Recreation & Lifestyle

Explore Arts, Crafts & Creativity at Voyager Resort In Tucson

Acrylic Painting	Introduction to acrylics.
Busy Hands	Meet to complete items for distribution to various charities. Both men and women welcome.
Ceramics	Employ a variety of techniques to create beautiful, fired ceramic objects, both decorative and useful. Beginners are always welcome.
Coloring Class	Come color beautiful designs while you meet new friends, relax and enjoy this creative outlet.
Glass Fusion	The basic idea behind fused glass is simply stacking two or more compatible glass layers together to make a design and melting them in a kiln. That simple idea is behind hundreds of techniques.
Lapidary	Form stone, minerals, and gemstones into decorative items using the primary techniques of cutting, grinding, and polishing stones into the desired shape.
Machine Embroidery	Show and share ideas with machine embroidery.
Nimblefingers	Anyone who does handwork – knitting, crochet, sewing, cross stitch, or needlepoint is welcome to come, share ideas, socialize, and work on their own project or help with the group project for charity.
Oil Painting	Open Studio for oils and mixed media
Open Sewing	The Palo Verde Room has 3 machines and a cutting table that you are welcome to use for your own projects. Sign out the room key and bobbins in the Activity Office.
Polymer Clay Class	Make beads or jewelry to be baked in an oven instead of a kiln.
Quilters	Quilters of all levels meet to work on their own projects or on group quilts that are donated to various charities. Patterns, cutting tables, sewing machines, assistance, and occasional demonstrations are available.
Rock Painting	All levels of painting experience welcome to paint a variety of designs on rocks.
Silvercraft	Design and fabricate sterling silver jewelry and ornamental items.
Stained Glass	Create stained glass projects using glass, copper foil, and solder with traditional techniques.
Stamping	Make greeting cards and other projects using paper, inks, rubber stamps, punches, and other tools. We share ideas and inspirations and also provide cards for charitable organizations.
Watercolor	Watercolor instruction at several levels gives you the opportunity to develop your talent. An open studio is also available periodically.
Wood Working	Wood Carving classes include carving in relief and carving in the round. Wood Turning instructs how to make segmented and solid wooden bowls, wooden turned pens, and wine bottle stoppers.

Voyager Craft Shops Offer Weekly Classes & Workshops

Ceramics Shop	Add color and texture to greenware and prepare it for firing. Open Shop, Beginner, and Special Classes improve your skills and allow you to create unique projects.
Lapidary Shop	Learn to cut and polish semi-precious stones to be mounted in rings, pendants, bola ties, belt buckles, etc. in the Beginner Class offered once a week. Open Shop is available the rest of the week. Lapidary instruction is suggested for those planning to take Silvercraft.
Silvercraft Shop	Design and fabricate sterling silver jewelry. Beginner Class each week; Open Shop weekday mornings and afternoons. Prior lapidary instruction is suggested for those planning to take Silvercraft.
Stained Glass Shop	Create a stained glass project using glass, copper foil, and solder as you learn necessary techniques in the Beginner Class offered once a week. Open Shop the rest of the week with instructors available to help you with new techniques.
Glass Fusion	Create beautiful glass objects both decorative and useful. After the Monday afternoon 4-hour class, you will be able to enjoy Open Shop always supervised by our talented instructors.
Woodshop	Use a fully equipped woodshop to create your own projects in wood. Open Shop weekday mornings and afternoons. Beginner and Advanced Classes are offered weekly.

C’mon – Strut Your Stuff!

Dances	Monthly variety dances held during season. Tickets for these are sold in the Activity Office.
Line Dance	Various levels of Line Dance classes are offered two days per week during season.
Square Dance	Weekly Square Dance classes and workshops are offered at various levels. Mainstream and Plus dance held once a month.
2025-2026 Voyager Dances	We love a themed dance at Voyager! Dressing up for our themes is encouraged but not required to enjoy the fun. Although our dances are themed, the music will still be a mixed variety. Check the latest Compass for more details of each event. Oct 31: Thriller Throwback with The Raw Band Nov 14: Nacho Average Season Kick Off with DJ Warren Nov 21: 3rd Annual Share the Bounty Dance with The Jukebox Junqies Denims & Donations Theme Dec 6: Retired, Not Expired Party with The Raw Band Dec 31: Shaken Not Stirred: A 007 New Year’s Eve with The Hardscrabble Road Band Jan 9: Leather & Lace: Laced With an Attitude with Sunset Red Jan 12: A Touch of Class Senior Prom with REM Jan 24: A Night at the Oscars with The Jukebox Junqies Feb 6: Beads & Beats on Bourbon Street with Onesall Band Feb 21: Twist & Shout on Abbey Road with The Garrett James Band March 9: Kickin’ Back in Kokomo with REM March 20: Bootlegger’s Ball with Sunset Red March 27: Big Top Boogie at the Voyager End of Season Carnival

