Tubac
The spirit of Tubac’s past has become the heart and soul of this modern-day art colony in Southern Arizona, where towering mountains meet an endless sky. Experience the essence of Tubac’s history as you walk through authentic Old Town; with humble, historic buildings, the Tubac Center for the Arts, Tubac State Historic Park and Museum, unique eateries, and eclectic locals sharing their colorful stories. For such a small place, Tubac holds new discoveries at every turn.
The Santa Cruz River travels north from Mexico through Tubac, creating a rich ecosystem of biodiverse wildlife and a birdwatcher’s delight awaits. Here the confluence of history, culture, and the outdoors meet with a hike along the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Rainbow-colored sunsets, a peaceful breeze and star-filled nights offer a wondrous escape and a place to rejuvenate. This is Tubac - where art and history meet.
How To Use
Use this interactive itinerary to build your trip! Each category recommends a number of stops to help you get the fullest experience during your visit. Simply hover over any photo for a brief description then click the circle to add a listing to your itinerary (click again to remove it). Once you've completed your itinerary, enter your email address and click submit to have it delivered straight to your inbox. Happy traveling!
Art & Culture (Recommended up to 2)
Tubac offers a unique alternative to drab big-box stores. With a multitude of one-of-a-kind village boutiques, even the most ardent shopper will be amazed by the variety of art, crafts, jewelry, clothing, furniture, and home décor Tubac offers—many items made by local artisans.
Cobalt Fine Arts celebrates the artists of the Southwest by showcasing their contemporary paintings, art glass, ceramics, and jewelry. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Southwest through the eyes of artisans who live and create here.
What started as a project by artists turned into a community movement that brings a unique touch to the village and supporting local artists. Keep an eye out for a number of eye-catching Javelinas waiting to be discovered.
Make your way through the gallery and garden for an experience filled with unexpected small treasures. See the works of highly accomplished artists alongside those of emerging talent with experimental style and technique.
Explore two buildings of beautiful craftsmanship in a variety of wares. Add a variety of clothing and Native American jewelry to your wardrobe, and find unique pieces of furniture and home decor to add an artisanal Southwestern flair to any room.
Browse a stunning collection of Native American jewelry, rugs, pottery, paintings, and sculpture. Gallery pieces represent the unique work of over 3,000 Native artisans spanning 6 decades.
Find quirky pieces or a modern touch for your collection. Shop colorful pieces by local, regional, and international artists, along with handmade and one-of-a-kind crafts, gifts, and home decor for you or a friend.
This artisan destination offers a series of programs within the community and seasonal exhibits to explore. Stop in for an educational workshop and lecture, or enjoy one of their renowned performing arts events.
Get a true taste of Tubac’s extensive art community at this eclectic festival that has been around for over six decades. Mingle with over 200 artists and local businesses displaying their handiwork in a creative setting like no other.
History, Heritage, & Tradition (Recommended up to 4)
Tubac is a community that has been inhabited for over 11,000 years (from ancient elephant hunters to today’s modern treasure hunters). The museum and archeological sites at the Presidio are great places to start to satisfy any history buff’s curiosity.
Don’t miss this opportunity to check out the historic Titan II Missile; one of four scattered throughout the U.S. and one of the most powerful weapons of its time. Expect a truly immersive experience including a simulated missile launch.
Arizona’s first state park and oldest Spanish fort serve as a gateway into the past. Explore nearly 2,000 years of history and learn about the Native Americans, Spanish Colonists, Early Mexican, and pioneers that inhabited the region.
A peaceful experience in one of Arizona’s most historic regions. Take a self-guided tour along the ‘cultural crossroad’ and journey through the turbulent Southwest history this notable Mission Grounds lived through.
Wine & Dine (Recommended up to 4)
Tubac will delight anyone’s palate with Haute Mexican cuisine, an American bistro, lots of Italian choices, healthy wraps and salads, Mexican comfort food, and a picturesque patio bar with lush green pastures and mountain views at Tubac’s world-class golf resort.
Plan to visit this eclectic restaurant for a specialty cocktail and a delicious meal. Take in the unique decor throughout, and while savoring traditional Mexican cuisine like Mole Negro, and of course enjoy their renowned chips and salsa.
