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City Near Tucson Arizona
If you find yourself arriving to Tucson, Arizona - it's a wonderful place to be.
Yet, you might be glad to know about nearby cities that are worth a side-trip. For additional adventures.
Whether you're interested in geography, a cultural or historic escape, one-of-a-kind treks, or scenic drives - we'll show your our own favorites. And lots more!
From just outside the city limits to a few hours drive. Any of these choices will enrich your experience.
Only a Stones-Throw from Tucson Arizona
When you plan your travel itinerary, we recommend one or more of these cities near Tucson AZ.
What is Marana Arizona Known For?
Immediately northwest of Tucson Arizona sits Marana.
The red area locates Marana in Northeastern Pima CountyWhen we lived there for about two years, it was a small farming community. But over the last decade or so, they've annexed more county areas into their town. And added and/or upgraded more things to do in Marana.
Marana is still known for its agricultural history and stunning desert mountain views.
Always Proud of Their Views & History in MaranaNow it's gotten beyond being a "backwater." Today Marana offers a blended selection for you to enjoy. Like these:
- Always thought of a chill with a thrill? How about jumping from a plane at Skydive Marana? At the regional airport on Avra Valley Road.
At Marana Regional Airport a Beech D18S on the Tarmac- If you need a calm activity, try a short walk along the Santa Cruz River Park Trail. Off N.Sanders Rd., south of Moore.
- Or hike further into the desert with views of the Tortolita Mountains. At the Wild Burro Trailhead, adjacent to the Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain. Historic ruins too!
Sahuarita - A Suburb of Tucson
A flourishing community, about 25 minutes southwest of central Tucson.
For a relaxing day, try oasis-side at Sahuarita Lake Park. Picnicking, birding (especially great in winter), fishing & kiddie fun.
An unusual type of stop is the Titan Missile Museum. Not a typical museum by any means. You're transported below ground to the old "Cold War." The decommissioned missile is right there before your eyes.
1580 W Duval Mine Rd. From Tucson, take I-10E to I-19 south. Exit at 69 & head east.
What is Vail Arizona Known For?
Local store in Vail AZ, called it "The Town Between the Tracks"Vail is another fast-growing community in the shadows of the Rincon Mountains.
A 15-minute drive along I-10 south takes you there. Take exit 279, head northeast onto Colossal Cave Road.
Colossal Cave Mountain Park is the Main Attraction here. A campground is available.
- Your cave tour will involve stories its old west history & fascinating geological wonders.
- With hiking trails, a historic ranch, trail rides (add in riding lessons), bat colonies, & a café.
It's easy to make this a fun day trip of exploration and discovery.
Green Valley - Cooler Than Tucson
Green Valley is another great town, sitting about 30 minutes south of Tucson.
Known for it being a retirement community, it's really more than that.
- Their numerous Golf Courses are good to go for both serious golfers and beginners.
- Canoa Preserve Park gives you direct access to Adamson-Catino Trail. If you're a serious hiker, go further with its intersection to the Anza National Historic Trail.
- The Asarco Discovery Center & Mine Tours might interest you. Get the lowdown on copper mines.
Because their elevation ranges about 1000ft/305m higher, it's always a bit cooler there - versus Tucson. Take I-10S onto I-19. Drive about 25 minutes & you can't miss it!
Sunset causing a glow over the Santa Rita Mountains as seen from Green ValleyThings to Do in Oro Valley
The town of Oro Valley is a delightful find.
This city near Tucson Arizona known for tech businesses. But there's lots more.
- Great viewpoints for a camera-friendly backdrop of the Santa Catalina Mountains. There are plenty of places to get that ideal photo! Like from the historic Steam Pump Ranch.
- Here's where you go into Catalina State Park. With nice camping sites. Plus hiking trails ranging from easy to demanding.
- We love The Dining and shopping here. We'd surely recommend Charred Pie & Noble Hops!
Road Trips from tucson arizona Going South
Want to venture a little farther from the Tucson City limits?
Try another city near Tucson Arizona, up to about two hours away. Don't squander what you'd end up loving by planning for one of these!
Tombstone Arizona Things to Do
For Old West History, and lots of fun!
This town can't be beat! Tombstone is not a "theme park" as some have wondered. It's a legit, historical town in Southern Arizona. Where Wyatt Earp, Big Nose Kate & Doc Holliday were real persons.
