6 Ways To Explore Tucson’s Heritage

Did you know Tucson is one of the oldest continually inhabited places in North America? In honor of Latinx Heritage Month, we invite you to explore the rich multicultural history of the Old Pueblo. We’ve rounded up some historical sites, museums, and experiences to get you started! Follow this Collection on Yelp to have these sites and experiences right at your fingertips!

*Check the business on Yelp or their website for the latest health & safety measures before visiting.

Presidio San Agustín & The Turquoise Trail

Travel back in time to learn about life as early Tucsonans would have lived it! The Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum is a re-creation of the adobe fortress built in 1775 by Spanish soldiers in what is now downtown. The museum is open with social distancing measures in place, but you can also take a virtual tour or do the self-guided Turquoise Trail walking tour that highlights historical and architectural sites.  

Mission Garden Living Agricultural Museum

The 4-acre garden is a re-creation of the Spanish Colonial walled garden that was part of Tucson’s historic Mission San Agustín. It started with the planting of a Spanish colonial heritage fruit tree orchard and vineyard in 2012. The addition of timeline gardens that include Native, Spanish, Mexican, Territorial and other periods makes this a truly edible history lesson! Today it is ripe with crops figs, grapes, pomegranates, apricots, quince, sweet Mexican limes and more. Mission Garden is a project led by the Friends of Tucson’s Birthplace, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.  

San Xavier del Bac Mission

A National Historic Landmark, also known as the “White Dove of the Desert,” San Xavier Mission dates back to the late 1600’s. The current church dates from the late 1700’s, when Southern Arizona was part of New Spain. Check their website for visitation hours or experience the mission virtually! 

Tucson Botanical Gardens

The Tucson Botanical Gardens connects people with plants and nature through art, science, history and culture. Learn about Sonoran Cuisine via their virtual cooking classes! And beginning September 17, the large-scale skeleton sculptures from artist Ricardo Soltero will be on exhibit for visitors to enjoy. His creations are one of Día de los Muertos most recognizable figures!

Tucson Meet Yourself

Tucson Meet Yourself, affectionately nicknamed “Tucson Eat Yourself” is one of the cities most cherished experiences. While this year’s event will be virtual, it’s still a wonderful way to explore the diverse cultures that make Tucson such a special place to live! Keep an eye out for their official 2020 lineup here. 

Tucson 23 Miles of Mexican Food

It’s no secret that Tucson is home to some of the best Mexican food in the nation. The highest concentration of these eateries is found within a 23-mile area that includes the City of South Tucson, downtown and lower midtown. The Tucson 23 is celebrated annually with a festival and restaurant week style event– but you can get a taste of the Best 23 Miles all year long! Choose your own adventure by visiting the eateries via Visit Tucson’s Tucson 23 map! 

All photos were contributed by Yelp users and can be found on Yelp.