Pima County Arizona Map
Introduction
Pima County is located in the southern part of Arizona and is home to stunning natural landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and a thriving food scene. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Pima County has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is a must-visit attraction in Pima County. The park is home to over 1.6 million saguaros, which are a symbol of the American West. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the park to experience the unique natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a world-renowned museum that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can explore the various exhibits, including a botanical garden, a natural history museum, and a zoo.
Old Tucson
Old Tucson is a western-themed amusement park that offers visitors a glimpse into the Old West. Visitors can enjoy live-action shows, rides, and attractions that transport them back in time to the days of cowboys and outlaws.
Hidden Gems
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures is a unique museum that showcases a collection of over 300 miniature houses, room boxes, and other small-scale objects. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and marvel at the intricate details of each miniature.
Barrio Viejo
Barrio Viejo is a historic neighborhood in Tucson that is home to beautiful adobe houses, colorful murals, and charming boutiques. Visitors can take a walking tour of the neighborhood to learn about its rich history and admire its unique architecture.
Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Food Scene
El Charro Café
El Charro Café is a Tucson institution that has been serving up delicious Mexican food since 1922. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and tamales, as well as innovative creations like the carne seca platter.
Barrio Bread
Barrio Bread is a small bakery in Tucson that is famous for its artisanal bread. Visitors can sample a variety of breads, including sourdough, whole wheat, and baguettes, and even watch the bakers at work.
Seis Kitchen
Seis Kitchen is a modern Mexican restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. Visitors can enjoy dishes like carne asada fries, street tacos, and ceviche, as well as a variety of cocktails and craft beers.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Pima County is home to several museums that offer free admission, including the Tucson Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the University of Arizona Museum of Art.
Outdoor Activities
Pima County has no shortage of outdoor activities that are free or low-cost, including hiking in the mountains, exploring the desert, and visiting local parks like Reid Park and Kennedy Park.
Happy Hour Deals
Many restaurants and bars in Pima County offer happy hour deals, where visitors can enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. Some popular spots include Union Public House, Tap & Bottle, and The Coronet.
Outdoor Adventures
Mount Lemmon
Mount Lemmon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, rock climbing, and skiing in the winter. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Kayaking on the Colorado River
The Colorado River runs through Pima County and offers visitors a chance to kayak or raft through the majestic canyons and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Biking on the Loop
The Loop is a 131-mile paved trail that runs through Pima County and offers visitors a chance to bike, jog, or walk through the desert landscape and enjoy the scenic views.
Family-Friendly Activities
Children’s Museum Tucson
The Children’s Museum Tucson is a fun and educational destination for families, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that allow children to learn and explore through play.
Reid Park Zoo
The Reid Park Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around the world, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes. Visitors can enjoy the various exhibits and even feed the giraffes.
Tucson Botanical Gardens
The Tucson Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, offering visitors a chance to explore a variety of gardens, including a butterfly garden and a cactus garden.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Kartchner Caverns State Park
Kartchner Caverns State Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to explore a stunning limestone cave system. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caverns and marvel at the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Titan Missile Museum
The Titan Missile Museum is a unique attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore a decommissioned nuclear missile site. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the history of the Cold War.
San Xavier del Bac Mission
The San Xavier del Bac Mission is a beautiful historic church that dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can admire the unique architecture and learn about the history of the mission and the Tohono O’odham people.
Natural Wonders
Biosphere 2
Biosphere 2 is a unique research facility that is home to several ecosystems, including a rainforest, a desert, and an ocean. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the research being conducted there.
Kino Springs
Kino Springs is a beautiful natural oasis located near Nogales. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking in the crystal-clear waters of the spring.
Tumacácori National Historical Park
Tumacácori National Historical Park is a beautiful park that is home to the ruins of a Spanish colonial mission. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and learn about the history of the mission and the early settlers of the area.
Vibrant Nightlife
Downtown Tucson
Downtown Tucson is a vibrant and lively destination for nightlife, offering a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy live music, craft cocktails, and local cuisine.
Fourth Avenue
Fourth Avenue is a popular destination for nightlife in Tucson, offering a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy live music, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere.
Casino Del Sol
Casino Del Sol is a popular destination for nightlife in Pima County, offering a variety of gaming options, live entertainment, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Local Markets
St. Philip’s Plaza Farmers Market
The St. Philip’s Plaza Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods.
Rillito Park Farmers Market
The Rillito Park Farmers Market is another popular destination for fresh produce and artisanal goods, located in a beautiful park setting.
Heirloom Farmers Market
The Heirloom Farmers Market is a collection of several farmers markets located throughout Pima County, offering a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Mount Lemmon
Mount Lemmon is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and skiing, offering stunning views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Madera Canyon
Madera Canyon is a beautiful natural area located in the Santa Rita Mountains, offering hiking, birdwatching, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.