5 Reasons to Live in Tucson, AZ
Nature
Nature lovers, do we have a city for you! Tucson is home to unique nature, from the Saguaro cactus, which only grows in the Sonoran desert, part of which is located here in southern Arizona, to the various species of birds, pollinators, and wildlife. There are hidden gems for everyone! Five mountain ranges surround Tucson; the Rincon mountains are located on the east side, in which the sun rises over, making for beautiful sunrises. On the west are the Tucson mountains, famous for their sunset silhouette. Over to the north and northeast are the Santa Catalina mountains, the south and southeast are the Santa Rita Mountains, and the Tortolita mountains cover the northwest. These mountains provide us with all kinds of activities such as hiking, camping, and stargazing, just to name a few!
Athletics
Tucson is a paradise for all kinds of athletes. Bicyclists will love being able to bike from one end of town to the other on “the Loop,” a 100-mile path built around the city, or head up to northwest Tucson and Oro Valley for over 80 miles of mountain biking and road paths. Not a biker? No worries! Golfers can pick from 35 courses located here in Tucson and another nine within 20 miles of the city. Also found here is the University of Arizona, home of the Wildcats, with nearly 500 student-athletes who compete in 20 sports. There is something for everyone to cheer on! The University is also part of the NCAA Pac-12 Conference and has won national titles in several sports. Famous alums include football tight end Rob Gronkowski, basketball forward Andre Iguodala, and baseball manager Terry Francona, to name a few.
Food
Tucson is hot on the food scene! Tucson is home to over 700 restaurants and counting! Whatever you’re craving, there is a spot for you. In 2015 Tucson became the first UNESCO City of gastronomy designated in the United States, joining the UNESCO creative cities network. Tucson is recognized for its culinary heritage, a cultural tapestry of over 4,000 years of Native American and Mexican traditions.
Culture
On to my next point, culture! Tucson is full of cultures unique to this region of the country. Just 70 miles north of Mexico, some of its heritage traces back to the Spanish colonial era. In 1821 Tucson became part of the new state of Sonora in Mexico and in 1854 was purchased from Mexico by the US, making it part of Mexico longer than it’s been a part of the United States! Mexican heritage has a huge influence here. Before the Spanish arrived, this land was home to the Paleo-Indians over 12,000 years ago. Their legacy is now carried on by the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and Tohono O’odham Nation. These Indigenous roots combined with Mexican, Spanish Colonial, and Anglo influences have shaped a culture unique to Tucson.
Community
While Tucson may be the second-largest city in the state, it feels like a small town; everyone knows everyone! Full of small businesses to support and use as a way to get to know the community, there is always a coffee shop to relax at, a bookstore to browse, or a thrift shop to scour. In 2018 the voters approved a $225 million bond package to improve park amenities and connections throughout the city. There are 131 parks in Tucson, and they are a great place to play and meet your neighbors. Tucson also hosts annual events such as All Souls Procession, Tucson Meet Yourself, the Gem and Mineral Show, and El Tour de Tucson. There is always something going on and someone to meet!
