All About Tucson
Food • Environment • Culture
Your College Town
Tucson is ɫƵ’s second-largest city. ɫƵ – ɫƵ’s first university and home of the Wildcats – is at the center of it all. Learn more about things to do in Tucson, our famous culinary scene, what the weather’s really like, and about the region’s culture and history.
If you're looking for places to explore around town, check out our interactive featuring students' top Tucson recommendations.
![Afternoon view of the Tucson, ɫƵ skyline at sunset](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/Introduction.jpg?itok=YUXd1imf)
Things To Do
![Top view of food dishes spread on a wood table](/sites/default/files/styles/az_full_width_bg_extra_small/public/2022-08/food-fpo_1.jpg?itok=L80DHzXN)
Food
Tucson is a globally-recognized food destination. Tucson is the first in North America; recognized for its history of culinary distinctiveness. Explore , where you can eat tacos, the original chimichanga, and the Sonoran hot dog.
BEST 23
Miles Of Mexican Food In America
![View of sky at dusk with Kitt Peak National Observatory in the middle](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/atractions.jpg?itok=PBQn4p6v)
Attractions & Culture
Visit the white dove of the desert, the San Xavier Del Bac Mission. Get up-close to a mountain lion at the open-air ɫƵ-Sonora Desert Museum. Wander one the world’s largest aerospace museums: The Pima Air and Space Museum. Or, look to the stars from Kitt Peak National Observatory. .
![Aerial view of bear down friday celebrations on University BLVD](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/community.jpg?itok=O7NY79iu)
The Community
Many compare Tucson to Austin and Portland – it’s a little quirky, and has a lot of character. A college town through-and-through, Tucson welcomes and supports University of ɫƵ students. There are more than 1 million people who live in the Tucson metro area, and whether you’re a local or an out-of-state student, you’ll feel at home.
![Tucson mountain range background view with students rock climbing](/sites/default/files/styles/az_full_width_bg_extra_small/public/2022-08/outdoors.jpg?itok=m-saDUJn)
Outdoors
Surrounded by five breathtaking mountain ranges, Tucson is an outdoor playground. Cycling is popular here – from cruising on campus to biking the 131-mile Loop. Wildcats love hiking Tumamoc Hill, near downtown; to the waterfalls of Seven Falls; and among the pine trees on Mount Lemmon. Also on Mount Lemmon: skiing and snowboarding.
131 MILE
Bike Loop Around Metro Tucson
![Old Main building in the background with students walking dogs on grass](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/enviroment.jpg?itok=ASWXmQm_)
Environment
Tucson is cooler and wetter than Phoenix, thanks to its 2,643-foot elevation and the surrounding mountains. Tucson is in the Sonoran Desert; however, the University of ɫƵ is in the city’s metropolitan center. Tucson’s heat is at its peak from June through August; however, spectacular summer monsoons lower temperatures.
![Students honoring Day of the Dead by painting their faces.](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/culture.jpg?itok=ZN3Iwtcb)
Events
There are many to look forward to in Tucson. Admire glittery jewels at the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase – the largest and oldest in the world. A beloved tradition is the Tucson Rodeo & Parade, which began in 1925. The All Souls Procession honors and remembers, and ends with an urn lit ablaze.
![Students collaborating and working together on a shared workspace](/sites/default/files/styles/az_full_width_bg_extra_small/public/2022-08/industries.jpg?itok=c3qhhJb2)
Industries
Opportunities abound when it comes to beginning your career in Tucson after graduation. In fact, about 40% of our most recent graduating class decided to stay here for work or school after completing their four years here.
Industries like aviation, space, defense, health care, and a growing start-up scene make Tucson a hub for high demand jobs. Or, continue your education with graduate research opportunities at a Tier-1 Research Institution.
Student Stories
Road Trip Guide
While there’s plenty to do in-town, we fully support expanding your boundaries. Explore hidden gems across Southern ɫƵ, and some favorites that are a little farther.
Day Trips Near Tucson
Weekend Getaways
⬤Phoenix/Scottsdale - 2 hours
⬤Sedona - 3.5 hours
⬤Flagstaff - 4 hours
⬤Grand Canyon - 5 hours
⬤San Diego - 6 hours
⬤Las Vegas - 6.5 hours
⬤Los Angeles - 7 hours
⬤Zion National Park - 8 hours
![Map of popular cities near Tucson](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-09/road-trip-map.png?itok=E7EcjPnf)
Tucson 101
![Panoramic View of Downtown Tucson and A mountain](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/tucson-101.jpg?itok=QX_WUruP)
PRONUNCIATION
The “c” is silent – like Too-sawn
WEATHER
350 days of sunshine annually
NICKNAME
The Old Pueblo
History of Tucson
Tucson’s name is derived from the Tohono O’odham Cuk Ṣon, meaning “(at the) base of the black [hill],” a reference to Sentinel Peak – otherwise known as “A” Mountain. The Santa Cruz River valley has been home to cultures including the Paleo-Indians and the Hohokam. Tucson was officially founded by the Spanish in 1775, when Hugo O’Conor authorized the construction of a military fort: Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón.
![Historic church in Tucson](/sites/default/files/styles/az_large/public/2022-08/tucson-history.jpg?itok=Qw8EIbOo)
Plan Your Campus Visit
Experience it for yourself! Discover the University of ɫƵ – and, our beloved Tucson – on a campus tour.