Wondering where to stay in Tucson? Discover all you need to know about the best places to stay in Tucson (AKA the gateway to Saguaro National Park) with this deep dive into the top areas in the city.
Tucson boasts a unique blend of southwestern charm and serene beauty that will leave you in awe. It’s a melting pot where Arizonan charm meets a relaxing desert landscape.
And let’s not forget the majestic Saguaro cacti that only adds to its allure.
Whether you’re just passing through Tucson on an epic Arizona road trip or making this your vacation oasis, you’ll need an excellent place to stay.
And, lucky for you, Tucson is filled with brilliant luxe hotels and cosy spots where you can bed down for a few nights.
So, let’s dive right in and explore the best places to stay in Tucson…
Best Places to Stay in Tucson, AZ: At a Glance
| Best hotels in Tucson – Top Picks | Hotel |
| Best Overall Hotel in Tucson | Graduate Tucson |
| Best Tucson Hotel for Easy Accessibility | The Tuxon Hotel |
| Best Tucson Hotel for a Unique Experience | Hacienda Del Sol |
| Best Tucson Hotel for Beautiful Views | The Ritz-Carlton Dove |
Where to Stay in Tucson, AZ
Downtown Tucson is many traveller’s go-to area — and rightly so — but keep an open mind, as you’ll find hidden gems throughout the region. This may be a laid-back city, but that doesn’t mean each area isn’t jam-packed with fun activities.
I hope you’re ready to discover this cool city!
Downtown Tucson: Best Place to Stay in Tucson Overall
With the Santa Cruz River to the west and towering Mount Lemmon to the north, there’s no better place to rest after a long day filled with hikes. Six distinct districts make up downtown Tucson, and let me just say this: they’re all worth exploring.
But when you’re not wandering down Congress Street or enjoying the vibrant bars in Mercado, its central location means Tucson’s top attractions aren’t far away. The legendary Saguaro National Park is only 14 miles away (a 17-minute drive).
Once you’ve seen all the biggest cacti in the US, drive 7.8 miles (14 minutes) to Tucson Mountain Park. It’s just across the other side of Santa Cruz River and has some of the best hikes in Tucson.
But enough about what’s outside of downtown. There’s also plenty of things to do in the local area.
Downtown Tucson Highlights
Tucson Museum of Art
Whether you’re an art lover or not, visiting the Tucson Museum of Art is definitely in order. With 74,000 square feet to explore, this indoor and outdoor museum will have your imagination running wild.
St. Augustine Cathedral
There’s no denying the ethereal beauty of St Augustine Cathedral – a 1776 Roman Catholic Diocese. You simply need to admire its towering facade or elaborate frescoes to understand how glorious it is.
Barrio Viejo
Walk along the cacti-lined streets of low-rise buildings with colourful exteriors in Barrio Viejo for a sense of real Tucson. Some top sights within these majestic streets include El Tiradito Wishing Shrine and Presidio Agustin del Tucson Museum.
Philabaum Glass Gallery
Get a taste of artisanal perfection through glass. Peruse the Philabaum Glass Gallery, which represents over 60 international artists. Need I say more?
Suggested Downtown Hotels in Tucson, Arizona
AC Hotel Tucson Downtown
The 4-star sleek lodgings on offer at AC Hotel Tucson Downtown are a dream. The Rialto Theatre is across the road, so get ready for nights amongst Tucson’s acting stars.
Downtown Clifton
Who said you couldn’t find cheap places to rest in Tucson with all the bells and whistles of a luxury stay? Downtown Clifton pairs a retro colour palette with Tucson hospitality to offer a stay you’ll never forget.
The Tuxon Hotel
You may as well call The Tuxon Hotel the ‘leisure palace’ because there’s no better place to soak up the Tucson sun than at Luxon’s pool. While the rooms have a relaxing combination of greys, the vibrant blue and yellow exterior makes this the happiest place.
P.S. It’s only a mile from El Presidio Park.
Historic Fourth Avenue: Best for Cool Places to Stay in Tucson
Okay, I’ll come clean, Historic Fourth Avenue is technically in downtown Tucson, but it has its own section in this guide for a good reason. No area personifies Tucson more than Historic Fourth Avenue with its quaint eateries, boutique galleries and trendy thrift stores.
As it’s the city’s heartbeat, you’ll see plenty of friendly locals drinking it up at The Shanty. If you’re a book fiend, Antigone Books is calling your name, and it’s only fitting to snap some photos outside The Historic Y.
