30 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Tucson (Arizona)

Nothing sets the soul on fire more than a trip to cities with various activities like Tucson.

Tucson, a fun vacation spot in the county home of Pima, is one of the best spots there in the United States.

Also home to the renowned University of Arizona, Fourth Avenue, and the bustling downtown, the city is a hub of expeditions.

Several qualities make Tucson quite outstanding amongst most cities in Arizona.

The tip of the iceberg is the great cuisine, entertainment, waterfalls, and even the prestigious Mountain of Gethsemane.

Music, performances, beers, and wines second to none will increase your adrenaline levels rapidly.

Use our list of the best and most fun things to do in Tucson and tour the city thoroughly.

Things To Do In Tucson, Arizona

1. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Nothing could equate to the same thrill of exploring a desert museum.

Desert museums may not be that popular; however, they’re a thing and approximately one of the best things to do in the beautiful city of Tucson.

This 98 acres museum is a unique experience destination to explore a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, aquarium, and natural history museum.

Visitors to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum will be able to see and take photos of wolves, rattlesnakes, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and uncommon plant species. 

Most of these animals are present in different species and can be easily seen.

Moreover, you’ll find an incredible exhibition of The Sonoran Desert and southern Arizona’s flora and animals on display.

Additionally, tourists will be able to encounter replicas of natural ecosystems, more than 200 animal species, and 1,200 plant varieties. 

Hikers and strollers will also enjoy the rare thrill of hiking down the 2 miles of walkways winding across a desert landscape of about 21 acres. 

At several cool corners of the museum, especially the Desert Loop Trail, visitors can see and capture coyotes, javelinas, and lizards in their roomy enclosures.

Further, into the Cat Canyon, there are bobcats, gray foxes, porcupines, and ocelots in their grotto settings, mimicking nature. 

Heading towards the Life Underground exhibit, visitors can study and see kangaroo rats and kit foxes and their survival mechanisms.

Finally, the Earth Sciences Center will allow visitors to explore several chambers, arches, and a 75-foot tunnel in a man-made cave. 

Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy photographing the varieties of birds on a flight within the vicinity.

Choose which you’d enjoy most and spend time seeing what thrills you.

Address: 2021 N Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85743, United States

2. Birdwatching at the Sweetwater Wetlands Park

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, which lies on Tucson’s northwest side, is a great place to get some exercise while admiring the desert landscape.

This delightful park-cross-water-treatment facility has instructive exhibits and a brief but sweet walking circle for hikers to explore.

With its 60 marshy acres of land, visitors can explore diverse types of wildlife and even take animal photography.

Come for bird watching and photography on tranquil days.

When the weather is warm and the gentle breeze blows across is the best time to see birds hop and chirp around.

Most of the trees accommodate all these birds, and you could simply sit under a tree shade listening to them chirping and taking pictures.

Address: 2511 W Sweetwater Dr, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States

3. San Xavier del Bac Mission

The sight of historic mansions and churches may elevate your mood while touring Tucson.

Visiting churches is not widespread but is fun to do if you’re looking forward to trying out other forms of religion or architecture.

Its unique European architecture makes it quite distinct from the typical Spanish architecture most missions in the city had.

Primarily, it’s a mix of Byzantine and Moorish architecture, with the main building in the shape of a Latin cross. 

Also at the top of the building are two octagonal towers with belfries stands.

At the transept crossing stands one large dome.

Although there isn’t much to do in this mission house, visitors to the mansion can take indoor tours of the houses and explore its interior beauty.

On tour, you’ll be able to check out the main church, the convent, a mortuary chapel, a dormitory, a patio, and a garden.

Also, the presence of colorful frescoes, sculptures, and several detailed carvings within will keep you in awe.

See for yourself when you have the opportunity; it’s one of the top picks there is in Tucson. 

Address: 1950 W San Xavier Road, Tucson, AZ 85746, United States

4. See animals at the Reid Park Zoo

Zoos can be quite educational, and you’d be glad you chose to explore one in Tucson.

