Tucson 101

PRONUNCIATION

The “c” is silent – like Too-sawn

WEATHER

350 days of sunshine annually

NICKNAME

"The Old Pueblo"

History of Tucson

Tucson’s name is derived from the Tohono O’odham Cuk Ṣon, meaning “(at the) base of the black [hill],” a reference to Sentinel Peak – otherwise known as “A” Mountain. The Santa Cruz River valley has been home to cultures including the Paleo-Indians and the Hohokam. Tucson was officially founded by the Spanish in 1775, when Hugo O’Conor authorized the construction of a military fort: Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón.

Things To Do

Food

Tucson is a globally-recognized food destination. Tucson is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in North America; recognized for its history of culinary distinctiveness. Explore The Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food, where you can eat tacos, the original chimichanga, and the Sonoran hot dog.

BEST 23

Miles Of Mexican Food In America

Attractions & Culture

Visit the white dove of the desert, the San Xavier Del Bac Mission. Get up-close to a mountain lion at the open-air Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Wander one the world’s largest aerospace museums: The Pima Air and Space Museum. Or, look to the stars from Kitt Peak National Observatory. See more of Tucson’s must-sees.

The Community

Many compare Tucson to Austin and Portland – it’s a little quirky, and has a lot of character. A college town through and through, Tucson welcomes and supports University of Arizona students. There are more than 1 million people who live in the Tucson metro area, and whether you’re a local or an out-of-state student, you’ll feel at home.

Outdoors

Surrounded by five breathtaking mountain ranges, Tucson is an outdoor playground. Cycling is popular here – from cruising on campus to biking the 131-mile Loop. Wildcats love hiking Tumamoc Hill, near downtown; to the waterfalls of Seven Falls; and among the pine trees on Mount Lemmon. Also on Mount Lemmon: skiing and snowboarding.

131 MILE

Bike Loop Around Metro Tucson

Environment

Tucson is cooler and wetter than Phoenix, thanks to its 2,643-foot elevation and the surrounding mountains. Tucson is in the Sonoran Desert; however, the University of Arizona is in the city’s metropolitan center. Tucson’s heat is at its peak from June through August; however, spectacular summer monsoons lower temperatures.

Events

There are many annual events to look forward to in Tucson. Admire glittery jewels at the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase – the largest and oldest in the world. A beloved tradition is the Tucson Rodeo & Parade, which began in 1925. The All Souls Procession honors and remembers, and ends with an urn lit ablaze.

Industries

Opportunities abound when it comes to beginning your career in Tucson after graduation. In fact, about 40% of our most recent graduating class decided to stay here for work or school after completing their four years here.

Industries like aviation, space, defense, health care, and a growing start-up scene make Tucson a hub for high-demand jobs. Or, continue your education with graduate research opportunities at a Tier-1 Research Institution.

Equal Opportunity Employer Vets/Disabled.

All About Tucson