Weird & Unusual Attractions in Tucson, United States
1. Kitt Peak National Observatory
Stargaze at the tallest observatory in the U.S., with over two dozen telescopes.
- Dark Sky View: Offers unparalleled dark sky views for astronomical observation
- Scientific Research: Hosts cutting-edge scientific research and education programs
- Public Visits: Provides public visits, tours, and star parties for guests
2. Biosphere 2
A closed-ecosystem experiment, housing various plant and animal species.
- Closed Ecosystem: Simulates planetary conditions for scientific research
- Biodiversity: Features a diverse array of plant and animal life
- Education Programs: Offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors
3. Mission San Xavier del Bac
A beautifully preserved 18th-century mission with Native American influences.
- Historic Architecture: Features intricate, Baroque architecture and Native American artwork
- Cultural Significance: Serves as a significant cultural and spiritual site for the Tohono O'odham Nation
- Community Engagement: Hosts events, workshops, and educational programs for the community
4. Titan Missile Museum
A decommissioned nuclear missile silo open to public tours.
- Cold War History: Preserves the history of the Cold War and nuclear deterrence
- Underground Tour: Offers a guided tour deep within an underground missile silo
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for visitors, including lectures and workshops
5. Giant Bones Ground Sloth Sculpture
A massive sculpture of a ground sloth that once roamed the area.
- Historical Representation: Represents the ground sloth species that lived in the region during the Ice Age
- Artistic Expression: Crafted by local artist, John Patterson
- Tourist Attraction: Serves as a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity
6. Roadrunner Golf Club
A golf course with giant roadrunner statues throughout.
- Unique Decorations: Features large, vibrant roadrunner statues on each hole
- Golfing Experience: Offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience
- Local Wildlife: Set within the beautiful Sonoran Desert, where you can spot local wildlife
7. Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block
A museum featuring a diverse collection of art, with several historic buildings nearby.
- Artistic Diversity: Houses a wide variety of art pieces spanning multiple cultures and eras
- Historic Buildings: Located within the historic downtown area, with several renovated buildings
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages
8. Tucson Botanical Gardens
A beautiful oasis showcasing native desert plants and exotic species.
- Desert Plantlife: Features a diverse collection of cacti, succulents, and other desert plants
- Exotic Species: Includes exotic plant species from around the world
- Education Programs: Provides educational programs, workshops, and guided tours for visitors
9. DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun
A folk art gallery showcasing the works of Ted DeGrazia, with an adobe mission-style building.
- Folk Art Masterpieces: Features over 10,000 art pieces created by Ted DeGrazia
- Adobe Architecture: Built in the traditional adobe mission-style architecture
- Cultural Celebrations: Hosts cultural celebrations and events throughout the year
10. Saguaro National Park East
A protected area showcasing giant saguaro cacti and diverse desert landscapes.
- Giant Saguaros: Features numerous giant saguaro cacti, a symbol of the Sonoran Desert
- Desert Landscapes: Offers various desert landscapes, from mountains to washes
- Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, such as javelinas, coyotes, and rattlesnakes
11. Tucson Wildlife Center
A rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned wildlife in Southern Arizona.
- Wildlife Rescue: Rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned wildlife
- Education Programs: Offers educational programs to the public about local wildlife
- Community Involvement: Encourages community involvement through volunteer opportunities
12. Tucson's Fourth Avenue
A vibrant district known for its unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Shopping Experience: Features an assortment of eclectic shops and boutiques
- Dining Opportunities: Offers a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale eateries
- Artistic Expression: Hosts numerous art galleries and street murals
13. Tucson's Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum
A military aviation museum dedicated to the U.S. Marine Corps.
- Military History: Showcases aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits from the history of the Marines
- Interactive Displays: Features interactive displays for a hands-on experience
- Guided Tours: Provides guided tours and educational programs for visitors
14. Tucson's Hotel Congress
A historic hotel known for its Art Deco architecture and live music events.
- Art Deco Design: Features stunning Art Deco architecture and interior design
- Live Music Venue: Hosts live music events, featuring local and national acts
- Unique Accommodations: Offers unique rooms designed by local artists and designers
15. Tucson's Rialto Theatre
A historic theater hosting live music, comedy shows, and film screenings.
- Historic Architecture: Features beautiful Spanish Baroque architecture
- Live Entertainment: Offers a variety of live entertainment options, such as music and comedy shows
- Film Screenings: Screens independent, classic, and foreign films for guests