Tucson: A Wild West Adventure for the Whole Family

Discover the wonders of Tucson together, where family fun awaits in the heart of the American Southwest.

19 July 2023

Tucson, located in the southwestern United States, offers an exciting and family-friendly trip. Explore the breathtaking Saguaro National Park, where towering cacti dominate the landscape, or visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum for an educational and interactive wildlife experience. Enjoy the city's vibrant cultural heritage by strolling through the historic downtown, indulging in delicious southwestern cuisine, and embarking on a thrilling hike in the picturesque Santa Catalina Mountains.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Wild West:

  • Check into Hotel Congress, an iconic spot filled with historical charm.
  • Step back in time at Old Tucson, where your family can experience the thrill of the Wild West.
  • Get your nerd on at the Pima Air & Space Museum, where you'll find planes that could make even birds jealous.
  • Indulge in a sizzling steak dinner at El Corral, a cowboy-inspired restaurant serving up mouthwatering meats.
  • Catch a stunning Arizona sunset at Gates Pass, the ideal spot for a family photo session with cacti in the backdrop.
Day 2

A Splashin' Good Time:

  • Dive into some aquatic fun at Breakers Water Park, where slides and wave pools will make your little ones squeal with delight.
  • Take a break from the sun and head to the Children's Museum Tucson, a place where learning is disguised as endless play.
  • Refuel at Prep & Pastry, a trendy brunch spot with delicious dishes that will make your taste buds dance.
  • Embark on a desert adventure with a guided tour of Saguaro National Park, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way.
  • Wrap up the day with a dinner at Cup Cafe, a cozy eatery located within the enchanting Hotel Congress.
Day 3

Artsy Escapade:

  • Start the day with a visit to the Tucson Museum of Art, where eclectic exhibits will ignite your family's creativity.
  • Stroll through the vibrant 4th Avenue district, browsing funky shops and savoring street food along the way.
  • Grab lunch at Cafe Poca Cosa, a Mexican gem serving up mouthwatering dishes that are as beautiful as they are flavorful.
  • Explore the magical beauty of the Tucson Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis filled with exotic plants and hidden paths.
  • End the day with a performance at the historic Fox Theatre, where live music or a play will leave your family entertained.
Day 4

Outdoor Thrills:

  • Lace up your hiking boots and conquer the challenging trails of Sabino Canyon, a stunning desert paradise.
  • Cool off at Reid Park Zoo, where you can meet adorable animals from around the world.
  • Refuel with a delicious burger at The Fix, a local joint known for its juicy patties and unique toppings.
  • Discover the beauty of Kartchner Caverns State Park, venturing deep underground to see awe-inspiring limestone formations.
  • Finish the day by indulging in some sweet treats from HUB Ice Cream Factory, a paradise for every ice cream lover.
Day 5

History and Farewell:

  • Dive into Arizona's history at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where your family can learn about the desert's fascinating past.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along The Loop, a popular multi-use trail with stunning views of the city and surrounding nature.
  • Lunch at Mi Nidito, a local landmark serving up delicious and authentic Sonoran cuisine.
  • Take a trip back in time at the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a stunning Spanish mission that will leave you in awe.
  • Bid farewell to Tucson by savoring dinner on the patio at Cafe a la C'Art, enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere one last time.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Tucson

Welcome to the land of cacti, cowboys, and quirky art scenes. Just don't forget your sunscreen, because it's hot enough to cook an egg on a sidewalk.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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