Looking for a fun location for a weekend getaway? Look no further than Tucson, Arizona. This thriving city is going through a renaissance with a revitalized food scene, numerous outdoor activities for adventurers, and plenty of cultural and historical attractions. Whether you’re looking for a hopping weekend of non-stop action or a few laid-back days to alleviate your stress, Tucson is the place to be.
Delicious Food
Because of its proximity to Mexico, Tucson obviously has a lot of southern influence when it comes to cuisine. However, there’s more than just Mexican food, as the city also has a strong commitment to farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers. In fact, the city’s food culture is so strong, it was recently named a “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO, making it the sole city in the U.S. with this status.
Peruse the city’s culinary offerings by starting at Guadalajara Grill, a Mexican restaurant that diners love because of the fresh chips and guacamole crafted right at the table. For a quick lunch, stop by Beyond Bread for some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever taste. If you’re not sure where else to stop, you can even go on a Tucson Food Tour to get samples from all the greatest local establishments.
Numerous Natural Wonders
Image via Flickr by Larry Lamsa
Arizona is a beautiful state, and Tucson has the luck to be located near many of the region’s most stunning natural wonders. Start your tour with a trip to A Mountain to get some amazing views of the city during sunrise and sunset. To escape the desert climate, head over to Mount Lemon, a local hotspot that features pine forests and a ski lodge.
Another outdoor adventure that awaits nearby is Saguaro National Park. The park has two halves that surround the city on either side, meaning you’ll have plenty to explore. With 165 miles of trails in the park, you’ll have limitless possibilities for hiking, biking, or picnicking.
You can also visit two different canyons around Tucson: Sabino and Madera. Sabino Canyon culminates at Seven Falls, so you’ll enjoy beautiful water views along the way. Madera Canyon is just about an hour from Tucson and is part of the Coronado National Forest.
Finally, the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a must-visit. You’ll travel along Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Mountain Range for spectacular views along the 60-mile trip.
Intriguing Culture
Obviously, Tucson is an amalgam of culture and history, so coming here gives you a lot of opportunities to explore the past. Begin with a tour of the San Xavier Mission, an old church that’s a perfect example of the 18th-century style of Spanish architecture. With its clean white facade, this Roman Catholic church will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into the Byzantine era.
Another quirky side of Tucson is the Gaslight Theater, which is a downtown highlight that produces its own comical musicals. The theater was created in 1977 and has been a hot commodity ever since. Book a Tucson hotel downtown so you’ll be close to this theater and everything else the city has to offer.
Next time you’re craving a reprieve from your everyday life, make a stop for the weekend in Tuscon, you will definitely love it.