For one of a kind experience of seeing animals, take a fun walk down the Reid Park Zoo.

To safeguard the preservation of wild creatures and natural areas, Reid Park Zoo was set up with the sole purpose of fostering relationships between humans and wildlife. 

Since its establishment in 1965, the zoo has been a 24-acre site providing care for hundreds of unique creatures worldwide. 

Consequently, to its mission, it upholds the highest standards of animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety as an AZA-accredited zoo. 

If you’re considering seeing animals unique to Tucson, you should check out this hidden gem.

Moreover, since it’s one of the most tranquil areas to hang out, this hidden gem of a zoo is perfect for families and draws over 500,000 people a year. 

It provides the ideal setting to enjoy the pleasant desert climate while getting to know the amicable native species.

Prepare yourself for the thrills that await you behind the gates of the Reid Park Zoo.

Scrolling through pictures won’t give you the assurance you need to know this place; you just have to see.

Visitors worldwide will be able to see everything from elephants to iguanas and everything behind cages.

Apart from that, the center also hosts regular special events, engaging educational workshops, and also celebrates birthday parties.

Hang out in one of Tucson’s most attractive areas while seeing the city’s wonders.

Address: 3400 E Zoo, Tucson, AZ 85716, United States

5. Southern Arizona Transportation Museum

Museums surely are a great deal if you’re exploring a new city, and for somewhere like Tucson, you just can’t escape it.

The transportation evolution in the country is one of the most amazing tales and history the country holds, and you can learn all about it.

Quite rare is the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, one designed to collect, preserve, exhibit, and interpret the history of transportation to visitors.

Since most of the tales and history from then were railroad inclined, look forward to seeing and experiencing a world of old locomotives.

Visitors and children who tour this transportation museum will be able to find all kinds of railroad memorabilia, ranging from old locomotives and railway cars to depot models.

Being one of the few places in the city with artifacts that old, it knows how to heighten the adventure.

Besides, who wouldn’t want to visit since you could enjoy these tours and see these memorabilia for free?

They charge no fees, so you can decide to check it out when you desire. 

Address: 414 N Toole Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

6. Wine Tasting Tours

Also on the list of top things to do in Tucson is Wine Tasting.

Indeed, Wine Tasting Tours are an ideal way to learn more about the city and the wine-making ways of this Arizona city.

At Southern Arizona villages, Sonoita, Elgin, and Wilcox, visitors can find a hub of wine-growing regions and enjoy the liberties.

These villages are ideal for growing very sweet grapes and making the best wines.

Tourists who want or intend to go on while tours can easily join these wine tours and learn all about Tucson’s history of wine-making.

They’ll also be able to try out a handful of curated blends while on the trip.

What better way is there to enjoy Tucson than one revolving around wine?

Check your list and pick the perfect time to go on one of these wine tours; they’ll turn out to be one of the best decisions you make in the city.

7. Pima Air & Space Museum

Air and space enthusiasts and tourists wouldn’t find something more thrilling on a Tucson trip than a walk through Pima Air and Space Museum.

As one of the biggest non-government-sponsored aerospace museums in the United States, it is itself a hub of activities.

Year-round, visitors worldwide troop in to feast their eyes on a facility that features one of the biggest air and space facilities.

On a tour of the facility, visitors will be thrilled by the scenic sight of over 400 aircraft on 80 acres and six exhibition hangars.

It doesn’t just end there; further into the museum, a picturesque view of over 125,000 artifacts gracing the museum provides something for everyone to see and explore. 

Amongst its collection is the extensive international collection, including a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a B-36 Peacemaker, a large SR-71 Blackbird, and Air Force One.

Still on its extensive collection is a P-51 Mustang, amongst other commercial, civilian, and military aircraft.

To further enhance the tour experience, the museum is open to anyone, and there is no limitation to who can use it.

Families, children, and even your very own furry pet are allowed in, as long as you keep them in check.

Furthermore, one unique advantage to this museum is that its providings also check your hunger and entertainment cravings. 