2026 Voyager Wednesday Night Concert Series

Get ready for twelve unforgettable evenings of live entertainment this winter! From January 7 through March 25, our stage will come alive with incredible performances, bringing together music, energy, and community every Wednesday night.

Guest Tickets
Guests from outside the resort are welcome to purchase individual tickets starting January 2nd.

With a lineup designed to keep your toes tapping and your spirits high, this series is the perfect way to spend Wednesday nights. Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or just looking for an evening of fun, our concert series delivers entertainment you won’t want to miss!

January	7: Hooray for Hollywood Get your ticket to Hollywood’s greatest musical hits featuring cinema classics such as James Bond, A Star is Born, The Lion King, Flashdance, Dirty Dancing, Wizard of Oz, 9-5, Singing in the Rain, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Grease, Stayin’ Alive and more! Get your popcorn, candy and soda and reminisce to the greatest films of all time. 14: Charity Lockhart, The Whitney Houston Legacy Charity Lockhart stands as a vocal dynamo, channeling the soul and passion of Whitney Houston in this memorable tribute to the late musical icon. With a voice that soars through octaves with ease and emotion, she’s not just paying homage; she’s redefining what it means to be a powerhouse in today’s music scene. 21: Homeward Bound: The Simon & Garfunkel Tribute Relive your favorite songs from arguably the most influential folk musicians of our time. Hits like Mrs. Robinson, Homeward Bound, The Boxer, The Sound of Silence and more! Mike and Walker will share stories about the songs and will transport you to a magical time in music, poetry, and history. 28: Gold Dust Women Rock out to the divas of the folk-rock movement in Gold Dust Women! International award-winning vocalist Katherine Byrnes celebrates the power and passion of Stevie Nicks, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon, and more. Come sing along with hits such as Different Drum, You’re So Vain, Chelsea Morning, and I Feel the Earth Move. Katherine and her band invoke the soul and spontaneity of the era itself, bringing new life to the timeless hits of these Gold Dust Women.
February	4: The Neil Diamond Tribute Neil Diamond has sold more than 130 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling musicians of all time. Enjoy this brand-new tribute starring the incomparable international performer Scott Moreau as he sings all of Diamond’s greatest hits such as Sweet Caroline, America, Song Sung Blue, Forever in Blue Jeans, Hello Again, I Am… I Said, I’m A Believer, Cherry Cherry, Kentucky Woman, Red Red Wind, and more! 11: Sara Tolar Sarah Tolar is an accomplished performer, vocalist, songwriter, producer & music educator. Local Tucsonan, Sarah has recorded three full-length albums of her original compositions and has performed world-wide. From Joni Mitchell to Taylor Swift; jazz to swing and some of her own music, Sarah will captivate you from the moment she walks on stage! 18: Big Easy Live Experience the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras with “The Big Easy Live,” a musical journey that brings the energy of Bourbon Street straight to the stage. This show promises an unforgettable celebration of New Orleans’ rich musical heritage, where the music never stops, and the party is always in full swing. 25: Glen Campbell & Friends From his Beach Boys album to his hit Rhinestone Cowboy, celebrate this giant legend who released more than 70 albums including hits Gentle on My Mind, By the Time I Get to Phoenix, Wichita Lineman, Galveston, and Southern Nights, and many more. Join Special Guest Scott Moreau as Johnny Cash, Kristen Drathman as Carole King & Judy Collins, and Dr. Dan Puccio as the great Roy Clark on Banjo.
March	4: Monroe Crossing Monroe Crossing performs an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, original bluegrass and some surprising selections outside the bluegrass genre. Whether playing bluegrass or material outside the genre, Monroe Crossing is one of the most entertaining acts in bluegrass today! 11: Not Fade Away This is rock ‘n’ roll like you’ve never heard (or seen) before! This young group has been taking the country by storm with their amped-up renditions of classic hit songs from legends like Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Shirley Ellis, The Beatles, Ritchie Valens, Jerry Lee Lewis, and more. These guys will have you singing and dancing along, at any age, shaking things up, cutting up the floor, and leaving you completely blown away. 18: Diva Legends Celebrate songs from the greatest female singers of all time. Featuring music from Celine Dion, Donna Summer, Barbara Streisand, Aretha Franklin, Cher, Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga, and more. Featuring Showtime Production’s live orchestra. 25: One of These Nights Get ready to be transported back to the golden era of classic rock as One of These Nights takes the stage! This extraordinary tribute band brings to life the timeless music of the Eagles, one of the most iconic and beloved rock bands in American history. With their impeccable musicianship and uncanny ability to capture the essence of the Eagles’ sound, One of These Nights promises an unforgettable night of nostalgia and pure musical bliss.

