did you know that a gathering of flamingos is called flamboyance?

Reid Park Zoo is a little-known jewel in the heart of Tucson. Visitors can take in the area’s natural beauty while also learning about the animals that call it home.

The zoo is not as big as usual, with four different sections to check out. Still, it is glaringly obvious that the animals were well cared for.

The mammals and birds roam their enclosures with their fur and feathers gleaming richly.

The lion, the king of the jungle, would chuff or start a stare-off with people.

The flamingos aren’t lonely; they have excellent flamboyance there.

The meerkats are a lively, adorable bunch.

And, of course, there’s the awe-striking bear, majestic elephants, eye-catching peacocks, and many more!

And most importantly, the walkways are shaded! So you don’t have to spend another minute under the blistering sun.

Address: 3400 E Zoo Ct, Tucson, AZ 85716

Sabino Canyon

Sabino Canyon Tucson Arizona
Sabino Canyon, Tucson, Arizona / a rancid amoeba / Flickr

Amongst the many spots to trek, Sabino Canyon is a must!

Sabino Canyon is located along the Catalina Mountains. This jaw-dropping Canyon offers multiple outdoor activities like swimming, biking, hiking, and picnicking.

The past of Sabino Canyon is as varied as it is intriguing.

There were no human beings on the planet at the time the Santa Catalina Mountains were formed 12 million years ago. 

The Hohokam people are said to be some of Sabino Canyon’s first known inhabitants.

Witness water in the middle of the desert. There are two rainy seasons in Sabino Canyon: winter rains and summer monsoon. 

Due to this, Sabino Creek is almost always flowing.

And because the Canyon is such an important ancient spot, it has been off-limits to private cars since 1978. 

Don’t worry; you can still take an emission-free Sabino Canyon Crawler or their Bear Canyon shuttle to tour the Canyon.

Address: 5900 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750

Sentinel Peak

Sentinel Peak Tucson Arizona
Sentinel Peak, Tucson, Arizona / Bill Morrow / Flickr

The whole of Tucson is proud of its beloved Sentinel Peak.

Its base is considered the birthplace of Tucson.

The “A” Mountain, located on the city’s west side, offers a panoramic view of the city.

The mountain’s foot is a popular spot during the Fourth of July fireworks show.

It sounds as simple as it is described. It is literally a mountain with a gigantic ‘A’ at its peak.

Students at the University of Arizona began working on the stone “A” in 1915 and completed it in 1916.

The “A” is painted differently for each celebration or holiday.

The cityscape would look good at any hour of the day, but we recommend going at sundown.

Whether you hike or take your car, after ooh-ing and aah-ing at the letter ‘A,’ turn around.

And get ready to have your breath taken out of you because of the view.

Address: City of Tucson; Pima County, Arizona

Tohono Chul Park

Tohono Chul Park Tucson Arizona
Tohono Chul Park, Tucson, Arizona / Karen / Flickr

Visitors to Tucson’s Tohono Chul can enjoy the Sonoran Desert’s unique splendor all year long.

Tohono Chul has something for everyone when it comes to gorgeous natural offerings.

Tohono Chul indeed lives up to its name as one of Travel + Leisure Magazine’s “Ten Best Botanical Gardens.”

You will be drawn to this park like someone finding oases in the hot desert.

Your visit here would be a much-needed break from modern’s quick and busy pace.

Don’t worry; Tohono Chul is not only eye candy. You will be simultaneously educated while your eyes feast on Arizona’s intriguing cultural traditions and diverse wildlife.

If that’s not enough, exhibit galleries like Roy J. Kurtz Collection of American Indian Art and Tom Baumgartner | Codex Sonora are also available to visit.

Come relax at their Garden Bistro after spending the rest of the day viewing what the park has to offer.

Address: 7366 N Paseo Del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704

Trail Dust Town

Trail Dust Town Tucson Arizona
Trail Dust Town, Tucson, Arizona / Scarlet Sappho / Flickr

Giddy up, cowboy! Let’s hear about the historic Trail Dust Town.