This may sound too good, but it gets even better. It’s a hop, skip and jump (or, 1.3 miles) to the University of Arizona, while Reid Park is a 10-minute drive away. You really can’t ask for much more.
Historic Fourth Avenue Highlights
The University of Arizona
Visiting a university campus may seem odd, but there’s plenty to do here. Discover the stars at the Flandrau Planetarium, boost your knowledge at the Arizona State Museum or enjoy local talent at the Centre for Creative Photography.
The Rock
The Rock is one of Historic Fourth Avenue’s most prestigious venues, which serves up the best music in town. There’s no better place to dance away your troubles than at one of The Rock’s famous concerts.
Prep & Pastry
Kickstart your day with the best breakfast in town at Prep & Pastry. You may have to wait a bit for a table. But once you dig into an almond croissant or cast iron duck confit, you’ll realise the wait is well worth the reward.
Suggested Tucson Hotels in Historic Fourth Avenue
Graduate Tucson
Retro meets contemporary in these spacious Graduation-themed rooms at Graduate Tucson. The mountain views push this lodging up a notch, but the glorious rooftop pool with a late-night bar and restaurant make it the best of the bunch. It’s simply beau-ti-ful.
Arizona Inn
For a flower-filled garden stay with rooms fit for a king/queen, look no further than Arizona Inn. Admire the daffodils and roses during your breakfast at the outdoor deck, or challenge your fellow adventurers to a round of badminton or tennis.
It’s also a two-minute walk from the University of Arizona.
Tucson Marriott University Park
A minimalist style is always an excellent option for a calming stay, and it’s no different at Marriott University Park. With unique feature walls and simple finishings, this hotel is perfect for those wanting quick access to the best bars in the area.
Catalina Foothills: Where to Stay in Tucson for a Relaxing Stay
Step away from the busy city centre — I say this tentatively as the city is hella laid back — and into the even calmer streets of Catalina Foothills. This is the destination for the weary traveller seeking a calming oasis, with its glorious golf courses and majestic eateries making it oh-so-inviting.
You can shop till your hands are full at El Encantada or enjoy some memorable sunset views at Campbell Lookout. Oh, and there are also plenty of excellent hiking options at Pusch Ridge Wilderness, only five miles north.
Many delicious eateries are around, like the American classic Firebirds Wood Fired Grill or North Italia. At only 8.2 miles (20 minutes) from downtown Tucson, you’re in for a real treat at the Catalina Foothills.
Catalina Foothills Highlights
DeGrazia Gallery
DeGrazia Gallery is an artistic haven with unique buildings filling the desert landscape. While DeGrazia’s works are part of the permanent collection, you can always become a novice art investor by purchasing fantastic contemporary works here.
Tohono Chul Gardens & Galleries
Walk amongst a series of garden places that reflect the diverse variety of plant life in the Sonoran Desert at Tohono Chul Gardens & Galleries. While wildlife is what you seek out here, there’s also a range of galleries and cafes, making the experience even more special.
Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
Explore over 500 room boxes and dollhouses at Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures – a one-of-a-kind museum for a rather peculiar visit.
These adorable worlds pack a historical punch, with each installation preserving miniature-making’s place in society.
Suggested Tucson Hotels in the Catalina Foothills
The Westin La Paloma
It’ll almost feel like you’re in a city within a city at this expansive 4-star hotel – The Westin La Paloma. From five glorious pools to breathtaking mountain views from your room’s private patio, there’s no going wrong with one of these abodes.
Hacienda Del Sol
With Persian rugs in every room and breathtaking cedar ceilings, accommodation at the Hacienda Del Sol couldn’t be better. It’s got that classic Ranch vibe, and with the El Encantada centre under 5 minutes away, you’re never far from civilisation.
Westward Look, Wyndham
It’ll be hard to find a hotel with better views of Mt Kimball than this glorious Westward Look, Wyndham. The picturesque Sonoma Desert gardens are everywhere you look, while luxury additions at the wellness spa will leave you in utter relaxation.
Sabino Canyon: Where to Stay in Tucson Near the Great Outdoors
Believe it or not, Tucson is much more than just the Saguaro National Park. If you head slightly east of the Catalina Foothills and 5 miles from Downtown Tucson, Sabino Canyon is the perfect playground for the outdoor adventurist.
While several world-class hikes are calling out your name, the Tucson camping spots are also worth looking into. The majestic vista views from Windy Point, Thimble Peak, and San Pedro Vista are just a few noteworthy destinations in Sabino Canyon.
