Rodeo is serious business in Tucson. Every February the local schools let our for a long weekend in honor of the Tucson Rodeo! This year the rodeo will run while you are here--Feb 21/22 & Feb 26-Mar 1. La Fiesta de los Vaqueros began in 1925 and the Rodeo Parade is one of the oldest parades in the United States and known as the world's longest non-motorized parade. Don't be surprised if you see cowboys on horse-back riding around town, especially on the South Side.
The drive out to the museum (more like half botanical garden, half wildlife sanctuary) is spectacular. Tickets are a bit pricy but worth it if you can spend a few hours there. Bring good walking shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle.
We like the King Canyon trail.
We like the David Yetman trail (leads to the ruins of an old stone cabin), the Brown Mountain trail, and you can never go wrong with sunset at Gates Pass.
Grab a cup of coffee at Cafe Passe, peruse the isles of books at Antigone Book Store, meander through all the little shops filled with knick-knacks and local art, get a sandwich at the Food Conspiracy Co-op, grab a burger and a beer at Lindy's.
A lovely and vibrant open-air patio with local vendors and eateries.