Lifestyle
Boasting a rich history, Tucson was founded in 1776 as the Presidio de Tucson and served as an outpost for Spanish and Mexican governments. By the mid 1800s, the community was making history as one of the most legendary and famous frontier towns. Blending Native American, Mexican American, and European cultures, this region is delightfully diverse, remarkably cosmopolitan, and decidedly progressive.

Tucson is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Sunbelt, recognized nationally for its rate of job creation. The secret to attracting visitors, new residents, and new businesses is the combination of an enviable climate, abundant sunshine, an outdoor lifestyle, and casual Southwestern atmosphere. In spite of the high quality of life available in metropolitan Tucson, the cost of living remains comparatively low. A relaxed pace of living, outdoor cafes, spacious patios, lush courtyards, and Spanish Colonial or Santa Fe architecture are all a part of the undeniable appeal of the metropolitan region.

Some of the nation’s finest golf courses and resorts are tucked away in the heart of Tucson or climb the hills of the surrounding high desert. Tennis courts, racquetball clubs, swimming pools, recreation centers, nature preserves, zoos, and amusements cater to every age group and interest. Sports fans will be quickly swept away in the frenzy of UA Wildcat football, basketball, and baseball. Championship teams at the University of Arizona ensure that fierce competition prevails in the Pacific Ten Conference. “The Old Pueblo” also welcomes some of the nation’s most exciting baseball teams to their spring training headquarters.

Just beyond the city limits of Tucson are two of southern Arizona’s natural treasures: Mount Lemmon and Sabino Canyon. Whether you enjoy hiking along pristine desert trails or skiing down the slope when the snow flies in the high country, metropolitan Tucson is unparalleled for the diversity of terrain within a 30-mile radius. Beautiful missions, a nationally recognized observatory, world-class science museums, an “Old West” film studio, major-league baseball exhibitions, and modern shopping malls are just a few of the attractions to explore.

Balancing the vast recreational and entertainment opportunities is a strong cultural community that encompasses every performing and visual art. Handsome performance spaces set the scene for symphony, ballet, opera, multi-cultural productions, theatre, and comedy. In fact, Tucson was dubbed as an “arts mini-mecca” by The Wall Street Journal. Within the small towns of southeastern Arizona are famous historical sites like Tombstone and Bisbee as well as amazing natural treasures like the Kartchner Caverns. From its cosmopolitan advantages to the warmth and friendliness of its residents, metropolitan Tucson offers a comfortable and yet exciting place to call home.