One Weekend in Tucson, AZ: A 3-day Tucson Itinerary
Located in southern Arizona, Tucson is a desert-lovers paradise. With unique desert waterfall hikes, saguaros as far as the eye can see, adventurous things to do, and some of the best sunrises, your Tucson getaway will leave you speechless. Here’s how to spend one weekend in Tucson, the ULTIMATE 3-day Tucson itinerary!
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Table of Contents
How do I get to Tucson?
Tucson is home to its own international airport that has nonstop flights from over 20+ cities and one-stop flights from over 300 US cities. After arriving
If you can not find any flights that work (or if you are hoping to save some money), you could fly to Pheonix and rent a car to drive to Tucson! It’s just 113 miles away from downtown! Tucson is an excellent weekend trip from Pheonix!
If flying isn’t your thing, you can find Amtrack routes from New Orleans, San Antonio, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.
After arriving in the city, renting a car is your best bet to see the most (and complete the following Tucson itinerary in just 3 days). If you cannot rent a car, you can check out Sun Trans route resources for more information about public transportation!
What is the best time to visit Tucson?
Tucson experiences pretty hot temperatures year-round (it is a desert after all). If hoping to spend time outside and not melt, I recommend visiting Tucson between October and April. During these months, you can expect daytime temperatures around 75 and nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40’s. You’ll also avoid monsoon season if visiting outside of June-Septmeber.
We visited in April and were met with the most beautiful wildflowers! But, it’s also an excellent choice if looking for a warm winter getaway without leaving the states!
Tucson, AZ Average Temperatures
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 68/38
- Spring (March-May): 84/52
- Summer (June-August): 101/72
- Fall (Sept-Nov): 87/56
Where should I stay in Tucson?
When visiting Tucson, Arizona, there are various options for accommodation that cater to different preferences and budgets.
Downtown Tucson offers a vibrant atmosphere with an array of boutique hotels, trendy eateries, and cultural attractions within walking distance.
The foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains provide a serene retreat with luxurious resorts and breathtaking views.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the University of Arizona area offers affordable hotels and easy access to the vibrant campus atmosphere.
Recommendations:
- Budget-friendly Option: Hotel McCoy- This artsy hotel is perfect for budget-friendly travelers as it comes with a free continental breakfast and 1 welcome drink! It’s located about 5 miles south of downtown and 30 minutes from the National Park.
- Mid-range Option: Desert Diamond Hotel & Casino -Located right next to the Tucson airport, this mid-range option is perfect for anyone who likes to gamble!
- Luxury Option: The Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain – This luxurious resort is located 22-miles north of downtown and is home to a spa, health club, resort-style pool, and 5 on-site restaurants. There is a golf club nearby with lessons and a driving range!
- Dog-friendly Stay: La Quinta (airport): La Quintas are always a great dog-friendly option as they are (typically) clean, cozy, and very budget-friendly! There are 4 to choose from throughout Tucson.
- Unique Option (if applicable): Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch – Nestled in the Catalina Foothills, this guest ranch features 3 pools (and a pool bar!), cozy rooms, and some of the best views!
Sample 3-Day Tucson Weekend Itinerary
Day 1 in Tucson:
Morning:
Start your Tucson getaway at the famous Saguaro National Park! It is definitely the most popular stop in all of Tucson. The park covers over 90,000 acres and is home to over 1,000 different species of plants, including the famous saguaro (large tree-like cactus).
Since you only have one weekend in Tucson, you of course will not be able to explore the whole park. I recommend starting before sunrise and beginning your adventure on the West side of the park.
Take a sunrise hike along the Sendero Esperanza Trail to get some epic 360-degree views of the park. After your hike, head to signal hill to check out the petroglyphs.
To get to Signal Hill, take the Cactus Forest Drive to the end of the road, then take the road to the right and follow it for about a mile. From there, you can take a short .03 hike to the petroglyphs.
You can also join a ranger-led hike to explore some of the other petroglyph sites. Check the National Park Service website for more information on these hikes.
Afternoon:
After a morning of exploring the national park, you have a couple of options for your afternoon (both are very close by). Unfortunately, you likely won’t have time for both on Day 1.
