Located 14 miles west of Tucson in Tucson Mountain Park at 2021 N. Kinney Road. Take Speedway west and follow the signs. This internationally famous “living” museum houses over 1300 kinds of plants and 300 species of animals that live in enclosures designed to replicate their natural habitat. Docents lead walking tours and give live demonstrations with plants and animals. Wheelchair accessible. Admission fee (members free).
Located on the northeast side of Tucson at 12325 E. Roger Road. Go east on Tanque Verde past Houghton Road and north on Soldiers Trail. Mountain views, towering palms, and a small lake are the centerpieces of this amazing oasis. Feed the ducks and watch the fish that are at home in the hot spring for which the park is named. No admission fee.
Located on the northeast side of Tucson, near the intersection of Sabino Canyon Road and Sunset Drive. This picturesque site features a visitor center with exhibits that explain the geology, history, and nature lore of the region, a marked nature trail, hiking trails, narrated shuttle tram rides up and down the canyon, and picnic areas along a tumbling stream. Admission fee.
Located west of Oracle Road and north of Ina Road at 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. Tohono Chul is a 49 acre desert preserve established to promote the preservation of arid regions and provide the public with an opportunity to learn about the desert. Self-guided tours take visitors along nature trails, to display gardens, cactus ramadas, and a greenhouse. A restaurant, art gallery with changing exhibits, and gift shops are also on the grounds. Watch for special events. Admission fee.
Located at 2150 N. Alvernon Way. This collection of gardens includes a xeriscape demonstration garden, an historic Tucson garden, spring wildflower garden, tropical greenhouse surrounded by fruit and shade trees, and an iris garden. The gardens are landscaped with more than 500 different native desert plants, herbs, and flowers. Tours and classes are offered. Special events include Fiesta de los Chiles, Luminaria Night, and Home Garden Tour. Call for dates. Admission fee.