Ten Fun Places to Visit in Tucson, Arizona

There is more to Tucson, Arizona, than just a hot, dry desert during the summer months. Home to the University of Arizona, the city offers many places of culture as well as entertainment for both daytime and nighttime. Below are my ten picks of fun places to visit in Tucson:

Old Tucson Studios. This is an active movie set as well as theme park which is open year round. The set was originally built in 1939 for the western film, "Arizona." The film starred William Holden and Jean Arthur and since then, many films and commercials have been made there. A brief list of films: Night of the Lepus, 1972; The Bell's of Saint Mary's, 1945; McClintock!, 1963; Rio Bravo, 1959. Television series filmed there: High Chaparral and Little House on the Prairie. The movie studio has an active restaurant, saloon hall, a train ride, antique car rides, and a carousel. Their website: Old Tucson Studios.

Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum. This natural museum stretches out over 21 acres and is home to wild animals and birds, exhibits, flowers and cacti, and hiking trails. Some of the live animals: bobcats, roadrunners, ocelots, and coatimundis. Other exhibits include minerals, insects, and reptiles. Their website: Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum.

International Wildlife Museum. This museum offers self-guided tours to every species of animal on earth plus replicas of animals from long ago eras. Films about wildlife are shown at a theatre in the museum. The museum also has a gift shop and snack bar. Their website: The International Wildlife Museum.

Live Theatre Workshop. This small but delightful little live theatre offers performances from Tucson's most talented local actors. Plays such as The Seven Year Itch and I Do, I Do are performed for those who love to attend the theatre. Children's performances and acting classes are also available. Their website: Live Theatre Workshop.