As soon as Trail Dust Town was created in 1961, it became a popular destination for Tucson residents and visitors.

Though most of the popularity comes from their Pinnacle Peak steakhouse. 

After a devastating fire in Pinnacle Peak in 1971, the restaurant quickly rose from the flames.

It continued its current position and resumed serving Tucson’s best steaks once more. 

And Trail Dust Town expanded and rose with them.

When the amusement rides first appeared in Trail Dust Town in the mid-1990s, the town transformed from a collection of stores and restaurants into a destination for family fun and amusement.

Trail Dust Town carried on with minor alterations and enhancements. Trail Dust Town’s transformation from a shopping area with an amusement park to a family entertainment center.

When you come and visit, make sure to bring your kids with you.

Address: 6541 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85715

Tucson Botanical Garden

Tucson Botanical Garden Tucson Arizona
Tucson Botanical Garden, Tucson, Arizona / Scott Edmunds / Flickr

The Tucson Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

If your itinerary is filled with exciting activities, you’ll need some time to relax.

Then a healing trip to the Tucson Botanical Garden is in order.

The Canada Garden Tourism Council named it one of North America’s top ten gardens to visit in 2017. Reader’s Digest named it as one of America’s best secret gardens.

The Tucson Botanical Gardens was established in 1964 by horticulturist and avid plant ( and cacti) collector Harrison G. Yocum.

Indulge in the beauty of hundreds of butterflies and orchids in bloom at this fascinating display.

Over 400 butterflies are procured for the exhibit from 11 countries that live in this stunning butterfly exhibit.

It is also home to mature trees, expertly cultivated vegetation, and specialty gardens.

Attend art exhibits and galleries to learn about new and exciting artists.

Breakfast or lunch can be enjoyed within the Garden in a peaceful outdoor environment if you get hungry.

Address: 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712

White Stallion Ranch

White Stallion Ranch Tucson Arizona
White Stallion Ranch, Tucson, Arizona / Matthew Yglesias / Flickr

White Stallion Ranch has a large handful of awards under its belt. Even its page on Tripadvisor has a current 5-star rating with more than 900 reviews!

The White Stallion Ranch, owned and operated by the True family for three generations, is about family fun and outdoor adventures.

In the White Stallion is a classic dude ranch with resort amenities like an outdoor pool and day spa. A very Western-themed accommodation.

No detail is overlooked with its honor bar chairs made from western saddles and the planted, well-tended cactus garden.

As you would have guessed, horseback riding is a primary ranch activity, and guests are provided with a suitable horse for their stay.

For night activities, Cowboy music and line dancing are just some of the activities in the Old West town near the stables. 

The mountain view terrace is often used for stargazing if that’s not your scene.

Address: City of Tucson; Pima County, Arizona

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

Animal Shelters In Tucson, Arizona
Animal Shelters In Tucson, Arizona

Think about helping out at an animal shelter near you. This is one of the most meaningful things to do. There are too many abandoned pets because people let them have babies and don’t take care of them. Steps must be taken immediately to stop the growing number of stray and homeless cats and dogs. We need animal shelters to deal with the problems that arise when too many pets are abandoned.

Volunteering to aid animals enables people to influence their community positively. It allows them to see how they can help their community and needy animals.

Whether you already have a pet or you’re thinking of adopting a pet of your own, you will gain valuable experience in caring for animals by volunteering. Perhaps you might need volunteer experience for a college or job application in the future. People like to see applicants volunteer. It shows that you care about others and value a sense of community. If you fall in love with a particular cat or dog while volunteering, that’s okay too. If you are in a position to adopt a new best friend, you might give someone that second chance at love and life!

Learn more about the animal shelters in Tucson, Arizona, where you can dedicate your time. Donate to an animal shelter.

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Still unsure about making Tucson, Arizona, your next destination? Hop over to why visit Tucson, Arizona, at least once in your lifetime here.

Spread the love!

Scroll to Top