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.
Drawing Class	Come to our Drawing class where you will learn how to use color in drawings or paintings.
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.
Soul Collage	A creative process that uses images to learn about yourself.
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!

Ballroom Dance	Learn your favorite Ballroom dances.
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.

2024 Voyager Wednesday Night Concert Series

12 shows January 8 through March 26 RESERVED SEATING Series Package- Resident Pricing: Gold $242 Silver $218 Copper $194 Individual Show tickets also available. Check with Activity Office for pricing

January

8th – Randy Linder’s Tribute to CCR:

Randy Linder is recognized as one of the nation’s premier tributes to John Fogerty, the voice behind the unmistakable and popular sound of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Randy and his fabulous band have entertained audiences around the country with hits like “Born on the Bayou,” Proud Mary,” Down on the Corner,” Susie Q,” Who’ll Stop the Rain” and many more.

17th – Charity Lockhart as Aretha Franklin:

“All Hail the Queen!” Charity Lockhart stars in this spectacular homage to one of the greatest female vocalists of all time, Aretha Franklin. This stunning concert stars the immensely talented Charity Lockhart, accompanied by her spectacular 10-piece band as they celebrate the legendary life and music of Aretha Franklin.

22nd – Toby:

Get ready for a wild ride through the heart and soul of country music with Toby, the ultimate tribute to the late Toby Keith. This electrifying show is guaranteed to leave audiences on their feet, singing along to hit after hit of great country music. Grab your cowboy hat, put on your boots, and get ready to experience the energy, the passion, and the undeniable talent of Toby Keith like never before.

29th – Uptown:

You asked for Uptown to come back to Voyager and we listened! So get ready! Uptown is about to take you on a first-class trip through the melodies you love, with a fresh new reel that will leave you screaming for more. With the class of young Temptations, vocals like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, and the contemporary feel of Bruno Mars… Everybody’s Going UPTOWN!

February

5th – Voyager: A Tribute to Journey:

Voyager is a spectacular tribute to the music of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame artist, Journey. This high energy production will take you on a musical tour of classic songs like, Faithfully, Open Arms, Who’s Crying Now, Wheel In the Sky, Anyway You Want It, Don’t Stop Believin’ and so many more. Featuring extraordinary musicians and vocalists who have toured nationally and internationally, Voyager provides today’s most entertaining and accurate Journey experience.

12th – The Magic of Manilow:

Barry is known for his catalogue of hits that include the chart topping “Mandy,” Ready To Take a Chance Again,” Could It Be Magic,” Copacabana (At the Copa),” I Write the Songs,” Can’t Smile Without You” and many, many more. Join Terry Davies, The Piano Man, for the Magic of Manilow.

19th – Fairchild Blues: Blues Brother’s Tribute:

With over 32 years of experience in the entertainment business, Fairchild Blues Tribute creates a show that sets them apart from any other tribute to The Blues Brothers! Combining a goofy mix of raw comic talent and great music, Fairchild Blues Tribute breathes new life into “The Blues” by creating a hip, fun, and cutting-edge party atmosphere.

26th – Shake Baby Shake:

Shake Baby Shake is an explosive retrospective stage show of the golden age of Rock and Roll, starring Lance Lipinsky of the Tony award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet! Joined alongside Lance is his show-band The Lovers, and dazzling Lovettes vocalists. Let’s celebrate the great hits of the 50s and 60s, from Jerry Lee Lewis to the Beach Boys and Andrew Sisters to The Supremes!

March

5th – Eric Buss: Comedy Magic:

Eric Buss was born in Tucson, Arizona. His high-energy, and hilarious act has been called, “Pure Art, Pure Madness!” It combines crazy inventions and Eric’s highoctane sugar rush of comedy into a non-stop ride of mischief and magical gadgetry. You will be glued to his unique style of magic. Eric invents fun!

12th – Celtic Nation

Celtic Nation is a fun-filled, feel-good celebration of all things Scottish and Irish. With two powerhouse performers and an all-star band, they will create an atmosphere like no other, and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. You will be treated to traditional and contemporary Celtic favorites such as: Irish Rover, Danny Boy, Loch Lomond, Caledonia, Wild Rover, Whiskey in the Jar, and many more.

19th – Victor Trevino as Elvis:

The “King in Concert” stars Victor Trevino Jr, 2022 winner of Graceland’s Ultimate Elvis Competition, making him the #1 Elvis Presley tribute artist in the world! Victor has starred in the Ultimate Elvis Tour for the past six years and has performed throughout the world. So grab your Blue Suede Shoes for a night of world class entertainment.