Tubac is a peaceful and artistic community where the ultimate way to unwind is with a glass of Arizona wine. Come in to savor a white, red, or port-style wine while enjoying art from local creatives in a cozy and inviting space.
Delicious Mexican food with mountain views! Local favorites include vegan enchiladas, hot and hearty soups, and refreshing margaritas. From beginning to end, this staff serves up delicious meals and plenty of friendly service.
Looking for a spot with Mediterranean flare? Shelby’s Bistro is the place for you! This team offers plenty of options to choose from, wine to enjoy with your meal, and an upscale dining experience that won’t break your budget!
Don’t miss a chance to visit this gem tucked inside the Tubac Golf Resort. Grab a spot on the beloved patio and enjoy views of the Santa Rita Mountains and the Island Green that surround the breathtaking restaurant.
This family-owned restaurant will be your go-to for New York-style pizza and Italian cuisine. With specialty dishes like parmigiana along with burgers, shakes, and wings, there is something for every appetite.
“Baked fresh, in-house daily”! Quality at the forefront of everything on the menu and a passion for excellence have made this spot a staple in the community. During the holidays, be sure to stop by in the evening to enjoy the lights!
With options like fresh meats and seafood, fresher produce, and a bakery, the Tubac Market offers a wide array of options to take home and enjoy. They can also cater private events if one is on your agenda.
Bring your sweet tooth and visit this shop for a delicious confectionery experience. You’ll taste the owners’ love for sweets, the environment, Arizona, and honey in everything from caramels, to chocolate, and even ‘honeymallows’.
Family and tradition abound at this cafe that has served the Tumacacori and Tubac communities since 1944. Three generations of the Wisdom family have dedicated themselves to keeping the food as delicious as good as the day they opened.
Outdoor Sports & Recreation: (Recommended up to 2)
For those seeking adventure and discovery, Tubac’s outdoor attraction will not disappoint. From movie-set worthy golf courses (Tin Cup was filmed here!) to world-renowned birding and hiking, holistic health treatments, tennis courts, swimming pools…the list goes on. Adding to Tubac’s appeal are the historic Presidio State Park and the nearby Tumacacori National Historical Park, which offer doorways into Arizona’s rich history and culture.
Travel along 4.5 miles of scenery on this historic trail located between the Tubac Presidio Historic Park and the Tumacacori Historic Park. Here, Juan Bautista de Anza led a group of settlers on a path to present-day San Francisco.
This natural site is truly breathtaking and offers visitors a place to picnic, learn, hike, and explore. Choose from a variety of trails and ask volunteers which points are the best for spotting unique birds like the Elegant Trogon.
If you are looking to experience Tubac’s natural wonders, make this your first stop. These knowledgeable volunteers will give you specialized exploration tips and answer any questions you may have about the Santa Cruz Valley ecosystem.
Local Lodging (Recommended up to 2)
Looking to relax, unplug, and unwind? Consider a stay in some of Arizona’s most beautiful inns and hotels. From intimate Bed & Breakfasts to amenity-filled resorts; this peaceful and artistic community is the perfect getaway.
At the foot of the Santa Rita mountains and close to Madera Canyon, Casa Paloma - a 1920’s adobe ranch-style B&B - awaits your arrival. This unique place provides easy access to Tubac and the wineries of Sonoita and Patagonia nearby.
Recognized by the Tucson Audubon Society as a “cardinal level” birding habitat, this is a birders’ paradise. This private location entices you to sit a spell on handcrafted benches and take in the sounds and beauty around you.
Rancho Santa Cruz is a Hacienda-style bed and breakfast, offering guest rooms and porches, a dining room and an art gallery, a pool and barbeque area, a game room and a horseshoe pit, and trails for birdwatching and horseback riding.
Located in the heart of Tubac, Tubac Country Inn sits within walking distance of ten restaurants and a variety of world-class galleries. Experience peace and natural surrounding beauty that is sure to make you want to extend your trip.
Whether you’ve traveled from afar or are escaping the city, your time at Tubac Golf Resort & Spa will be magical. With fresh air, emerald green grounds, spectacular sunsets, golf, spa, and dining you’re sure to enjoy every second!