Option 1: The Arizona Desert Museum is so much more than your typical museum. It’s actually a massive 98-acre outdoor museum showcasing the flora, fauna, and culture of the Sonoran Desert region.
It’s basically a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, and museum all mixed together! You’ll also find special events such as live animal programs and raptor free-flights!
Option 2: Or, you may enjoy a trip to Old Tucson! Visiting Old Tucson is like stepping back in time, where the rich history and vibrant culture of the Wild West come to life. There are live shows, photo ops, and delicious restaurants to try! During the summer months, they even host fun concerts!
Make sure to grab a late lunch at whichever option you choose!
Evening:
Time for a picnic at sunset! One of the best places to watch the sunset in Saguaro National Park is at the Valley View Overlook.
Located on the Bajada Loop Drive in the Tucson Mountain District, you can reach this scenic viewpoint in just .4 miles! Once there you’ll be met with a panoramic vista of the surrounding desert landscape and the iconic saguaro cacti silhouetted against the vibrant colors of the setting sun.
Then, head back to your hotel for a good night’s rest!
Tip! I love using the RTIC backpack coolers to pack picnics to ensure they stay cold all day!
Day 2 in Tucson:
Morning:
Rise and shine for a morning hike to Romero Canyon Falls in Catalina State Park. I mean…who doesn’t love a good desert waterfall?!
I won’t lie to you though… it’s a pretty strenuous 5.5-mile hike with very little shade (I was dying), but you are paid off with freezing cold pools/falls to cool your feet off in at the end. The Falls are located about 1/4 of a mile past the pools (where most people stop). It’s worth it!
If you aren’t up for the hike there’s also a stream located at the start of the trailhead that many families were splashing around in! The park is open year-round from 5am-10pm and cost $7 per vehicle.
Afternoon:
After your hike, it’s time to give your legs a break with a drive up to the top of Mount Lemmon.
Standing at just over 9,000 feet, Mt. Lemmon is the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains. So it’ll also give you a break from the Tucson heat.
It’s a beautiful drive with many stops on the way up that are worth getting out to explore (Windy Vista Point was my favorite!). From the saguaros at the lower elevation to the snowy hills at the top, the entire drive is diverse!
Once at the top, there are several adventurous activities to partake in. You can ski or snowboard at Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley (winter season), hike on the nearby trails, rent a mountainside cabin, or have a picnic at Rose Canyon Lake.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab lunch at the Sawmill Run Restaurant followed by a delicious cookie at The Cookie Cabin (truthfully this is the reason we drove up and it was 100 percent worth it).
Tip! This self-guided audio tour will help you to make sure you do not miss any stops on the way up + give you fun facts along the way!
Evening:
I recommended hanging out at the top of Mount Lemmon for sunset (bring warmer clothes and another dinner picnic) and then heading back down after dark. You have another early (but exciting morning tomorrow!)
Keep reading: Dog-friendly Guide to Tucson
Day 3 in Tucson:
Morning:
For your last day in Tucson, wake up bright and early for a bucket-list-worthy hot air balloon ride!
You’ll gently soar over the massive saguaros while watching the sun rise over the desert. Sounds dreamy to me!
There are several hot air balloon companies in Tucson to choose from, but most run from October through April. This hot air balloon ride even comes with a tasty brunch and a chamagane toast!
Afternoon (Actually late morning on Day 3):
If you have any energy left during your adventurous one weekend in Tucson, head to another fun waterfall hike.
Seven Falls Trail is one of the most popular trails in Tucson. It’s a moderate 8.2-mile hike that ends at (you guessed it) 7 waterfalls. Throughout the hike, you’ll gain over 917 feet in elevation and will have very few opportunities for shade (very similar to the Romero Canyon trail). The pools at the bottom of the falls are freezing, but so refreshing!
There are a lot of creek crossings throughout the hike, so be sure you have (or at least bring) waterproof shoes! I of course wore my keen sandals!
Alternate option! If you aren’t up for another hike head into the city to complete an exciting Urban Adventure Quest.
Evening:
Spend your last day in Tucson on a taco bike tour! Tucson Bike Tours offers this fun tour of the city that includes stops at 5 local taco spots to sample some of the best Mexican cuisines in town. It’s a great way to get to know Tucson, get some exercise, and have some delicious food…all at the same time!