A (Aerobics) to Z (Zumba) Fitness & Exercise Programs At Voyager!

Aerobic Dance	An aerobic class that is good for the heart and helps make exercising fun. Lots of variety in music including aerobic tapes shown on the big screen. High energy. A full hour with no floor work.
Aqua Boot Camp	This very intense class is designed for those who wish to obtain a full cardiovascular workout while using the natural resistance of the water to help increase strength, power, endurance, and range of motion.
Aquafit	Water aerobics cardiovascular workout recommended for arthritis sufferers.
Drumming Meditation	Drumming and Shamanic Journey Meditation
Easy Stretch	An easy half-hour stretch exercise class available every weekday. All levels welcome.
Lap Swim	Lap swimming is sustained swimming exercise for a minimum of 20 minutes. During certain times of day the large pool is scheduled for lap swimmers only.
Sound Bath	Sound Bath uses 7 crystal bowels tuned to our body’s 7 chakra frequencies.
Strength & Stretch	A coed exercise class using straps or weights for resistance. All muscle groups are addressed in the strengthening and stretching routine which includes a back and abdominal program.
Water Therapy	Individual water therapy in the deep pool. No lap swim during this time.
Yoga	A system of exercises for attaining control and well-being of the mind and body. Beginners/Gentle and Basic levels of Yoga are offered.
Zumba	Come join the Zumba party! Zumba is a cardio exercise experience where you move to Latin music from cumbia, regation, musica, merengue, bachata, salsa and more!

Anyone for Games? Come Join In On The Fun!

If playing cards or games are your thing, you have come to the right place! There are games going on every evening during season.

“500” Card Game	“500” is a bidding card game played with partners, not as intense as Bridge but a lot more noisy and fun. It is not to be confused with “500” Rummy.
Bingo	A game of chance played on a 25 numbered card where a line of randomly called numbers must be covered. Cards sell in multiples of 3. Jackpot paper cards are also available. Must be 18 years or older to play.
Bridge	A card game played with partners and bidding. Several Bridge games are held weekly including Chicago Partners, Duplicate, Rubber Partners, and Rubber Party. Bridge instruction is also available at various levels.
Bunco	A dice game with prizes.
Canasta	A card game using multiple decks; cards are formed into melds.
Cribbage	A card game scored on a Cribbage Board with pegs. Come with or without a partner – everyone will play.
Dominoes	Mexican Train is a Dominoes game played with double 12 Dominoes; 4-6 people at a table.
Euchre	A card game in which the side naming the trump must take 3 of 5 tricks to win. Singles are welcome.
Mah Jongg	Mah Jongg is a Chinese game played with tiles. Both Wright Patterson Military Rules and League format games are played weekly.
Nickel Bingo	A Bingo game played with a deck of cards. Bring nickels for play.
Penny Poker	Penny Poker has a 3 cent limit – dealer’s choice.
Pinochle	Pinochle is a bidding card game using a special deck of cards.
Poker	Poker games are played weeknights and a Poker Tournament is held once a week.
Poopsy	A fun board game played with dice.
Scrabble	A word game using tiles.
Sheepshead Card Party	A card game with low-level gambling; 3-5 players per table.
Super Samba	Come along and try your luck at this fun twist on the game of Canasta.
Trivia	Come test your knowledge at our trivia nights.

Voyager Offers A Variety Of Musical Groups & Events!

Our music groups are always looking for additional members. All levels of talent are welcome.