After or before your tour experience, tourists can stop by the Flight Grill restaurant and fill their stomachs with some of Tucson’s most mouthwatering dishes.

There are also provisions for a playground, spots to play and try out arcade games, and several top-notch historical exhibits.

Take the chance to explore exclusively; rest assured, it’s as exciting as exciting sounds.

Address: 6000 E Valencia Road, Tucson, AZ 85756, United States

8. Sabino Canyon Recreation Area

As part of your Tucson tour experience, check out the wonders of a recreation center.

Anyone familiar with Tucson knows that the city has abundant natural resources, just like every other city. However, you’ll find one of the premier natural areas in southern Arizona right here.

Sabino Canyon, as it is fondly called, is one of the beauties of Tucson, located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

The recreation center is one of the few things in the city that draws a lot of attention to the city.

Not only does it offer the opportunity to view the diverse micro flora and fauna Tucson has, but it also allows the rare site of viewing water in the desert.

Visitors can explore and capture riparian corridors at this recreation center between high rock cliffs and unusual desert plants. 

Hiking in the center is also simply amazing to see as it exposes tourists to hidden beauties and picturesque areas of the area.

When you pass through some point, you might even see a Gila Monster, a Bobcat, or another species that thrives in moderate winters and summers with temperatures beyond 100 degrees. 

Moving through the area allows you to experience the two rainy seasons in the desert, gentle winter showers, and tremendous summer monsoons.

Still in the park is a distinct visitor center where tourists can explore and check out maps and gifts and pick up souvenirs.

Keep your eyes peeled to catch a glimpse of the rare Gila monster, Gambel Quail, or even the beautiful Gopher Snake.

Address: 5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750, United States

9. Old Tombstone Western Theme Park

Ever thought you could actually explore a park that offers the exciting experience of Photoshop?

You’re in for a spectacular experience at the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park, Tucson.

Like most parks in Tucson, this is quite serene and a must-visit, especially if you’re looking forward to exploring a shooting gallery.

Basically, the park is a Wild West–themed amusement park offering several gunfight shows, amazing trolley tours, a shooting gallery, and even access to a PhotoShop.

Its reputation is quite the trend, courtesy of its location at the historic Tombstone, the “Town Too Tough to Die.”

At this vacation spot for families, you’ll be able to feel and experience a ghost town coming to life.

While on your ghost tour, you’ll be able to take a step back in time and experience the lawless Wild West.

However, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

To heighten the thrill of the adventure, tourists will also be able to see a Mexican-style cantina and a Chuckwagon diner and take shots at the Shoot’n Gallery.

Gold panning at the gold-panning station, mini-golf, and many other interesting activities are not left out of the question. 

Truly, if it is something pleasurable you’re looking forward to doing, this is ideally a hub of activities.

Moreover, you can stay by to catch a glimpse of its award-winning comedy acts and stunt performances.

Performances like the National Champion Gunfight Team and the Tombstone Cowboys shouldn’t be missed.

Add to your itinerary of things to do in Tucson; they come out simply amazing.

Address: 339 S 4th St, Tombstone, AZ 85638, United States

10. Ventana Canyon Hiking Trail

Hiking across the Ventana Canyon Hiking Trail can also be a great thing to do in Tucson on calm days.

Right on the northeastern outskirts of Tucson lies the Ventana Canyon is a 15-mile hike through a wildflower-lined path.

This is the ideal spot to pick if you’re looking for a hike that isn’t easy to do, like most hikes.

Since the terrain isn’t as smooth and easy as most hiking trails, it takes a lot of courage and endurance to hike this Tucson trail.

Athletes and bodybuilders pick to hike and train here since it suits most of the body endurance training perfectly and is tranquil too.

Although it may not be relatively easy to do, it isn’t entirely a bad idea owing to its hard nature and terrain.

As you move through the trails, you find the longing to cover even more areas, and just like that, you may end up covering the entire 15 miles.

