Do you want to spend your weekend in Tucson on a shoe-string? Well you’re in luck! Tucson, Arizona is one of the best cities for a budget weekend due to the plethora of outdoor activities, over-abundance of art, and natural landscapes which are priceless (and free). Here are our top 8 things to do in Tucson for under $10.
- Check out the art scene
Tucson has informally been named the, “mini mecca for the arts” by The Wall Street Journal. With more art groups, centres and exhibits then other cities its size you are sure to find something that sparks your interest. For a free experience spend the day on the Fall Tucson Open Studio Tour a self-guided driving tour of the dozens of galleries and studios located in Tucson and the surrounding area.
- Take a walk on the wild side
Tucson’s International Wildlife Museum is a fun, family-friendly activity you can enjoy for under $10 (and kids under 3 are FREE). The museum is dedicated to increasing knowledge about wildlife around the world as well as explaining the role of wildlife management and conservation. Plan your trip in conjunction with an exhibit; past exhibits include: Sensory Safari, Desert Oasis, Living Fossils and Africa’s Deadliest to name a few…
- Be amazed by Botanicals
Named one of the great botanical gardens, Tohono Chul is set on 49 acres of lush desert and depicts an interesting cross-roads of nature, art and culture. Stroll through the themed botanical gardens, retreat to an artfully designed relaxation spot or be inspired by one of the art and garden exhibits which reveal the unique qualities of the Sonoran Region. Admission is under $10 for adults!
- Confront a Cactus
For $5 you can explore some of the nation’s largest cacti at Saguaro National Park. Saguaro National Park is situated around Tucson and is separated into the East & West Division (admission gets you into both parks). Marvel at the desert scenery, go for a hike or participate in one of the park’s guided programs such as a Build-a-Cactus Workshop, Sharing Desert Stories Program or a Cactus Caravan with a local park guide.
- Marvel at the Moon
For science buffs ensure you visit the Smithsonian Institution Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. For only $7.00 you can hop aboard a 6 hour narrated tour to a working research center and observatory. Perched on top of an 8550 ft. mountain the sights are absolutely breathtaking. There is no better place in Arizona to learn about astronomy, astrophysics, natural science and cultural history.
- See sights via Street Car
Hop on the Sun Link Tucson Street Car which connects five major activity centers- the University of Arizona, Fourth Avenue, Main Gate Square, Downtown Tucson and the Mercado District. What better way to spend a leisurely day going from point A to point B while checking out the sights and it’s less than $2!
- Splash around
Need to cool off from the hot desert heat? Check out the Catalina Park Splash Pad. Bring the family and enjoy a BBQ, play in one of two playgrounds and get wet in the splash pad. The Park also features exercise stations and 4 acres of grass to play. Best part of all, it’s FREE!
- Take in a desert sunset
Make sure to catch a famous Tucson desert sunset. The local’s favorite places to watch the sun go down include: Saguaro National Park East, Mission San Xavier, Gates Pass, Windy Point Vista, Arizona State Highway 83. Grab your camera and a bottle of bubbly and be spellbound by the beauty of the sun casting its shadow over the desert-scape as it descends for another day.
Whether you are a student looking for a cheap way to spend the weekend or a visitor who wants to extend your stay come see us at Stargate West Tucson Luxury Apartments. We have a range of 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments, great facilities and a convenient location; we are an ideal community for residents young and old!