Diveshops in Tucson: Desert Divers Scuba Center Desert Divers-East The Dive Shop

Tucson Understand Tucson has always been a crossroads. Until recently, water was relatively plentiful in Tucson, in spite of its location in the middle of a desert. This made it an important travel route, an agricultural center, and a communications nexus. Tucson's history is ancient, with evidence of human occupation stretching back 10,000 years. Between A.D. 200 and 1450, the Hohokam culture dominated the area -- the Pima and Tohono O'Odham peoples that still occupy the area are descendants of the Hohokam. In 1699, Father Eusebio Kino, S.J., established the Mission San Xavier del Bac, southwest of present-day Tucson. Over the next 100 years, other missions were established in the area, but European presence was minimal. It wasn't until 1775 that the Presidio of Tucson was created by Don Hugo O'Conor. At that time, it was the northernmost Spanish outpost in the New World. In 1821, Tucson became part of the new country of Mexico, and in 1853 it became part of the United States as a result of the Gadsden Purchase. In 1863, Arizona became a US territory, and by 1880, its population was around 8,000. In 1912, Arizona became the 48th state to enter the union. Today, Tucson is still a crossroads, with European, Native American, Mexican, and Asian cultures bumping into one another, in sometimes conflicting and sometimes compatible -- but always interesting -- ways. Eat As you can guess, Tucson is a veritable hub of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. But Tucson is an adventurous town (easily the most liberal metropolitan area in Arizona) and as a result of it's diversity, has a vibrant culinary culture. Budget Pat's Chili Dogs. Mission Road between St. Mary's Road and Speedway. An old time "drive in" (carhop service however does not exist - you must walk up to the order window). Lunchtime is packed with Tucsonans ordering the most famous Chili and Cheese Dogs in the State (I drive from Phoenix occasionally just to eat them!). French fries made from fresh potatoes on site. Lots of hot sauce. Arriba!! Birreria Guadalajara. Southeast corner of 22nd. Street and 4th. Avenue. A hole in the wall Mexican diner frequented by the Hispanic workers and Gringos "in the know". All the standard Mexican fare, but an unusual emphasis on "caldos" or soup. Birria is shreaded beef in it's own broth. This place makes the best! Yoshimatsu Healthy Japanese Food. 2745 N Campbell Avenue, Tel. (520) 320-1574 Local, home-made Japanese food. Recently opened a sushi bar within the same building. Great first date location and a separate vegetarian menu. Beyond Bread. 3026 N. Campbell Ave., Tel. (520) 322-9965, . Amazing sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, made from ingredients that are as fresh as possible. (In addition to baking bread daily, the restaurant also roasts its turkey and beef on site.) They also have an espresso bar and pastries. A nice place for lunch, but watch out -- it's very popular, and you may have to wait in line. Average sandwich (hot & cold) costs around $6-6.50, chips included. Buddy's Grill, 4821 East Grant Road,... more travelguide information

