Tucson is home to everything from beautiful buildings to world-class golf courses. And if you head just outside the city in your rental car, you’ll also find some spectacular natural scenery to explore.
Desert drives
Tucson is surrounded by the spectacular Saguaro National Park, named for its instantly-recognisable cacti which are a famous symbol of the American West. The park is divided into two parts, with the larger Rincon Mountain District to the east and the Tucson Mountain District in the west.
The Rincon Mountain District has higher peaks and cooler temperatures than the Tucson Mountains, so it’s home to lots of rare wildlife and plants. Its residents include the black bear, Mexican spotted owl and white-tailed deer to name just a few.
This part of the park is also home to the Cactus Forest Drive, a 13-kilometre loop that allows you to see the incredible landscape from the comfort of your rental car – with plenty of places where you can pull over to take photos.
Head to the western side of the park and you can enjoy spectacular hiking trails such as the short but rewarding Valley View Overlook or even take the 10-kilometre Bajada Loop Drive through a dense forest of cacti.
Historic highlights
Tucson was founded by Spanish soldiers in 1775 so, as you’d expect, it’s home to some truly fascinating historic sights. One of the most famous lies just a short drive south of the city, the Mission San Xavier del Bac.
This historic Catholic church is sometimes known as the White Dove of the Desert and is often hailed as one of the finest examples of Spanish Colonial architecture anywhere in the US.
Back in the city, head downtown to the Presidio District to see El Presidio San Agustín del Tucson, a recreation of the original Spanish fort built in the early days of the city. Here you’ll also find the Historic Block, with several homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries and the Tucson Museum of Art, with fascinating displays that include examples of Pre-Columbian and Spanish Colonial art.
Not far away is the Old Town Artisans, featuring arts and crafts created by local and Latin American artists. There’s also an authentic cantina bar and restaurant. For foodies, a trip to the nearby El Charro Café is another must – founded in 1922, it claims to be the oldest Mexican restaurant in the US as well as the birthplace of the famous chimichanga.
Golfer’s paradise
Another major draw for visitors to the city is its golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or more of a beginner, you’re sure to find a course to suit your skills.
Perhaps the most famous is the Omni Tucson National resort, a PGA Tour destination just a short drive outside the city where you can hone your swing on the Catalina Course overlooking the Santa Catalina Mountains. The resort’s second course, the Sonoran, boasts two lakes and more than 60 bunkers surrounded by native desert vegetation.
Whether you’re planning to enjoy a round of golf, soak up some culture or explore some desert landscapes, car rental in Tucson is the perfect way to make the most of your time in this exciting city.