However, be sure to pack a lot of water since the trails are pretty tough and long; you wouldn’t want to be dehydrated at any point.

Also, keep an eye out for tiny Gila monsters, they seem to find a home in the hiking trails, so it’s best to be careful.

Test your endurance levels as you make your way through this 15 miles test.

Address: 6601 N Resort Dr, Tucson, AZ 85750, United States

11. Tucson Trail Dust Town

Another amazing way to explore Tucson revolves around a visit to Trail Dust Town, Tucson.

An experience in this town is always necessary as pictures can not always convey their beauty and giving.

The park, also the home of Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse, is one of the surest places to explore all the rich history and fun Tucson offers. 

Visitors to this location visit especially to take a step back in time and experience the popular Old West.

Stunt performances are a common sight, so you’re sure to catch a Wild West stunt show by the extremely skillful Pistoleros.

These performances revolve around high-falls, low-falls, extreme gunfights, fistfights, loud explosions, and several family-friendly slapstick comedies.

Even though the performances are one of the reasons you’ll enjoy touring the Trail Dust Town, it couldn’t beat a ride on the CP Huntington Railroad. 

A ride here runs across exploits and adventures on a miniature train, finding and discovering some of Trail Dust Town’s hidden gems. 

There’s also a carousel and Ferris wheel at Polly Anna Park, where you can enjoy rides, munch on popcorn, and take in the blissful Tucson weather.

Before heading out, stop by the steakhouse and try some of their steaks.

They make some of the tastiest types in Tucson at relatively low prices.

Address: 6541 E Tanque Verde Road, Tucson, AZ 85715, United States

12. Coronado National Forest

Exploring forests may not present the perfect picture if you’re not a wildlife lover. However, this is distinct.

Above all, you’ll enjoy Tucson, the forests here are unique and one of the top must-do activities.

Primarily, the Coronado National Forest spans across sixteen scattered mountain ranges or “sky islands.”

Their structures rise dramatically from the desert floor, supporting a lot of microflora you wouldn’t originally find in most areas.

Though it may seem to be just a forest, the activities to do here are plentiful and also great.

For a start, visitors can hike or take strolls through the forest, enjoying spectacular views from the mountains.

Wandering through the desert while viewing and picking out giant saguaro cacti and colorful wildflowers can also be a great option to try in the morning.

Most visitors, however, prefer to camp for lunch beside a mountain stream or lake, taking in views of the forest area while stuffing their stomachs.

During the winter, playing in the snow is also an ideal option, as is biking on the trails.

Bird lovers and enthusiasts can consider birdwatching and animal photography, and campers will enjoy camping at serene spots around.

Address: Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

13. Visit Escape Rooms

If you’ve ever had the chance to explore Escape Rooms, you’ll agree that they are second to none in the lives of gamers.

Game loving tourists and enthusiasts who would prefer a session escaping rooms and using their mental capacity should add this to their list.

Escape rooms in Tucson can be quite a hassle as much as it is very engaging and will surely set your budding detective spirit in check.

At escape rooms, you will be able to figure out tricky puzzles and solve different challenges from the clues provided.

Since they require you to solve them while in a team, it helps visitors rub their minds together and work closely with each other.

To start up your escape experience, try out the Mystery Escape Room.

Afterward, you could give Fox in a Box a shot and finally hang out at the Ace of Escape.

These are the major escape rooms in Tucson and will leave quite a dent in you.

During these games, visitors and their groups will be locked in charming themed rooms with many puzzles and clues. 

Then, a time limit of sixty minutes will be given to escape from the room.

While trying out these escape rooms, be sure to try Afraid of the Dark, Krampus Christmas Mischief, and Sherlock Holmes And the Hounds of the Baskervilles.

There’s also Dracula’s Castle and Under the Sea 20,000 Leagues.

Address: 4500 N Oracle Rd #150, Tucson, AZ 85705, United States

14. Tucson Botanical Gardens

Exploring botanical gardens can be one way to spend time, especially if you love flowers and want to learn about them.

