Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Tubac, AZ

  • Published 2022/07/28

Tubac, Arizona, is one of the ideal places for exploring history and the arts.

It’s home to a variety of premier galleries, art museums, and every type of cultural destination.

Many artists and enthusiasts visit this Spanish-Presidio-turned-artist-colony town.

Hiking trails run rampant around this town too.

If you’re one of those people looking for an immersive trip to the past, Tubac does not disappoint.

Here are some of the best things to do in Tubac, AZ.

Learn the History of Arizona at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Exterior of a schoolhouse in Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Arizona is rightly proud of the Tubac Presidio State Historical Park.

As the state’s first park, the park has remained a sanctuary for rich history.

It contributed to the preservation of the oldest Spanish presidios and various colonial expeditions.

Part of the reason it’s an iconic spot is its parade of ruins.

Interior of Tubac Presidio State Historic Park's schoolhouse

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock.com

Alongside this, it also houses a range of exhibits and gardens, perfect for a historic stroll.

Among its well-known exhibits include Otero Hall and the Rojas House.

Both buildings complement each other with their unique displays and cultural purposes.

The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park sits right at the quaint street known as One Burruel.

Rojas house in Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Ian Poellet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Admire the Sculptures at K Newby Gallery & Sculpture Garden

K Newby Gallery & Sculpture Garden offers more than you expect from the local tradition of Tubac fine art.

Its art collectives cover a broad range of art inspirations you’d want to know if you’re new to the art scene.

Featured masterpieces include the precious works of Doris King and Robert Reynolds.

When you go outside, you’ll find yourself in another creative dimension.

Perched around the land are large sculptural pieces from some of the best Arizonian artists.

Stepping foot into this art wonderland should be a must while you are in Tubac.

Tucked into the right corner of the Tubac Market at Tubac Road, K Newby Gallery & Sculpture Garden sits, simple but striking.

Plan a Peaceful Walk at the Anza Trail

If you want more physical activity on your historical excursion, the Anza Trail is one for the books.

This trail is a six-mile one-way hike with water crossings at some stops within the path.

The Anza Trail’s origin goes way back to the Spanish colonizing expedition.

Likewise, the name Anza was a tribute to the commander leading the Tubac presidios at that time.

People prefer to hike along the section of the trail that leads from Tumacácori National Historical Park to Tubac Presidio State Historical Park.

Find yourself taken back to pre- and post-colonial Tubac along the riparian forest.

See distinctive plant species along the riverbanks of the Santa Cruz river spanning the Anza Trail.

Learn about Women’s Art at Feminine Mystique Art Gallery

Within the bustling plaza of La Entrada, Feminine Mystique Art Gallery makes its statement.

Unlike most art centers, this gallery pays homage to female empowerment and the woman’s creative pursuits.

Browsing their displays, you’ll find different art techniques—modern and original—from female artists.

Its park-inspired and wheelchair-friendly setting gives it a homey vibe from the get-go.

Pick your favorites among the pottery, jewelry, or paintings from over 85 female artists.

Touch up on some of Arizona’s leading and inspiring women of today’s generation at the Feminine Mystique Art Gallery.

Enjoy Fine Dining and Accommodations at Tubac Golf Resort and Spa

From golf courses to culinary expertise, Tubac Golf Resort and Spa is the spot for luxury and respite from the busyness of life.

It’s a convenient place to go to; you can find it in the naturalesque streets of Avenida de Otoro.

The resort and spa are the ideal getaways for that historical scenery and affluent accommodations you are looking for.

Within its property, manicured lawns run in stark contrast with Tubac’s suburban look.

Feel at home in their hacienda-influenced rooms and facilities and cottonwood fields.

Enjoy a few rounds of friendly golf in their lush open grasslands.

During mealtimes, their Stables Ranch Grille & Bar is open to serve your fine dining needs.

Every corner of Tubac Golf Resort and Spa tells a rich past of Southern Arizona you would want to know.

Browse Handmade Pottery at Clay Hands Gallery & Studio

Clay Hands Gallery & Studio specializes in handmade crafts and pottery within South Arizona.

Starting in 1996, it has also made its way to American Style Magazine’s Top 25 Small Art Towns list.

The studio holds custom furniture in metal and tile and materials like granite and stone.

Perhaps, however, the spotlight is on their clayware and similar products.

Inside the studio, you come face to face with pottery in various shapes, sizes, and colors, all with eccentric features to them.

Check out their display of plates, pots, and other kitchenware, and discover inspiration right where you are.

Clay Hands Gallery & Studio’s ageless trapezoidal front overlooks the streets of Cam Otero.

View the Exhibits at the Tubac Center of the Arts

Exterior of Tubac Center of the Arts

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock.com

The Tubac Center of the Arts is a non-profit organization residing at the corner of Hesselbarth Lane.

It boasts of its dedication to presenting Tubac heritage through various mediums.

These include exhibits, performances, workshops, and even a unique program for kids.

At this artistic center, there’s a place for everyone.

Building sign of Tubac Center of the Arts

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock.com

Aside from its non-discrimination policy, the center also showcases historical and contemporary works.

Their main, master, and studio galleries always have stories to tell through their vast themes and expressions.

The grand tradition of Southwestern art shines on the walls of the Tubac Center of the Arts.

