One of the most desirable aspects of living in the Tucson area is the weather. Even in the winter time, residents might be caught in shorts and a t-shirt, outside, basking in the perfect desert sunshine. For those who love sunshine and appreciate a striking sunset, this is certainly the place to be.
This autumn, treat yourself and your family to one of Tucson’s unique outdoor experiences that you will only find in this beautiful desert oasis. Whether you’re traveling from afar, or already an Arizona resident who simply wants to take advantage of all that the Sonoran Desert has to offer, these three ideas will inspire and delight you and your family.
Visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens
Widely considered one of the best botanical gardens in the U.S. — and recognized as such by the readers of USA Today — the Tucson Botanical Gardens is more than a nice place to take a walk. The staff works hard to curate thoughtful exhibits that awe and inspire, including the holiday season LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination that bathes the gardens in twinkling lights from the end of November through mid-January.
With a special focus on desert plants, animals, and insects, the Botanical Gardens invite visitors to explore Indigenous art, celebrate in the Fiesta de los Animales, and spot model trains as they chug through displays of local fauna, among other rotating exhibits.
The Gardens offer community classes designed to enrich the knowledge of gardeners and enthusiasts, romantic event spaces for weddings, receptions and other events, and are home to Arizona’s only tropical butterfly exhibit! LEARN MORE.
Explore Saguaro National Park
Residents of Saguaro Ranch are well acquainted with the iconic saguaro cacti, the nation’s largest cacti. Easily identified by their size and structure, they can sometimes reach a height of 50 feet tall and are recognized around the world as a symbol of the American Southwest. Saguaro National Park is named for these majestic beauties, which are thriving throughout the acres of the park.
Visitors can hike through some of the most breathtaking desert terrain the area has to offer, and are likely to see cacti, snakes, birds, lizards, bees, and maybe even mountain lions! Be sure to bring plenty of water along with you and take note of safety hazards. The Sonoran Desert is a captivating, haunting place, and it can also be a harsh environment for those who aren’t prepared. LEARN MORE.
Learn About the Wild West at Old Tucson
Located between Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain park, Old Tucson is a beautiful desert setting that has been a filming location for hundreds of Hollywood movies and TV shows set in the Wild West. In the 1960s, the park opened up to the public and to this day offers theatrical experiences, special events, and tours that are guaranteed to provide a unique activity and learning opportunity for your family.
From ghost tours during the Halloween season, to Yuletide (a special Christmas event) during the winter, to year-round historical tours, there really isn’t a bad time to visit this very special park. LEARN MORE.
Discover the Magic of Autumn in Tucson
No matter how you choose to spend your autumn days in the Tucson area, the beauty of the Sonoran Desert promises unforgettable memories. From the vibrant exhibits at the Tucson Botanical Gardens to the rugged trails of Saguaro National Park, and the nostalgic charm of Old Tucson, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
So, grab your sunscreen (yes, even in autumn!), a bottle of water, and your sense of adventure, and immerse yourself in all the magic this desert paradise has to offer. This season, let Tucson’s rich landscapes and unique experiences inspire your love for the outdoors.