	Starr Pass Golf Suites	Score 7.5 from 1 reviews
	3645 W. Starr Pass Blvd
	At the heart of the resort community is the celebrated Starr Pass Golf Course. Its desert style layout and dramatic terrain challenges golfers of all skill levels. The J.W. Starr Pass Resort and spa added nine additional holes, making it a 27-hole Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Facility. But Starr Pass Golf Suites isn’t just for golfers. It’s also perfect for a family getaway, business meeting or wedding. A peaceful location along the wildlife corridor adjacent to Tucson Mountain Park makes it ideal for those desiring a relaxing escape with a touch of outdoor adventure. Starr Pass is also located only minutes away from the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum. Low light restrictions also make star gazing a particularly rewarding pursuit due to the close proximity of Kitt Peak Observatory. The magnificent views from your spacious casita include natural desert landscaping drenched in 350 days of sunshine per year. A 75-foot heated Olympic swimming pool, whirlpool and fitness center are just the beginnings of a full array of amenities. In addition to nearby horseback riding, hiking, shopping, and fine dining, the attractions of Tubac and Mexico are within driving distance, offering some of the most fascinating history and sights of the Southwest. ... more
	Lodge on the Desert	Score 0 from 0 reviews
	306 North Alveron Way
	One of Southern Arizona's most unique and charming Tucson accommodations is Lodge on the Desert. The authentic hacienda-style rooms and historic casitas, many of which feature tile-covered patios and fireplaces, afford guests a private enclave in which to relax, escape, and enjoy a few of life's simplest pleasures. ... more
	Radisson Suites Hotel Tucson Airport	Score 0 from 0 reviews
	7051 S. Tucson Blvd
	With prime accommodations near Tucson International Airport, the Radisson Suites Airport Hotel is perfect for your business or leisure stay. Our hotel is located close to downtown Tucson, University of Arizona, Tucson Electric Park, as well as shopping and dining in Tucson. The Radisson Suites Hotel Tucson Airport offers guests the kind of inviting atmosphere, warm hospitality and thoughtful personal services that are sure to please both business and leisure travelers. ... more
	The Riverpark Inn	Score 0 from 0 reviews
	350 South Freeway Road
	Whatever your palate craves, you’ll find it within within a short drive of the Riverpark Inn -- many are actually within walking distance. Right on-site we have one of the best restaurants in downtown Tucson, the Terrace Cafe & Bar which in addition to great food, large portions, attractive prices and a fun dining experience, also provides room service to our guests. ... more
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1.5 - 3 hours

Follow this rough and rugged early stagecoach route along Schnebly Hill Road through Bear Wallow Canyon then high up onto the Mogollon Rim to enjoy stunning views of Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon, Carousel Rock, the fresh air of the world’s largest continuous stand of Ponderosa Pines. On the longer, 3 hour tour, a 4x4 excursion along the scenic volcanic rim trail is included. Please Note: upper portions of this trail may be closed in winter. Click here for more information and Booking Details

2 - 3 hours

Centrally located near Scottsdale, this is the best fun you can have in the dirt as you follow the desert trails through sandy washes and rocky creek beds, eventually cresting a series of ridge lines. The result is an awesome view of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. You are in the driver's seat, but your experienced guide will be with you all the way offering advice and instruction for a fun and safe couple of hours in the desert. The "C2" Desert car is a 2 seat vehicle fitted with a roll cage and seat belts. Click here for more information and Booking Details

Zoo, botanical garden and natural history museum featuring the plants and animals of the Sonoran desert.  It is a great educational spot.  The guides and park staff and very knowledgible.  Remember to bring water; it is hot and dry but the scenery is enjoyable...

Sabino Canyon is one of the greatest places to hike in Tucson. It has a tram to the top of the paved hiking trail and has a very nice but small desert museum and gift shop. Kids love to go learn about the desert. After good winter rains wildflowers abound in the spring and the prickly pear bloom around March and April. There are various degrees of hiking trails and one that goes to Mt Lemon.

The entrance fee is nominal and the yearly pass includes Mt Lemon parking and entrance as well. There are restrooms and water fountains through out the park, although bringing your own water (and lots of it) are essential if you are hiking the longest trails off the pavement. Hats are recommended. Wildlife also abound in the park including rattle snakes so as always pay attention to where you are walking and especially where you put your hands if you should decide to clmb rocks off the path. Gila Monsters, Desert tortoise and many birds also make their home in Sabino Canyon and with luck you may see them.

Some flowers and Cacti bloom almost year round unless there is a drought, and a stream flows through the park when there is ample water.

Cell phone coverage is good from most providers in the park. There are picnic tables in some areas, where under Mesquite trees there is shade.

For the most part, there is little shade, and hiking in extremely hot weather is not advised with the exeption of those accoustomed to doing so.

This is one of the most beautiful areas in Arizona so bring your camera!