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EXPLORE | | | | | | | Arizona Historical Society Museum949 E 2nd St
Tucson,
AZ
85719
520-628-5774 | | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. The Arizona Historical Society's museum adjacent to the University of Arizona campus offers information about the development of Arizona from the first arrival of Europeans in 1540 through the times under Spain and Mexico, to territorial Arizona in the 1800s and beyond. Branch museums at Fort Lowell on the east side, and at the Sosa-Carillo-Fremont House in the Convention Center complex give looks at military and civilian life during the Mexican and territorial periods.
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| 356 S Main Ave
Tucson,
AZ
85701
| | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. El Tiradito (The Wishing Shrine) has its roots back in the 1800s. A plaque at the site says a sinner is buried here in unconsecrated ground, but the legends surrounding this person are sketchy at best. Most seem to agree that an ill-fated love triangle was involved, but which point of the triangle is interred here will likely remain a mystery for all time. For years, folks have come here to say a little prayer, light a candle, and leave a milagro. Supposedly, if your candle is still burning in the morning, whatever you prayed for will come to pass. An interesting bit of trivia: El Tiradito is on the National Register of Historic Places, a designation which thwarted construction of a super highway right through the Barrio Historico.
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| Mission San Xavier del Bac1950 W San Xavier Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85746
520-294-2624 | | | | | Description: AIRPORT. San Xavier is considered one of the finest examples of Mission architecture in this country. Founded by Father Eusabio Kino, today it serves as the parish church for the Tohono O'odham tribe and often hosts concerts. The elaborate interior has been carefully restored using techniques taught by experts from the Vatican in Rome. Numerous native artifacts are housed inside, including books, maps and photos. Tourists are welcome any time except during services. There is no admission charge, although a donation for the continued upkeep is appreciated.
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Picacho,
AZ
85241
520-466-3183 | | | | | Description: MARANA. Picacho Peak often served as a landmark for early explorers, and the pass over its summit has been in use at least since Father Kino's days in the 17th century. The historically significant site was also the scene of a Civil War battle in 1862, an event which is reenacted by costumed performers every March. The land is dotted with the hardiest of desert plants, from mesquite and acacia trees to saguaro, prickly pear and cholla cacti. Hikers here are usually rewarded with sightings of at least of few animals, such as rabbits, mule deer, javelina, coyotes, ground squirrels, pack rats and lizards.
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| 192 S Stone Ave
Tucson,
AZ
85701
520-623-6351 | | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. Construction on St Augustine began in 1866, but it took a few years to complete. The cathedral is perhaps best known for its detailed cast stone façade, liberally decorated with signs and symbols, including some of desert plants and animals. Notable features inside include the crucifix in the vestibule, which was carved in Pamplona, Spain in the 12th or 13th century. The cathedral seats 1250 people, and the floor gradually slopes down toward the altar allowing everyone a good view. Sunday's 8 am mariachi mass is open to the public and is worth attending for a taste of local culture, and guided tours are offered by appointment.
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| 105 S 4th St
Tombstone,
AZ
85638
520-457-9317 | | | | | Description: SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. Tombstone is located about 70 miles southeast of Tucson, perfect for a day trip. Some of the biggest legends of the Old West originated right here Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp, the gunfight at the OK Corral. Today's Tombstone is touristy, to be sure, but with the help of the National Park Service the town is trying to retain some of its National Historic District designation, so new tourist traps are thankfully a thing of the past. Visitors will find a handful of snack shops and restaurants, a few small hotels and B&Bs, and horseback, stagecoach and wagon tours among the services; gunfight shows, monuments, a city park, a couple of intriguing museums, and various historic buildings comprise the sites. Tombstone is a must-visit for any fan of the Old West!
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| 4 Plaza Rd, Ste E
Tubac,
AZ
85646
520-398-0007 | | | | | Description: SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. About 50 miles south of Tucson is the artsy little town of Tubac. Start off at the Visitor's Center in the La Entrada de Tubac shopping center, where you can pick up maps and plenty of brochures about local attractions. You'll certainly want to see Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, which dates back to 1752 and houses some wonderful historical and archaeological exhibits. You can hike the Anza Trail between this park and Tumacacori National Historic Park (about 3 miles). The trail crosses the Santa Cruz river a couple of times so you'll get wet feet, but it's a great way to see the variety of plant and animal life that a constant water source brings to an otherwise arid desert. Finally, be sure to spend some time browsing through the numerous art and craft galleries, charming boutiques and eclectic shops offering everything from handmade beads and furniture to Native American pottery and contemporary art glass. A fun day trip!
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| Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block140 N Main Ave
Tucson,
AZ
85701-8218
520-624-2333 | | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. The Tucson Museum of Art not only houses a permanent exhibit of pre-Columbian art plus traveling exhibits, it also houses an art school and an art library. There is a fine gift shop within the museum, as well. Located in the historic Barrio Presidio (the original walled city), the Art Museum shares the district with five homes on the National Register of Historic Places. All are within easy walking distance of the museum.
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| Tumacácori National Historical Park1891 E Frontage Rd
Tumacácori,
AZ
85640
520-398-2341 | | | | | Description: SOUTHEAST ARIZONA. Formerly an Indian village, this area next became the site of a mission established by Father Kino, a Jesuit priest. The mission was finally abandoned after being attacked repeatedly by the Apaches. The ruins of the mission, a spacious adobe church, are well-preserved, and informative tours offer a fascinating look at the history of the area. The visitor center contains a small museum showcasing artifacts and a diarama.
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