Tucson, Arizona, founded in 1775 by Spanish settlers, has a rich and diverse history. Originally named San Agustin del Tucson, the city became a Spanish military outpost and a vital trading post along the Gila Trail. In the mid-1800s, Tucson was part of the Gadsden Purchase, marking the southern border of the United States. During the 19th century, Tucson experienced rapid growth with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad and the establishment of the University of Arizona in 1885. The city became a popular destination for health seekers, leading to the development of resorts and spas. Throughout the 20th century, Tucson continued to grow and develop, becoming a center for aerospace and defense industries. Today, the city is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation opportunities, and rich cultural heritage. Tucson’s historic downtown district, with its Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene, remains a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.

1- The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

• Healthcare
• Technology
• Education
• Hospitality
• Manufacturing
• Finance
• Retail
• Construction
• Transportation
• Government

2- The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

• Hiking
• Biking
• Fishing
• Skiing
• Golfing
• Kayaking
• Wine tasting
• Camping
• Sightseeing tours
• Spa retreats

3- Average low and high temperature for the month:

• Low: 50°F
• High: 75°F

4- Average precipitation for the month:

• 2.5 inches

5- Elevation:

• 500 feet above sea level

6- Average home price:

• $400,000

7- Average household income:

• $70,000

8- The top 10 tourist points of interest:

• Museum of Art
• National Park
• Historic Downtown District
• Zoo and Botanical Garden
• Winery Tours
• Scenic Mountain Overlook
• Annual Music Festival
• Waterfront Marina
• Cultural Heritage Center
• Adventure Sports Park

The top 10 restaurants:

BOCA Tacos Y Tequila

533 N 4th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705

A 2022 James Beard Award semifinalist and previous contestant on Top Chef, Maria Mazon has earned an honorary title as Tucson’s salsa queen. Diners receive a variety of creative salsas that rotate daily, which can include unconventional ingredients such as raspberries and bananas. Just a few doors down, Mazon also operates Sonas tortillas, a small market and tortilleria.

Coronet Restaurant

198 W Cushing St, Tucson, AZ 85701

The historic space includes a quaint patio with regularly scheduled live music, a cozy neighborhood café, and a craft cocktail bar. The menu showcases a wide, yet cohesive blend of international influences. Start with a Barrio Bread baguette and high-end tinned seafood, then move onto the steelhead trout with marinated olives, walnuts, herbs, and the rice dish tahdig.

5 Points Market & Restaurant

756 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701

This neighborhood eatery started as a brunch hot spot, but expanded with dinner hours and a curated natural wine selection. Dishes such as the smoked salmon Benedict gracefully juggle elements of comfort food with “conscious eating,” using stellar produce from local farms. The dessert cases display tantalizing options such as cookies with toffee, chocolate chips, sea salt, and brown butter.

El Taco Rustico

2281 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705

A former swap-meet stand, chef Juan Almanza signed the lease to open his restaurant mere weeks before the pandemic. Regardless, the spot is now thriving with regulars enjoying slow-grilled costillas and crunchy tacos of tender tripas. The trendy quesabirrias have also become a popular must-have.

Anita Street Market

849 N Anita Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705

Use a map to locate this treasure tucked away in a residential neighborhood. The pillowy flour tortillas make every burro memorable, whether stuffed with luscious red chile beef or machaca (dried meat) and eggs. Take a pack of warm tortillas to go and try not to eat them all in the car.

Tumerico

2526 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ 85716

Vegetables steal the show at chef Wendy Garcia’s restaurant. Although cheese and eggs are offered, most of the restaurant’s ever-changing menu is vegan with options such as jackfruit carnitas and cochinita pibil. Garcia isn’t scared of spice, so adventurous palates will never be bored.

Grill at Hacienda Del Sol

5601 N Hacienda Del Sol Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718

The Grill at Hacienda Del Sol has won many prestigious awards, including the AAA Four Diamond Restaurant Award. The Grill has also twice earned the “Award of Ultimate Distinction” from Wine Enthusiast and is the only restaurant in Arizona to receive this recognition.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse

6360 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718

Fleming’s has an exceptional selection of steaks and a list of 100 wines by the glass, making it the perfect choice for wine and steak enthusiasts. When in doubt, choose one of the chef-recommended dishes, such as the new Dry-Aged Prime New York Strip.

Arizona Inn Main Dining Room

2200 E Elm St, Tucson, AZ 85719

Tucson’s award-winning classic and contemporary fine dining with international flavors served in the Inn’s AAA Four-Diamond Award winning Main Dining Room. The Dining Room features a cathedral-ceiling, fireplace and courtyard.

Agave

1100 W Pima Mine Rd, Green Valley, AZ 85614

Enjoy mouthwatering dishes created by Executive Chef Pascual Rodriguez, such as lamb tenderloin, bacon-wrapped scallop and salmon, and filet mignon. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

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