| Tucson, Arizona has a way of making other parts of | | | | adobe homes reflect the stories of days gone by, as |
| the country seem less than stellar, especially during the | | | | do the artifacts, books and letter preserved by the |
| winter months. Sunny days, ample outdoor | | | | state Historical Society. Basically, there's a way to |
| opportunities and a vibrant community make this | | | | keep your brain alive while you're here, so balance |
| desert oasis worth a visit, so don't feel bad as you | | | | your outdoor pursuits with those that are mentally |
| temporarily replace your homeland with a climate and | | | | nourishing. |
| backdrop that are a little easier on the senses. | | | | There's plenty of time for pure fun and frivolity, too, |
| Nothing is better than chasing down some fine | | | | including eye-popping retail stores, sporting events, |
| weather after having been shoveling snow, bundling up, | | | | theatre and music, and many yearly festivals and |
| and scraping your car for the past few weeks or | | | | special events. One of the largest gem and mineral |
| months. As you step into the realm of the 60's and | | | | shows in the world is held here each February, and |
| 70's, your mood will lift as your temperature does, and | | | | takes place at various locations across the city. Street |
| you'll gladly shed your layers as you grab your flip flops | | | | fairs with merchants and yummy food, a huge folk |
| and sunglasses. All seasons are desirable in their own | | | | festival, and rodeo week are further examples of |
| way (summers are pretty steamy but some people | | | | Tucson's sense of revelry, so plan a trip to coincide |
| like that) but Tucson definitely tends to attract its fair | | | | with at least one of these to get a true picture of the |
| share of snowbirds. | | | | town's personality. |
| The best way to immerse yourself in Tucson's gifts is | | | | Tucson residents are proud of their home; from the |
| to put on your sturdiest shoes and hit take advantage | | | | giant A that represents the University's influence to the |
| of the great outdoors. From golf courses to Botanical | | | | well-kept parks, this is a busy little place that makes a |
| Gardens, Zoos to hiking trails, everyone will be | | | | perfect haven for vacationers seeking relief from any |
| inundated with opportunities to get some exercise | | | | number of things; bad weather, a hectic and stressful |
| while reconnecting with Mother Nature. Coronado | | | | schedule, or the simple monotony of being in one place |
| National Forest is great for hiking, biking, picnicking and | | | | for too long. Most people know when it's time for a |
| fishing, among other things. Mt. Lemmon looms above, | | | | break, and are wise to do something about it. |
| reaching an altitude of over 6,000 feet and even | | | | A wonderful way to squeeze every drop of |
| accumulates enough snow to ski on during the winter. | | | | enjoyment from this trip would be to rent a vacation |
| Bicycle enthusiasts will feel right at home in Tucson, as | | | | home just off the beaten path so as to enjoy a |
| many cyclists tend to both travel and live here. Paths | | | | healthy dose of privacy and comfort in addition to all |
| and off-road opportunities accommodate every style | | | | the stimulating activities that the city will offer you. |
| and skill level, and frequent races, including the Tour de | | | | Imagine unpacking your suitcase into a spacious house |
| Tucson that is held each November, nurture a | | | | as opposed to a boxy hotel room, and experiencing |
| competitive yet friendly spirit. Whether you want to fit | | | | the option of cooking a meal in your kitchen, kicking |
| your regular bicycle workout into your vacation or try | | | | back on the patio, or soaking for a bit in your hot tub. |
| something new while you have the chance, this is the | | | | Hopefully you'll have time for each of these simple |
| place to pedal your little heart out. | | | | luxuries, so clear a good block of time from your |
| Culture mavens will also find ways to satisfy their urge | | | | schedule today so as to give Tucson it's due. |
| to engage in a few enriching activities thanks to the | | | | The warm air, wide open spaces, laid-back vibe and |
| rich history and pulsating arts community of Tucson. | | | | impressive number of Tucson Vacation Rentals have |
| The University of Arizona Art Museum has an | | | | convinced scores of travelers to head south for a bit, |
| impressive collection and several smaller galleries | | | | and you could be next. Start checking out the situation, |
| illustrate talented local creative spirits. Military forts and | | | | and let Tucson give you a sweet reprieve. |