Bluegrass Jam Session	Join this fun-loving acoustic bluegrass jam session. The group sometimes performs as a band at Voyager functions.
Chapel Choir	Join the Chapel Choir and sing Sundays at the Chapel service. Practice is held once a week – join anytime.
Coyote Chorus	Join the men’s chorus and sing Barbershop harmony at weekly sessions. Performances are scheduled for various resort functions throughout the season.
Dance Band	Instrumental and vocal practice sessions playing popular standards with dance band focus.
Fun Band	This group of 40 or more musicians has been gathering weekly for over 20 years. Our members range from absolute beginner to professional musicians but everyone fits in; we encourage each other and no criticism is allowed. We’re just one big happy family, and all instruments are welcome. We sing and play using songs we display on a big projector screen.
Handbell Choir	3 levels offered – learn to play (previous musical experience not required), intermediate (previous experience required), and advanced (for the more experienced ringers). Occasional concerts are given within and outside the resort.
Irish Celtic Music	Explore a variety of tunes and eventually perform on St. Patrick’s Day.
Karaoke	Come sing along to popular instrumentals with lyrics displayed on the screen.
Music Jam Session	Room is available for any acoustic instruments to jam during this time. This group may perform as a band at some Voyager functions.
Music to Combat Dementia	Engage in musical activities for persons with Alzheimer’s or other Dementia.
Native American Flute Circle	Our flute circle is a big tent so all abilities are welcome! Come and play with our evening group or just listen and enjoy. Be inspired by others. We also offer free beginner (loaner flutes available) and intermediate NA flute lessons. Have fun playing with mics, foot pedals, and loopers.
Show Choir	Auditioned singers and instrumentalists will perform Broadway show music, and possibly put on a show in the spring. We will try to have a balanced group of around 12 to 24 singers and two or three instrumentalists.
Ukulele Jam Session	This jam is for ukulele only players who want to kick it up a notch. You should be comfortable playing complex chords in a fast paced setting. We’ll be using the yellow “Daily Ukulele” book in addition to PDF handouts.

Here’s A Peek At This Season!

Voyager 2025-2026 Highlights

• American Red Cross Blood Drives
• Baking Classes
• Barbershop Spring Concert
• Bi-Annual Yard Sales
• Catalina Room Concerts
• Coffee & Donuts
• Courtyard Concerts
• Dances
• Dinner Show
• Doc Talks
• Fashion Shows
• Food Truck Roundups
• Golf Tournaments
• Golf Cart Parades
• Happy Hours
• Holiday Luncheon
• Meet the Voyager Clubs Event
• Monthly Market Daze and Craft Fair
• Movies
• One Woman History Performances by Alisa Dupuy
• Pancake Breakfasts
• Pickleball Tournaments
• Poker Runs
• Seminars
• Sewing & Quilting Retreat
• Show Choir Spring Concert
• Spuds & Salad
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• State & Regional Parties
• Summer Lunch Bunch
• Thanksgiving Luncheon
• Trivia
• Variety of Food Events
• Veteran’s Day Program Honoring Those Who Served
• Volunteer Appreciation Event
• Voyager Meets Tucson Event
• Voyager Barbershop Holiday Concert
• Voyager Lifestyle Expo
• Wednesday Night Concert Series

Enjoy The Camaraderie Of Our Special Interest Groups

AA Meeting	Alcoholics Anonymous meets once a week at the Health Clinic.
Bible Study	A Bible study group meeting once a week.
Bicycle Club	Bike rides of 20-40 miles are scheduled twice weekly. Route is posted in advance; terrain varies and there are very few hills. Helmet required
Bicycle Desert Rides	Bike rides in the desert ranging from 10-17 miles long. Must have a desert-friendly bike. Helmets required.
Book Discussion	If you’re a reader and enjoy talking about books, come join the Book Discussion Group for a lively discussion.
Chapel Service	An interdenominational service is held every Sunday morning in the Ballroom for a time of fellowship, praise and worship.
Community Cares	For those living alone, ill, injured, or fragile that would appreciate a daily check for health and safety, this program can help meet that need. Volunteers check each day for the participant’s correct day-of-the-week card to be on display, and if not, will contact to confirm their condition.
Computer Resource Center	If you need access to a computer, individual training, or help in solving computer problems, drop by the center. Hours of operation and services available are all on their website, www.voyagercrc.net.
Contemporary Chapel	Come and praise with our awesome Worship Band. Contemporary Chapel is an interdenominational service. Casual dress.
Current Events	Lively discussion group that shares facts and perspectives of current events and economic issues.
Genealogy	Learn about your family tree and exchange information with other searchers. A weekly gathering features round table discussions, guest speakers, classes, and field trips. A library of genealogy related books is available. A series of instructional classes is also offered during the season.
Great Decisions	A national study/discussion group of some of the most important foreign policy issues facing the United States and every American. Sponsored by the non-governmental, non-partisan, Foreign Policy Association.
Grief Share	Help and encouragement after a loss.
Growing in Faith	GIFTS (Growing in Faith Through Sharing) is a Catholic Lenten Program using prayer, sharing, and reflection.
Ham Radio Group	The Ham Radio group meets once a week in the Voyager Restaurant.
Library	Volunteer-run with a large collection of donated books and utilizing the honor system.
Men’s Bible Study	A Bible study group for men.
Photography Group	Photography information exchange and group trips for off-site photography. Outside park photo sessions every Friday morning.
Spanish	Hola! All are welcome to come to our Spanish classes.
Women’s Bible Study	Dig into the Scriptures and meet other Christian women.
World History	Discussion of events or persons with an emphasis on comparative history.
Writing	Hone your skills in Memoir Writing, Play Writing or try the Writer’s Workshop

