Tucson, Arizona Vacation Rentals
Explore 254 rental homes and villas in Tucson, Arizona for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Air Condition Homes, Pet-Friendly Homes and Best Affordable Homes. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $61 per night with homes containing as many as 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in Tucson
Where to stay in Tucson
Booking a vacation rental in Tucson, Arizona?
Here are some things to know to support your visit:
Tucson Overview
Tucson, Arizona, is a gem in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, where the grandeur of the world's largest cacti in Saguaro National Park and the serene trails of Sabino Canyon await nature lovers. The city is a sanctuary for those seeking a private retreat, with a wealth of homes available for rent that offer the luxury of seclusion and the comfort of being pet-friendly. Imagine waking up in your own space, with no walls shared with strangers, and the freedom to step out into your private backyard oasis.
Many of these homes boast swimming pools, a perfect complement to Tucson's sunny climate, offering a refreshing respite after a day of exploring the desert landscape or the city's historical treasures. The Mission San Xavier del Bac stands as a testament to the region's Spanish heritage, its white facade gleaming against the blue sky, while the Arizona State Museum offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Southwest Indian culture.
Tucson's waterfront is not of the oceanic variety, but rather the rippling of the Santa Cruz River and the tranquil ponds found in places like Agua Caliente Park, providing a unique desert waterside experience. The city's downtown pulses with life, having been revitalized into a hub of creativity and culture, where galleries showcase the work of local artists and the streets are lined with an eclectic mix of shops and eateries.
As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson's culinary scene is a delight, blending centuries-old traditions with modern innovation. Here, food is not just eaten but experienced, with flavors that tell the story of the region's diverse heritage and bountiful local produce.
In Tucson, every visit is an opportunity to immerse oneself in a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary excellence, all while enjoying the unparalleled privacy and comfort of a home away from home. Whether you're basking in the sun by your private pool, savoring the local cuisine, or exploring the desert's wonders, Tucson promises an unforgettable escape.
Cultural Attractions in Tucson
Tucson, Arizona is indeed a hub of cultural richness, offering a plethora of activities for those captivated by the arts, history, and local traditions. The city boasts an array of museums and art galleries that exhibit both local and international art. One such example is the Tucson Museum of Art which houses an impressive collection ranging from pre-Columbian to modern visual arts.
For those fascinated by history, the Arizona State Museum provides an in-depth exploration into the region's indigenous cultures with its extensive collection of artifacts. The Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Spanish Catholic mission situated on the Tohono O'odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation, offers a glimpse into the area's colonial history.
The city is alive with music. Whether it's jazz at the Fox Tucson Theatre, classical performances by the Tucson Symphony Orchestra or rock concerts at Club Congress, there's something to suit every musical preference.
Art enthusiasts will delight in wandering through the numerous galleries dispersed throughout the city. The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a must-visit spot featuring works by renowned Arizona artist Ettore DeGrazia. For contemporary art pieces, Etherton Gallery comes highly recommended.
Tucson also celebrates its rich local customs deeply rooted in its Native American and Mexican heritage. This can be experienced through events like the annual Tucson Meet Yourself festival which honors local traditions through food, music, dance and crafts.
In terms of culinary culture, Tucson has been recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy due to its long-standing agricultural history and vibrant food scene that ranges from traditional Mexican cuisine to innovative Southwestern fusion dishes.
In summary, Tucson presents an enriching mix of cultural experiences that cater to lovers of arts, history and local traditions making it an ideal destination for those seeking immersion in arts, culture and heritage.
Family friendly activities in Tucson
Tucson, Arizona offers a plethora of engaging and educational activities for children. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a prime destination, combining a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum, and aquarium into one enriching experience. Here, interactive exhibits allow children to explore the diverse wildlife and plant life of the Sonoran Desert.
The Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium is another excellent choice for those with an interest in science and space exploration. It provides hands-on science exhibits and opportunities for star-gazing. The Pima Air & Space Museum also offers an exciting exploration of over 350 historical aircrafts.
The Reid Park Zoo houses hundreds of animals from around the globe and features interactive experiences such as giraffe feeding and a zoo train ride. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area provides hiking or tram riding options to appreciate the stunning desert landscapes.
Tucson also boasts numerous parks with child-friendly playgrounds like Reid Park which houses the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center for concerts and events.
The Children's Museum Tucson is another must-visit with its interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. For older children with an interest in history, the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum offers insights into 18th-century life in Tucson.
