The Unexpected Aesthetic Side of Tucson, AZ
Exo Roast, Tucson, AZ. Photo: Opulist
Tucked into the heart of the Sonoran Desert of Arizona, you can find the historic and quickly growing city of Tucson that often surprises visitors with its vibrant and unexpected aesthetic charm. Beyond the saguaro cacti and vast landscapes, Tucson is home to chic and sometimes tucked away gems that are worth a visit if you find yourself in this town. In this guide, we'll lead you through the most aesthetic places the city has to offer, from stylish stays to charming breakfast spots, remote work havens, and hip bars. Immerse yourself in the alluring atmosphere of Tucson, where Southwestern allure meets contemporary elegance.
Stay
The Joshua Tree House, Tucson, AZ
Photo: The Joshua Tree House
If being immersed in nature is more of your vibe, travel about 45 minutes outside of Tucson to discover The Joshua Tree House, a secluded retreat that seamlessly merges with the desert landscape brought to life by Sara and Rich Combs - creators of the original Joshua Tree House in Joshua Tree, CA. This architectural gem combines minimalistic design with rustic touches, offering a tranquil haven surrounded by nature's beauty. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views, providing an immersive experience in the desert's vastness.
Photos: The Joshua Tree House
Armory Park Inn, Tucson, AZ
Photos: Armory Park Inn
For a stay that fuses historic charm with modern luxury, Armory Park Inn stands as a testament to Tucson's rich cultural heritage. This boutique inn, located in the historic Armory Park neighborhood, boasts elegant rooms adorned with tasteful southwestern-inspired decor. Enjoy a cozy, homey experience in the authentic atmosphere of the area while getting to appreciate the comforts of contemporary hospitality.
Photo: Armory Park Inn
The Leo Kent, Tucson, AZ
Photos: The Leo Kent
At The Leo Kent, a boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Tucson, the fusion of mid-century modern aesthetics and Southwestern elements creates a unique and sophisticated retreat. The meticulously designed rooms showcase a perfect balance of comfort and style, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious stay in a prime location.
Photo: The Leo Kent
Graduate Tucson, Tucson, AZ
Photos: Graduate Tucson
Boasting a quirky and retro-chic design, Graduate Tucson captures the essence of collegiate charm with a Southwestern twist. The vibrant decor pays homage to the University of Arizona, providing a playful and inviting atmosphere. Stay in style while being within walking distance of Tucson's downtown attractions and cultural hotspots. The conveniently provide ample work space in their lobby which also houses a cute little cafe and coffee shop. And then for after hours and the best views in town, head up to The Moonstone, their rooftop bar that lets you see the mountains, campus, and whole rest of town from up high.
Photo: Graduate Tucson
Breakfast & Brunch
Coronet, Tucson, AZ
Photo: Opulist
Located on the corner of Fourth Avenue, Coronet beckons with its timeless charm and delectable menu. The historic and rich design is accompanied by a bright and airy patio where you can enjoy a leisurely start to your day and indulge in a brunch that seamlessly blends classic European flavors with the vibrant spirit of the Southwest. Head back to the dining room for dinner as well with their beautiful bar and plentiful wood details.
Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant, Tucson, AZ
Photo: Locale
For an intimate breakfast or brunch experience, Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant captures the essence of Tuscan elegance. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant's interior reflects a rustic yet refined aesthetic, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere to start your day.
Work Remote & Coffee Shops
Exo Roast, Tucson, AZ
Photo: Opulist
Fuel your workday at Exo Roast, an industrial-chic coffee shop that doubles as a remote work haven. The minimalist decor and abundance of natural light create a conducive environment for productivity. Sip on meticulously crafted coffee while immersing yourself in the local Tucson art scene showcased within the space. Stay for evening when this transitions to a hip little mezcal bar as well.
Presta Coffee, Tucson, AZ
Photos: Presta Coffee
Combine work and relaxation at Mercado San Augustín, where Presta Coffee serves as the perfect backdrop for a remote office. The open-air market's communal atmosphere complements the modern design of Presta Coffee, offering a laid-back yet focused environment to tackle your tasks while savoring artisanal coffee. Post up at the beautiful bar, or find a spot amongst their ample outdoor seating on the patio.
