Outdoor Activities for the Family in Tucson
As the winter snow begins to melt, it's time to start planning warmer days ahead! With an average of 286 days of sun per year, Tucson is the perfect place to pack up the kids for a fun-filled outdoor family adventure. Kick back and soak up that desert sunshine with this outdoor family itinerary.
Power Smoothie for the breakfast win! (📷: @sarahfortune)
Fuel Up and Head Outside
For an action-packed day with the kids, start your day with a cup of your favorite caffeinated beverage from For Five Coffee at the Vista Barista. The kids will love one of our popular smoothies and even the pickiest of eaters will go nuts for one of Pastry Chef Krista's giant bear claws or monster muffins. Stock up on bottled water because it's essential when planning to spend any time outdoors in the desert southwest. And if you forgot your sunscreen, have no fear – the Vista Barista has got you (and your skin) covered.
A stroll through the desert (📷: @sarahfortune)
Nature, Up Close and Personal
Get warmed up for a day of adventure with a stroll through our Window Walk Nature Trail. This nearly half-mile paved trail will take you on a journey of discovery as you explore the beautiful Sonoran desert. Soak up the warm sunny day while learning more about local desert plants and animals on the way up to our 80-foot natural waterfall. On your way back, stop by the Butterfly Garden or our Desert Tortoise Habitat for some great family photo opportunities.
Fun in the sun! (📷: @babybums)
Take a Dip
Now that you've worked up a little sweat, it's time to cool off at the pool. Find some pool chairs, grab a towel and a magazine from the Pool Concierge, and get ready for a day of fun. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Catalina Mountains, our pool is a fantastic place to kick back and work on your tan while the kids enjoy some fun in the sun. We offer family-friendly pool games like noodle races, hula hoop contests, and sunken treasure daily at 11:00 AM.
Tacos, quesadillas, waffle fries... oh my! (📷: @katierose04)
Nacho Average Lunch
When energy starts to run low it's time for lunch at Bill's Grill! Whether you're in the mood for a healthy salad, a juicy burger or a delicious quesadilla, there's no need to get up, towel off and head indoors for a bite to eat; our poolside servers will bring lunch to you. After chowing down on some local southwestern dishes, the shade from the umbrella provides a convenient spot for a quick, much-needed power nap.
King of the Koi Pond (📷: @happilypinkblog)
Feeling Fishy
Before heading back to your room to get ready for the evening, make sure to stop by the lobby and grab some food to feed our resident koi fish. Don't forget to bring a quarter with you, as proceeds go to our Donor's Choose Organization. If you're evening plans take you down to the Flying V Bar & Grill, don't forget to share the love with the koi located in the front pond as well.
Star light, star bright (📷: @v.eronica.r)
Out Of This World Adventure
After a long day of hiking, swimming and splashing around, head back outdoors after the sun goes down for a stargazing experience. We've teamed up with the UA Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter to bring the mysteries of outer space to our guests.. Twice a week, a professional astronomer joins us to explore the great unknown with the resort's very own telescope (weather permitting). Keep an eye out for the Milky Way and other constellations... you never know what you might discover!