Tucson's rich heritage includes a mixture of Spanish, Indian, Hispanic, and Anglo cultural influences. The name "Tucson" is derived from the Indian word, "Chuk-son," meaning village of the dark spring at the foot of the mountains. This Arizona city was etablished in 1775 by Spanish soldiers as a walled presidio - the Presidio of San Augustin de Tucson. Tucson became a part of the United States as part of the Gadsden Purchase. Following a turbulent territorial period racked by conflict with the Apache Indians, Arizona became the 48th state in 1912. Today, Today Tucson is one of the fastest growing urban areas in the United States. More

* San Xavier Mission, Tubac, De Anza Trail, Arizona Historical Society, Old Tucson

The Tucson Children's Museum offers many educational tours. Students can travel back in time during a Dinosaur Canyon Safari or learn the difference between current and static electricity with a Zap, Crackle, Zoom! tour. They can also explore the Sea of Cortez in our Depths of the Sea guided tour and When You Grow Up allows children to imagine grown-up life with role-playing and dress-up activities. More

* Tucson Children's Museum

Some of the most appealing attractions around Tucson Arizona are found outdoors. When you travel to Tucson, you can see many species of animals and plants not found in any other state. A gila monster, sidewinder, tarantula, or the giant saguaro cactus are just a few of the possibilities. Or you can hike, swim, golf, play tennis or bike 360 days a year. More

* Sabino Canyon, Tucson Botanical Gardens, Tohono Chul Park, Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum, Mount Lemmon, Kartcher Caverns

Astronomy buffs of all ages will love the attractions awaiting them during their Tucson vacation. Attend special planetarium shows and telescope viewing hours. Explore hands-on science exhibits and history of planet earth. More

* Kitt Peak Observatory

Tucson is proud of its many art galleries, fine restaurants and exciting programs. We invite you to discover for yourself when you travel to Tucson all the interesting fine art exhibitions, artisans displaying their unique products. More

* Tucson Museum of Art, UA Center for Creative Photography, Philabaum Glass Blowers, Tubac Artists Colony

Aviation played a large role in the transformation of Tucson from a dusty town into a modern city. Good flying weather has attracted people and business here for decades. Tucson aviation museums have a reputation as some of the best faciities. For aviation enthusiasts of all ages, Tucson's museums will brings history to life. More

* Pima Air Space Museum AMARC Facility, Titan Missile Museum