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7 Days Exploring Tucson's Desert and Culture Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Discovering Tucson's Heritage
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Mission San Xavier del Bac. This historic Spanish Catholic mission, also known as the "White Dove of the Desert," is an architectural marvel and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
Afternoon
Head over to El Charro Café for lunch, one of Tucson's most iconic restaurants known for its delicious Mexican cuisine. Afterward, explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which is a fusion of zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum, and aquarium. This will give you an immersive experience of the Sonoran Desert.
Evening
For dinner, dine at Vivace Restaurant, renowned for its Italian cuisine and stunning views of the city. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through downtown Tucson to soak in the local culture.
Bedtime
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4.81Mission San Xavier del Bac
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4.81Mission San Xavier del Bac
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4.64Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
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4.64Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
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Nature and Aviation Wonders
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast at Prep & Pastry, a local favorite known for its fresh pastries and hearty breakfast options. Then head to the Pima Air and Space Museum, one of the largest non-government funded aviation museums in the world.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Cafe Poca Cosa, where you can enjoy innovative Mexican dishes. Post-lunch, visit the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area for some hiking or a tram ride through this beautiful desert canyon.
Evening
Enjoy dinner at The Grill at Hacienda del Sol, offering farm-to-table cuisine in a historic setting. If you're up for it, join the Tucson AZ High Tea Experience Event at Scarritt House for a unique evening experience.
Bedtime
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4.50Pima Air and Space Museum
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4.50Pima Air and Space Museum
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Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
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Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
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Art and History Immersion
Morning
Start your morning with breakfast at Bobo's Restaurant, famous for its pancakes. Then visit the Grand Parlour at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, an architectural gem that offers guided tours showcasing its rich history.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Kingfisher Bar and Grill known for its seafood dishes. Spend your afternoon exploring Old Town Artisans, a historic block filled with shops featuring local arts and crafts.
Evening
Dine at Penca Restaurante which offers modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting. Conclude your day with an evening walk through Barrio Viejo to appreciate Tucson’s historical architecture.
Bedtime
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Grand Parlour at the Scottish Rite Cathedral
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Grand Parlour at the Scottish Rite Cathedral
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Old Town Artisans
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Old Town Artisans
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Desert Adventures
Morning
Kick off your day with breakfast at Cup Cafe in Hotel Congress, known for its eclectic menu and historic ambiance. Then embark on an adventure with the Tucson 5-Line Zipline Course in the Sonoran Desert which promises thrilling views of the desert landscape.
Afternoon
Have lunch at Wildflower American Cuisine, offering contemporary American dishes made from fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, visit Saguaro National Park using either of these self-guided tours: Saguaro National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour or Saguaro National Park Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour. This park is home to giant saguaro cacti that are symbolic of Arizona’s desert landscape.
Evening
For dinner, try out some local flavors at The Parish, which serves Southern fusion cuisine inspired by Cajun and Creole traditions. Cap off your night by enjoying some craft beers at Barrio Brewing Company.
Bedtime
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5.00Tucson 5-Line Zipline Course in the Sonoran Desert
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5.00Tucson 5-Line Zipline Course in the Sonoran Desert
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4.00Saguaro National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
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4.00Saguaro National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
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Scenic Byways and Local Flavors
Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Beyond Bread - Speedway Blvd., known for its freshly baked bread and pastries. Then, take the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Self-Guided Audio Tour, which offers breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and diverse ecosystems.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Agustin Kitchen, located in the historic Mercado San Agustin, offering farm-to-table cuisine. Spend your afternoon exploring the Tucson Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket, a serene oasis showcasing a variety of desert plants and themed gardens.
Evening
Dine at Maynards Market & Kitchen, known for its seasonal dishes and historic setting in the old train depot. End your evening with a visit to the Tucson Flandrau Science Center Entry Ticket, where you can enjoy planetarium shows and interactive exhibits.
Bedtime
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4.25Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Self-Guided Audio Tour
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4.25Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Self-Guided Audio Tour
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5.00Tucson Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket
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5.00Tucson Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket
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Historical Tours and Culinary Delights
Morning
Tucson Guided Historical City Tour with Transportation is a great way to start your day, providing an insightful look into Tucson's rich history. For breakfast, stop by Lerua's Fine Mexican Food for some traditional Mexican morning fare.
Afternoon
Tucson Guided Food Walking Tour with Tastings will be perfect for lunch as it combines both culinary delights and historical insights into Tucson’s food scene. Afterward, take some time to explore downtown Tucson on foot or visit local shops.
Evening
Wildflower American Cuisine is an excellent choice for dinner if you haven't tried it yet; it offers contemporary American dishes made from fresh ingredients. Conclude your day with an evening stroll through one of Tucson’s many parks or gardens.
Bedtime
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3.80Tucson Guided Historical City Tour with Transportation
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3.80Tucson Guided Historical City Tour with Transportation
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4.38Tucson Guided Food Walking Tour with Tastings
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4.38Tucson Guided Food Walking Tour with Tastings
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Desert Thrills and Farewell Feast
Morning
Tuscon Rancho de Los Cerros Horseback Riding Tour is an adventurous way to start your final day in Tucson, offering guided horseback rides through scenic desert landscapes. Enjoy breakfast at Bobo's Restaurant if you haven't already; their pancakes are legendary.
Afternoon
Old Tucson is a must-visit in the afternoon; this movie studio and theme park offers a glimpse into the Old West with live shows and historical exhibits. For lunch, try out The Grill at Hacienda del Sol if you missed it earlier in your trip.
Evening
End your trip on a high note with dinner at Kingfisher Bar and Grill, known for its seafood dishes. If time permits, catch one last sunset over the desert landscape before heading back.
Bedtime
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4.91Tuscon Rancho de Los Cerros Horseback Riding Tour
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4.91Tuscon Rancho de Los Cerros Horseback Riding Tour
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Old Tucson
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Old Tucson
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