In fact, we lived there for 5 years, right at the edge of the original 1880s town. We participated in the old west dress-up done by locals. We still go back and visit, seeing old friends and old haunts like Johnny Ringo's Bar, a primarily locals gathering. But you can't go wrong with the historic Crystal Palace, where Wyatt dealt Faro.
You can catch a tour-bus from Tucson. Or drive east on Interstate-10, for about 1-1/2 hours to get there. Entering Benson, you'll see Exit-303 where Hwy-80 takes you right into town.
You won't regret planning for a full day here.
Your kids will have a blast here! Gunfight shows & more inside here.Is Tubac Worth Visiting?
Less than an hour's drive from Tucson. Tubac is a small, artsy community.
For history with shopping, it's a great small city near Tucson Arizona. The whole village is walkable. Plenty of parking. And some yummy restaurants.
- You've gotta take in the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park - the first state park in AZ.
- If you're into artist's creations, there's Plenty of Galleries worth a look.
- At the southern end of town, down miss the ruins of the early mission: Tumacacori National Historic Park.
What is Nogales Arizona Known For?
Nogales, has always been renowned as a prime border crossing into Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.
Our granddaughters (along with their parents) would go to the McDonald's there (a few blocks from the border) during the holiday season as helping volunteers. Local children from Nogales on both sides of the border would be treated to a gift & a meal.
For visitors, Nogales Arizona is well-known for its multi-cultural settings.
- Food lovers love trying local & economically priced Authentic Mexican Dishes. Ice cream connoisseurs should check out Finitos. Panaderia La Cathedral offers yummy pastries.
- Birders will love Las Lagunas de Anza Wetlands. Off W Country Club Dr.
As did many Arizonans & visitors, we used to cross into Mexico here to have a local meal. And browse the handcrafted products in the markets (where vendors always have a free shot of tequila ready for you!). We'd often come home with a bargain decor item.
Going there today - as I write this, we'll see what happens. 😕
Road trips from Tucson AZ Going North
Some unusual places to see along this stretch. Anywhere from one to two hours drive from Downtown Tucson.
Oracle
Here's another community with cooler temps than Tucson. They get snow when Tucson gets rain.
Biosphere2
This unique place is just off Hwy.77 onto S.Biosphere Rd.
About a 40-minute drive north of Tucson. You can't miss the turn!
Sponsored by the University of Arizona, it's for science research. They created a rainforest inside a greenhouse for environmental studies.
Touring is welcome. Takes about 1-1/2 hours, a 1-mile walk.Oracle State Park
You'll find a range of varied activities here, at one of Arizona's Newest State Parks.
Florence Arizona
Do you wonder what Florence has to offer?
This early, historic town in our state makes for interesting things to do in Florence AZ. Nearly all the things to do in Florence are in walking distance of each other.
- The McFarland State Historic Park has the original courthouse, hospital & jail. Plus fun things to do to get the kids involved. Named for Arizona governor, Ernest "Mac" McFarland, who created Arizona's state park system.
- Take a Walking Tour of Florence Historic District Download it Here> - Or do the Audio Tour.
- If you travel on Thanksgiving weekend, the Junior Rodeo is lots of fun. Begins with a parade through town, ending at the rodeo grounds.
Globe Arizona
Bash ba Gowah Historical Museum, a walk through the Old Historic Town, trails at Round Mountain Park are all points of interest in Globe.
But what tops it off is Stairizona! A very unique in-the-city-trail.
@monaeventz1 # globe #stairizona #rainyday #roadtripstop #hiddengems #birthdaybehavior #smokingonbridges #fyp #alwaystimetohike #AonTheZ#siblings #adventure #azhistory #smalltownusa #lifeviews2024 #blessedramzan ♬ original sound - monaeventz1
Takeaways for City Near Tucson Arizona
Each of these cities near Tucson Arizona not only adds variety but also caters to a wide range of interests.
One idea is planning your visit to coordinate with their events or festivals. They all have at least one!
Whether you're visiting for a short business trip, or gathering information for a really great vacation, we think you'll enjoy taking the time to explore more nearby Tucson, Arizona.
No matter your reason for coming to Tucson, you're guaranteed a memorable experience filled with engaging activities. You'll find these other welcoming communities that love showcasing their own delights.
We're ready to help you with your trip plan for Tucson Arizona.
We love our town & want to help others appreciate all it has to offer!
From Karen & Bill - Your Local Travel Help