Call us biased, but we think Tucson is one of the greatest cities in the U.S. We love all the quirks and telltale signs you’re a Tucsonian and the amazing ways to give back in the city.
And playing tourist in your own backyard is one of the best ways to explore everything the city has to offer. We’re lucky to have a ton of amazing Tucson tourist attractions that will keep you busy and having fun year-round.
You don’t need to fly away to some far-off place for a quick getaway. Instead, check out these 18 only-in-Tucson tourist attractions and discover your own backyard.
18 Must-See Tucson Tourist Attractions
Looking for some day trips from Tucson to fill up your event calendar? Look no further than these 18 amazing Tucson tourist attractions and discover your own backyard.
From outdoor experiences to cultural, educational, and historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone.
1. Saguaro National Park
Location: 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson (detailed directions here)
Cost: $25.00/day per vehicle or $15/person or bicycle
Why it’s cool: You can see the world’s largest cacti in this national park — definitely worth adding to your list of day trips from Tucson. The tallest saguaro ever recorded was 78 ft tall, though it no longer stands. Enjoy a day in the park to walk, picnic, drive, hike, or camp.
2. Mission San Xavier del Bac
Location: 1950 W San Xavier Road
Cost: Free admission
Why it’s cool: With stunning architecture and intricate artwork, this historic mission is a must-see Tucson tourist attraction. You can take a guided tour to understand the history of the place, or explore it on your own.
3. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Location: 2021 N. Kinney Road, Tucson
Cost: $29.95/adult and $19.95/child
Why it’s cool: Learn all about the unique desert landscape that surrounds Tucson. Here you can see museum exhibits about local animals, tours and demonstrations, or explore the gardens.
4. Pima Air & Space Museum
Location: 6000 E Valencia Road
Cost: $19.50/adult and $13.00/child
Why it’s cool: Honestly, what’s not cool about air and space travel? This Tucson tourist attraction lets you explore 6 hangars and 80 acres outside with 400 aircraft from around the world.
5. Biosphere 2
Location: 32540 S Biosphere Road, Oracle, AZ
Cost: $20.00/adult and $13.00/child
Why it’s cool: Experience all the different ecosystems in one spot! This unique research facility simulates various ecosystems found on Earth. Take a guided tour through this Tucson tourist attraction to learn the science behind each environment and see them up close.
6. Old Tucson
Location: 201 Kinney Road
Cost: $22.95/adult and $14.95/child
Why it’s cool: Experience a taste of the wild, wild West! This immersive western-themed Tucson tourist attraction offers live shows, train rides, and a variety of historic buildings and artifacts to immerse yourself in.
7. Kartchner Caverns State Park
Location: 2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ
Cost: $7.00/vehicle
Why it’s cool: Experience some of the most impressive cave formations in the world at this State Park. The 1.5 hour drive makes it one of the best day trips from Tucson, and it’s worth seeing the stunning stalactites and stalagmites up close. Tours are strongly encouraged for both safety and so you can learn more about this unique environment.
8. Tucson Botanical Gardens
Location: 2150 North Alvernon Way
Cost: $15.00/adult and $8.00/child
Why it’s cool: Experience an oasis in the heart of the city. The Tucson Botanical Gardens are home to a variety of desert plants, flowers, and butterflies. Come explore on your own or join a class, such as nature photography or botanical art.
9. Reid Park Zoo
Location: 3400 Zoo Court
Cost: $10.50/adult and $6.50/child
Why it’s cool: From mammals to birds to aquatic life, get up close and personal with a variety of animals at the Reid Park Zoo. Enjoy your day with a train ride, shows, live animal feedings, and variety of educational programs at this iconic Tucson tourist attraction.
10. Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
Location: Reach Catalina Highway by taking Tanque Verde Road east from Tucson
Cost: $8.00/car to park at Mt. Lemmon
Why it’s cool: As one of the most scenic drives in the area, this is a great way to experience the beauty of southeast Arizona while listening to your favorite road-trip tunes. This 60-mile round trip drive allows you to view scenery that’s found in the deserts of Mexico to the forests of Canada — right here in Arizona! It’s a must-add to your list of day trips from Tucson!
11. Tohono Chul
Location: 7366 Paseo del Norte
Cost: $15.00/adult and $6.00/child
Why it’s cool: These gardens reflect the wide ranges of habitats in the Sonoran deserts, so it’s the perfect place to experience the grandeur of the desert without needing to go on an hours-long hike.
12. St. Philip’s Market
Location: 4280 N Campbell Avenue
Cost: Bring money to shop
Why it’s cool: Buy local at this weekly open-air market. You’ll see the best artists, makers, creators, and food businesses in the area at this popular Tucson tourist attraction.
13. Main Gate Square
Location: 814 E University Boulevard
Cost: Bring money to shop
Why it’s cool: Shopping, food, spas, entertainment, and live music — everything you need for a fun day (or night) is here.
14. Golf ‘N Stuff
Location: 6503 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: Priced by activity
Why it’s cool: Who doesn’t love a whimsical miniature golf course to battle your family members at? And there’s more than that at this popular Tucson tourist attraction — try your hand at go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, and laser tag.
15. Musselman Honda Circuit
Location: 11800 S. Harrison Road
Cost: Priced by activity
Why it’s cool: This fully-functional track is available to drivers of all skill levels. Either bring out your own vehicle or rent one at the track. Monthly track days include Sports Cars, Sports Bikes, Drifting, and Kart Racing.
16. Trail Dust Town
Location: 6541 E Tanque Verde Road
Cost: Free to enter; bring money for shopping and dining
Why it’s cool: Step back in time to the wild west and experience one of the most unique shopping and dining areas in Tucson. You can ride a carousel, catch a show, or eat out at the Pinnacle Peak restaurant.
17. International Wildlife Museum
Location: 4800 W Gates Pass Road
Cost: $10.00/adult and $5.00/child
Why it’s cool: Founded in 1988, this museum is a must-see Tucson tourist attraction. It is dedicated to increasing knowledge and appreciation for diverse wildlife around the world. There are over 400 kinds of insects, mammals, and birds in its collection, all displayed in realistic dioramas that recreate natural environments.
18. The Gaslight Theatre
Location: 7010 E Broadway
Cost: $27.00/adult and $15.00/child
Why it’s cool: Catch a show or concert at this historic theater. It’s been a staple of the Tucson entertainment scene since 1977 and is guaranteed the perfect thing to do when you’ve got some spare time. They host a variety of performances, so check out the link to see what’s currently on.
So, which one are you adding to your list for your next day off? And if you know of any other Tucson tourist attractions or day trips from Tucson to add to the list, let us know!
Professional destinations might not be the first things that pop into your mind, but The Post is a uniquely-Tucson workspace that perfectly embodies our city’s professional community. Want to see for yourself? Book a tour of The Post today.