Stay Active With Our Resort Sports & Recreational Activities

Stay fit and trim for the active lifestyle you have chosen.

Bicycle Club	Bike rides of 20 to 35 miles are scheduled twice weekly. Route is posted in advance; terrain varies and there are very few hills. Helmet and spare tube required; water bottles recommended.
Bicycle Desert Rides	Bike rides in the desert ranging from 10-17 miles long. Must have a desert-friendly bike. Helmets required.
Billiards	Rack ’em up! There are nine regulation size pool tables and a snooker table too, plus good cues with tips, all the time. Join in the fun 8-ball and 9-ball tournaments or come out and practice your shot.
Bocce Ball	Bocce is a game of Italian origin similar to lawn bowling and played on a long narrow court. The four courts are available every day except when reserved for organized play. A schedule is posted at the Bocce Courts. Free lessons are available.
Cornhole	Come out and play cornhole with us. We welcome new and experienced players.
Darts	Play darts and have fun with your Voyager friends or make new friends while enjoying a game of darts.
Golf	Play nine or eighteen holes on Voyager’s par 3 course. Open daily except during weekly tournaments for Men, Women, and Couples. There is a weekly match at Dorado Golf Course as well.
Hiking	Meet weekly starting with shorter and easier hikes which become increasingly challenging as the hikes get longer and more scenic. Enjoy all that outdoor Arizona has to offer! Hikers preferring less difficult trails meet twice a month for more relaxed outings.
Pickleball	Pickleball is fun and easy to learn. It is a racquet sport which combines badminton, tennis, and table tennis on a badminton-sized court. Structured play, lessons, and socials are scheduled on a regular basis.
Pools, Hot Tubs, and Saunas	Three pools (deep pool, shallow pool and covered lap pool) are available for open swimming when exercise classes are not underway. Two hot tubs and two sauna rooms are open 7 days a week. Relax and enjoy!
Shuffleboard	A game in which players use long-handled cues to push weighted discs into scoring areas of a diagram marked on a smoothly polished surface. Courts are open every day. Team practice and league play are held weekly. Schedule posted.
Softball	Co-ed softball—all are welcome and everybody plays at practice, intramural, and league games.
Table Tennis	Table tennis is available for open play five days a week in the Coyote Room.
Tennis	Five courts (two lighted) are ready for open play, League play and reserved time. A tennis ball machine is available. Tournaments, socials, and clinics are regularly scheduled.
Washers	Join us in this fun game. Washer pitching is a game, similar to horseshoes, that involves teams of players that take turns tossing washers towards a box. New and experienced players are welcome!
Water Volleyball	A fun-in-the-sun water sport. All levels of players are welcome to come out and enjoy!

Looking For Things To Do In Tucson, Arizona?

Voyager Resort has so many activities, (over 300 scheduled activities) that you could spend your entire time within the Voyager and not be wanting for things to do. However, the Tucson and the Southeastern area of Arizona is so rich in natural and historical sites that your visit is not complete without getting out and seeing some of these. The following is a short list of things to do. A good web site to visit for more information on what is going on is tucsonguidemagazine.com.