For most florists and botanists, the Tucson Botanical Gardens is one place to cool off.

This beautiful flower world is right at the center of Tucson, spanning over 5.5 acres.

Primarily, the garden’s mission is to create a garden that is not only defined by its beauty but also educational.

Subsequent to these goals, the garden is a community resource and a perfect learning hub for everyone.

Learners of all ages will find a vast option of things to do in the facility and activities that connect people with plants and nature.

You’ll find green cultivated foliage in these gardens, and gardens like the Barrio Garden will thrill you with their beauty.

You’ll also find a magical butterfly exhibit within the garden which houses over 400 butterflies, all from 11 exotic countries.

It’s not enough to relate the garden experience; make your way through over 20 Tucson botanical gardens and decide for yourself.

Address: 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, Arizona 85712, United States

Want to explore more cities in Arizona? See our list of the best things to do in Tempe and Prescott!

15. Titan Missile Museum

How thrilled would you be to know that something like a missile museum exists in Tucson?

It isn’t bold of you to assume that it would be relatively fun, especially if you have an interest in missiles and their concept.

To increase the fun levels of your tour, explore one of the top-secret American places, the Titan Missile Museum.

Also known as The Titan II missile site 571-7, the missile museum is the last of 54 sites on alert across the United States from 1963 to 1987. 

The museum boasts of holding one of the giant land missiles ever deployed in the United States as well as other exciting missile artifacts.

Visitors to this museum will go on a 45-minute guided tour, during which they’ll be able to see the 103-foot-tall Titan II, the giant land-based missile ever deployed by the U.S.

Expeditions will take you through various missile rooms, including the launch duct and the launch control center, as well as the experience of a simulated launch.

Since this rare artifact is a remnant of Cold War America, it is widely remarkable and one of the top places for history lovers.

Other war era relics still adorn the museum, and visitors will be lost in the wonders and concepts of other missiles.

Explore this history in a short period of time before roaming through different parts of the city.

Address: 1580 W Duval Mine Rd, Green Valley, AZ 85614, United States

16. Saguaro National Park

Visit the Saguaro National Park and catch views of the spectacular Tucson desert plains.

You’ll find this magnificent expanse, Saguaro National Park, just fifteen miles to the west of Tucson.

The park, one of the city’s treasures, is an abode for desert plains and mountains up to 4,687 feet.

It is also the location of the famous Wasson Peak.

Trails are quite abundant in this park, making it a top pick amongst hikers and strollers with the spirit of adventure.

Moreover, most of these trails can be explored via a car ride, and since it is quite tranquil, it is one of the few places to enjoy a calm ride with nature.

Basically, the tour starts from Kinney Road – Hohokam Road, formerly known as Bajada Loop.

Several other trails will take you through longer routes, all offering a picturesque view of Tucson.

Apart from all the biological elements that decorate this park, the cacti present in this park is something that will interest you.

Cacti here, especially the saguaro, are abundantly spread through the park.

During rides around the trails, visitors will be able to see and risk touching it as they move about.

Care to take the risk, go for a good stroll or a ride out on Tucson’s cacti world and see for yourself.

Address: Arizona, United States

17. Visit the Tucson Funtasticks Family Fun Park

There’s nothing more adventurous than a family tour with something to do for everyone.

When you think of family, Funtasticks Family Fun Park is one of the places you should be in.

Literally, this park is one of the places in the city for families to catch exciting attractions and rides.

With attractions like laser tag, mini-golf, and go-karts, families can explore and try new activities with children.

Moreover, since most of the games here require teams and teamwork, it is one of the best places to heighten your bond with your close ones.

Games to explore at the park include the Cactus Springs, Go Karts, Bumper Boats, Kiddie Land, Mini Golf,  Arcade, and finally, Laser Tag.

Bring the family and kick off the day by trying laser tag sessions.

Go for something harder, try a round of mini-golf, or just go floating on bumper boats.

Hungry?