Photo: Presta Coffee
Library at the Arizona Inn, Tucson, AZ
Photos: Arizona Inn
Step into the Arizona Inn's library, a cozy and grand room for reading, relaxing, or working. This secluded workspace is a haven for remote workers, surrounded by rich wooden shelves, plush leather chairs, and an ambiance of refined tranquility. Enjoy a quiet, productive day in this sophisticated setting.
Photo: Arizona Inn
Bars
SideCar, Tucson, AZ
Photos: SideCar
Tucson's nightlife takes a stylish turn at SideCar, a sleek bar exuding contemporary charm. With a curated menu of craft cocktails and a cozy, dimly lit interior, Side Car offers a sophisticated space to unwind. The expertly crafted drinks and intimate setting make it a must-visit for those seeking a refined evening out.
Photo: Opulist
The Moonstone, Tucson, AZ
Photo: The Moonstone
Elevate your night at The Moonstone, the rooftop bar perched atop Graduate Tucson. As the sun sets over the city, enjoy handcrafted cocktails in a chic and modern atmosphere. The panoramic views of Tucson create a captivating backdrop for a night of upscale relaxation.
Photos: The Moonstone
Owls Club, Tucson, AZ
Photos: Owls Club
Nestled in a historic building, Owls Club seamlessly blends vintage charm with contemporary coolness. Previously a morgue, this revamped upscale cocktail bar boasts a carefully curated selection of drinks in an intimate setting. The sophisticated yet approachable ambiance makes Owls Club a standout destination for those in search of a refined bar experience.
barbata, Tucson, AZ
Photo: Opulist
Beneath the culinary haven of BATA lies the hidden gem of downtown Tucson, barbata. This basement bar is a popular sanctuary for craft cocktail enthusiasts and those craving BATA's intriguing bites. Inspired by European drinking culture, barbata has an atmosphere that is both fun and casual while focusing on high-quality and approachable food and beverages. With an interior adorned in rich maple and oak woods courtesy of Midtown Artisans, barbata exudes warmth, creating the perfect spot to commence or conclude an evening in an intimate and approachable setting.
St Cruz at The Leo Kent, Tucson, AZ
Discover the hidden gem of St Cruz, the restaurant bar within The Leo Kent Hotel. This sophisticated establishment offers a refined escape with its carefully curated drink menu and modern design. The chic ambiance of the St Cruz bar invites patrons to unwind in a trendy setting, making it an ideal spot for an evening of upscale relaxation within the heart of Tucson's downtown.
Photos: The Leo Kent
Nightjar, Tucson, AZ
Photo: Nightjar
Nestled within the iconic Coronet, Nightjar emerges as a sophisticated enclave within Tucson's nightlife scene. In the evening, this dimly lit cocktail bar comes to life, offering an intimate and captivating atmosphere. With a carefully curated drink menu that strikes a harmonious balance between classic and innovative concoctions, Nightjar beckons patrons to indulge in refined elegance. The bar seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary allure, creating a space where each sip becomes a part of an enchanting evening. The ambiance is a testament to the city's unexpected aesthetic, providing a perfect backdrop for those seeking a night of elevated relaxation in the heart of Tucson.
As the sun sets over the rugged beauty of Tucson, the city's unexpected aesthetic charm continues to captivate. From stylish stays to charming breakfast spots, work-friendly coffee shops, and a diverse array of bars, Tucson invites exploration with a sophisticated touch. Whether you're a local seeking hidden gems or a visitor eager to uncover the city's unique allure, our curated guide promises a memorable journey through the most captivating and beautiful places in Tucson, Arizona. Experience the allure of the Southwest with a visit to Tucson, where every moment is an opportunity to indulge in aesthetic delight.
Many locations featured here are Opulist picks and can also be found when searching for the city of Tucson. Use the search page to help plan your itinerary, or pull it up while you’re visiting to remind yourself of all the beautiful locales nearby. Enjoy and happy #opulistgem scouting.
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