Museums

FORT LOWELL MUSEUM

Take a step back into the military heyday of the Old Pueblo at the Fort Lowell Museum (in Fort Lowell Park, 2900 N. Craycroft Rd., 885-3832, www.oflna.org). Located in an adobe reproduction of an officer’s quarters, this museum features exhibits about life on the Arizona frontier. The outpost, established in 1873, housed several Army regiments, provided protection to settlers, and served as a supply base. The museum now hosts walking tours, lectures, and special events, including Fort Lowell Celebration Day held every February. The Museum is open: Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On the first Saturday of each month the museum is free

AIR, SPACE & DEFENSE MUSEUMS

One of the largest collections of historic aircraft in the US is at the Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Rd. Its Space Gallery offers a historical look at space travel, while several hangars house memorabilia, airplanes, and exhibits. More than 250 aircraft are on display, inside and out, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission fee. Phone 574-0462. While you’re there, stop by the Challenger Learning Center of the Southwest, where you’ll find a mission-briefing room, transportation room, mission-control area, and space station. Another sure bet is the partly underground tour at the Titan Missile Museum. You can see the massive 760-ton rollback silo door, visit the launch-control center, and experience a simulated launch. In Sahuarita (take Duval Mine Rd. west, exit 69, off I-19). Phone 625-7736. Take a jaunt into southeastern Arizona for Fort Huachuca’s Main, Annex, and US Army Intelligence Museums (520-533-5736). The Main and Annex Museums explore our military past from 1877 to the present, and the Intelligence Museum records Fort Huachuca’s place in the history of US Army intelligence. Open weekdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and weekends 1-4 p.m. Free admission; donations accepted. http://www.pimaair.org/ http://www.titanmissilemuseum.org/ http://www.huachuca.army.mil/site/Visitor/index.asp

ALL ABOARD!

Toy-train aficionados will want to make a stop at the Gadsden-Pacific Division Toy Train Operating Museum (888-2222), with more than 6,000 square feet of displays and detailed scenic tracks. Located at 3975 N. Miller Ave. near N. Romero and W. Roger Rds., it’s a little hard to find but well worth the effort. Attractions include videos about train history, old telegraph equipment, and other historic memorabilia including hundreds of toy trains that date back to the 1940s. Call ahead for days and hours of operation. Next stop-fun! http://gpdtoytrainmuseum.com/toytrains/

AMERIND FOUNDATION

The Amerind Foundation Museum (Amerind is short for American Indian) contains a fine collection of archaeological and ethnographic materials. The Amerind Art Gallery features works by Native American and Anglo-American artists. Visit the museum store and enjoy the scenic picnic area. Located east of Benson, an hour from Tucson, in the spectacular rock formations of Texas Canyon. Take I-10 east to exit 318 (Dragoon Rd.). Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-S un. Admission fee, free for children 12 and younger. Phone 520-586-3666 or visit https://www.amerind.org/.

ARIZONA SONORA DESERT MUSEUM

Wandering through this living museum is like taking an enchanted walk through the desert-with no fear of snakes or critters. There’s lots of information, plenty of shade and water, and close-up views of bobcats, prairie dogs, coyotes, hawks, Mexican gray wolves, scorpions, rattlesnakes, roadrunners, quail, and more. Aviaries offer a birder’s haven. Trees and cacti are identified for you as well. The internationally famous museum has seasonal fine dining and year-round casual dining. Trained museum docents give live-animal demonstrations and seasonal guided tours. Admission fee. Open daily 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct.-Fe b. and 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Ma r.-Sept. 2021 N. Kinney Rd. Phone 883-2702 or visit http://www.desertmuseum.org/.

HISTORICAL MUSEUMS

Just northeast of the Main Gate of the U of A campus, the Arizona State Museum exhibits pottery, artifacts, and contemporary objects while presenting important facts about the ways of life, including trading and commerce, of prehistoric and modern Native Americans. Don’t miss the museum’s permanent exhibit Paths of Life: American Indians of the Southwest. Phone 621-6302. The nearby Arizona Historical Society, established when Arizona was a territory, features period rooms, the Mining Hall mine-shaft replica, photo exhibits, self-guided tours, and hands-on exhibits for all ages. At 949 E. 2nd St. Phone 628-5774. Free for kids 11 and younger.

INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE MUSEUM

This natural history museum features more than 400 displays of mammals, birds, and insects from around the world. Interactive computer programs and hands-on exhibits provide educational entertainment. View hourly nature films in the Wildlife Theater and enjoy lunch at the Oasis Grille. Open Mon.-F ri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Located at 4800 W. Gates Pass Rd. (the west end of Speedway Blvd.), 5 miles west of I-10. Visit https://thewildlifemuseum.org/ or call 617-1439.

IN A MINER’S SHOES

Walk in the footsteps of a miner by touring a simulated mine, or meander through the many exhibits at Arizona’s mining and mineral museums. The University of Arizona Mineral Museum (on the lower level of Flandrau: The University of Arizona Science Center, 621-4227) houses one of the largest mineral collections in Southern Arizona, with approximately 2,200 minerals, gemstones, and meteorites on display from its permanent collection of more than 27,000. The Arizona Historical Society (628- 5774) features a mine-shaft replica, and the Arizona- Sonora Desert Museum’s Earth Sciences Center (883- 1380) has an extensive trove of minerals and exhibits. Travel south to Sahuarita and tour the Asarco Mineral Discovery Center (625-7513). A little farther southeast is The Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum (520-432- 7071), with stunning mineral collections from prominent pioneer families dating back to the turn of the last century. Also in Bisbee, you can check out the Lavender Pit Mine or take an underground tour with Queen Mine Tours (520-432-2071). If that’s not enough, you can explore the enormous collection of minerals at the Arizona Mining and Mineral Museum (602-771-1611) in Phoenix.

MUSEUMS OF FINE ART

The permanent collection of The University of Arizona Museum of Art includes Spanish medieval and Renaissance art, as well as 19th-century American, contemporary, and modernist works. It’s on the U of A campus just south of Speedway Blvd. and east of Park Ave. near the pedestrian underpass. Phone 621-7567. Since the completion of a $2.7-million renovation, the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block (downtown at the corner of N. Main Ave. and Alameda St.) has been able to display more of its fine collection and attract larger traveling exhibits. The museum renovated the historic Hiram Stevens House into the Palice Pavilion for its permanent collection of pre-Columbian, Spanish Colonial, and Latin American folk art. You can also visit the John K. Goodman Pavilion of Western Art, Corbett House (a local model for the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century), and La Casa Cordova, with its early- to mid-19th-century period rooms. Phone 624-2333. And don’t miss Café la C’Art (628-8533) for a little something to snack on.

Parks & Nature

“A” MOUNTAIN

Perhaps Tucson’s most notable, or should we say most easily noted, landmark is “A” Mountain. Rising above downtown, the peak has witnessed the history and growth of the city. Stjukson, meaning “spring at the foot of the black mountain,” was the name of the original Native American settlement in the shelter of the peak. The US Army named the mountain Sentinel Peak for its strategic importance. Since 1916, U of A freshmen have made a yearly tradition of painting the now namesake letter “A.” You can drive to the top of the peak to enjoy a panoramic view of the city Mon.-S at. 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. and Sun. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Phone the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation Department, 791-5909.

GATES PASS

A winding uphill drive west on Speedway Blvd. (which becomes Gates Pass Rd.) brings you, at its apex, to Gates Pass-and panoramic views of Tucson to the east and Saguaro National Park to the west. It’s a perfect setting for inspiring sunrises, midday contemplation, and romantic sunsets. (It’s a favorite ride for bicyclists, too-be aware!)

CATALINA STATE PARK

Just 12 miles north of Tucson on Oracle Rd. (AZ Hwy. 77), this park offers the best views of the canyons, cliffs, domes, and spires on the north side of the Santa Catalina Mountains. White-tailed deer abound. Walk the Romero Ruin Interpretive Trail to the archaeological site of an ancient Hohokam village that was later a Spanish hacienda. Picnicking, camping, biking, and hiking are available. A day pass is $3 per vehicle. Phone 628-5798.

CAVES & CAVERNS

Cave explorers of all ages and abilities can have a field day in Arizona. Kartchner Caverns State Park, near Benson, has been described as an underground nature preserve. Providing spectacular sights in a football field-sized room, this living cave also features a 51.5-foottall stone column dubbed “Kubla Khan.” Reservations are recommended (520-586-CAVE). Colossal Cave Mountain Park, 17 miles east of Tucson on Old Spanish Trail (647-7275), is a cave that has earned its name-it’s one of the largest “dry,” or dormant, caves in the country. In the 1880s, outlaws sought refuge in the passageways and secret exits, and rumor has it there is hidden treasure within. Coronado Cave, near the Mexican border and part of Coronado National Memorial (520-366-5515), is a more primitive cave, but it’s worth the effort to enjoy the cool temperature and calcite formations. Obtain a free permit at the visitors center. At least 2 flashlights per person are required for exploring the cave. All caves except Coronado Cave charge admission fees. https://azstateparks.com/

