Mellow Vibes in a Bustling Town
Tucson is an active, busy place—a thriving metropolis with all manner of activities appealing to every interest. But, what if you’re looking for some peace and quiet? What if you just want to … chill? You can! Tucson has plenty of opportunities to take it easy. Whether you want to relax, reflect or recharge, you’re sure to find a way to do it here.
Find sanctuary at Mission San Xavier Del Bac. The "White Dove of the Desert," as it is affectionately known, beckons pilgrims with its gleaming facade. Come through the heavy mesquite doors to its cool interior, have a seat in a hand-carved wooden pew and marvel at the majesty of this centuries-old National Historic Landmark. Take in the exemplary Spanish Colonial architecture, ornate statuary, carvings, and fresco murals. Feel the solace and solemnity of this beautiful space and come away refreshed.
Unwind at La Co. La Co is Tucson in a nutshell: casual, eclectic and welcoming. Pull up a chair at a tree-shaded table in the courtyard and savor the warm breeze. Decompress with a cool beverage and have a nosh from their globally-inspired menu. In the evenings, enjoy a variety of live music under the stars. During brunch on Saturdays, let the languid melodies of the harp lull you into repose.
Wander the gardens of Tohono Chul, near Oro Valley. Named one of the world's great botanical gardens by Travel + Leisure, Tohono Chul shines a light on the art, culture, and natural wonders of the Sonoran Desert with nature trails, eclectic shops, galleries, classes, and bird-watching opportunities. The Garden Bistro's award-winning menu is heartily influenced by the flavors of the region.
Twinkling lights beckon at Tohono Chul
Cultivate serenity at Tucson Botanical Gardens. Peace and tranquility await you at this urban oasis in the heart of Tucson. Sensory patios invite you to soak up your surroundings in shady comfort. Surround yourself with delicate beauty in the Butterfly & Orchid Pavilion. On weekend mornings in summer, “Mindful Walking” through garden paths starts your day with a sense of inner calm.
Achieve harmony at Yume Japanese Gardens, a living expression of an ancient heritage from the Land of the Rising Sun. Covering three quarters of an acre, it comprises five traditional visions of landscape. In each segment, nature is balanced by the human hand to render the elegant and subtle spirit of an authentic Japanese garden. In Japanese, “yume” translates to “dream”, and the experience here allows visitors to drift off into precisely this sort of state.
Paper lanterns glow at Yume Japanese Gardens
Get your zen on at Seven Cups Tea House. Walking into Seven Cups, the first thing you notice is its serenity: calm, quiet and peaceful. A traditional Chinese tea house with more than 100 loose-leaf teas, Seven Cups prides itself on slowing things down. Linger over a sit-down tea service and feel urgency disappear with each sip. Soft décor, tranquil music and the gentle bubbling of aquariums perform in harmony to soothe and settle.
Commune with nature in Madera Canyon. With its mountainous terrain and lush, green plant life, Madera Canyon is a welcome variation in the desert landscape. Feast your eyes on wildflowers in spring and changing colors in fall. Observe abundant wildlife year round as well as hundreds of species of birds. Take a respite from the summer heat by hiking diverse trails or strolling leisurely along Madera Creek. Get away from it all and revel in the grandeur of this local treasure.
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