Plan Your Winter Arizona Getaway
If you live where winter is an actual season complete with cold temps and snowy conditions, chances are you’ve dreamed of a desert vacation once or twice. You may have even researched some of the more popular destination locations that make Arizona famous. Maybe you looked at the shopping that makes Scottsdale a popular stop. Perhaps the red rocks of Sedona caught your eye, or you’ve always dreamed of seeing the Grand Canyon. And while those places are beautiful options, we think there’s a spot that can offer a world-class vacation that you should consider first. We’re talking about Tucson! You may be surprised to hear that Tucson is actually a popular choice for a winter vacation in Arizona.
Why Tucson?
With its warm, mild days, and crisp, star-filled nights, Tucson is a perfect choice when planning a retreat from freezing winter temps. Tucson is unique to Arizona and many other mid-large cities in that many nature conservation efforts are in place, making this a favorite winter destination. Tucson is smack dab in the middle of the Sonoran desert (think lush green and towering saguaro cacti rather than barren sand), and the city planners have taken great lengths to preserve the natural landscape, even in the middle of the hustle and bustle. One minute you’re in the middle of downtown, and then next, you find yourself back in the desert landscape. And this continues throughout the sprawling metropolis, which happens to be the 2nd largest city in Arizona.
Besides caring for its beautiful desert landscape, Tucson is also designated as a “dark sky city.” This means there are regulations in place for how bright city lights can be, how late into the evening they can shine, and more. In a nutshell, this makes Tucson a prime stargazing destination. And in the winter, the Milky Way is especially visible, right over the Santa Catalina mountains. That’s something you do not want to miss!
And if the beautiful landscape isn't enough, Tucson has also been designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. This is an exceedingly high honor bestowed on only 50 cities worldwide, only two of which are in the US. This title is given to cities that have a vibrant and growing culinary scene, and Tucson was chosen because of the “region’s rich agricultural heritage, thriving food traditions, and culinary distinctiveness.”
Here are some of our favorites around the valley, so you can plan your next vacay in Tucson:
What to Do
Tucson is not lacking in beautiful resorts, golf courses, shopping, and nature trails. There are typical “vacation” activities aplenty. But here are some of our favorite experiences that are unique to Tucson and best in the winter months.
Saguaro National Park - If hiking National Parks is on your to-do list, Saguaro National Park is one of the most unique parks in the country. The Sonoran desert is the only place in the world where saguaro cacti grow, and this park boasts the thickest forests around. I bet you didn’t know that a cactus grove was considered a forest, did you? The majesty of these regal plants has earned them the nickname of King of the Cactus, and they are a must-see sight when you visit the desert!
El Conquistador Golf - With Tucson’s naturally mild winter weather, there is a reason pro golfers and PGA tour events have made Tucson a primary destination since 1945! With more than 40 courses throughout the area, there is golfing in Tucson for any skillset! We like to recommend the El Conquistador for not one but two notable courses that are always a hit with our guests!
Sonoran Desert Museum - Great for kids and adults alike, this mostly outside museum is also part zoo, part nature preserve, and part botanical garden. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed learning all about flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert region in such a beautiful setting. Something unique to the winter season is that you can see their raptor free flight most days, where giant birds of prey fly directly overhead - so close you can hear their wings brushing. The raptors only fly from November through April. Check their website for specific dates. Pro tip: Arrive when they open! When it’s warm out midday, many animals take their siestas.
Mt Lemmon - If you'd like a million-dollar view, give yourself ample time to drive to the summit, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the entire valley, blanketed in Tucson’s famous, awe-inspiring winter sunsets. However, you can also ski Mt Lemmon at Tucson's only ski resort! Skiing is not something you think of when you consider a winter vacation in the desert, but it’s definitely possible! There aren’t many vacation spots where you can hike among the cactus in the morning and have a ride on the slopes by lunch! Pro tip: Pull over at Windy Point for a great photo op!
Colossal Cave - Just 15 minutes east of Tucson in the community of Vail, is one of Tucson’s hidden gems. With beautiful hiking trails, great picnic spots, and a cave for touring, this spot is a favorite for locals and tourists alike! Grab a bite to eat at their little cafe or pack a lunch to enjoy around their campgrounds. This location is known for its great night sky view, so plan to stay the day and take in all the sights!
