Tucson, Arizona

Local Information

Use the map to orient yourself around the University of Arizona, then make time for the Sonoran Desert, local astronomy, and Tucson's lively central neighborhoods.

Explore the Area

The University of Arizona campus sits between historic Fourth Avenue, downtown Tucson, and the foothills. Open the map for directions, current transit, and nearby dining.

Lodging

We have made block reservations at the following hotels, with more hotels to come. All three are near the University of Arizona campus.

Travel to Tucson

Time zone: Arizona does not observe daylight saving time. Daylight saving time begins in the rest of the US on March 14, 2027, so during the meeting Tucson is on the same clock as US Pacific time. Keep this in mind when booking flights and setting up calls.

Tucson International Airport (TUS)

The closest airport, about 8 miles south of campus. Taxis, ride-share services, and rental cars are available at the terminal; the drive to campus takes about 20 minutes.

Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

A larger airport with more direct flights, about 115 miles (roughly 2 hours by car) northwest of Tucson. Groome Transportation runs scheduled shuttles between PHX and Tucson, including a University of Arizona area stop.

Amtrak

Tucson's historic downtown station is served by the Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle, and is a short streetcar ride from campus.

Getting Around

Campus and Downtown

The block hotels are within walking distance of campus. The university, Main Gate Square, Fourth Avenue, and downtown are easy to combine on foot and by the Sun Link streetcar. Public transportation in Tucson, including Sun Link and Sun Tran buses, is free to ride. Downtown offers a wider selection of restaurants, galleries, and evening activity.

Sun Link streetcar information

Driving and Parking

Ride-share services are widely available. A rental car is useful for desert parks, Mount Lemmon, Kitt Peak, and attractions outside central Tucson. Visitor parking on campus is in paid garages.

UA Parking & Transportation

Desert Conditions

March in Tucson is typically sunny and dry, with normal highs around 76°F (24°C) and lows around 48°F (9°C), and only about half an inch (14 mm) of rain for the whole month. Warm spells into the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) or higher are possible.

The mountains are much colder: Kitt Peak averages about 58°F / 38°F (14°C / 3°C) and is often windy, and the Mount Lemmon summit area about 53°F / 26°F (12°C / −3°C).

Bring layers for cool evenings, sun protection, water, and comfortable walking shoes for campus and desert outings.

Places to See

These options highlight the landscapes, observatories, and cultural spaces that make Tucson distinctive. Check hours, reservations, and road conditions before setting out.

Saguaro National Park

Drive or hike among giant saguaro cacti in the park's east and west districts. Sunset is an especially fine time to visit.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

A celebrated outdoor museum and botanical garden west of town, with desert wildlife, native plants, and broad mountain views.

Pima Air & Space Museum

One of the world's largest aviation museums, with more than 400 aircraft and the adjacent boneyard tour program.

Kitt Peak National Observatory

About 60 miles west of Tucson, Kitt Peak offers mountain-top views and public programs when available. Advance planning is essential.

Flandrau Science Center

On the University of Arizona campus, Flandrau offers astronomy exhibits and planetarium programs close to the conference area.

Mount Lemmon

Take the Catalina Highway from desert to forest for panoramic overlooks, cooler air, and a memorable day trip.

Mission San Xavier del Bac

South of Tucson, this historic mission is known for its white facade, intricate interior artwork, and desert setting.

Fourth Avenue and Downtown

Browse independent shops, murals, cafes, and restaurants along Fourth Avenue, then continue south into downtown.