Tucson Community
Tucson is a growing city with a vibrant local culture. Though most residents will tell you there’s a small-town feel to the Tucson community, the city of more than 1 million people has no shortage of amenities to discover. Home to the University of Arizona, Davis Monthan Air Force Base, and variety of tech-based and manufacturing businesses, the city ties wild western roots to a modern future. Surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and peppered with iconic saguaros unique to the Sonoran Desert landscape, Tucson is a welcoming, beautiful city that an increasing number of residents call home.
What is there to do in Tucson?
Tucson offers the shopping and amenities you’d expect in any major city. However, there’s strong support for local businesses in the area, and you’ll find a huge variety of family-owned restaurants, shops, and services. Here’s just a glimpse of the distinctive sites and activities you’ll find in the Old Pueblo.
- Natural Wonders – From the sky island of Mount Lemmon to the sprawling oasis of Sabino Canyon, there is no shortage of outdoor scenery to take in around the valley. Even within city limits, you’ll find hints of nature at Tucson Botanical Gardens, Sentinel Peak Park, and Tumamoc Hill. Bordering the city to the East and the West is Saguaro National Park.
- Food & Entertainment – Downtown and 4th Avenue are hot spots for dining, dancing, and enjoying a night on the town. However, you don’t need to head downtown to find great local dining. From Mexican food to sandwiches to wood fired pizza, Tucson is a hub for eclectic, affordable dining. Tucson was also the first city in the United States to be honored by UNESCO with the Capital of Gastronomy designation.
- Arts – Artists have flocked to the inspiring surroundings of Tucson for decades. As a result, you’ll find galleries and art events throughout the city. The biannual 4th Avenue Street Fair is a great opportunity to see local artisans showcase their work. You can also get a sense of Tucson’s art scene at Museum of Contemporary Art, University of Arizona Art Museum, and Tucson Museum of Art.
- Family-Friendly Attractions – Thanks largely to the University of Arizona, Tucson is a city of learning opportunities with a variety of family-friendly destinations for curious learners of all ages. Discover history at Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, immerse yourself in the night skies at Kitt Peak or Steward Observatory, or get to know the local wildlife at the Desert Museum.
Getting Around Tucson
Most residents make their daily commutes by car. However, it rarely takes more than 30 minutes to drive anywhere in the city. You can also use
SunTran to get around by bus. Through the University and Downtown, the SunLink Streetcar provides convenient service connecting these business centers. Tucson has a growing bike infrastructure with The Loop connecting many city neighborhoods via designated bike paths and protected bike lanes.
Helpful Links
Government Services
From updating your address with the post office to getting a new driver’s license, there are several chores you’ll need to complete to settle in to your Tucson home.
Local Transportation
Need to take a flight out of Tucson? Looking for local bus schedules? Follow the links below for the info you need!
Tucson Utility Companies
Your water, cable, waste management, and internet services will depend on your exact address. Tucson Electric Power and Southwest Gas service the greater metropolitan area, so they will be your resources for local electricity and natural gas.
Local Home Services
As a new homeowner, there are lots of products and services you’ll need to invest in to make your house a home. Below are some local recommendations for services you may need.
Tucson Area Libraries
The Pima County Library system offers a variety of free resources and learning opportunities for local residents. Be sure get a library card as you settle in to your new home and locate your nearest Pima County Library branch.
Tucson Arts & Theatre
The arts and music have a major place in Tucson culture. From the University of Arizona Presents to small community theaters, there are plenty of productions big and small to enjoy around town.
Arizona Sports
It’s a given that anyone in Tucson is a Wildcat at heart. Wildcats Sports keep locals entertained in every season, but there’s also lots of action with professional teams based in Phoenix, special Tucson sporting events, and MLB Spring Training.
Tucson News
Stay up to date on local happenings, news, and events with the following newspapers and local news affiliates.
