Pima County

Mt Lemmon Fall Magic🍁

Pima Air & Space Museum.

“Located in Tucson, Arizona, the Pima Air & Space Museum is known as the "world's largest non-government-funded aviation museum." The museum houses over 400 aircraft, spanning from the early days of flight to modern jet fighters and spacecraft.”

Hill Aerospace Museum: A Must-Visit for Aviation Fans ✈️

“Checking in at the Hill Aerospace Museum!”

I’ve just got back to Bristol and honestly, my flat feels extra grey today after spending a couple of days in the absolute sun-drenched dream that is Tucson. I usually stick to quieter European spots for my yearly getaways, but I had to head over to the US recently and decided to tag on a quick weekend in Arizona. And oh my word, it was brilliant! Tucson is completely surrounded by these dramatic mountains and the Sonoran desert. First things first: the cacti. I knew they’d be big, but the Saguaros in the Saguaro National Park are absolutely towering – they look like giant green statues frozen in the sand. I went to the Desert Museum first (which is actually more of a massive outdoor nature reserve with wolves and hummingbirds) and then popped into the National Park West. My biggest advice? Do this as early as humanly possible. I’m an analyst by trade, so I do love a spreadsheet and a schedule, but even I underestimated how intense that desert sun gets by midday. Drink water, then drink some more! Now, for my absolute favourite bit, which is slightly nerdy but incredibly cool: the Titan Missile Museum. It’s an actual underground Cold War missile silo. Standing right next to a deactivated nuclear missile is quite surreal, to be honest. It appeals to my analytical brain, but it’s honestly fascinating for anyone. You absolutely have to book the underground tour in advance though, as slots are quite tight. On the complete opposite end of the spectrum, the San Xavier del Bac Mission is stunning. They call it the 'White Dove of the Desert' and it really does just gleam white against the dusty brown landscape. Inside is full of beautiful, historic Spanish colonial art. Oh, and the food! I didn't actually know this before booking, but Tucson is a UNESCO city of gastronomy. I had some incredible Mexican food near the historic block and did a bit of vintage shopping around the 4th Avenue district. Just a quick heads-up on getting around: I relied on Ubers, which was absolutely fine in the city centre, but out by the missile museum or the national park, you might have to wait a fair bit for a car to find you. So, pack some patience and maybe order your ride 15 minutes before you actually want to leave. All in all, a proper little adventure. Now, back to my spreadsheets and the British rain...

“I’ve just got back to Bristol and honestly, my flat feels extra grey today after spending a couple of days in the absolute sun-drenched dream that is Tucson.”