Escape from Milwaukee to Tucson on a budget

Escape from Milwaukee to Tucson on a budgetPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on November 06, 2019

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 ahead based on the cheapest fares, take a look at these forthcoming flights between Milwaukee and Tucson, which we pulled from travel site Skyscanner.

We've also included popular hotels, restaurants and attractions in Tucson to get you excited about your next excursion. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Cheapest Tucson flights

The cheapest flights between Milwaukee and Tucson are if you leave on Jan. 31 and return from Arizona on Feb. 2. Alaska Airlines currently has tickets for $321, roundtrip.

There are also deals to be had in November. If you fly out of Milwaukee on Nov. 28 and return from Tucson on Dec. 1, Southwest Airlines can get you there and back for $620 roundtrip.

Top Tucson hotels

To help plan your accommodations, here are some of Tucson's top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

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

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

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

In addition to six different dining options and 24-hour room service, amenities at JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort and Spa include access to the Starr Pass Golf Club, Hashani Spa and an outdoor pool, complete with waterslide and lazy river.

The Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa (3800 E. Sunrise Drive)

There's also the 4.3-star rated Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa, which has rooms for $159/night.

Located in the mountains, this spa resort offers convenient proximity to area attractions such as the Ventana Canyon Golf and Racquet Club, University of Arizona and Tohono Chul Park.

Omni Tucson National Resort (2727 W. Club Drive)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A third option is Omni Tucson National Resort, which has rooms going for $138/night.

This Tucson spa hotel is situated in the desert, near Omni Tucson National Golf Resort and Tohono Chul Park.

Top picks for dining and drinking

Tucson is home to plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.

Cafe Poca Cosa (110 E. Pennington St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to 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. "A must in my book. I know of no other restaurant that makes Mexican food so healthy and delicious. Sabrosa!"

The Cup Cafe (311 E. Congress St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

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

The Cup Cafe, a full-service, historic modern bistro, is an established downtown Tucson tradition with a reputation for creative and eclectic fare, appealing to locals and visitors alike. Enjoy the variety of The Cup’s three menus and ever-changing daily features.

"There are so many great things about The Cup — exquisite desserts, a great menu, convenient hours, creative cocktails (my favorite is the Ghost Orchid) and its location in the historic Hotel Congress," wrote reviewer Amy. "Do not miss!"

Village Bakehouse (7882 N. Oracle Road)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

In need of a sweet treat? Then plan to visit the Village Bakehouse.

Located in beautiful Oro Valley, Village Bakehouse has been serving the greater Tucson area for more than 10 years, offering a warm and friendly atmosphere that includes both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

"Do not leave Tucson without visiting the Village Bakehouse for a cinnamon roll," wrote Calvin. "This is one of the best places for breakfast or sweet treats in the Old Pueblo."

What to see and do in Tucson

Tucson is also brimming with sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.

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

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is Sabino Canyon Recreation Area.

In an area of Arizona that is replete with beautiful natural features and tourist attractions, Sabino Canyon is perhaps the most beautiful, and certainly the most popular site for miles around. Guests to this stunning chasm in the Santa Catalina Mountains can enjoy a pleasant sightseeing trip or a strenuous hike, or take one of the narrated tram tours that guides visitors among the cacti, palo verde trees, rocky outcroppings, steep valley walls and gurgling brooks.

"This is one of the most popular areas for hiking, walking and observing the surrounding desert," wrote visitor June. "In the spring, expect to see waterfalls and pools. One of Tucson's truly beautiful areas."

Tucson Botanical Gardens (2150 N. Alvernon Way)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Then, there's the Tucson Botanical Gardens.

In addition to the fabulous indigenous cactus and desert wildflowers on display, this 5.5-acre horticultural sanctuary in the middle of urban Tucson contains a garden devoted to native crops of the Tohono O'odham Indians, a butterfly garden, zen garden and art contributed by local artists, plus a restaurant with lovely shaded patio and a view of the flora.

"[The] butterfly house offers amazing varieties of butterflies and tiny rainforest frogs, October through May," wrote visitor Wanda. "Cafe has outstanding offerings and the gift shop is a must-see."

Seven Falls (5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road)

Lastly, consider checking out Seven Falls.

"Take the lower Sabino Canyon tram to the Seven Falls trailhead and let the fun begin," wrote visitor Bill. "Take plenty of water and ample snacks, so when you arrive at the Seven Falls you can relax, recharge and refuel."


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.