For those who don’t have an expendable income, taking a holiday during the holidays can pose a problem. Between the necessary time and resources, organizing a sensational staycation can seem out of reach. However, we’ve come up with a list of exciting (often unknown) alternatives for everyone in your group
For Foodies
Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails ($25)
Despite Tucson’s reputation as a college town, it possesses an inordinate amount of culinary strength. In 2015, Tucson was the sole recipient of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) coveted title- the City of Gastronomy. Fellow titleholders include Ensenada along the coast of México, Rasht located by the Caspian Sea, and Parma in the “Italian Food Valley.”
If you ask a local for a gastronomic recommendation, they’ll likely answer with some variation of southwestern cuisine. Certainly, directing visitors downtown is the easy answer. For those on a time crunch, award-winning chefs, charming cafes, and quirky bars await. But to appreciate Tucson gastronomy is to recognize its centuries-old agricultural history, one which features vineyards and orchards alike.
The best way to understand this rich history is to immerse yourself throughout the process. Tucson’s San Agustin Mission Garden Project recreates the Spanish Colonial garden and features fruits and vegetables native to the Sonoran Desert. Furthermore, it is a timeline for 4,000 years over agricultural tradition. The site offers volunteer opportunities to volunteer as a gardener, greeter, or “go-getter”, the latter of which is a freelance type role. It’s a wonderful, free opportunity to engage with your local community. The produce grown here services the community as a whole. For a taste of farm to table cuisine, head to Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails (featured in the above photo).
For Adventurers
Kartchner Caverns State Park ($23 for standard tours, and $30 for headlamp tours)
Just under an hour away from the University of Arizona, Kartchner Caverns State Park offers a scenic escape from city bustle. Slow-formed “speleothems”, or limestone formations adorn the cave’s many surfaces, making it an attraction for scientists and adventurers alike. In fact, the park is so beloved by its visitors that it received the ‘Best Cave in the USA’ award in USA Today’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards.
This recognition comes at no surprise, as the park boasts interactive displays, hiking and walking trails, outdoor dining areas, and over 60 camping sites in addition to its famous cave tours.
From December 19th to May 31st, park’s hours are as follows: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for the gate and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the discovery center.
For just $30 a trip, adventure awaits.
For Comfort
The Cookie Cabin on Mount Lemmon ($7)
Famous for its plate-sized cookies and cozy atmosphere, The Cookie Cabin on Mount Lemmon is perfect for those seeking alternative weekend plans. Decades old, it is located just on the top of the mountain and has survived snowstorms and wildfires alike. Whether you're a student, a snowbird, or just someone looking to escape the work week, the cabin's got something for you. It's pet-friendly, family friendly, and even musician friendly, as it offers live musical talents every Saturday evening. Regular operating hours are as follows: Sunday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
With a wide array of options, Tucson is not only ideal for staycations, but also for getaways. While the rest of your feed is caught up in expensive trips, feel free to relax with these affordable offerings. Your wallet will thank you.
