Top 5 Layover Ideas for Tucson Airport
Long layovers can sometimes feel like a drag, but not when you're at Tucson Airport. With a plethora of engaging attractions within reach, your transit time can turn into an exciting mini-adventure. Here are the top 5 layover ideas to explore during your stay:
1. Arizona Historical Society Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Arizona at the Arizona Historical Society Museum. Located near the University of Arizona campus, the museum showcases the evolution of Arizona from the arrival of the first Europeans in 1540 to the Spanish and Mexican periods, and beyond. The museum's branch at Fort Lowell and the Sosa-Carillo-Fremont House offer insights into military and civilian life during the Mexican and territorial periods.
2. Arizona State Museum
Established in 1893, the Arizona State Museum is the oldest anthropological museum in the region. The museum is dedicated to preserving, researching, and interpreting the cultures of the Greater Southwest, including Arizona and northern Mexico. It specializes in materials related to the prehistoric Hohokam, Mogollon and Anasazi cultures, as well as the living American Indian cultures of the area.
3. Center for Creative Photography
Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Center for Creative Photography. Conceived by renowned photographer Ansel Adams, the center houses one of the finest and largest photography collections in the world. The collection includes works by 20th-century American and Mexican artists, with a unique feature that allows the public to view prints of several thousand photographers by reservation.
4. Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium
For a stellar experience, head to the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium. Here, you can gaze at the stars through a 16-inch cassegrain telescope, guided by an expert astronomer. The center also features science exhibits, laser shows, and special events. Reservations are required for nighttime observatory viewing.
5. Pima Air and Space Museum
If you're an aviation enthusiast, the Pima Air and Space Museum is a must-visit. Opened in 1976, the museum has grown to house over 250 aircraft on 80 acres of land. Highlights include the Lockheed Tristar, used by John Kennedy as Air Force One on short flights or flights to small airports. The museum also operates the Titan Missile Museum, with package admissions available to both sites.