Tucson enjoys around 350 days of sunshine annually, and locals have mastered the art of transforming any day into a sun-soaked celebration. From golfing to biking to hiking, there’s something for everyone every day. Embrace the wonderful weather of Tucson this summer with activities as cool as the city’s climate. Here’s how to make the most of your summer days in this vibrant desert city!
Relax at Mount Lemmon
Escape the city with a quick trip to Mount Lemmon, where the temperature is delightfully cooler. At 74 degrees in July, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing day out. Enjoy activities like hiking through pine-scented trails, picnicking under the clear sky, or exploring the local observatory. The best time to visit is early in the morning to enjoy the cool air before the sun reaches its peak, and then, in the late afternoon, the temperature begins to drop. Plus, the lighting makes for beautiful photos against the stunning sunset and mountainous backdrop!
If you enjoy a little more physical activity, there are hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as rock climbing. As it’s at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, many trails lead through the lush Sonoran Desert. Tucson is ranked #2 as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the US and has an extensive network of routes and trails, including 131 miles of paved roads linked to Marana and Oro Valley. From multi-day treks to leisurely strolls, Tucson has hikes for all levels: 5 mountain ranges, 217 miles of hiking trails, 115 miles of walking trails, and 101 miles of running trails.
Explore the Night Sky
Tucson’s clear summer nights provide the perfect backdrop for stargazing. The city’s low light pollution makes it one of the best places in the U.S. to observe the stars. Visit one of the local observatories or simply set up a telescope in your backyard to witness the spectacular desert sky.
While you can also enjoy stargazing at the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter, operated by the University of Arizona (UofA), the most centrally located space for Tucson residents is at the Steward Observatory. Also part of UofA, the Steward Observatory offers public lectures on astronomy and astrophysics, public viewing nights, tours of the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab, and exhibits.
Golf Early in the Morning
Take advantage of Tucson’s cooler mornings by hitting the golf courses early. The city boasts several scenic golf courses that remain lush and verdant throughout the summer. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid golfer, the serene mornings provide the perfect setting for a round of golf. Plus, Tucson and the surrounding areas offer 44 golf courses, 23 public, 8 municipal, and 13 private.
The Omni Tucson National Resort provides a picturesque setting with its Catalina and Sonoran courses, both available for public play. Another popular choice is the Sewailo Golf Club at Casino Del Sol, which also welcomes public golfers and offers a lush, challenging layout. Fairfield Homes boasts plenty of communities with golf courses, so you can easily walk from your front door to the course any morning you want to.
Participate in Cultural Festivities
Summer is festival season in Tucson! Engage with the local culture by attending outdoor concerts, art shows, and food festivals. Each event showcases the vibrant community spirit and rich heritage of Tucson, making for memorable summer evenings.
Here are a few big ones on Tucson’s calendar of events:
- Loft Kids Fest
- Summer Safari Nights at Reid Park Zoo
- Pirate and Mermaid Day at Trail Dust Town
- Pride Weekend
- Juneteenth Festival
- 4th of July
- Gem Show
- Tucson Comic Con
Enjoy Tucson’s Botanical Gardens
Visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens to see the desert bloom in vibrant colors. It features over 17 acres of tranquil spaces that provide a cool sanctuary where you can wander among native plants and flowers, enjoy themed garden tours, or even attend summer evening events hosted in the gardens.
The garden is well-known for its Butterfly and Orchid Pavilion, which offers a year-round butterfly display, and its Barrio Garden, reflecting the historical gardening styles of the local Hispanic neighborhood. The Tucson Botanical Gardens also hosts art installations and educational programs to promote environmental awareness and sustainability.
With so much to do, see, and enjoy, Tucson is your go-to destination for summer fun. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Tucson has something for everyone to love. Learn how Fairfield can find you your perfect home that unlocks much more than a place to live but a place to enjoy the best things in life. For more information, explore the rest of our website.
