Tucson is the second largest city in Arizona after Phoenix and is nestled in the Pima County of the state. The town is significantly influenced by desert due to its location - north of the Mexico-US border, a desert region. However, the desert influence adds to the beauty of this city, which is heavily decorated with desert fauna and flora, leafy gardens and breathtaking architecture. This destination is also known for its rich history and traditional activities such as panning for gold. Tucson also boasts of some of the best Mexican-inspired beverages, wine, and cuisines which can be found in many restaurants in the region. Due to its history, modern influences and cultural heritage, this city has lots of unusual things to indulge in. Explore these unique things to do in Tuscan, Arizona, and make each day you spend in the region unforgettable.
1. Explore the town on the Mural Bike Tour (from USD 73.0)
If looking at incredible murals while riding a bike is up your alley, then the Mural Bike Tour is the perfect activity. You can see various murals painted on Tucson’s walls by riding approximately 8.5 mi (13.6 km) on flat terrain. Enjoy all forms of art from old to new; hidden gems to gigantic neighborhood identifiers, serious art to humerous stuff, and more.
You can take pictures of these murals and take the memories back with you. The bike tour will cover many different neighborhoods like Dunbar Spring, 4th Avenue, and the bustling downtown area, so you will be able to explore a lot of the city.
Mural Bike Tour
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
2. Have a little adventure in the Oasis Tour of Tucson (from USD 95.0)
While you’re in Tucson, you will get the opportunity to discover the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains, located in the Coronado National Forest. You will be picked up from Park Place Mall in an air-conditioned vehicle and taken to the highest point. There’s some light hiking involved but you can stop at any scenic place to take pictures, soak in the views, or spot wildlife with the binoculars provided. The tour runs daily between 9:30am to 1:30pm.
Scenic Drive of Mount Lemmon in Tucson
Duration: 4 hours
3. Explore the History of Pharmacy Museum
Posted by The University of Arizona on Monday, 14 January 2019
The Pharmacy Museum is a hidden gem in the University of Arizona which made its debut in 1966. The museum boast of thousands of medical curiosity and rare collection of documents regarding the pharmacy profession from the 19th and 20th centuries. Jesse Hurlbut donated some of the first collection of items in the museum, the Former State Board Inspector and the museum has grown dramatically ever since. Inside, you will discover a jar of gangster John Dillinger’s chewed gum, a full replica of an old drugstore and a collection from Upjohn Pharmacy in Disneyland. Another noteworthy fact is that the museum is contained in two buildings for you to explore.
History of Pharmacy Museum
Address: 1295 N Martin AveTucson, AZ 85721 North University
Website: History of Pharmacy Museum
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4. Attend Tucson Rodeo Parade
Posted by Tucson Rodeo Parade and Museum on Thursday, 26 December 2013
Each February since 1925, The Tucson Rodeo Parade, also known as the “Celebration of the Cowboys” has been celebrated in the city and is the largest non-motorized parade in America. The success of this event lies solely in the generosity of the sponsors, the interest of the community and full relentless dedication of the volunteers as well as the members. This event is held with so much importance that schools give a special two-day break so that children can celebrate the city’s ranching roots. The celebration which takes place between February 16th and 24th features events such as kid’s events, a women’s rodeo clinic, barn dances, junior rodeos and more.
Tucson Rodeo Parade
Address: Begins at Ajo Highway ½ mile west of Park Avenue
Website: Tucson Rodeo Parade
Price: 10 USD
5. Participate in Tucson Meet Yourself folk-life festival
That time master blues artist Phil Wiggins and company played on City Hall Stage at TMY 2017. Did you love that or what?...
Posted by Tucson Meet Yourself on Tuesday, 21 November 2017
Are you a lover of music? If yes, don’t miss this free two-day festival celebrating Folk/American Music traditions and extreme variations including Mexican, Latin, Zydeco, Celtic, jazz, blue and country music. The success of the festival is owed to over 200 volunteers and over 12,000 yearly participants and fans that storm the venue from all over Southern Arizona and many parts of the world. The event comprises of six stages of ethnic, contemporary and traditional music and more, clocking over 120 performances to enjoy. Other exciting highlights include Ballad Tree for aspiring songwriters, engaging music workshop, Stefan George Memorial Songwriting Competition and more.
Tucson Meet Yourself
Address: Jacomé Plaza, Pennington St., Church Ave., Stone Ave.
Website: Tucson Meet Yourself
6. See the cars at Franklin Auto Museum
We had our 1933 Franklin Olympic Convertible Coupe down to the Santa Cruz Valley Car Nuts show held at the Tubac Golf...
Posted by Franklin Auto Museum on Tuesday, 7 February 2012
This unique museum was founded by Thomas Hubbard and is taken care of by the T.H. Hubbard/H.H. Franklin Foundation. The founder who is a Tucson native was so much fascinated by the Franklin cars and with time, gave birth to this city’s little-known gems featuring the most significant collections of luxury cars in America. The museum also highlights the founder’s Aunt’s collection of artifacts of American origin and Franklin cars research materials. Walkthrough and explore the museum’s grounds featuring four architectural masterpieces stocked with unique collections.
