I Grew Up in Arizona-and This Small Town Is One of the Biggest Hidden Gems in the Grand Canyon State

"The small, walkable village of Tubac is the ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway, one with dozens of unique galleries that embrace a sense of place in the Sonoran Desert. Here, you can dive into history by visiting the ruins of a Spanish presidio at Arizona's first state park-or head to Tumacacori National Historical Park to explore the preserved remnants of a Spanish mission."

"Once a cattle ranch, Tubac Golf Resort & Spa transformed into a guest experience, with Bing Crosby as one of the investors, in 1959. Today, accommodations include casita rooms, suites, and a ranch house, outfitted with tile floors, exposed wood beams, and private in-room fireplaces. The resort is also home to a 27-hole championship golf course, an expansive wellness spa, and a seasonal dude ranch pop-up program."

"Arizona's first designated state park, the Tubac Presidio, is the site of historic ruins dating back to 1752. The park spans 11 acres, with multiple gardens showcasing heritage and offering visitors an immersive experience into the region's colonial Spanish history and cultural significance."

Tubac is a small, walkable village located under an hour south of Tucson, Arizona, serving as an ideal day trip or weekend destination. The village features dozens of unique galleries celebrating the Sonoran Desert landscape and local culture. Visitors can explore Arizona's first state park at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, which contains Spanish presidio ruins dating to 1752, or visit Tumacacori National Historical Park to see preserved Spanish mission remnants. The area offers outdoor activities including hiking and stargazing, as Tubac holds certification as an International Dark Sky Community. Accommodations range from Tubac Golf Resort & Spa, a former cattle ranch with golf courses and wellness facilities, to Tubac Country Inn with historic southwestern-style suites and garden areas.

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