Must Visit Attractions in Tucson

The MMT Observatory is a huge facility which is established for the purpose of astronomical observation. The observatory is operated in association with The University of Arizona and the Smithsonian Institution. The observatory is named so, because of the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) that it possess. The facility is open to visitors and several events, exhibitions and tours are conducted for better understanding of astronomy.

The Mission San Xavier del Bac is perhaps Tucson's best-known historic landmark. Established in 1692 by the Spanish missionary Father Kino, 16.09 kilometers (10 miles) south of what is now downtown Tucson on the Tohono O'odham Indian reservation, San Xavier del Bac is considered one of the finest examples of Mexican folk baroque architecture. The mission's spotless whitewashed walls are embellished with the contrasting colors of the ornately handcrafted mesquite-wood entrance that adds a tinge of old-world finesse to the structure. The mission that stands today is, in fact, the second mission built between 1783 to 1797, and yet is the oldest European building in the state of Arizona. The parish is still active and holds mass every week.

This world-famous museum is also a zoo that displays the creatures of the surrounding desert in their natural habitats. Located in the middle of the Sonoran desert about a half an hour drive from Tucson's city center, it also provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The gift shop has an excellent selection of Sonoran desert souvenirs. This is a must for any visitor staying in Tucson for more than just one day.

Located at the University of Arizona campus, the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium is the place to go for astronomy buffs of all ages. Attend the special planetarium shows here, complete with high definition digital dome projection. Kids will have fun participating in the hands-on science exhibits and exploring the history of planet earth at the mineral museum. The planetarium show themes change every month, but the fact that their star projector can show over 8,000 stars never changes.

Located on the scenic Gates of Pass Road and surrounded by stately saguaros, the International Wildlife Museum invites visitors to take a grand tour of the fauna of the earth. African antelopes share their space with big polar bears here, who despite being taxidermied look very much alive. Apart from stuffed animals, the museum also features wildlife films, dioramas, and interactive computer games. If you are planning on bringing a larger group, discounted group rates are available.

Tucson Botanical Gardens is a major tourist attraction in the city that's not meant just for plant lovers. Apart from a rich collection of cacti and desert wildflowers, the gardens offer an educational walk around the history of the native Tohono O'odham Indians and the efforts of local scientists to preserve native seeds. Don't miss the wonderful Nuestro Jardin, the traditional Mexican-American neighborhood garden, or the shaded restaurant patio.

The Reid Park Zoo is one of the major attractions in the city. Due to its relatively small size, the zoo can be explored at a leisurely pace in less than two hours. In their natural habitats, the wild animals make for a fascinating sight. From giraffes, tigers to peacocks, rhinos, elephants and bears, Reid Park Zoo has them all and many more.

Tucson Museum of Art proudly features pieces created by artists in American West and Latin American. Most of the pieces are also contemporary modern in nature. The museum also features works by some of Arizona's most talented artists. Children under 12 and members are admitted free of charge and it's free for all on the first Sunday of the month. If art is what intrigues you, especially that of a local variety, then this place is a must-visit.

Located on the University of Arizona campus, University of Arizona Museum of Art is home to a remarkable collection of Renaissance as well as 19th to 20th century art including works of such giants as Rembrandt, Rodin, Georgia O'Keefe, Rothko and Hopper. Apart from the permanent 15th century exhibit upstairs, there are changing exhibits around prominent artists and themes. The on-site bookstore and gift shop is a great place to pick up a souvenir as well.

The locals commonly refer to this high elevation peak, located just west of downtown, as "A" Mountain because since 1915, University of Arizona students have whitewashed the letter "A" on its eastern slope. Its history, however, goes much further back: it was at the foot of this mountain that the earliest traces of human settlements in the Tucson area were found. The top of the mountain offers one of the best panoramic views of the Tucson basin, as well as a few BBQ grills.

Referred to as "Hollywood in the Desert," Old Tucson Studios is one of the most famous movie studios in the world. Plan to take the entire family and spend an entire day immersed in the "Old West" theme. Take care, you might run into bandits while strolling the streets or witness a bank robbery in progress. More than 350 movies have been filmed in this studio, now home to commercial photography, film and television productions.