Reservations are required for guided tours of the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory, but you can stop by the visitors center any day to explore its educational exhibits, including some chronicling research projects conducted at the Arizona observatory. The FLWO is run under the auspices of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

Located on the outskirts of the city at the foot of Mount Talomo, the Eden Nature Park is a delight for visitors keen on walking, hiking, bird-watching and seeing native plants. It is peaceful and a great way to relax away from the city centre, weekend stays are possible at the resort.

San Xavier del Bac Mission, located 10 miles south of Tucson on the Tohono O’odham Nation, is an iconic example of Spanish colonial architecture. Known as the “White Dove of the Desert,” its striking white facade contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert landscape. Built between 1783 and 1787, the mission blends Moorish, Byzantine, and Mexican Renaissance styles, featuring intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and a gilded retable depicting biblical stories. Still an active parish, it holds daily masses and remains a spiritual center for the Tohono O’odham people. Extensive restorations have preserved its historic beauty, making it one of the best-preserved Spanish missions in the U.S. Visitors can explore the mission’s interior, join free docent-led tours, or browse crafts and frybread sold by local artisans.

If you like speed, adrenaline and competition, head over to Wroclaw Racing Centre which is a large indoor go-kart centre. It has up to 650 meters of track. If this is your first time go-karting, no worries, the instructors are there to help you.