Building a Vibrant Downtown that Inspires Stays and Visits

Investing in Tucson’s Future

Welcome to the Rio Nuevo District — Tucson’s bold vision for downtown revitalization. Once a collection of underutilized blocks, this corridor is now transforming into a vibrant, walkable destination full of art, culture, dining, and hospitality. We’re building more than a district — we’re crafting an experience that invites residents and visitors alike to explore, stay, and engage with Tucson’s downtown in new ways.

Where to Stay

Discover the heart of Tucson through our downtown hotels—each offering a unique way to experience the energy and creativity shaping the Rio Nuevo District. From locally inspired boutique hotels to full-service destinations just steps from restaurants, theaters, and cultural landmarks, these properties serve as ideal home bases for visitors who want to stay immersed in the action. 

Bringing Your Meeting to Tucson
Looking for the right hotel or venue? Submit a quick RFP and we’ll connect you with the best options in the Rio Nuevo District and beyond. 

Click here for RFP Submission.

What to Do

Experience the pulse of downtown Tucson within the Rio Nuevo District — where culture, creativity, and community come together. From world-class performances at the renovated Tucson Convention Center to immersive exhibits in our museums and galleries, every block offers something to explore. Stroll through public plazas, discover reimagined historic buildings, and enjoy the vibrant mix of dining, entertainment, and local art that defines Tucson’s urban core. Whether you’re attending an event, exploring heritage sites, or simply soaking in the city’s desert charm, the Rio Nuevo District is where Tucson truly comes to life.

Where to Dine & Drink

Downtown Tucson’s dining scene continues to thrive, thanks to Rio Nuevo’s strategic investment in restaurant growth and revitalization. Rio Nuevo–funded improvements have helped transform spaces into standout culinary destinations like Bata, Batch, and De Novo, each showcasing Tucson’s evolving blend of innovation and local flavor. From elevated dining experiences to creative cocktail bars and neighborhood favorites, the district offers something for every taste. Whether you’re stopping in before a show or exploring Tucson’s newest food concepts, every visit reflects the impact of Rio Nuevo’s commitment to fueling downtown’s resurgence—one plate at a time.

Pro Tips

• Stay downtown and cut transit time — your base is within walking or short transit distance of key venues.
• Mix historic charm + modern amenities — enjoy vintage buildings alongside fresh architecture.
• Engage with local culture — many arts, events, and walkable destinations are emerging here.
• Explore like a local — this is not just a “tourist zone,” but a living, evolving neighborhood shaped by investment and intention.

Public–Private Collaboration Story

When voters approved Rio Nuevo in 1999, the vision was ambitious: capture a portion of state sales tax revenue generated within a defined downtown boundary, and reinvest those funds to spark redevelopment, infrastructure improvement, and private investment.

That reinvestment model has already delivered upon promise. For example:

• Through upgrades to the Tucson Convention Center (enhanced sound systems, seating, lighting, interiors), Rio Nuevo’s backing helped reenergize a major civic asset and attract new events and audiences.
• Dozens of local projects — retail, restaurants, mixed-use redevelopment, historic preservation — have sprung up in the district under incentive-supported frameworks.
• Rio Nuevo has launched grant and support programs (e.g. through collaboration with Groundswell Capital) to fund entrepreneurs, activate retail, and promote creative and equitable growth in the district.
• Over recent years, Rio Nuevo has generated $2 billion in economic impact through strategic investments and leveraging private capital.

This isn’t just about buildings. It’s about creating momentum. Where once there were gaps, there are now walkable streets, restaurants, destinations, and renewed energy. The Rio Nuevo District is a living proof point of what strategic public–private investment can accomplish — increased tax base, more jobs, and a downtown that competes with peer cities for visitors, events, and long-term growth.

Source: RioNuevo.org