Franklin Auto Museum
Address: 1405 E Kleindale Rd, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA
Website: Franklin Auto Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
Price: 8 - 10 USD
7. Go to Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
Experience the most reputable, oldest and largest gem and mineral show in the world which made its debut in 1970 in Tucson. The fair brings together participants from all over the globe, including professionals/curator, the public and the hubby enthusiast for discussion and discovery. Go over to the exhibition grounds and explore the museum and private collections of rare world’s minerals. Purchase a mineral masterpiece from over 250 retailers sharing the exhibition grounds and showcasing anything from lapidary crafts, jewelry, fossil, metals and related publications of interest.
Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
Address: Tucson Expo Center 3750 E. Irvington Road
Website: Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
8. Enter the fantasy world at Valley of the Moon
The VIP retro event lit Valley of the Moon with candlelight
Posted by Valley of the Moon Tucson on Thursday, 7 February 2019
This fantasy world is nestled at the base of the Catalina Mountains in northern Tucson and is a whimsical and historical attraction. This theme park was built between 1923 and 1932 by an Indiana native after he moved with his family to the then remote north Tucson shortly after statehood. Explore the valley’s collection of structures and gardens, a sight to behold and inspiration behind mystic philosophy and storybook fantasy. Other essential views of the Valley of the Moon that you shouldn’t miss include the Fairy Queen’s Magic Grotto and the Tower of Zagog. These highlights feature materials that encourage creativity and exploration. Your kid’s delight!
Valley of the Moon
Address: 2544 E Allen Rd, Tucson, AZ 85716, USA
Website: Valley of the Moon
9. Head to Tucson Festival of Books
Posted by Tucson Festival of Books on Saturday, 9 March 2019
Are you fascinated by books? Then don’t miss the Tucson Festival of Books, the fourth-largest book festival in the country. The two-day event was founded in 2009, held at the University of Arizona with the sole aim to celebrate readers, illustrators, authors, and books. Visitors from all over the country and the world come to experience the festival which features over 200 exhibitors, 350 authors, and 300 presentations. Other notable highlights of the event include dozens of free activities for all age groups, kid’s and Science City Programming, panel discussions and book signings.
Tucson Festival of Books
Address: University of Arizona Mall Tucson, Arizona
Website: Tucson Festival of Books
10. Visit Mat Bevel's Museum of Kinetic Art & Surrealistic Pop Science Theater
Posted by Museum Of Kinetic Art on Friday, 2 December 2016
Are you in search of some unique adventure? Then head over to the Museum of Kinetic Art & Surrealistic Pop Science Theater featuring over 150 found-object kinetic sculptures handcrafted by Sculptor Ned Schaper. Gifted with so much creativity, the sculptor utilizes his knowledge in physics and mechanics and makes amazing sculptures using different found objects as raw materials. One striking attribute about his creations is that while crafting them, he doesn’t know the outcome, but allows the sculpture to take its shape. This act gives birth to unexpected and beautiful results. Explore his different creations, spread out throughout the museum as you identify each by its unique name.
Mat Bevel's Museum of Kinetic Art & Surrealistic Pop Science Theater
Address: 2855 E. Broadway Tucson, Arizona
Website: Mat Bevel’s Museum of Kinetic Art & Surrealistic Pop Science Theater
Price: 12 USD onwards
11. Admire the Diamondback Bridge
Having spent millions of dollars on various projects on public arts, the Diamondback Bridge in Tucson is arguably the most outstanding project the state has carried out. This monument accurately depicted the image of a giant rattlesnake and was constructed by a local artist in 2002. The creation is more of abstract but biologically accurate and was built to include Tucson’s local wildlife to the city’s many projects. You can view the spaced partitions of the belly of the beast and will often be bidding farewell by a rattling sound at the exit of the bridge. Despite its poor maintenance walking through the stomach of the metal masterpiece is worth experiencing.
Diamondback Bridge
Address: Broadway At Euclid Tucson, AZ 85707
12. Catch a show at Carnival of Illusion in Tucson (from USD 45.0)
Before leaving this town, don’t miss the exciting nightlife experience at Carnival of Illusion. This destination feature some of the best shows in the city, including magic shows full of illusions and tricks, music and laughter events. Kick back in the cozy atmosphere and enjoy old-school comedy and all the tricky shows in front of your eyes. The old-world magic show which incorporates a blend of humor, music, and magic is sure to leave you with a memorable impression.
Carnival of Illusion presents SKULLDUGGERY! Lovely Lies and Devious Delights
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Experience the best of the Arizona desert
With all these unique activities, it is of no wonder that this region attracts a diverse group of vacationers. Strategically plan your vacation by adding some of these exciting events to your itinerary. This unique things to do in Tuscan are the best way to experience the Arizona-dessert lifestyle.
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