Catalina Foothills

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Catalina Foothills's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Nature's Beauty
morning
:

Start your day at Sabino Canyon, where you can hike along beautiful trails surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. Grab a coffee at a local cafรฉ before heading out for some fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to learn about the local flora and fauna through exhibits and walking trails. Don't forget to enjoy lunch at the museum's cafe, which offers delightful Southwestern cuisine.

evening
:

Wind down with a leisurely drive up Mt. Lemmon, taking in stunning sunset views. Stop at a cozy restaurant for dinner while soaking in the mountain atmosphere.

day 2
Art and Culture
morning
:

Begin your exploration at the Tucson Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy the vibrant colors and scents of various plants. Take a short walk to a nearby cafรฉ for breakfast surrounded by nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun to appreciate incredible local artwork. Spend some time browsing the art shops in the area for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy an outdoor concert at The Fox Theatre or elevated views of the city from a rooftop bar. Wind down with some local craft beer or cocktails.

day 3
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Kick off your day with a thrilling mountain biking session at the trails of the Catalina Foothills. Choose trails that match your skill level for an exciting start.

afternoon
:

Cool off by visiting the nearby Rillito River Park, perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the river while soaking in the sun.

evening
:

Take a guided stargazing tour to experience the breathtaking night sky over the desert. End your night with some s'mores around a campfire.

day 4
Desert Discoveries
morning
:

Visit the Saguaro National Park to glimpse the iconic saguaro cacti and enjoy a refreshing morning hike. Bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel your adventure.

afternoon
:

Stop by the nearby Old Tucson Studios to learn about the filming history of Western movies. Have lunch at the Old West-inspired restaurants in the park.

evening
:

Attend a Western-themed dinner show for a fun evening of entertainment. Enjoy traditional BBQ and live performances in a unique setting.

day 5
Scenic Vista
morning
:

Start your day with a hike to Windy Point on Mt. Lemmon for breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

afternoon
:

After the hike, fuel up with a delicious lunch at the Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley. Take a stroll through the cool pine forests in the area.

evening
:

Have dinner at a rustic lodge overlooking the mountains as the sun sets. Enjoy a warm beverage by the fire to end your day.

day 6
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Join a local cooking class focused on Southwestern cuisine to learn how to whip up delicious dishes. This interactive experience sets a fun tone for the day.

afternoon
:

After class, take some time to explore the local food markets for fresh produce and specialty items. Snack on local treats as you browse.

evening
:

Participate in a food tour to sample a variety of restaurants and cuisines in the area. Meet new people while enjoying diverse culinary delights.

day 7
Relax and Unwind
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning at a local spa for some pampering and relaxation. Treat yourself to massages and wellness treatments to rejuvenate.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tucson Museum of Art for some cultural exploration, showcasing various exhibits. Enjoy a light lunch at the museumโ€™s cafรฉ.

evening
:

Finish your day with a stroll through the Desert Diamond Casino, trying your luck at the slots or enjoying live entertainment.

day 8
Wildlife Encounters
morning
:

Visit the Reid Park Zoo to see various species native to the region and beyond. Enjoy a guided tour to learn more about their habitats and conservation efforts.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers great views of the zoo and is family-friendly. Spend more time exploring the park's natural beauty.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a wildlife-themed educational session at a local nature center. Witness live animal exhibits and discover conservation initiatives.

day 9
Urban Exploration
morning
:

Discover downtown Tucson by strolling along the colorful streets filled with murals and local shops. Stop for a hearty breakfast at a popular diner.

afternoon
:

Visit the Childrenโ€™s Museum Tucson for family-friendly fun and interactive exhibits. Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes nearby that cater to families.

evening
:

Check out a local theater performance or live music event for an entertaining evening. Dine at a trendy urban eatery to wrap up your day.

day 10
Creative Inspiration
morning
:

Take a pottery or painting workshop at a local art studio. Express your creativity while learning new skills from experienced artists.

afternoon
:

Spend some time visiting local art galleries to appreciate the works of regional artists. Lunch at a cafรฉ with artistic decor will keep the vibe going.

evening
:

Join an art walk event in the evening, where galleries open their doors to showcase local talent. Enjoy refreshments while mingling with other art lovers.

Discover Catalina Foothills

Read more in our Catalina Foothills 2024 Travel Guide.

Catalina Foothills Travel Guide