Tucson is...

Tucson is a unique culture.  What a special place to live!

Tucson is history.  Spanish Jesuit missionary, Eusebio Francisco Kino, visited the area in 1692.  He founded the Mission San Xavier del Bac in 1700.  The Spanish established a "presidio" (fort) in 1775.  It was named Tucson.  Tucson became a part of Mexico in 1821, after Mexico gained independence from Spain.  After the Gadsden Purchase in 1853, Tucson became part of the United State's New Mexico Territory.  From 1867 to 1889, Tucson was the capital of the Arizona Territory.  Arizona became the 48th State on February 12, 1912. 

Tucson is an environment.  It is well known for its fantastic weather. The city lies in the zone receiving more sunshine than any other section in the United State -- 86%!  The air is dry with low relative humidity. Tucson is situated in a valley, surrounded by mountains that rise to heights of over 9,000 feet.  Lush Sonora Desert vegetation is everywhere.  One can never see too many Saguaro Cactuses.

Tucson is wildlife.  Coyotes, deer, bobcats, cougars, rattlesnakes, rabbits, lizards, scorpions, and javelinas are frequently encountered.  Southern Arizona is a mecca for bird sightings.  The American Bird Committee has recorded such species as swans, ducks, grouse, quail,  herons, egrets, cormorants, storks,  vultures, eagles, hawks, falcons, woodpeckers, wrens, thrushes, mockingbirds, starlings, cardinals, warblers, and finches. Do not forget the swarms of colorful hummingbirds.

Tucson is rich in architectural history.  It is a portrait of a desert pueblo (town).   St. Augustine Cathedral, Hacienda del Sol,  Arizona Inn, Sam Hughes House, Blenman House, Wright-Zellweger House, Benedictine Sanctuary, and Lodge on the Desert are just a few of the buildings which are a "must" to see.

Tucson is music.  Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Tucson Boys Choir, Arizona Theater Company, Tucson Music Hall, Ballet Tucson,  and Arizona Opera are a few of the venues to visit.

Tucson is art.  Tucson Museum of Art,  De Grazia Gallery in the Sun, and Arizona State Museum should not be missed.

Tucson is food.  Mexican cuisine is paramount.  El Minuto, Cosa Poca, Guadalajara Grill. Mi Nidito, and El Charro Cafe are just a few of the Latin gems.  From the Sonoran Hot Dog stand to gourmet dining at Hacienda del Sol your tastes will be satisfied.

Tucson is laid back.  From singles to families, professionals to retirees, you can be "Arizona casual" from your clothes to your attitude.  

LIfe is simple.  Enjoy it.