Tucson, Arizona is a desert oasis brimming with local charm, creative shops, and breathtaking natural landscapes. A big city with a small-town feel, it’s no wonder the Old Pueblo continues to gain more national notoriety as a travel destination and a steady climbing underdog in the culinary world.
While many of our guests are happy to stay and enjoy the surrounding 38 acres of JTH Tucson, there’s plenty to explore around town—and we made a guide just for you!
Discover the desert the Tucson local way and read below for our local favorite spots!
A Day in Tucson, Arizona:
Morning
Explore the Desert Museum
Start your day at the Desert Museum, just 10 minutes from the inn. This open-air museum offers an immersive experience with its cactus gardens, native wildlife, and exhibits focused on the Sonoran Desert.
Fun fact: The original builder of JTH Tucson was the former Executive Director of the museum!
Breakfast at Barista del Barrio
Fuel the rest of your day with a visit to Barista Del Barrio. Renowned for its exceptional breakfast burritos and flavorful Mexican-style coffee, don’t be surprised to see lines of people at this small, inconspicuous local spot.
Our advice? The breakfast burritos come wrapped as two small burritos, so it’s easy to share and try different kinds if you’re headed there with friends. Our personal favorites are the Vegan Hemp Tamale breakfast burrito and the Soyrizo breakfast burrito.
Midday
The shops in Tucson is a wonderland for those seeking one–of–a–kind items and is a reflection of its eclectic and culturally rich environment.
From charming local boutiques to bustling markets, you’re bound to take home your own Tucson treasure by the end of your trip!
Local Shopping at Arizona Poppy
Head to Arizona Poppy, where you’ll find a vibrant selection of locally-made goods. From Sonoran Rosie’s desert skincare line to Trevor Mock’s greeting cards, it’s a fantastic place to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs you can only find in Tucson!
Vintage and Curated Finds
For vintage enthusiasts, Desert Vintage offers a carefully curated selection of clothing that will take you back in time.
Complete your new look with turquoise jewelry and other accessories at The Little Little Shop, which also carries a beautiful home decor collection featuring vintage ceramics, artwork, and small furniture pieces.
We also love exploring Midtown Mercantile and Sixth Avenue Antiques which both feel like the best ongoing flea market for home goods and clothing that you could imagine (and so many of the items from JTH Tucson are sourced from both!)
Discover MSA Annex
Next, visit MSA Annex, home to various shops housed inside recycled shipping containers! If you want to get a good overall sense of the design and food culture in Tucson, head here. So many of our favorite local designers have shops here.
Make sure to stop by Arid Lands when you’re there for beautiful home goods, jewelry, and pantry items.
Afternoon Bites
Lunch at Seis Kitchen
Refuel after an afternoon of shopping and head across the street from MSA Annex for lunch at Seis Kitchen in Mercado San Agustin’s open courtyard. Their casual Mexican fare is perfect for a laid-back midday meal.
Sweet Treats and More
After lunch, indulge in sweet treats at Estrella Bakery, also located in the Mercado, known for its traditional Mexican pastries and donuts.
For chocolate lovers, Monsoon Chocolate offers a delectable range of chocolates and hot cocoa. Check out their Flavor Library here and brace yourself for a whole lot of chocolatey goodness.
Sunset Hike
Hit the Trails
With its stunning natural surroundings, Tucson inspires an active, outdoor lifestyle to all those who visit.
Cap off your day with a hike to experience the desert’s stunning natural beauty. If you’re up for more of a challenge, we recommend Hugh Norris. If you’re looking for a quick sunset trail, head to Valley View.
Dinner at BATA or The Coronet
For a memorable dinner, consider BATA, known for its upscale, creative cuisine by repeat restauranteur Chef Tyler Fenton.
Alternatively, The Coronet offers a charming courtyard setting with a selection of small plates—ideal for a casual but unforgettable meal under the stars.
You may also like:
If you’re looking for another fun day trip from Tucson, then check out our field guide to Mount Lemmon here and Nogales, Mexico here.
Looking to explore a little closer to JTH Tucson? Check out our trail guides for hikes in the west side of Tucson, AZ: Hugh Norris Trail, & Valley View Trail.
