Located just under two hours southeast of Phoenix, Tucson is the ultimate destination for boomers that are looking for a little more room to roam. And between the old west heritage and the modern day spas and golf courses, there is so much to love about Tucson.
The city is also known for legendary sunsets and offering residents the freedom to be themselves, so if that sounds appealing to you, let’s dig a little deeper into all that Tucson has to offer!
Tucson History
Originally part of the New Mexico Territory, Tucson became the capital of the Arizona Territory when it was established in1863. During that time, the area was literally the “wild west” and was home to famous characters like Wyatt Earp.
During the early 20th century, Tucson became a popular destination for veterans who were struggling with respiratory issues after being exposed to harmful gasses during World War I. That cool, dry air remains one of the most commonly cited reasons for moving to Arizona today.
Tucson Lifestyle
While it might be located in the middle of the Arizona desert, there is quite a bit more to Tucson than sand and cacti. A quick look out from the city in any direction will allow you to take in scenic mountain ranges that offer a wide variety of outdoor activities.
And while activities like hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and birding take center stage here, there are also plenty of outstanding golf courses like the Catalina and Sonoran Courses at Omni Tucson National.
Tucson Culture
With surroundings as beautiful as the ones you will find in Tucson, it shouldn’t surprise anyone to learn that performing and visual arts are a focal point of life in the Arizona desert. You can find all kinds of exciting performances happening at the Fox Tucson Theatre, the AVA Amphitheater, and Centennial Hall.
In addition to performing arts, Tucson also offers more than a dozen great places to see visual arts like the Tucson Museum of Art, the University of Arizona Art Museum, and MOCA Tucson, which just happens to be located in an old firehouse.
And just in case the museums aren’t enough, there are also stunning brick murals located in public places all over Tucson.
Tucson Shopping
Looking for a little bit of retail therapy? There is plenty to be found throughout Tucson, and one of the best places to start for your standard mall shopping experience is the Foothills Mall.
Of course, Tucson is also home to a vast community of boutiques like The Lost Barrio, Mac’s Indian Jewelry, and Mercado San Agustin. So you will never have a problem finding a unique, hand-made gift here!
Tucson Dining
With a location in southern Arizona, the dining scene in Tucson is obviously going to have plenty of Mexican influences. Local restaurants like Salsa Verde Restaurant, The Quesadillas, and Charro Steak all offer different twists on great Mexican cuisine.
In addition to Mexican, there are also quite a few international flavors popping up around Tucson. Residents can spend an evening enjoying Korean BBQ at KOGI Korean BBQ, checking out a Korean Steakhouse like 7 Ounce Korean Steakhouse, or exploring Asian influence at Noodleholics and Raijin Ramen.
And since we can’t leave out the outstanding American-style gastropubs, there are also options like Commoner & Co. and The Parish serving up some really mouthwatering dishes.
Tucson Area Communitiies
A little over an hour from Tucson, Encanterra® is the ultimate in resort living, in a completely private setting. This spectacular resort golf community is the best of both worlds including a 55+ neighborhood within the all-ages community. All Members enjoy the incredible club and unique amenities as well as the private, Tom Lehman-designed championship golf course. New home designs start from the low $200,000’s.
You can request more information here.
Hearing stories about the fresh air, wide open spaces, and stunning views are often enough to get someone to visit Arizona, but the things that get them to stay here in Tucson are the plethora of outdoor activities, golf courses, arts and culture, boutique shopping, and world-class dining.
Just give Tucson the chance to impress you, and you surely will not be disappointed.