You may also like: Sedona to Tucson Road Trip Itinerary!
Other things to do in Tucson
- Tucson Botanical Gardens: Wander through beautiful gardens featuring a variety of plants, including native desert flora and exotic species. The gardens also host art exhibits, seasonal events, and educational programs
- Saguaro Lake Kayaking Tour: Take a road trip to Saguaro Lake (121 miles) for a kayaking tour!
- Arizona Zipline Adventures: Step into your adventurous side and check out the 5 ziplines and other obstacle courses for a birds-eye view of the Sonoran desert!
- Pima Air & Space Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy exploring one of the largest air and space museums in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of aircraft, including historic planes, helicopters, and even a space capsule. This stop is even dog-friendly!
- Mission San Xavier del Bac: Visit this stunning Spanish colonial mission, known as the “White Dove of the Desert.” Admire its intricate architecture, religious artifacts, and learn about the history of the area.
- Tucson Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in diverse art collections, ranging from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary works. The museum also offers special exhibitions, art classes, and cultural events.
- Tucson Mountain Park: Escape to nature in this expansive park offering hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the desert and the rugged mountain ranges.
Keep reading for more adventurous things to do in Tucson!
Where (else) to Eat in Tucson:
- Feast: Located in the historic Casas Adobes Plaza, Feast offers a seasonal and globally inspired menu. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant creates innovative dishes that showcase bold flavors and culinary craftsmanship.
- El Charro CafĂ©: Established in 1922, El Charro CafĂ© is a Tucson institution and the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant in continuous operation by the same family. It serves authentic Sonoran-style dishes, including their famous carne seca (dried beef), in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- The Cup Café: Situated in the historic Hotel Congress, The Cup Café is a beloved downtown spot known for its eclectic menu and cozy ambiance. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes, including Southwestern favorites, comfort food classics, and vegetarian options.
- Maynards Market & Kitchen: Located in the heart of downtown Tucson, Maynards is a popular restaurant and market that emphasizes farm-to-table cuisine. The menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and the elegant atmosphere adds to the dining experience. Their wine selection is also noteworthy, offering a curated list of both international and local varietals.
One Weekend in Tucson Packing List:
Since you only have 3 days in Tucson, you want to make sure you show up prepared and read-to-go so you don’t have to waste time at the store! If you are roadtripping to Tucson, here’s a great packing list! If flying, you may have to nix a few of the following items!
- Hiking (or other comfortable) Shoes!! (for your hikes, museums, parks). I wear my keens EVERYWHERE (they are great water shoes too!). Depending on the length of the planned hikes, I’ll bring both my Keen sandals and keen boots.
- If you aren’t planning on the strenuous hikes, then I like to pack my Vessi Weekenders for a comfy pair of everyday shoes!
- Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, face wash, deodorant…you know all your daily essentials). This is a perfect travel case that meets TSA regulations!
- All the clothes (this one is going to be a personal choice as to how much to bring). I am typically good with two nice dinner outfits, my favorite joggers, a comfy shirt (I love wearing Merino Wool), some athletic shorts, and a swimsuit.
- Makeup and hair supplies
- ID and any other travel documents or itineraries needed.
- Phone charger
- Kindle or current reading book
- Any needed medications
- Airplane/road trip snacks and water bottle (bring an empty bottle along to save plastic and money at the airport and on your daily adventures). I love bringing Kenecko smoothies with me as they are SO easy to travel with and then you don’t have to miss out on your fruit and veggie fix. Use code @thehomebodytourist15 for 15% off your first order!
- Travel pillow for the road trip or plane. I am obsessed with the Hest Travel Pillow! Trust me, it’s worth the investment as you can use it for travel, camping, or even backpacking!
- Sunglasses! (I always forget this one)
One Weekend in Tucson Map
One Weekend in Tucson isn’t enough!
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Tucson that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Tucson itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Tucson!
What else would you add to this “One Weekend in Tucson” Itinerary?
Tip! Make sure to follow me on Instagram for more USA weekend getaways and dog-friendly adventures!
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