Good stands are abundant in the park, and you’ll be able to fill your stomach after a whole day’s work.

Of course, all work and zero play make jack a dull dude; add to your itinerary of things to do.

Address: 221 E Wetmore Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705, United States

18. Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway

Want to explore the Tucson breeze on a ride with your head out of the car?

Then, Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is definitely the place for you.

Popularly known as the Sky Islands Scenic Byway or the Catalina Highway, this is one of Arizona’s most scenic drives.

Offering grand, arresting, picturesque views of canyons and mountains, the byway is one of the places to enjoy the tranquility of the city and race as much as you want.

Simply put, it is a must-do for any hiker, stroller, or riding enthusiast.

Moreover, with its views second to none, the byway is the ideal place to consider a quiet picnic.

If you’re looking for other things to do that don’t revolve around hiking or strolling, consider a quiet picnic or outdoor leisure game.

Couples and families regularly visit the byway to sit by the grass and chat over a couple of meals.

Besides, the breeze and sunset present one of the most spectacular settings you’ll find in Tucson.

Fancy something relaxing?

Then, Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is just the place to be at.

Address: 300 W. Congress St. Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

19. Gadsden-Pacific Division Toy Train Operating Museum

Catch a train show with your partner as one of the ways to spend time in Tucson.

Train shows and performances are held annually at the Gadsden-Pacific Division Toy Train Operating Museum.

The facility, which hosts a toy train and an intriguing collectible show each year, is one of the places to see and learn about toy trains.

Memorabilia in this facility on display includes access to model and toy trains, prototype railroad memorabilia, and several collectible toys, cars, and figures.

Begin your experience by seeing miniature trains as they make their way through the rails.

With every hoot and toot, you’ll be drawn into the imaginative world of speaking trains and enjoy the experience a little more.

Moreover, there are several full-sized carriages where visitors can eat lunch and go on a kid-friendly train ride.

After the entire fun experience, the gift shop at the corner is the place to be in.

Pick up train souvenirs at relatively low prices to remind you of your pleasant train experience.

Address: 3975 N Miller Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705, United States

20. Children’s Museum

Amid its high touristy spots, there is just a spot for little ones to unleash their creativity and enjoy Tucson even more.

The Tucson Children’s Museum is a unique setting in downtown Tucson, offering children a chance to enjoy lots of indoor, hands-on learning and outdoor fun in the Curiosity Courtyard. 

You’ll find this interactive child learning environment in the historic Carnegie Library, which spans over 17,000 square feet.

Additionally, the presence of 11 highly informative indoor exhibits makes the center even more fun and thrilling to explore.

At the beautiful outdoor courtyard, Curiosity Courtyard, children will be able to explore three different exhibits and be creative.

Activities for children to try here range from science-based projects and creative learning to artistic expressions.

It allows the child to ponder and think about other ways to explore options out of the box.

While you may not want to distract the children, the facility also has a cafe on site for parents to hang out while the kids do their thing.

Consider adding to your list, especially if visiting Tucson with kids.

Address: 200 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

21. Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson

Enjoy solitude and beauty while roaming the Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson.

Drawn from the Japanese word, Yume, meaning dreams, this Japanese courtyard is one of the distinct places in Tucson to enjoy solitude.

The garden, nestled on 2/3 of an acre, offers visitors some of the most intriguing sights and beauties of botany.

Visitors to the gardens can stroll beside a pond of flashing koi and absorb the beauty of the classical Japanese landscaping courtyard. 

Within its premises, you can likewise explore its several beautiful gardens, check out a ton of replica Japanese buildings, and attend tea ceremonies.

Additionally, the facility hosts several events year-round, which will immerse you in ancient artistic heritage. 

Exhibits at the museum, unique Japanese gifts from Japan at the gift shop, koi ponds, and peaceful waterfalls are some of the delightful things to look forward to.

Address: 2130 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, Arizona 85712, United States

22. Try out some Tucson restaurants 

Cuisine always has to count, especially if you’re visiting a food-loving country like Tucson.

