With an average 350 sunny days every year, Tucson offers idyllic weather and a rich Hispanic culture reflected in its cuisine, history and cultural attractions. From spicy Mexican food to University nightlife and a burgeoning wine scene just an hour away, Tucson is a bustling desert enclave.

Things to do

Visit the thriving El Presidio Historic District and Barrio Historico for brightly coloured adobe structures with quaint local shops and eateries. Explore Tucson’s contemporary dining and shopping scene in the Catalina Foothills or join the party crowd at bars along Fourth Avenue near the University of Arizona.

Eating is a serious pastime in Tucson, where smoky and spicy Mexican food often highlights each menu. You can taste classic tamales and enchiladas at El Charro Café or take things up a notch with fine dining at Café Poca Cosa. Arizona Wine Country serves unique blends in small villages, such as Sonoita and Elgin, where you can sip and sample on self-guided tours.

Save some time for visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, home to more than 200 native animals, including mountain lions and prairie dogs. Take a look at hundreds of famous saguaro cactus while hiking in Saguaro National Park and ride the Sabino Canyon Tram in Sabino Canyon Recreation Area.

The Pima Air and Space Museum offers a chance to see more than 300 aircraft and space vehicles as well as Russian MiGs and a historic X-15A-2 from the 1960s. You can also tour the “Boneyard”, where retired aircraft go after they’ve past their glory days.

Getting around

Rental cars are available downtown and at Tucson International Airport, about a 10-minute drive away. Buses, taxis and ride-shares offer transportation, while the Tucson Streetcar connects five major districts.