Things to Do • Tucson

Inside the Arizona-Sonora Desert Musuem

It's no wonder the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is TripAdvisor's #1 Thing to do in Tucson. You have to see to believe just how incredible of an attraction it really is for both adults and kids of all ages. It's so much more than a zoo or museum, it's a living exhibit showcasing the plants, animals, and critters that make Tucson so wonderful. But don't just take our word for it, here are some examples of the incredible adventure that await you.

A Vase Of Flowers Sits In Front Of A Building

Photography provided by the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

If visiting the desert southwest is a new experience for you, a visit to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is highly recommended... just ask any local. And while it's called a "museum," you'll be thrilled to find out it is so much more than that, combining the educational aspect of a traditional museum experience with the hands-on and wildlife elements of a zoo.

Forget lions, tigers, and bears... the ASDM is home to desert-dwelling creatures and critters found in our unique environment, like coyotes, javelina and bighorn sheep. Oh, and when I say critters, I mean critters! The Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall houses snakes, scorpions, and other spooky creatures.

A Brown Bear Sitting On Top Of A Grass Covered Field

Photography by Jay Pierstorff

Primarily located outdoors, the museum is a winding path connecting several themed habitats like Mountain Woodland, Desert Grasslands, and Cay Canyon. But what I found the most interesting during my first visit was that it also includes an Aquarium, a beautiful Aviary, and even a Stingray Touch experience. Not only are these exhibits unexpected for a "desert museum," but they also provide a wonderful opportunity to head indoors or in the shade to escape the Tucson heat.

Aside from wildlife, the ASDM also showcases Earth Sciences and Cactus Garden areas to learn more about the plants and minerals indigenous to our desert home. The geode displays are incredible and there's also an underground caving tunnel where you can learn about the formation of stalagmites and stalactites.

A Close Up Of A Small Bird Sitting On A Branch

Photography by Jay Pierstorff

Before you conclude your journey, cool off in the Art Institute to see what paintings, fossils or other pieces of art are on display in the gallery. This may be a little less exciting for the younger kids but maybe you can tag-team a visit to the gift shop for a moment of quiet to take in the current exhibits.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent desert-trekker, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is always a fun and informative way to experience the beautiful place we call home.

A Woman Smiling For The Camera Rachelle has been with Loews since July 2013 and oversees the social media for Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and Loews Hollywood Hotel: “Monsoon season and Sonoran hot dogs top my list of favorite things about the desert southwest and as an avid tv/film fan there’s always something new and exciting happening in Tinseltown!”