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Tucson is known for its one-of-a-kind scenery, rich history and vibrant spirit. Whether you call the Old Pueblo your home or you’re just visiting for the weekend, filling your time with awesome things to do is always a good idea.
Check out our top picks for making the most of your weekends in Tucson.
Taking bike rides is a fun way to take in the sights (and streets), as you should when you’re exploring this wonderful Southern Arizona city. The sidewalks and cityscapes were largely designed for this kind of foot traffic, so don’t be afraid to hop up and pedal off. You can coordinate your own bike tour or have one of the many local businesses arrange it for you. At eegee’s, we recommend the Mural Tour because so many of the city’s best artworks are spread out or somewhat hidden from view. In just eight miles on flat terrain, you can see them all.
This is not just one of the largest non-government funded aerospace museums in the country — it’s one of the largest in the world. Displaying around 400 aircraft, including the historic Wright Flyer, there are 80 acres of museum to roam. You’ll find 6 indoor exhibit hangars alone at Pima Air and Space Museum, of which half are dedicated to World War II. This isn’t just a great spot for history buffs, but for anyone who wants to learn about both the making and the applications of these incredible machines. Trust us when we say you’ll soar to new heights while you’re here.
The views from Catalina State Park are more than just beautiful, they’re downright restorative and maybe even a little therapeutic. From the flowers to the cacti to the sunsets, every trail offers a little something special. If you love to get outdoors and take in all that nature has to offer, you won’t be disappointed. Just be warned that any adventurers in the group should come prepared. If you’re visiting during the summertime, make sure to head out early and bring lots of sunscreen and water. You don’t want to be hiking in 100-degree weather, trust us! Hot temperatures and hiking DO NOT mix (but hot days and eegee’s do).
Originally built in the 1700s, this church is a splendid example of Spanish colonial architecture. No matter what time of year you visit, you can see the frescoes, carvings and paintings that add little touches of beauty in every corner. There are also events held here such as an annual Pow Wow where you can stop by for a more interactive history lesson. It’s a place to light a candle, reflect upon history, or simply relish a little peace with your thoughts. Doesn’t that sound so soothing?
The famous OK Corral is now a symbol of the Wild West, and you can see that famous ground if you travel southeast from the city. What began as a feud between cowboys and law enforcement, the famous shootout lasted just 30 seconds but would endure for centuries. Live like an outlaw, cattleman or miner for the day when you’re in this historic town. Visit the actual gravesites of these historical figures and maybe stop by Big Nose Kate’s Saloon or the Bird Cage Theatre while you’re at it. Bonus points if you show up with a ‘stache like Doc Holliday’s.
If you’d rather see the action come to life on stage, the Gaslight Theatre is a Western comedy play that invites the audience to join in on the action. It might poke a little fun at some of the cliches of the Wild West, but it’s also a homage to what makes Tucson special. The service here is out of this world, so expect plenty of friendly faces when you’re there. This activity would be a great addition if you’re already planning to check out Tombstone.
Best bang for your buck on a weekend? Check out the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. This museum is mainly outdoors and features an accredited zoo, botanical gardens, a natural history museum and two art galleries. It’s 98 acres of landscape to wander around ’til your heart’s content. Mountain lions, javelinas and bighorn sheep are just a few animals you might spot along the way, if you haven’t seen them in the wild already. There are also Stingray Touch and Packrat Playhouse exhibits which tend to truly delight the younger crowd (or you know, that goofy friend of yours). End your day by picking up a few unique pieces at the museum’s gift shop.
Originally established in 1924, this museum is 20,000 square-feet of indoor space plus a 4-acre city block. From Mission Revival-style buildings to Native American masterpieces, every inch of the space pays tribute to the creativity and spirit of the artists that made the West their home. If you visit here, expect to be inspired to discover, create and learn. Promoting cultural understanding and bringing culture to life are just a few of this institution’s larger goals.
Views, waterfalls, cooler temps in the desert….need I say more? Part of the Santa Rita Mountains, Madera is beloved by those who live in the desert for its waterfalls and temperatures. If people want to get away from the summer heat, it’s far more pleasant to travel to Madera. And if they want to see a little snow during the winter, this is just the spot. It’s a great place to take your family and spend the day blowing off steam. Take some time to picnic at one of the many scenic overlooks.
Just call eegee’s a Tucson icon. In fact, if you live in Tucson and have never tried eegee’s, can you even call yourself a local? And, for visitors: what better way to truly experience the best of a city than by checking out what locals hold near and dear to their hearts—and appetites. Known first for the eegee, a frozen and refreshing beverage made with real fruit, as well as an array of awesome subs, grinders and, take notes: the ranch fries—imagine a heap of eegee’s famous crinkle-cut fries smothered and covered in their beloved ranch dressing and crunchy bacon bits—it all adds up to bucket-list eating that has kept families and diners of all ages coming back to eegee’s generation after generation.
Tucson has so many fun places to check out, and you really can’t go wrong no matter how you choose to spend your time. These suggestions are here to kickstart your weekend planning, so your trip is every bit as rewarding as you hoped it would be.
At eegee’s, we want everyone to experience Tucson the way it was meant to be experienced. Swing by to check us out and taste for yourself the awesomeness that is the eegee.
