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Cheap flights from San Diego to Tucson, and what to do once you're there

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Published on March 08, 2019
Cheap flights from San Diego to Tucson, and what to do once you're therePhoto: iStock

If you're feeling nostalgic for summer but you don't necessarily miss the extreme heat, check out Tucson. Fall and winter are arguably some of the most enjoyable times to visit Arizona, specifically the Sonoran Desert. 

Either plan to explore the multiple mountain ranges and parks surrounding the city, or explore the city's adobe row houses, restored mansions and many vintage shops, nightclubs and restaurants spread throughout the city.

Whether you’re trying to escape ASAP or you’re looking to plan your trip around the future’s cheapest fares, take a look at these forthcoming flights between San Diego and Tucson, which we pulled from travel site Skyscanner.

We've also included top-rated hotels, restaurants and attractions in Tucson to get you started on planning your ideal getaway.

(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)

Cheapest Tucson flights

The cheapest flights between San Diego and Tucson are if you leave on April 27 and return from Arizona on April 29. Delta currently has roundtrip, nonstop tickets for $196.

There are also deals to be had in May. If you fly out of San Diego on May 4 and return from Tucson on May 7, Alaska Airlines can get you there and back for $200 roundtrip.

Top Tucson hotels

To plan your accommodations, here are two of Tucson’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.

The JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa (3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $199.

Dining options at JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort and Spa include six bars and restaurants. Recreational amenities include Starr Pass Golf Club with 27 holes of championship golf. Also located on-site are outdoor pools, a waterslide, lazy river and the Hashani Spa.

The Omni Tucson National Resort (2727 W. Club Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A second option is The Omni Tucson National Resort, which has rooms for $138/night. This spa hotel is located in the desert, near Omni Tucson National Golf Resort and Tohono Chul Park.

Top picks for dining and drinking

Don't miss Tucson's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.

Cafe Poca Cosa (110 E. Pennington St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

One of Tucson's most popular restaurants is Cafe Poca Cosa, which has an average of 4.8 stars out of 49 reviews on Skyscanner.

"Cafe Poca Cosa is one of my favorite restaurants in Tucson," wrote visitor Jeanine. "I know of no other restaurant that makes Mexican food so healthy and delicious."

The Cup Cafe (311 E. Congress St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is The Cup Cafe, with 4.6 stars from 46 reviews.

A full-service, historic modern bistro, The Cup Cafe appeals to locals and visitors alike. Enjoy the variety of The Cup’s three menus and the fresh and ever-changing daily features.

Lerua's Fine Mexican Food (2005 E. Broadway Blvd.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Lerua's Fine Mexican Food, which has catered to families all over Tucson since 1922.

Featured Tucson attractions

Not sure what to do in Tucson, besides eat and drink? Here are a couple of recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Sabino Canyon Recreation Area (5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, a stunning chasm in the Santa Catalina Mountains.

In an area of Arizona that is replete with beautiful natural features and tourist attractions, Sabino Canyon holds the dual distinction of being perhaps the most beautiful and certainly the most popular site for miles around. Whether you desire a pleasant sightseeing trip or a strenuous hike, Sabino Canyon is a gorgeous host. 

Tucson Botanical Gardens (2150 N. Alvernon Way)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Tucson Botanical Gardens is another popular destination.

This small but well-maintained botanical garden creates a lovely horticultural sanctuary in the middle of urban Tucson. In addition to the indigenous cactus and desert wildflowers on display, the space contains a garden devoted to native crops of the Tohono O'odham Indians, a butterfly garden, a zen garden and art contributed by local artists. 

"Rare desert plants in seasonal displays," wrote visitor Wanda. "Butterfly house offers amazing varieties of butterflies and tiny rainforest frogs October through May."


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.