A local Arizona wildlife and landscape photographer, Leslie Quinnell, recently visited Tucson’s most famous attractions and snapped some beautiful images along the way. With her permission, we have shared her photos offering a glimpse of the spectacular beauty, wildlife attractions, and architecture that can be enjoyed on a day touring Tucson.

The Tucson-Sonora Desert Museum

This world renowned zoo and botanical garden is chocked full of interesting exhibits to check out and is one of Tucson’s most famous attractions. The museum is set amongst 98 acres with 21 acres of interpretive trails, 230 animal species, 1200 types of plants, and one of the world’s most significant regional mineral collections. The museum has a mission to inspire people to live in harmony with the natural world by fostering love, appreciation and understanding of the Sonoran Desert. These photos certainly serve this mission well.

Mission San Xavier del Bac

This historic national landmark was founded by a Catholic Mission and is the oldest intact European structure in Arizona. Construction began in 1783, was completed in 1797, and to date serves as a place of worship to its parishioners. The building is constructed with low-fire clay brick, stone and lime mortar and the Baroque architectural style features theatrical curtain displays, marbling, faux doors and an overall sense of balance. Mission San Xavier del Bac is located 10 miles south of downtown Tucson on the Tohono O’odham San Xavier Indian Reserve.

Tucson surely is a beautiful place with boundless natural and physical beauty to inspire and delight. If you’re looking to call Tucson home or will be visiting for an extended period of time, make sure to contact Stargate West Luxury Apartments, we feature comfortable, well appointed and well priced one, two and three bedroom apartments just outside of downtown Tucson.