Fringed by the beautiful Catalina foothills and set in the magical Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a fascinating destination. Inhabited by humans for around 10,000 years, Arizona’s second-largest city brims with potential for outdoor activities as well as a rich culture heritage. Fun for families, couples and groups of friends, accommodation options include affordable retro-style hotels and expansive luxury ranches, suitable for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Tucson are clustered near the city centre, some of our favourite escapes are scattered in the cacti-dotted desert — ideal for getting away from the world.

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• Top Resorts in Tucson

Blessed with fresh water, Tucson has long been an important stopping point on Arizona’s travel routes, and you’ll find the city home to a wonderfully diverse community. Stroll past 19th-century buildings and lively neighbourhoods with an eclectic mix of independent shops, cafés and eateries. The University of Arizona’s significant student population ensures that there’s plenty in the way of bars, exhibitions and evening events — especially around 4th Avenue. Cultural highlights include the 98-acre Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Mission San Xavier del Bac, the Arizona State Museum and the Tucson Museum of Art.

Venture into the Saguaro National Park — named for the region’s iconic cacti — or the Santa Catalina Mountains for epic hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and wildlife excursions amidst towering rock formations and ancient valleys. If you’re driving or cycling through the National Park, the 8-mile Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive offers panoramic views and some great picnic spots.

Friendly and characterful, the best places to stay in Tucson promise a desert experience to remember!

The Best Places to Stay in Tucson

For Great Value

• The Tuxon Hotel is an affordable modern hotel, built around a lively bar and pool area. Expect compact, comfortable rooms and plenty of sunny spots to kick back with friends. A great value choice for couples, families and groups.
• Hotel McCoy offers a retro, 1960s-inspired feel, with bright southwestern textiles, blue-painted beamed ceilings and small kitchenettes. Unwind by the pool, challenge new friends to a game of ping pong and sip a complimentary glass of Arizonan wine after a day of exploring. Laid-back and reasonably priced.

For Funky City Style

• The Downtown Clifton Hotel is a trendy boutique pick in a relaxed neighbourhood close to downtown Tucson. The 30 rooms feature mid-century pieces, exposed brick walls and leather chairs, as well as private outdoor balconies. A tranquil couples' or solo travellers' hideaway with lashings of vintage cool.
• Graduate Tucson sits close to the University of Arizona and various key museums. A fun choice for sociable travellers of all ages, the hotel's interiors include appealing textiles, welcoming shared spaces and expansive views. Congregate at the rooftop pool or the buzzing bar. Ideal for families — two-bedroom suites are available — friends or those visiting college students.

For a Traditional Inn

• Arizona Inn offers charming, traditional rooms in a historic family-run hotel, surrounded by verdant lawns, flowers and fountains and a large swimming pool. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom house is a brilliant option for families or groups.
• The Blenman Inn is an opulent mansion in central Tucson, with grand Palladian columns and Victorian-era interiors. The seven sumptuous rooms and suites will appeal to both couples and families, who can also relax in the outdoor pool and hot tub. For history buffs and romantics.
• Armory Park Inn has just seven guestrooms in the heart of downtown Tucson. Think vintage furniture in a 19th-century residence with an extensive library, sun-dappled terrace, complimentary bicycles and wonderful evening happy hour. All solar-powered so great for eco-conscious travellers. Intimate and historic.

For a Wellness-Focused Resort

• Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch enjoys impressive views of the desert from its superb location, tucked in 39 acres of the Santa Catalina foothills. Once visited by Katherine Hepburn, this historic resort offers rustic-chic rooms, award-winning cuisine and excellent wellness packages complete with top-notch massages. The organic vegetable gardens are a real point of pride, whilst the 800-strong wine selection certainly won’t disappoint. For foodies looking to recharge.
• Canyon Ranch Tucson is one of the world's leading all-inclusive wellness retreats. Come for a rejuvenating programme of spa treatments, holistic activities and delectable food with a strong emphasis on local and organic produce. A spa-lover's paradise with luxurious rooms and suites in the desert near Saguaro National Park.

FOR a WILD WEST Ranch

• Tanque Verde Ranch has been dubbed the ‘Best Dude Ranch in Arizona’ for a reason. This old-time cattle and guest ranch is surrounded by 60,000 acres of breathtaking desert landscape, including the Rincon Mountains, Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest. Expect everything from tennis to cave tours, hiking to fishing and much, much more. The dedicated kids ranch activities programme makes this an epic family choice.

FOR A HOLIDAY HOME OR APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Tucson International Airport, just 10 miles from the city centre. Tucson's train station also offers good rail connections to destinations across the state.
• Contact our partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between March and May or September and November, when the temperatures are warm (18 - 30°C) but not too hot! Temperatures in June peak at around 38°C.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Sedona.
• Alternatively, check out our pick of the best places to stay in Arizona.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Tucson