26th – Jonathan Williams:

Jonathan is originally from a small town in Wales, ‘The Land of Song’, and that’s where his love for singing and performing began. From London’s West End to Broadway, from Monte Carlo to Dubai, he truly is an International leading man and headliner. Fresh off two Las Vegas residences with the ‘Tenors of Rock’. You will be mesmerized by the sounds from Jonathan Williams.

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.
Aqua Zumba	This is a great exercise experience for those who would like to take part in Zumba but with less impact. Come join the Zumba Aqua party!
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.
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.
Rummikub	A game similar to Rummy, played with tiles, not cards.
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.

Voyager Offers A Variety Of Musical Groups & Events!

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

Belle Tones	Long and short term singers are welcome to join this group of female singers who enjoy four-part barbershop harmony. The ability to read music is NOT required. Performances are scheduled at various resort functions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Club	Weekly gathering of advanced beginner (and up) ukulele players who know basic chords and strums. We try to learn a new chord progression or strum pattern each week, and we take turns choosing songs from the book, “The Daily Ukulele.” This book contains 365 songs specially chosen for the ukulele. While all are welcome, if you’ve never played before, you should consider first going to the Ukulele Lesson group.
Ukulele Jam Session for Intermediate/Advanced Players	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 2024-2025 Highlights

• American Red Cross Blood Drives
• Barbershop Spring Concert
• Beach Blanket Bingo Themed Dance with Jukebox Junqies
• Bi-Annual Yard Sales
• Catalina Room Concerts
• Classic Holiday Concert with The Blue Dream Trio
• Coffee & Donuts
• Come Away with Me Caribbean Themed Pool Party & Happy Hour
• Courtyard Concerts
• Diamonds in the Desert Themed New Years Eve Dance with RAW Band
• Dinner Show with the Ladies of Soul
• Fall Festival
• Food Truck Roundups
• Golf Tournaments & Annual Banquet
• Health, Business and Non-Profit Fair
• Here Comes the Summer Themed Pool Party and Happy Hour
• Holiday Luncheon
• Ice Cream Sundae Social
• Karaoke
• Mardi Gras Parade
• Mardi Gras Themed Pool Party & Happy Hour
• Mardi Gras Themed Dance with Reminiscence Band
• Mardi Gras Day Food Truck Roundup
• Mariachi Band
• Mata Ortiz Pottery Exhibition
• Meet the Voyager Clubs Event
• Monthly Market Daze and Craft Fair
• Mummies & Deadies Themed Halloween Dance with the Hardscrabble Road Band
• Neon Moon Themed Voyager Honky Tonk Dance with DJ Warren
• One Woman History Performance by Alisa Dupuy
• Pancake Breakfasts
• Pickleball Tournaments
• Potluck Dinners
• Quilt Show
• Red Hots and Sweet Hearts Themed Valentines Dance with Reminiscence Band
• Shamrocks & Shenanigans Themed St. Patrick’s Day Dance with RAW Band
• Show Choir Spring Concert
• Sock Hop Dance with Reminiscence Band
• Southwest Flute Festival
• Spuds & Salad
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• St. Patrick’s Day Pool Party & Happy Hour
• State & Regional Parties
• Super Heroes: Capes & Cans Themed Share the Bounty Dance in support of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona with RAW Band.
• Team Colors Season Kick Off Party with the Jukebox Junqies
• Thanksgiving Luncheon
• Time to “Glow Home” Themed End of Season Glow Party with DJ Warren
• Trim the Tree Themed Holiday Dance with Albert Galli
• Valentine’s Day Performance Take It Easy by Showtune Productions
• Vegan and Vegetarian Potlucks
• Veteran’s Day Program Honoring Those Who Served
• Volunteer Breakfast
• Voyager Meets Tucson Event
• Voyager Barbershop Holiday Concert
• Wednesday Night Concert Series
• Woodstock Themed Dance with Ones All Band

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.
Lecture Series	A different historic, cultural, or health-related lecture is presented each week.
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.
Potluck Dinners	Bring a dish to share at the weekly covered dish supper. A Vegetarian Potluck dinner is also held monthly.
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.
Horseshoes	Horseshoe pits are available for play 7 days a week. Shoes are at the pit.
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