The Sonoran Desert of Tucson and Southern Arizona is the greenest on the planet, receiving an average of 12 inches of rain a year, 6 in the monsoon summer and 6 in the winter. Following is a list of some of the Tucson Parks, Gardens and nature outings around Southern Arizona, where you can experience something special and unique. Some of these venues have an extended history. Here they are in no particular order. Click on the title for more information about these places. Please email us with your suggestions: info@southernarizonaguide.com.

1. Las Lagunas de Anza Wetlands

Las Lagunas Wetlands is located in Nogalas, just off the I-19 freeway. It is one of the last natural wetlands left in Arizona. Painstakingly restored by the community of Nogales, this unique oasis, was a stopover on the De Anza expedition that led to San Francisco. Open from dawn to dusk, this oasis has shaded picnic tables, walking paths, storyboards, and floating docks making it a waterfowl haven.
Tucson Botanical Gardens

2. Tucson Botanical Gardens

Tucson Botanical Gardens is a treasure in Central Tucson on Alvernon, not far from the Lodge on the Desert, a peaceful midtown resort. TBG boasts extraordinary national exhibits, such as the Frida Kahlo Garden exhibit, the Origami Sculpture Exhibit and Butterfly Magic. It also has an good bistro with outdoor seating, Edna’s Eatery.

Garden Bistro

3. Tohono Chul Park

Sunday Brunch at the Bistro and a walk about the grounds with their varied garden settings make for a lovely day. Visit several art exhibits located around the grounds, take a class, purchase some exotic plants from the greenhouse or unique gifts from the museum store. The Bistro can get busy, so be prepared to wait. they don’t take reservations. Read More