Regarding transportation within Tucson, it's advisable to rent a car as attractions are dispersed throughout the city. Nonetheless, public transportation options such as Sun Tran buses and Sun Link streetcars are available to connect downtown Tucson with surrounding districts.
While some areas of Tucson like downtown are walkable due to close proximity of shops and restaurants; generally it's more practical to drive given the widespread location of attractions.
Outdoor activities in Tucson
Tucson, Arizona is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Encircled by five mountain ranges, the city provides a plethora of opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The Santa Catalina Mountains to the north house Mount Lemmon, the highest peak in the range and a favored spot for hiking and camping.
The Sonoran Desert that engulfs Tucson is an extraordinary ecosystem teeming with life. Within it lies Saguaro National Park, where visitors can admire the towering saguaro cacti that are symbolic of this landscape. While the park does offer some trails for hiking and horseback riding, it's worth noting that compared to other national parks, its trail system is not as extensive. However, scenic drives through the park are highly recommended.
Another must-see outdoor destination in Tucson is Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. This natural oasis showcases breathtaking desert landscapes intersected by flowing streams. Visitors can traverse the canyon on foot or opt for a narrated tram ride that provides an overview of the canyon's geology and wildlife.
For bird watchers, Tucson houses over 500 species of birds recorded in the area. While Agua Caliente Park does attract various species of birds due to its lush vegetation and ponds, dedicated bird watchers might prefer visiting Sweetwater Wetlands or Tucson Mountain Park which are considered superior birding hotspots in Tucson.
Astronomy enthusiasts should not miss out on visiting Kitt Peak National Observatory located approximately 56 miles west (not southwest) of Tucson. It boasts one of the largest arrays of optical and radio telescopes globally.
Despite being situated in a desert region, Tucson also offers water-based activities at Patagonia Lake State Park which is about an hour drive from Tucson. The park features a beautiful lake where visitors can indulge in fishing or rent boats for leisurely rides on water.
In summary, whether you're passionate about hiking through rugged mountains or tranquil walks through blooming desert landscapes; whether you enjoy spotting rare birds or observing distant galaxies; whether you prefer exploring on foot or from behind binoculars - Tucson has something to cater to every nature lover's interests.
Weather in Tucson
Tucson, Arizona is characterized by a desert climate, with two primary seasons being summer and winter. The city is renowned for its scorching summers and gentle winters, with minimal rainfall throughout the year.
The summer season in Tucson extends from late May to early October. During this period, temperatures can rise into the high 90s and even 100s Fahrenheit. Despite the intense heat, humidity levels are relatively low which can make the heat more tolerable. However, late summer ushers in the monsoon season where short but heavy rainstorms are common.
Winter in Tucson lasts from November to March and is typically mild with average high temperatures varying from the mid-60s to low-70s Fahrenheit. However, nighttime temperatures can significantly drop, sometimes nearing freezing levels.
Spring and fall act as transitional periods between these two main seasons. They are marked by moderate temperatures that are generally very pleasant.
The most favorable weather conditions in Tucson occur during spring, fall, and winter when temperatures are milder. These periods of the year provide an optimal climate for outdoor activities such as hiking or sightseeing without the extreme heat of summer. Nevertheless, if you enjoy hot weather or want to experience the unique monsoon season, summer could be an intriguing time for you to visit Tucson.
Transportation in Tucson
Visitors heading to Tucson, Arizona can choose from several modes of transportation for their arrival and departure. The primary point of entry is the Tucson International Airport, which hosts a variety of domestic flights. Alternatively, ground travel is also an option with Amtrak's Sunset Limited route that links Tucson with Los Angeles and New Orleans thrice weekly.
Upon reaching Tucson, tourists can utilize the city's public transit system. Sun Tran runs over 40 bus routes across the city and its suburbs. For shorter trips, particularly within downtown, the Sun Link streetcar serves as a handy choice linking major attractions, entertainment districts, and shopping zones.
For individuals who prefer self-drive options, car rentals are accessible at the airport and across the city. Ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft are also popular in Tucson.
Cycling enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that Tucson is recognized as one of America's most bike-friendly cities with a comprehensive network of bike lanes and trails. Bike rentals are easily obtainable for those who wish to explore on two wheels.
Walkability in Tucson largely depends on your location. Downtown Tucson is quite accommodating for pedestrians with numerous restaurants, shops, galleries, and attractions within walking distance from each other. However, if you intend to visit distant sites like Saguaro National Park or Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, you'll require a car or another mode of transport.
In summary, whether you're flying or taking the train; commuting by bus, car or bike; or exploring by foot; Tucson provides a variety of options tailored to every traveler's needs.