Trip ideas while visiting Tucson in Arizona
Welcome to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum! Although it’s called a “museum,” it’s more like a zoo because it’s home to animals, a botanical garden, an aquarium, and an art gallery. You’ll have a great time exploring this outdoor facility, so make sure to dress appropriately for walking. Spanning 98 acres, the museum is filled with exciting things to see. There are 230 animal species, including hummingbirds, coyotes, and stingrays. You’ll also find 1,200 local plant species here. As you enter the museum, you’ll pass by the Warden Aquarium and the Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall. From there, you can explore the rest of the exhibits on foot using the walking paths. Take a leisurely stroll along the museum’s 2 miles of hiking trails and enjoy the desert landscape, where you’ll see animals and native plants coexisting. After your walk, if you’re feeling hungry, you can grab a delicious meal at one of the three eateries in the museum. Don’t forget to take in the fantastic views of the surrounding desert while you eat.
Future travelers are highly recommended to spend a few hours exploring the museum’s grounds and educational exhibits. Recent visitors had a great time and spoke highly of their experience. To make the most of your visit, it’s important to come prepared. Remember to bring a refillable water bottle as there are multiple fill stations available. Additionally, wearing comfortable walking shoes and applying sun protection is essential. Don’t worry if you forget your sunscreen, as dispensers can be found in the on-site bathrooms. Reviewers suggested visiting in the morning or near closing time to catch the animals at their most active. Apart from the impressive flora and fauna, visitors were also impressed by the knowledgeable docents who provided valuable information during their visit.