MADERA CANYON

About 40 miles south of Tucson, the Santa Rita Mountains are home to Madera Canyon, one of the prettiest spots around. There are trails for hikers, tables for picnickers, a clear stream, and a variety of trees for all. In the cooler months, you should take a coat or a jacket. Take I-19 south of Tucson to the clearly marked turnoff near Continental, just south of Green Valley.

Landmarks

CASINO FUN

You can bet Tucson has its share of casinos. Desert Diamond Casino & Hotel, owned and operated by the Tohono O’odham Nation (7350 S. Nogales Hwy., 294-7777), deals up live blackjack, slots, bingo, and poker, among other games. Or check out its 2nd area location in Sahuarita at I-19 and Pima Mine Rd. (294-7777). Also, Casino of the Sun, owned and operated by the Pascua Yaqui Nation (7406 S. Camino de Oeste, with a 2nd location, Casino del Sol, at 5655 W. Valencia Rd., 800-344-9435, www.casinodelsol.com), brings a little piece of Vegas to the Old Pueblo. Both locations offer live blackjack, video poker, slot machines, bingo, and more. If you’re not having any luck with the one-armed bandit, grab something to eat-from Mexican food to prime rib-or catch a show; most casinos offer big-name entertainment. You must be 21 or older to enter any of the casinos. http://www.desertdiamondcasino.com/ddc/ecs/main/index.html http://www.casinodelsol.com/

DEGRAZIA’S HAUNT

Many works by one of Tucson’s most famous artists, Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia, are housed in DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a group of low-slung adobes set amid the modern structures of the Swan and Sunrise area. Built by the artist with the help of close friends, the compound (constructed of materials from the surrounding desert) at one time served as his home and studio. The permanent collection includes works by DeGrazia on subjects such as Padre Kino, Cabeza de Vaca, and Tohono O’odham legends. Rotating exhibits and a gift shop round out the mix. The 10-acre site, which was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, is located at 6300 N. Swan Rd. Phone 299-9191 or visit http://www.degrazia.org

EXPLORING BIOSHERE 2

The University of Arizona Biosphere 2 currently serves as a laboratory for controlled scientific studies that monitor global environmental change. This 3.1-acre glass and- steel complex-originally designed as a prototype for space colonization-contains a million-gallon ocean and living coral reef, rain forest, savannah, marsh, and desert. Visitors can explore various parts of the attraction and go on an “under the glass” tour of Biosphere 2 itself. The facility also offers a visitors center that includes a movie on Bio2, a snack bar, and gift shops. Visit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; tours offered daily. On AZ Hwy. 77 at mile marker 96.5, about 20 minutes north of Tucson. Admission for adults is $20; $18 for seniors, military, and AAA members; $13 for kids ages 6-12; ages 5 and under free. Phone 838-6200 or visit http://www.b2science.org/

MISSION SAN XAVIER DEL BAC

Called “the White Dove of the Desert,” the San Xavier del Bac mission was founded by Father Eusebio Francisco Kino in the late 1600s. The church, built by the Franciscans in the 1700s, is one of the finest examples of Spanish mission architecture in the US. The church also houses a museum devoted to the native people of Wa:k, mission architecture, and numerous religious artifacts. Visitors can enjoy the results of a major restoration of the mission, portions of it by experts who restored the Sistine Chapel. Take I-19 to exit 92, then watch for signs once you get onto the Tohono O’odham reservation. Phone 294-2624 or see http://www.sanxaviermission.org for more information and for a mass schedule.

REID PARK ZOO

If you see a young giraffe learning to run across an open field; a polar bear taking a plunge; or ostriches, cranes, and other birds sharing an African grassland with antelope, you must be at Reid Park Zoo. The zoo has carefully created natural habitats and multi species exhibits-a pleasant setting for animals and visitors alike. The South American exhibit has jaguars, bears, and capybaras. Don’t miss the rhinos, elephants, tigers, and lions, too. In Reid Park off 22nd St., between Alvernon Way and Country Club Rd. Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission fee. Phone 791-3204 or visit http://www.tucsonzoo.org