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Tucson, Arizona: A Top 10 City

Hello, let me be your tour-guide to one of the friendliest cities in America. Pack your swimming suit, snow skis, telescope, hiking boots, and opera glasses - Tucson has it all! A lush desert valley surrounded by six mountain ranges hosts this unique city. With a metropolitan population nearing a million, Tucson has big-city sophistication warmed with small-town hospitality.

Tucson Arizona is ranked in the Top 10 by many major magazines in areas such as nature, walking, clean air, creativity, places to retire, bicycling, spas & resorts, bird -watching, and more!

The Arts

The warm, dry climate here makes casual attire and attitudes the norm, but don't let the laid-back atmosphere fool you - the arts thrive in Tucson! It is one of only 14 US cities to offer a professional symphony orchestra, as well as professional resident opera, theatre, and dance companies.

Galleries abound in Tucson. The University of Arizona Museum of Art, and Tucson Museum of Art feature exceptional permanent collections and traveling exhibits.

The Tucson Jazz Society is very active and numerous restaurants, bars, and coffee-houses entertain clientele with a wide spectrum of local musical talent.

Sports and Recreation

Abundant year 'round sunshine makes outdoor activities possible in any season. Facilities for tennis, swimming, team sports and of course golf are available in all parts of the city (for detailed information about golf in Tucson, see my Tucson Golf page).

The many hiking trails in the nearby mountains vary from casual strolls on paved paths, to challenging climbs over rugged terrain. At an elevation of 9100 ft, Mount Lemmon offers winter skiing and a cool summer retreat just an hour away.

Tucson Parks and Recreation offer quarterly classes for children, adults, and seniors in fitness, dance and art.

The beautiful weather here makes Tucson an ideal location for baseball spring training. The Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Chicago White Soxs call Tucson "home" each spring. And the University of Arizona Wildcats offer exciting action for fans of almost every sport.

Check out current scores and schedules of your favorite UA Wildcat team at www.arizonaathletics.com!

Tucson Health Care

Tucson hosts some of the most sophisticated medical and health services in the world. The University Medical Center is a leader in medical research. Considered one of the nation's best hospitals for cancer care, it has also received honors for its nursing services and women's health services. Other world-class hospitals include the Tucson Medical Center, TMC Senior Services, and Northwest Medical Center.

Tucson Shopping

Whether you prefer shopping in cozy boutiques on picturesque streets, or finding great deals in huge shopping centers, Tucson has what you are looking for. Fine Indian arts, antiques, crafts, and specialty shops abound in Tucson. Six major shopping malls with all the amenities you would expect, plus countless smaller "strip malls" offer something for everyone.