Dishes served in the country have their place in the heart of tourists and are a must-try for everyone.

While on your Tucson expedition, treat yourself to dinner and dessert in some of the best restaurants.

Mexican cuisine lovers can start their culinary and food tour experience at Cafe Poca Rosa with a dish of spicy-rich mole sauce.

Other varieties and meals are on the menu, and if your desires are solely Mexican, then allow the restaurant to take you on a smooth ride of Mexican cuisine.

Tucson’s Aqui Con El Nene is the right place to grab a hot dog if you’re craving something more American.

French cuisine lovers will be thrilled by Coronet, right in the historic Coronado Hotel.

They offer tasty french meals served in large portions for a reasonable price.

Feed your stomach and allow your belly to experience the tingling taste of sweetness while looking around Tucson.

Address: 110 E Pennington St, Tucson, AZ 85701, United States

23. Go Horseback riding at the Catalina State Park 

Not everyone loves horses, and even though these creatures are quite gentle and fun-loving, many still shy away.

However, horseback riding definitely makes it on the list as one of the exciting things to do in Tucson.

At the Catalina State Park, visitors can explore the 5,500-acre patch of greenery blanketing the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

The park, which is home to more than 5,000 Saguaro cacti and hundreds of species of wildlife, is one of the few places to enjoy horseback riding.

Within the park, you can find a handful of trails that are ideal for hiking, biking, and, ultimately, horseback riding.

Although horses may not be available here, there are a few places in the city where you can rent a horse and enjoy galloping through this large expanse.

Moreover, its terrain is relatively gorgeous and one of the top spots to take jaw-dropping landscape pictures.

Further than that, visitors can even enjoy camping activities and games within the park since it holds some of the best camping sites.

Add to your list of fun places to enjoy outdoor recreational activities specifically.

Address: 11570 N Oracle Road, Tucson, AZ 85737, United States

24. Go Beer Tasting

Over time, Beer Tasting Tours have stood out and are similarly one of the top things to try in Tucson during a vacation.

Moreover, since Tucson is quite popular for pub crawls, beer tasting should be on your list if you are a beer lover. 

Popular for the abundance of breweries, Tucson indeed has a name in the beer world and offers visitors a wide variety of beers to try out on tours.

Visitors who decide to go on beer tours within the city will be able to explore any of the 20 breweries in the city and try drinks ranging from stouts to sours.

Enjoy the refreshing taste of these beers as they lock your lips and tingle your tongue.

There’s more than enough to go around and in different flavors.

Want more tours through other Arizona cities? See our list of things to do in Jerome and Lake Havasu City!

25. Agua Caliente Park

Explore Agua Caliente Park, a breathtaking desert oasis, and see the beauty of Tucson from up close.

The park, with an abundance of palm trees lining a turtle and a small fish pond, is a rare sight in the city. 

As rare as it could sound, it is one of the highly loveable places for marine and turtle lovers.

At this park, visitors will be able to have access to an undiluted outdoor recreation experience with diverse wildlife.

Moreover, the park is also one of the best camping spots in the city and offers the best expanse for a family camping trip or adventure.

One of its major highlights, the geothermally heated springs, is one of the leverages you’ll enjoy about the park.

These heated springs are quite soothing and give a relaxing feeling.

Tales have it that the springs were primarily hot springs and cold springs, used by the Army in the mid-1800s.

There are also plenty of picnic spots and several shelters to lounge in the shade.

Hikers and strollers can also enjoy walks at the accessible walking trails, with regular sightings of cheeky turtles and ducks at almost every turn.

Be sure to check out while on a visit.

Address: 12325 E Roger Rd, Tucson, AZ 85749, United States

26. Gaslight Theatre

While there is room for as much tour experience in Tucson, its entertainment cannot be outshone.

Entertainment is quite the trend in the city, and Tucson hosts some of the best performances and concerts you’ll find in Arizona.

Even though many theaters are lined up, the Gaslight Theatre stands out quite well and offers something distinct.

