Tucson Area Attractions

What to do in Tucson? 35 Attractions Loved by Locals

Tucson, located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, is a true desert paradise that offers a plethora of Tucson area attractions and activities to enjoy all year round. Whether you’re an adventurous explorer, a nature enthusiast, or a cultural connoisseur, Tucson has something for everyone in the family to indulge in.

Pima Air & Space Museum

For aviation enthusiasts, the Pima Air & Space Museum boasts over 350 aircraft on display. Explore the evolution of flight through exhibits, educational tours, and interactive displays.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

This living museum seamlessly integrates a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum. Encounter diverse desert wildlife, explore botanical wonders, and participate in educational programs.

The Loft Cinema Tucson Area Attraction near Solana Spanish Villas

The Loft Cinema

The Loft Cinema is a vibrant cultural cornerstone nestled in Tucson, acknowledging its location on the ancestral homelands of the Tohono O’odham Nation and Pascua Yaqui Tribe. As a mission-driven, nonprofit arts organization, it serves Southern Arizona by offering a diverse tapestry of films, events, and impactful collaborations.

Reid Park Zoo

Reid Park Zoo Tucson area attraction offers a diverse range of exhibits showcasing animals from around the world. With a focus on conservation, the zoo provides engaging programs and events for families.

Reid Park Zoo Tucson Area Attractions Solana Spanish Villas
Tohono Chul Park Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas

Tohono Chul Park

Tohono Chul Park is a serene Tucson area attraction with gardens, nature trails, and art exhibitions celebrating the Sonoran Desert’s flora and fauna. Attend cultural events and enjoy the park’s tranquil ambiance.

Fort Lowell Museum

The Fort Lowell Museum preserves Tucson’s history, featuring exhibits that detail the fort’s role and the city’s development. Explore historical buildings and artifacts to gain insights into the Old Pueblo’s past.

Fort Lowell Museum Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas Mission San Xavier del Bac

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Visit the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, known as the “White Dove of the Desert.” This beautifully preserved mission is a masterpiece of Spanish colonial architecture.

University of Arizona Museum of Art

Explore a diverse collection of art at the University of Arizona Museum of Art, featuring works from different periods and cultures.

University Of Arizona Museum Of Art_ Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas
Tucson Botanical Gardens_ Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas

Tucson Botanical Gardens

Wander through themed gardens at Tucson Botanical Gardens, showcasing a variety of plant species and providing a peaceful oasis.

Titan Missile Museum

Delve into Cold War history at the Titan Missile Museum, a Tucson area attraction where visitors can tour an actual intercontinental ballistic missile site.

Titan Missile Museum Tucson area activities near Solana Spanish Villas
Kitt Peak National Observatory Tucson Area Attractions from Solana Spanish Villas Tucson Vacation Rentals

Kitt Peak National Observatory

Astronomy enthusiasts will appreciate Kitt Peak National Observatory, home to multiple telescopes for observing the night sky.

Old Tucson

Experience the Wild West at Old Tucson, a movie studio and theme park with live performances, historic buildings, and family-friendly entertainment.

Old Tucson Studios Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Presidio San Agustín Del Tucson Area Attractions Museum

Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum

Learn about Tucson’s early history at the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, featuring exhibits and reconstructed historical structures.

Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Tucson Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse range of exhibits and collections.

Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
DeGrazia Gallery In The Sun Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Explore the vibrant and whimsical artwork of Ted DeGrazia at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, set in a picturesque adobe-style complex.

Madera Canyon

Nature lovers can hike, bird-watch, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Madera Canyon, a renowned birding destination in the Santa Rita Mountains.

Madera Canyon Tucson Day Trip near Solana Spanish Villas
Tucson Symphony Orchestra_ Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Tucson Symphony Orchestra

Attend a performance by the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, offering classical and contemporary concerts throughout the year.

Tucson Mountain Park

Discover the vast landscapes and hiking trails of Tucson Mountain Park, showcasing the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

Tucson Mountain Park Tucson area activities near Solana Spanish Villas
Arizona History Museum Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Arizona History Museum

Gain insights into Arizona’s history at the Arizona History Museum, featuring exhibits on the state’s diverse cultural heritage.

Catalina State Park

Enjoy outdoor activities at Catalina State Park, with hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Catalina State Park Tucson Area Attractions
Mercado San Agustin Annex Tucson Area Activities near Solana Spanish Villas

Mercado San Agustin

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mercado San Agustin, a market with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

El Tiradito Shrine

Visit El Tiradito Shrine, a historic shrine and cultural landmark in Tucson with ties to local folklore and traditions.

El Tiradito Shrine Tucson Area Attractions
Amerind Museum Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Amerind Museum

Delve into Native American art and culture at the Amerind Museum, featuring artifacts and exhibits spanning thousands of years.

Tumacácori National Historical Park

Step back in time at Tumacácori National Historical Park, home to preserved Spanish colonial missions and lush gardens.

Tumacácori National Historical Park Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas Tucson Area Attractions
Arizona State Museum Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Arizona State Museum

Learn about the rich Native American history of the region at the Arizona State Museum, featuring exhibits and archaeological collections.

St. Augustine Cathedral

Visit St. Augustine Cathedral, a historic church with stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

St. Augustine Cathedral Tucson Area Attraction near Solana Spanish Villas
Biosphere 2 Tucson Day Trip from Solana Spanish Villas

Biosphere 2

Explore Biosphere 2, an innovative research facility with enclosed ecosystems, offering guided tours and educational programs.

Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium

Enjoy interactive exhibits and planetarium shows at the Flandrau Science Center, providing educational and entertaining experiences.

Flandrau Science Center Planetarium_ Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Tucson Ghost Tour Tucson Area Activities near Solana Spanish Villas

Tucson Ghost Tour

Embark on a spooky adventure with a Tucson Ghost Tour, exploring the city’s haunted history and paranormal stories.

Southern Arizona Transportation Museum

Discover the history of transportation in Southern Arizona at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, housed in the historic train depot.

Southern Arizona Transportation Museum Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Fox Theatre Tucson Area Attraction Near Solana Spanish Villas Vacation Rentals

Fox Tucson Theatre

Attend a performance or explore the historic Fox Tucson Theatre, a beautifully restored venue showcasing a variety of entertainment.

Old Pueblo Archaeology Center

Learn about the archaeology and cultural heritage of the region at the Old Pueblo Archaeology Center, offering exhibits and educational programs.

Old Pueblo Archaeology Center Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Santa Catalina Mountains Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Santa Catalina Mountains

Explore the Santa Catalina Mountains with its diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and the scenic Catalina Highway.

Rillito River Park Trail

Enjoy outdoor activities along the Rillito River Park Trail, a popular trail for walking, running, and cycling.

Rillito River Park Trail Tucson Area Attractions near Solana Spanish Villas
Tucson Museum of the Horse Soldier Tucson area attractions near Solana Spanish Villas

Tucson Museum of the Horse Soldier

Delve into military history at the Tucson Museum of the Horse Soldier, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the U.S. Cavalry.