Southwest Vacation Sensation!

Giant saguaro cacti flood the Oro Valley like a gathering of worshippers—their green arms stretched out to receive the sun. And yes, it is sun you will find here among the Santa Catalina mountains. Over 350 days a year it bakes the region into warm, desert tones.

Snowbirds flock to the area for this reason. But there’s so much more to nearby Tucson and the Sonoran Desert. No trip would be complete without visits to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the Mission San Xavier del Bac and Pima Air and Space Museum. And, with a hike into Catalina State Park, your conception of the word "desert" will be altered. The area is surprisingly lush and green. Rancho Vistoso also puts you within easy reach of Nogales, Mexico, for festive day trips devoted to shopping and exploring.

Popular Attractions

Pima Air & Space Museum

View more than 200 aircraft on display at the Pima Air & Space Museum (PASM). The museum also has an original WWII barracks, which houses a chronologically arranged collection of model military aircraft ranging from pre-WWI to the present. Open: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily except Christmas. Approx. 30 miles.

Historic Downtown Tucson

Downtown Tucson reflects the history and cultural diversity of the Old Pueblo in each of its distinct districts, including El Presidio, which encompasses the area around the original walled presidio, and the Congress Street Corridor, home to the city’s nightlife, unique shops and historic theatres. Experience this historic area on a walking tour. For more information, call (520) 547-3338. Approx. 14 miles.

Biosphere II

Take a tour of Biosphere II—a three-acre, glass-enclosed, self-sustaining model of Earth, which once was home to eight scientists. Open: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Approx. 22 miles.

Annual Festivals

February: Tucson Rodeo, Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

April: Pima County Fair, 4th Ave Street Fair

October: Helldorado Days, Night Fall @ Old Tucson Studio

November: El Tour De Tucson

December: Parade of Lights, 4th Ave Street Fair