As Tucson receives more sunshine per year than any other city in the U.S., Environmental Research Lab is the place for research on the use of solar energy. Located conveniently next to the airport, the Environmental Research Lab features a solar oasis as well as educational exhibits on home building in the desert, particularly energy-saving cooling and heating technology.

While not being in the major league of zoos, this is still one of the major attractions in the city. Due to its relatively small size, the zoo can be explored at a leisurely pace in less than two hours. The animals are on display in pleasant natural settings. Chances are you will envy the two polar bear cubs as they happily float in ice-cold water while you're chafing in the 90+ degree Tucson summer heat.

This institution is totally dedicated to the preservation of the history of flight, be it commercial, military, or interplanetary. The museum opened in 1976 with just 75 aircraft and has now grown to more than 250 on display. Its newest addition is the Northrop F-5B "Freedom Fighter". Be prepared to spend the entire day if you, or someone in your party, is a flight buff. Exhibits rotate, and special events and conferences are scheduled regularly.

Strategically located on Fourth Avenue, a major destination for both locals and visitors alike, this has become the largest arts and crafts mall in Tucson. More than 200 artists display their works here and there is still room for more. It's an excellent place to shop for Southwestern gifts, featuring such regional items as sandpainting clocks, Indian jewelry, sandstone coasters, pottery and much more artwork of interest to the visitor from out of town. And who knows, maybe the artist in you may want to showcase your talents here.

Tucson artist Richard Zelens runs this gallery, and his studio and living quarters are on the premises. The owner features mostly local artists, showcasing collages, prints, and ceramics, among them works by noted Tucson ceramicist Maurice Grossman. A wide variety of styles, ranging from all abstract to strictly representational, are on view here. Groups shows featuring Tucson artists rotate every few months. Call or e-mail Richard for current information on exhibits and other gallery events.

The winner of several prestigious awards, this scenic golf course is located mere 20 miles from Tucson. Boasting two golf courses, called north and south for their directions, they have 18 holes each. This is one of the rare golf courses in the place with the holes spread over the heights and otherwise, that lets the members of the club rub shoulders with the professionals who come to practice there. On site, is a club house called Gallery, where you can rest your weary toes after a game in one of its lounges or bars. There is a restaurant to satiate your hunger. Gallery Golf also encourages other sports like tennis and has a gym to ensures that the members stay fit. All in all, this is a grand place to spend a day in.

Hummer Tours of Tucson is here to provide you with a fun and unique way to see and explore beautiful Southern Arizona. Whether you are visiting the area, or call the Sonoran Desert home, Hummer Tours of Tucson can find an adventure perfect for you. They offer many different trails to choose from ranging from easy trails to take in the scenery to some of the most rugged terrain that will put your Hummer and its off road capabilities to the test.

Finger Rock Trail is a pretty fair climb, but it's worth all the sweating and panting it requires: the vistas from different vantage points are simply stunning. Once you're past the trail head on Alvernon Way, you'll encounter a fork giving you the choice between the Finger Rock and the Pontatoc Trail. The Finger Rock Trail climbs about 4,000 feet in elevation, stretched over approximately five miles. The hike takes you along the saguaros, prickly pears and ocotillos of the Sonoran Desert vegetation zone up to the jagged, pine-covered peaks of the Catalina Mountains

See Tucson from a birds-eye view. Take Catalina Highway 30 miles through the Coronado National Forest, where giant Saguaro cacti tower and a variety of desert vegetation blooms year around. Stop at the Seven Cataracts and Windy Pointe Vista for scenic views of untamed mountain landscape surrounding the distant lights of Tucson. Visit Ski Valley. The lift operates year-round offering visitors a ride to the sky. Follow signs to Summerhaven, and browse the rustic shops or book a cozy Mount Lemmon cabin. Make a day of it!

This course provides some of the reasons why Tucson is famous among golfers around the world. Located on the ragged backside of the Catalina Mountains, this 18 holes, 6,728 yards, 72 par course in the high desert combines the golfing experience with gourmet food and awe-inspiring mountain views. Featuring a practice range, complete golf shop and a full grill.