Tucson, Arizona

While Tucson's urban sprawl itself doesn't lend itself well to family travel, there are so many wonderful kids attractions near the city that many people prefer the area to the more polished Phoenix-Scottsdale area.

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Activities

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Address 2021 North Kinney Road, Tucson, Arizona 85743 U.S.A. Map, Tel (520) 883-2702 Call, Open 365 Days; Hours vary seasonally - check website for details, Cost Varies by season - check website for details Website

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is one of the top destinations in this area for both kids and adults. The world-renowned zoo, natural history museum and botanical garden aims to re-crete the natural landscape of the Sonoran Desert Region. You will see more than 300 animal species and 1,200 kinds of plants. There are almost 2 miles of paths traversing 21 acres of beautiful desert. more

Biosphere 2 -University of Arizona

Address 32540 S Biosphere Rd, Oracle, AZ 85623 Map, Tours Throughout the day; not stroller or wheelchair accessible, Location About 1 hour North-East of Tuscon Website

Inside this glass-enclosed living laboratory you'll see three acres of habitat varying from Savannah to Rainforest. more

Old Tucson Studios

Address 201 S Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85735 Map, Tel (520) 883-0100 Call, Website

This is the type of manufactured, kid-friendly activity that I rarely recommend. Add to that the fact that I'm not entirely comfortable glamorizing the gun-slinging aspect of the old west. Still, there was something sweet about the way Old Tucson helps kids take a step back in time with a train ride, covered wagons, an old school house and a small set of rides geared towards very young kids. I like to think that as my kids learn the history of the Western Frontier, their memories of Old Tucson Studios will help set the stage in a way that makes the historical facts come alive. more

Readers recommend:

  • Jump and Shout “This place is all about kids. It is a huge jungle gym ...”

Hotels

Tanque Verde Guest Ranch

Address 14301 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ Map, Tel 800-234-3833 Call, Website

Tanque Verde has excellent horseback riding for all ages and abilities. The property has a laid back ranch atmosphere - not too extravagant, but not too simple either - a nice balance. Close to Tuscon, but since the property borders public land, it feels secluded as well. To read more of the review of this property, access family-focused specials, and check availability go to CiaoBambino.com. more

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Restaurants

El Guero Canelo

Address 5201 S 12th Ave, Tucson, AZ? Map, Tel (520) 295-9005? Call, Website

Known for its condiment stuffed Mexican hotdogs and carne asada, this simple roadside stand has grown into a huge operation. Outdoor dining makes it an easy place to enjoy authentic Mexican food with kids. more

The B Line

Address 621 N. 4th Avenue Tucson, AZ Map, Tel (520) 882-7575 Call, Website

This locally owned casual restaurant serves fresh-made healthy items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The home baked pastries are what really shine, and we loved the assortment of mini-cupcakes. Most seating is at bar-height tables, which might be difficult with very young children. more

Readers recommend:

  • Fuddruckers “Kids can choose from a wide variety of vegetables and condiments at ...”
  • Monkey Business “Monkey Business is a locally owned restaurant in Marana, AZ (NW Tucson) ...”