Tohono Chul is a 49-acre oasis on the northwest side of Tucson "where nature, art, and culture connect."
Named one of the World’s Great Botanical Gardens by Travel + Leisure (2008), Tohono Chul is a garden, an art gallery, and a bistro - all rolled into one. The grounds include three trails (1/4 mile, 1/5 mile, and 1/2 mile), a performance garden, a hummingbird garden, a garden for children, a geology wall, and a restaurant known for tranquil outdoor dining and flavorful dishes.
Tohono Chul is located at 7366 N. Paseo del Norte on the northwest side of Tucson, near Ina & Oracle.
Yes. There are a variety of membership packages available. Depending on the number of times you plan to visit and the number of children/grandchildren in your family, a membership can definitely be the most affordable option.
Water bottles, sunglasses, snacks, and a camera are recommended.
Yes.
October thru April are ideal because the temperatures tend to be more moderate than in the summer months. That said, summer visits can also be fun if you watch the weather and plan your visit accordingly.
Saturdays and Sundays tend to be most crowded; Wednesdays and Thursdays tend to be least crowded.
Early mornings offer the advantage of being quieter/cooler, but anytime of day can be nice depending on the weather.
Palo verde trees, hummingbirds, butterflies, spiney lizards, cactus.
Outside food is not allowed at Tohono Chul. That said, you can pick up food "to go" from the Garden Bistro to eat at picnic tables on the property.
Tohono Chul Garden Bistro serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and afternoon tea. "Each dish is plated to look as lovely as the gardens surrounding the Bistro and the flavors are amazing." The menu changes seasonally, and even daily, based on what local, organic fresh ingredients are available.
There are plentiful dining options in northwest Tucson. Our top picks within a 1-mile radius include:
All ages! We spent a morning with our 7-year-old, 4-year-old, and 1-year-old. All three enjoyed meandering through the gardens and calling out the various pieces of art.
Most of the people strolling through the grounds on our visit were seniors on a tour or with camera in-hand. It's definitely an attraction that is well-suited for older adults or people with limited mobility who want to enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
The Tohono Chul grounds, buildings, and most trails are stroller-accessible and wheelchair-accessible.
Complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
No. That said, there are benches throughout the grounds.
Yes – in the restrooms.
Yes. The lunch menu has three entree options ($6.95) that come with french fries or fruit - hot dog sliders, cheese quesadillas, or chicken tenders. Breakfast is $4.95/child – French toast sticks with fruit or one egg with bacon & toast.
Yes. "Because of the distinctive atmosphere of the demonstration gardens, historic homes and lush environment, [Tohono Chul] is a sought after location for weddings, receptions, and large or small gatherings. No matter the time of year, something is always in bloom and the setting is perfect for any activity." For more information, contact Carolyn M. Gallo, Event Sales Consultant, at 520-425-0520 or via email at [email protected].
Outside caterers are prohibited, but you may bring in a wedding cake from a licensed baker.
Yes! You can follow Tohono Chul on Facebook and Instagram.
You can also sign up to receive Tohono Chul's e-newsletter, filled with news about upcoming events and current happenings.
That just about covers it. Have a great time!
