Tucson Articles

Horseback riding, gorgeous scenery, downtime and tasty meals are all part of a dude ranch vacation. There are no TVs, phones or other distractions at most ranches, but ah heck, you won't miss them anyway. You'll be too busy having fun.

February marks the peak of winter doldrums for most people – cold temperatures, dreary weather, and the onset of cabin fever after months of short days.

But on the bright side, the shortest month of the year is also sprinkled with plenty of reasons to escape on a trip, including Valentine's Day and President's Day Weekend. Packages and pricing tailored for those dates are widely available. Many winter sport destinations experience their best conditions in February, and there are plenty of warm weather options for those looking to get some sunshine. Here are our recommendations for where to go in the month of February.

Philadelphia has cheesesteaks, Chicago lays claim to the deep dish pizza, and Boston serves up some of the most recognizable chowder around. But, have you ever heard of coffee milk or Polish boys? Here we take a look at some lesser known U.S. regional food specialties. You might not have encountered them before, but you're going to want to get a bite soon.

Tucson is Arizona's second largest city with a population of over one million, including some 50,000 students who attend the University of Arizona. A part of Mexico until the Gadsden Purchase of 1853-54, the "Old Pueblo" has the look and feel of a modern city surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and draped in charms of its Native American and Mexican heritages. From the tip of Mt. Lemmon to the top of Kitt Peak National Observatory and everywhere in between, there are plenty of photo opportunities Tucson offers for everyone.

Summertime and the living is easy in Tucson, Ariz. Winter visitors and University of Arizona students are gone, roads are as open as the skies, resorts and motels offer good deals, and reservations, even at the top restaurants, are often unnecessary. How's the weather? Naturally, it is hot (upwards of 100 degrees and dry during much of June and July). Monsoon rains usually begin by mid-July, however, and bring dramatic thunderstorms, knockout sunsets, lower temperatures and higher humidity. So, if you're planning a Tucson family adventure with teens, this is the time to do it! You'll relish the absence of the crowds.

Here's my idea of one perfect family day in Tucson with teens. From rugged hikes and sunset vistas to museum visits and shopping ventures, you'll find plenty of fun things to do. Tucson cuisine is a must, as well!