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EXPLORE | | | | | | | Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum2021 N Kinney Rd
Tucson,
AZ
85743
520-883-2702 | | | | | Description: WEST TUCSON. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is one of Tucson's star attractions, with good reason. Part zoo, part natural history museum, and part botanical garden, the facility is set on 21 acres and is home to numerous animals that roam freely within invisibly-fenced enclosures. After checking out the exhibits in the main visitor center, wander along two miles of paved pathways, where you can catch sight of endangered species such as the Mexican wolf, thick-billed parrot, ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, and the Gila topminnow; and not-so-endangered critters like leafcutter ants, black bears, river otters, bighorn sheep, coatis, beavers, coyote, javelinas, black-tailed prairie dogs, termites and roadrunners. And don't miss the captivating cactus garden or the Hummingbird Aviary!
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| 32540 S Biosphere Rd
Oracle,
AZ
85623
520-838-6200 | | | | | Description: Biosphere 2 is a self-contained, man-made habitat that comprises all of the elements from Earth (Biosphere 1). It is a sealed glass and space frame construction with seven wilderness ecosystems. Today, Biosphere 2 is operated as a research station by Columbia University, which also maintains a branch of the university on the grounds. Guided tours take visitors through several of the biomes, as well as the biospherian's former living quarters and the technical rooms that control the various interior climates.
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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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| 1100 S Randolph Way
Tucson,
AZ
85716
520-791-4022 | | | | | Description: EAST TUCSON. This well-planned, 17-acre zoo features all of your zoo favorites, including polar bears, jaguars, ostriches and much more. The Aviary exhibit, with its array of birds, is a popular destination, as is the South American exhibit. With more than 500 rare animals, the zoo is active in helping endangered species such as Siberian tigers and ruffed lemurs.
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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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| 4440 N Campbell Ave
Tucson,
AZ
85718
520-299-6421 | | | | | Description: FOOTHILLS. Saint Philip's is one of the largest Episcopal churches in the country, and also one of the most beautiful. The views from its 12-foot arched window distinguish it from most houses of worship. The mission style building was designed in the 1930s by noted architect Josias Joesler, who wisely positioned the building to take full advantage of the majesty of the Catalina Mountains. Inside, there's a gallery that displays the works of local artists, and the church hosts numerous music performances throughout the year that are open to the public. Try to get a glimpse of the inner courtyard, an enchanting oasis that's perfect for thoughtful reflection.
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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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| 2150 N Alvernon Way
Tucson,
AZ
85712
520-326-9686 | | | | | Description: NORTHEAST. Set in the heart of the city, the Tucson Botanical Gardens offers plenty of winding pathways taking visitors past floral exhibits, greenhouses, classrooms for instruction, and a superb exhibit on xeriscaping, a concept of planning yards and gardens using minimal water in the desert climate. Don't miss the iris garden, the herb garden, the unique tropical exhibit or the well-stocked gift shop. NOTE: BUTTERFLY MAGIC IS CLOSED UNTIL OCTOBER 2007.
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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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| 811 N Euclid Ave
Tucson,
AZ
85719
520-621-5130 | | | | | Description: DOWNTOWN. The University of Arizona campus is an excellent place for a scenic stroll, with groves of ancient olive trees and shaded pathways surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens full of palm trees and cacti. Start at the UA visitor center, where you can learn more about the campus and pick up a map. Highlights include the arts complex with its nationally known photo repository featuring the work of Ansel Adams, the Arizona State Museum, Centennial Hall, and the Flandreau Planetarium.
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