Exploring the Best of Tucson, Arizona in 2 Days

Day 1: Cultural Discoveries

Tucson, Arizona

8:00AM

Breakfast at Prep & Pastry

Start your day with delightful pastries and gourmet coffee at Prep & Pastry, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and creative menu.
Located in the heart of Tucson, it's easily accessible by car or a short rideshare.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Explore this unique museum that combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, showcasing the diverse culture and wildlife of the desert.
Drive 20 minutes west on Ajo Way.
USD22, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Charro Cafe

Savor delicious and authentic Mexican food, with signature dishes like the carne seca, at this historic restaurant that has been a Tucson favorite since 1922.
Head back east for about 30 minutes.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Mission San Xavier del Bac

Visit this stunning 18th-century Spanish mission known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, set against the backdrop of the Sonoran Desert.
A short 15-minute drive south will take you to this historic site.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Hike at Saguaro National Park

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert by hiking the scenic trails with iconic giant saguaro cacti surrounding you.
A straightforward 30-minute drive east will take you to the park's visitor center.
USD10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Coronet

End your day with a hearty meal at The Coronet, known for its comforting food and relaxed ambiance; try the pork chop or one of their seasonal specials.
Return to downtown Tucson, a 30-minute drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Art

Tucson, Arizona

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuits Country Cafe

Indulge in homestyle Southern breakfast options, including the famous biscuits and gravy, at this renowned local specialty.
Located within Tucson, easily accessible by car.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Stroll the Tucson Botanical Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful themed gardens and serene landscapes at this oasis of native and exotic plants right in the city.
A quick 10-minute drive north will get you there.
USD15, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

Appreciate innovative works from regional and national artists in this vibrant arts center focused on contemporary art.
A short 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk will take you to this museum.
USD10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cup Cafe

Sit down at The Cup Cafe, located in the Historic Hotel Congress, for lunch; the menu features fresh ingredients and an eclectic selection of dishes.
It's a 10-minute stroll downtown.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Pima Air & Space Museum

Discover one of the largest collections of aircraft in the world, ranging from vintage plans to stealth bombers, at this exciting aerospace museum.
Drive 20 minutes southeast from downtown Tucson.
USD16, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Guero Canelo

Visit this local haunt famous for its Sonoran hot dogs and carne asada burritos, experience the local culinary culture at its most authentic.
A 20-minute drive back towards the city center.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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