Planning upcoming family activities in Tucson this weekend is easier said than done. It’s hard to decide which activities are right for your family and at the same time be reasonable considering household income, how many people will be participating, and everyone’s schedule.
To help you make this crucial decision, I’ve created a list of the most fun family activities in Tucson this weekend based on the community’s preferences.
Tucson is the perfect destination for a family vacation. The city will provide you and your family with plenty to do while being safe, clean, and fun. There’s no other place in the world I would have my children go on vacation than Tucson.
Some of our favorite activities include hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, golfing and so much more. If you’re looking to truly experience the great outdoors while enjoying all that Tucson has to offer then here, you can find something to entertain nearly every member of your family.
Fun Family Activities in Tucson this Weekend
Tucson is a great city for families, and there are plenty of fun things to do with the kids. From science to art, history to nature, I’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, here are fun family activities in Tucson this weekend
1. Explore the Tucson Museum of Art & History
The museum is located in the historic Armory Park neighborhood, which has been home to many important people and events in Tucson’s history. The museum features exhibits on prehistoric life in southern Arizona, as well as contemporary art and photography exhibitions. There are also special events like free concerts and lectures throughout the year that you can check out on their website.
2. Learn About Animals at Reid Park Zoo
The Reid Park Zoo is located in the heart of downtown Tucson and features over 800 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world. Highlights include an indoor butterfly pavilion, a petting zoo, a giraffe feeding station, and a desert tortoise exhibit where you’ll be able to see these ancient creatures up close and personal!
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the summer months (May-September), you can even watch them feed their baby tortoise. Spend some time at Reid Park Zoo where there are plenty of exhibits to see as well as daily animal programs happening throughout the day that your whole family can enjoy together! You can even feed giraffes or pet otters or monkeys if you want.
3. Take a Hike at Sabino Canyon
Just 15 minutes from downtown Tucson, Sabino Canyon is one of Southern Arizona’s most popular hiking destinations with more than 20 miles of trails through desert hills and along streams in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. You can also see wildlife like mule deer or wild turkey while hiking through these mountains!
4. Visit the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
This annual event showcases gems, minerals, fossils, and more from around the world. There are rock hounds, gemologists, and even children’s activities at this show that runs through Sunday at the convention center.
5. Tour downtown Tucson on a Segway tour with El Tour de Tucson Segway Tours
This unique tour takes you through historic neighborhoods and landmarks in downtown Tucson on a Segway PT (Personal Transporter). The tour lasts about an hour and includes some off-roading that might not be suitable for small children or people who don’t ride well on two wheels yet!
6. The Saguaro National Park is One of the Largest Parks in Arizona
It features some breathtaking landscapes. There are two parts to this national park: Tucson Mountain District (west side) and Rincon Mountain District (east). The west has more hiking trails but less wildlife than its neighbor on the east, so make sure you visit both sides if possible!
7. Visit an Art Museum
There are plenty of museums to choose from in Tucson! Some options include The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, UA Art Museum at the University of Arizona, Tucson Children’s Museum, and Pima Air & Space Museum.
8. Go Ice Skating
Spend your weekend on the ice at any one of these locations: Rillito Park Ice Rink (located by Reid Park), O’Brien Ice.
9. Stop by Rio Vista Park
Stop by Rio Vista Park for some family fun on the water! There are paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and more available for rent here!
10. Old Tucson Studios
Explore Old Tucson Studios and ride a train through an old western town. And add to that enjoy the city’s best views from the top of the Rincon Mountain Lookout.
Unique Things to Do in Tucson
Looking for things to do in Tucson this weekend? Check out these ideas for fun family activities in Tucson this weekend! There are so many unique things to do in Tucson that you and your family will love!
There are plenty of things to do in Tucson, Arizona. From hiking to family-friendly restaurants and museums, there’s something for everyone in the family.
11. The Butterfly Wonderland
The Butterfly Wonderland is an indoor attraction that features hundreds of butterflies and moths from around the world. It’s a great place for kids to learn about these creatures and their natural habitats while having fun at the same time.
12. Kartchner Caverns State Park
Located just outside of Benson, Kartchner Caverns is a beautiful park that offers guided tours through one of Arizona’s largest caverns. Visitors can explore the cave by candlelight or by electric lights during their tour through this unique natural wonder.
13. Tucson Children’s Museum (TCM)
This museum’s mission is to inspire children through play, discovery, and exploration. The museum has several exhibits including an art studio, water play area, and more! Hours: Monday-Sunday 10 am-5 pm.
14. Barrio Art Tours
Explore the history of Tucson’s Mexican American community while enjoying local art galleries and studios along with music performances at this guided tour of downtown Tucson’s Barrio Arts District. Hours: Tuesdays-Saturdays 9:30am-4pm, Sundays 11am-5pm.
15. Go bowling at Sky Lanes Bowling Center or The Hut Lanes.
16. Play laser tag at Zona Lazer Tag & Arcade (a great option if you have younger children) or Laserforce (for older kids).
17. Have a picnic at Sabino Canyon Recreation Area or Catalina State Park.
18. See what’s playing at the Fox Tucson Theatre.
19. Go swimming at Rillito Park Pool.
20. Take an educational tour of the Sahuaro Ranch House Museum.
21. Watch planes land at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.
22. Watch the sunset at Mount Lemmon.
23. Play in the splash pad at Kinney Park.
24. Take a hike through Sabino Canyon.
25. Play at Reid Park Zoo.
26. Ride the Trolley Tour of Tucson’s historic neighborhoods.
27. Visit Heritage Square, an Old West town on the National Register of Historic Places.
28. See what’s happening at Pima County Fairgrounds (where you can also see all kinds of animals).
29. Take a walk through Saguaro National Park (and see how many cacti you can spot along the way).
30. Bike through Sahuarita (there are lots of trails for mountain bikers).
Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for quite some time and are looking for something new to do this weekend, I hope that our list of fun family activities will give you some ideas. Have fun!