Since grasping the title of ‘Tucson’s Best Theater,’ the Gaslight Theater offers visitors a hub of especially intriguing plays, concerts, and countless family-friendly musicals.

The theater also hosts a vast range of drama, ranging from comedy to farce, offering visitors a world of entertainment from any genre.

Regardless of its small stage, you are sure to have one of the best performances up on stage as well as very palatable servings of meals.

Moreover, the theater is quite fancy if you consider going on an entertainment date night with your partner.

Many things make this theater outstanding; you’d be in the wrong to overlook its thrills.

Add to your itinerary of things to do in Tucson.

Address: 7010 E Broadway Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85710, United States

27. DeGrazia Gallery 

Art lovers have just the art space to explore while rummaging through the best parts of Tucson.

Artistic spots like the DeGrazia Gallery are some places to be, especially if you have an eye for cultural arts.

Like every other art gallery, DeGrazia Gallery offers visitors and art lovers the rare opportunity to explore the world of the late artist Ted DeGrazia.

The art also revolves around and brings to light the role of native culture in Tucson.

On display are a collection of visual art from as far back as the mid-to-late 1900s, with several paintings, sculptures, and photos.

However, these are just a few of the fanciful pieces of art you’ll find in the museum.

Also on display are beautiful lithographs, woodcuts, and several surrealist-style artworks.

Take the chance to explore unique art up close; you may not find another option in Tucson like this.

Address: 6300 N Swan Road, Tucson, AZ 85718, United States

28. Madera Canyon

Hiking has never been better if you’re yet to explore Madera Canyon.

Lovers of hiking and tourists interested in camping will find the best form of thrill in exploring this unique Tucson gem.

Madera Canyon, right on the Santa Rita Mountains in South Tucson, is a unique spot to enjoy relief from the hot sun.

The canyon, which is popular for its great temperature reprieve, is the only of its kind in Tucson and draws millions of visitors year-round.

Moreover, with its abundance of colorful and diverse wildlife, wildlife lovers make it a thing to explore this destination as soon as they get here.

Diverse wildlife forms, and birds call this canyon home and roam through it most evenings.

Apart from the wildlife, its hiking trails and picnic spots make it a top pick amongst families and partners looking for a picnic session in nature.

Safe camping spots exist, too, and can easily be used by families or partners.

Night outs and rides are also frequent finds and activities to do and engage in around the canyon.

Address: Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona, United States

29. Garden of Gethsemane

Recall the scripture invoking the Garden of Gethsemane; there is something like this in Tucson.

Sincerely it isn’t like the biblical garden but is something intriguing to see in Tucson.

You’ll find this fantastic artistic blend of stonework and nature just by the bank of the Santa Cruz River.

Funny enough, the garden is rather a peaceful setting and site in Tucson for visitors to sit and enjoy the tranquility.

Its artistic makeup and piece are pretty different than you would find in most gardens.

Visitors to the parks can enjoy outdoor recreational activities within the garden, such as frisbee games and jumping.

Skip ropes, picnics, and Monopoly can also be great to do in the gardens while taking in the fresh air.

Address: 602 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85745, United States

30. Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium

The Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium on the University of Arizona campus is a beautiful place for aspiring astronauts and lovers of science.

This setting is one of the few places in the city to explore the wonder of space in a fun, interactive way.

Visitors to the science center and planetarium come to discover these projections’ magnificence and arrangement.

On tour, you can explore several exhibits, including a state-of-the-art Milky Way dome projection and ancient meteorite collections.

Apart from the collections to explore in the center, the center also offers laser light shows in addition to free public planetarium performances.

Address: 1601 E University Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85721, United States

Final Remarks

Tucson promises an absolutely relaxing environment if you take the chance.

The city’s beauty, one of a kind, will indeed hear you up and ready you for the experience you’re out for.

Take delight in exploring all corners and making promising discoveries as you move along.

For a fact, you’ll surely come to love the city’s setting and come for a second time.

Make memories and be comfortable while touring.

Safe Travels.