And while this is a desert, how about admiring flowing water features, such as the Sycamore Reservoir or the hidden Hutch’s Pool? Outdoor adventures are very much on the menu, but you can still dine in style at the Italian staple, Piazza Gavi.
Sabino Canyon Highlights
Seven Falls
Admire the sweeping dips and curves of the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area on this challenging 6.8-mile out-and-back hike. You’ll join the trail from Bear Canyon Road and meander through the iconic scenery to the majestic Seven Falls.
Mount Lemmon
Enjoy a majestic 25-mile scenic drive up to the highest peak in Tucson. Once here, the 4.5-mile Lemmon Rock Lookout trail awaits.
Once you’ve built up your appetite, head over to the Iron Door for some tasty treats.
Agua Caliente Park
While the Sonoran Desert is fun, you may want a relaxing evening in this picturesque park. The natural hot spring with surrounding palms is perfect for a gentle stroll and dip, while the arts centre is sure to pique your interest.
Suggested Tucson Hotels in Sabino Canyon
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
For a luxe stay amongst the Sycamore trees, book a room at the majestic Loews Ventana Canyon Resort. The pool is the perfect place to cool down after some canyon exploring. And if it’s mountain views from the room you want, that’s precisely what you’ll get.
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Another 4-star lodging in the Ventana Country Club Estate, this hotel has your every need in mind. You’ll feel like royalty within the Wild West, from the Olympic-grade pool to the complimentary bathrobes.
Casitas at Sabino Springs
Allow the rustic colours of Tucson to filter into your room at the fantastic Casitas at Sabino Springs. Bear Canyon Trailhead is only a 3.1-mile drive away, while the Arizona National Golf Club is another excellent spot to enjoy a morning stroll.
Oro Valley: Where to Stay in Tucson for Luxury Accommodation
I might have saved the best ‘til last…Tucson is teeming with glorious areas, and no region is more luxurious than Oro Valley.
It’s one of the most unique places to stay in Tucson, AZ, and not just because of the hotel options. Its perfect placement between Catalina State Park and Saguaro National Park means nature is at your doorstep.
But if you’re looking for all the local bars and eateries in town, Historic Fourth Avenue is only a 25-minute (13 miles) drive away. With history and luxury stays around every corner, this suburban sanctuary will quickly become a winner in your eyes.
Oro Valley Highlights
Catalina State Park
There are hikes aplenty in this rugged wilderness, from the 2.2-mile Linda Vista Loop Trail to the 17.4-mile day hike on the Waterfall Sutherland Trail. If you have the time, venture up to the majestic Romero Pools.
Steam Pump Ranch
Spend some time exploring Tucson’s history at this breathtaking ranch in Oro Valley.
From walking through the heritage garden to exploring P/L House, you won’t get bored soon. And for some fun in the Tucson sunset, they host live music on the first Friday of every month.
Oro Valley Marketplace
Whether you wish to dine in style or shop to your heart’s content, there’s no better place than the Oro Valley Marketplace. P.S. The Hoppy Vine serves up the best craft beer in town.
Suggested Tucson Hotels in Oro Valley
El Conquistador
Let the mighty palms and glorious green fields on El Conquistador tempt you into booking a room.
The resort itself is in a magical setting. There’s no denying that. But I won’t blame you if spending lots of time in the spacious rooms with mountain views from the private patio is more your vibe.
Omni Tucson National Resort
Enjoy a stay at Omni Tucson National Resort, a Sicilian ranch-style resort with all the bells and whistles of luxury accommodation.
Spend some time wandering through breathtaking gardens before sitting down to enjoy a meal in your pearly white abode. You’re in for a treat.
Ritz-Carlton Dove
Taking the top spot for Oro Valley lodgings has to be the opulent The Ritz-Carlton Dove. Set in the foothills of Dove Mountain, you can enjoy complimentary yoga classes, southwestern specialities at four restaurants or an indulgent time in your hotel room.
You really can’t ask for more, right?
Where to Stay in Tucson: Frequently Asked Questions
Practical Tips to Consider Before Booking Your Tucson Accommodation
- There are plenty of fantastic day trips from Tucson, with national parks aplenty. It’s also cheaper to stay here than in Phoenix, so making Tucson your base for exploring Arizona is a great idea.
- Tucson is a hiker’s paradise, but you’ll want to be wary of bears, mountain lions and rattlesnakes. You’re most likely to see these dangerous animals between May and June in summer.
- As far as America goes, Tucson is a very relaxed city, so you can expect a slower way of life. Places are generally open throughout the day, but it’s unsurprising if some restaurants and stores close early on weekends.
