Category Archives: Along the way to the Missions

things to do if you have time on Interstate 19

Tucson Day Trip 1: Mission Tumacácori To Mission San Xavier

Anza walking behind the Tumacacori Church

The I-19 corridor south of Tucson is hard to beat for a leisurely day enjoying art, culture, and history. There is so much to see and do between Tucson and the Mexican border that we recommend you start early. When we take guests on this, our Tucson Day Trip #1, we usually drive 50 minutes from Downtown Tucson to the furthest destination south, which is Mission Tumacácori, almost to the Mexican border. The rest of the day is a leisurely drive back toward Tucson with at least 5 worthwhile points of interest along the way. 1. Tumacácori National Historical Park is a picturesque reminder that Southern Arizona was, at one time, the far northern frontier of New Spain. This mission was founded by Father Kino in 1691. Take exit 29, then turn left under the Interstate. At the frontage road, turn left. You can’t miss it. Bring your camera. A … Continue reading

Madera Canyon

Madera Kubo B&B

Madera Canyon is a recommended side trip when you are in the I-19 corridor visiting the Missions, the Titan Missile Museum, or Tubac Village.The elevation ranges from 5,000-5,500 feet. The area is a birdwatchers paradise with over 250 species identified. This is part of the Coronado National Forest. It’s about 25 miles south of Tucson and 11 miles east of Green Valley. There are campgrounds and picnic areas and the extensive Santa Rita Mountain trail system is easily accessed from here. Detailed trail information and maps are available at each of the trailheads. Pets must be on a leash. At the lower end of the Canyon is a handicap-accessible nature trail. At the top are much more difficult hiking trails leading to 9,453-foot Mt. Wrightson. There is no restaurant in Madera Canyon, so at least bring a picnic lunch and some snacks. Of the several picnic area in the Canyon, … Continue reading

Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Tubac Presidio Painting

Tubac is Arizona’s oldest European community. The 1885 furnished schoolhouse, Otero Hall, and Rojas House are all on the National Register of Historic Places. The Park features a small, but fine museum, an underground display of the Presidio ruins, Arizona’s first printing press, a picnic area, school house, church, and the Juan Bautista de Anza Trailhead.

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