Three Days in Tucson: Family Fun on a Budget!

Discover Tucson's family fun oasis for an unforgettable adventure!

19 July 2023

Tucson, located in the southern part of Arizona, offers a delightful combination of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, making it a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Saguaro National Park, where kids can marvel at the towering cacti and enjoy hiking trails suitable for all ages. Dive into the interactive exhibits at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where children can learn about desert wildlife and get up close to various species in a safe and educational environment.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore the Wild West

  • Check into Hotel McCoy, a hip and vibrant boutique hotel decorated with local artwork.
  • Head to Old Tucson, a film studio turned theme park, and immerse yourself in the charm of the Wild West.
  • Stroll through historic downtown Tucson and marvel at the colorful adobe buildings and quirky street-art murals.
  • Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and meet desert critters like roadrunners and javelinas.
  • Treat yourself to some mouthwatering Mexican cuisine at Cafe Poca Cosa, where the chef creates daily specials that will blow your taste buds away.
Day 2

Nature's Wonderland

  • Start the day with a hike in Sabino Canyon, surrounded by majestic saguaro cacti and breathtaking desert landscapes.
  • Take a scenic drive up Mount Lemmon and enjoy panoramic views of the city below.
  • Discover the beauty of the Botanical Gardens, with its diverse collection of plants and serene walking paths.
  • Indulge in a delicious brunch at Cup Cafe, located in the historic Hotel Congress, known for its rustic charm and live music.
  • Get adventurous with a zip-lining experience at the Arizona Zipline Adventures, soaring through the scenic desert canopy.
Day 3

Art and Culture Extravaganza

  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Tucson Museum of Art, showcasing an impressive collection of Western and Latin American art.
  • Explore the vibrant arts community of Tucson by visiting the galleries in the Warehouse Arts District.
  • Immerse yourself in Native American culture at the Arizona State Museum, filled with artifacts and exhibits honoring indigenous tribes.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Pinnacle Peak, a Western-themed steakhouse where they cut your tie off if you wear one!
  • End the day with a visit to the University of Arizona's famous Biosphere 2, an engineering marvel simulating various ecosystems.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to reach Tucson, United States by plane is to fly to Tucson International Airport, which is located about 8 miles from the city center with several major airlines providing service to the airport including American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, Southwest and more.

Car

Driving is a popular way to reach Tucson, particularly if you are traveling from within Arizona or neighboring states. Tucson is easily accessible from the north and south via I-10 and from the east and west via Route 86 and Route 60. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Phoenix to Tucson and about 3 hours from Las Vegas.

Train

There is no direct train service to Tucson, United States. The closest railway station is located in Maricopa, which is about 100 miles away from Tucson. From Maricopa, you can transfer to a bus or take a taxi to reach Tucson.

Boat

There is no way to reach Tucson, United States by boat as the city is located inland and has no access to a major body of water.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus is a convenient and affordable way to travel to Tucson. Greyhound operates daily services to Tucson from different cities across the United States. There are two bus stations in Tucson — the Tucson Bus Station and the Tucson Int'l Airport Bus Station.

More travel plans

Weekend Wanderlust to Tucson's Saguaro Desert!

A trip to Tucson, United States as a tourist offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. The city is a gateway to the stunning Sonoran Desert, and visitors can explore the Saguaro National Park and the nearby Catalina Mountains. Additionally, Tucson boasts a vibrant downtown scene, with excellent dining and shopping options.

Tucson: A Budget-Friendly Desert Adventure

Tucson is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage that can be enjoyed on a limited budget. Must-see attractions include the Mission San Xavier del Bac, the Saguaro National Park, and the Pima Air and Space Museum. Opt for budget-friendly accommodation options such as camping or hostels, and enjoy the many free outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the desert landscape.

Tucson: A Two-Day Family Adventure in the Wild West

Experience the vibrant city of Tucson, USA, on a family friendly trip filled with exploration and fun. Discover the Sonoran Desert and its abundant wildlife by embarking on guided hikes or jeep tours. Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where kids can marvel at desert animals and enjoy interactive exhibits, followed by a trip to the Tucson Children's Museum to engage in hands-on science and art activities.

5 Days of Fun: Exploring Tucson, Arizona

A trip to Tucson, United States as a tourist offers a variety of experiences from exploring the rich cultural history of the region to outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike or bike in the nearby Tucson Mountains or explore the famous Saguaro National Park. The city of Tucson also offers unique attractions such as the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Pima Air and Space Museum.