Where to Eat
It would be a crime to visit a city internationally honored for its Sonoran cuisine and not sample those flavors. But Tucson’s culinary scene boasts more than just heavenly Mexican food. Here are a few of our favorites.
El Charro - If you’re looking for authentic Sonoran desert cuisine, this is the place. The oldest Mexican restaurant continuously owned by one family in the United States, El Charro is worth a visit. You won't be disappointed by the mouth-watering tacos, enchiladas, and tamales (not to mention margaritas). Fun Tucson fact - the original owner, Monica Flin is said to have invited the infamous chimichanga!
Tito & Pep - Named one of the best restaurants in the US by the New York Times, Tito & Pep has a fun atmosphere with killer food (not to mention a James Beard Award finalist). This place is a must-visit with elevated, Southwest-inspired dishes and an extensive wine list to make this an unforgettable dining experience!
Harvest - If you’re in the mood for a great burger, Harvest is the place for you, and we highly recommend the mouthwatering Chimichurri Burger! Harvest also serves other amazing elevated American comfort foods, like braised short ribs and a gorgonzola chicken salad, and you can’t go wrong with any of it. Bonus - Harvest is in Oro Valley and is close to all of our properties!
Boca Tacos y Tequila - You may recognize chef Maria Mezon from competing on Top Chef. Her inventive recipes and fresh take on the classic taco also earned her restaurant the notoriety of being a James Beard Finalist. Come in to sample a flight of homemade salsas or her famous Boca Balls. Tacos might have put this restaurant on the map, but her entire menu is worth a taste!
Reilly Craft Pizza - North - If you’re looking for mouth watering Italian, wood-fired, pizzas, and craft cocktails, look no further. Reilly is one of our favorites, and we recommend choosing the North location for something closer to one of our properties. Make reservations ahead of time, and try the roasted brussel sprouts - they’re outrageous.
The Hoppy Vine - Looking for an after dinner drink of a post-brunch spot to catch the game? Newly opened in Oro Valley, The Hoppy Vine is a locally owned taproom and bottle shop. You can bring your own eats, too! They have a long list of beers and wines to choose from.
Where to Stay
We wholeheartedly believe the best way to vacay is at a luxury vacation rental. Hotels can’t offer complete privacy, luxury accommodations, or backyard cocktails watching the sunset! And since we believe this deeply, we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure your winter getaway in Tucson is top-notch. Click around to find which of our different properties is perfect for you. Each location comes with a spectacular view and special touches that make your visit a uniquely Tucson experience.
Casa Palma - Best for couples and families, the Casa Palma sleeps up to eight in its four bedrooms and features a bright and spacious kitchen, beautiful modern decor, and a backyard fire pit and hot tub.
The Verde - Built with the discerning traveler in mind, the Verde sleeps up to six and is outfitted with luxury desert decor and a landscaped backyard with a fire pit, hot tub, and mountain views.
Saguaro Sueños - This modern desert escape has plenty of room, sleeps up to eight, and is situated on the edge of the desert, with stunning views of the Catalina mountains and a heated pool and spa. Soaring ceilings with beams, a dual sided fireplace, and record player add charm to this upscale getaway.
Casa Alpenglow - Located in Tucson’s northwest suburb, Oro Valley, Casa Alpenglow is a perfect getaway for a group or family looking for midwinter warmth. The home-away-from-home sleeps up to eight in its four bedrooms and 2700 square feet. Named for the pink hue the mountains take on just after sunset, Casa Alpenglow’s mountain views, and heated saltwater pool and spa are just what the doctor ordered to cure the winter blues.
Oasis Casita - Sleeps up to two; our original property features traditional saltillo tile and crisp fresh linens ready for a relaxing getaway.
Oasis Airstream - Sleeps up to two; our original property features traditional saltillo tile and crisp fresh linens ready for a relaxing getaway.
We’re so proud to show off our beautiful city, and we hope you’ll see it as fondly as we do. If you decide to plan a winter vacation in Tucson, and try any of these recommendations, will you let us know? We can’t wait to see you at our properties and hear about your adventures in Tucson!