Tour the Ecovillage at Avalon Organic Gardens & Ecovillage

Environmental and holistic sustainability are a few of the goals at Avalon Organic Gardens & Ecovillage.

The property spans a promising 220 acres of fertile land, curated to sustain organic gardening.

Beyond a physical awakening, your visit to the ecovillage can be a spiritual journey too.

This micro-community continues to promote its dedication to innovation in environmental practices.

Its white domed facilities and clean riverbanks tell the story of a home well-lived.

Discover your green thumb and learn more about regenerative gardening at the Avalon Organic Gardens & Ecovillage.

They also practice other environmental techniques, which include upcycling, rainwater harvesting, and alternative building.

Discover History and Art at Rogoway Turquoise Tortoise Gallery

Rogoway Turquoise Tortoise Gallery stands in the heart of Tubac, at Calle Baca.

The gallery has hosted some of the most likable art in the past decade.

Strolling around, you’ll find original art pieces in unique mediums.

Some of them include gourd art, art clocks, Native American jewelry, and more.

Feel free to discover more about Arizona history through the eyes of talented artists and sculptors.

More importantly, amaze yourself with sophisticated art and jewelry on raised pedestals and carefully placed corners.

There’s always more to explore at the Rogoway Turquoise Tortoise Gallery.

Bring Home Original Western-Style Artworks at Big Horn Galleries

Regarding wildlife and Western landscapes, Big Horn Galleries is on top of the list of Tubac galleries to watch out for.

This gallery showcases a variety of Western-inspired historical settings and scenarios.

On top of that, it also offers fine print and framing for your best portraits.

It also features works from living and deceased artists from Cody, Wyoming, and specific regions.

Opened in February 2002, the gallery is a perfect representation of Tubac’s “where art and history meet” slogan.

People visit and experience Southern art depicting the natural beauty and life of ancient times.

Purchase your artwork from this charming gallery to hang up in your house or to gift a friend.

You can find Big Horn Galleries behind Tumacookery at the colorful plaza of La Entrada.

Have a Relaxing Massage at Soulistic Health Center

Take a break from your physical excursion and dive into art history with a drive to Soulistic Health Center.

You won’t want to miss out on the guaranteed relaxation they provide through touch therapy.

Outdoor and indoor pools scatter around the venue of the health center.

Its facilities highlight rocks and other natural resources to offer a more relaxing atmosphere.

The non-profit center is a supporting service of Soulistic Medical Institute, born for charitable and scientific purposes.

Spend your afternoon lounging on the chairs on the patio or enjoying their specific therapy modalities.

Some of the most sought-after services and amenities of the Soulistic Medical Institute include sound therapy, morontia counseling, and ionized pools and saunas.

Visitors and regulars within the Calle Iglesia area prefer to spend a retreat at Soulistic Health Center in Tubac.

Gaze at the Stars at Sunflower Camp

For your RV camping trip, Sunflower Camp brings you closer to one of the best hiking galore in Tubac.

This campsite promises a serene hiking and camping experience.

Its groomed path, bathrooms, and pet-friendly setting make it worth visiting for groups of families and friends.

If you’re a fan of birdwatching or just studying, the camp offers year-round opportunities for you!

Within the premises, you can see the beautiful skyline of Tubac during sunset.

At night, it’s ideal for stargazing and watching as the sky fills with constellations and sparkling stars.

Start a campfire with mesquite wood in the area to complete the night trip to Sunflower Camp.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Explore the Marsh at Las Lagunas de Anza

Wetlands of Las Lagunas de Anza

Lindasj22 / Shutterstock.com

Outside Tubac, you never run out of exciting exploration and traveling spots to include in your itinerary.

Las Lagunas de Anza is a wetland outreach project of the Santa Fe Ranch Foundation.

You can find it in Nogales, Arizona, 19 minutes from Tubac.

This wetland reserve provides interpretive nature quests and field trips for children and adults.

Las Lagunas de Anza presents a Discovery Garden and Marsh, both depicting nature in tranquility and peacefulness.

Boardwalk trail in Las Lagunas de Anza

Lindasj22 / Shutterstock.com

Along the marsh lies cottonwood, willow trees, and a magnificent grove on the other side.

This particular aquatic spot remains one of the last freshwater marshes in upper Santa Cruz.

Ignite your spark for nature preservation when you step foot into Las Lagunas de Anza.

Cactus along Las Lagunas de Anza

Lindasj22 / Shutterstock.com

Go Birdwatching at Montosa Canyon

Drive 18 minutes north of Tubac to reach Montosa Canyon, which provides a historic trail perfect for birdwatching.

With an elevation of 959 meters, the valley houses various plant species.

In 1876, the valley encountered Clarke and Peterson’s first modern work.

Further west, you can find Diablo Wash, an infamous stream for those studying aquatic wildlife.

Observe birds from the safe sanctuary of this canyon and bring home new fowl knowledge with you.

Who knows?

On your trip, you might spot a white-winged dove or the famous Ladder-backed woodpecker.

Taste the Wine at Flying Leap Tasting Room & Fine Art Gallery

Premium wines in Tubac come only from Flying Leap Tasting Room & Fine Art Gallery, founded in 2010.

The Tubac Tasting Room is only one of the franchise’s locations all over the Southern United States.

You can find it in Tumacacori-Carmen, Arizona, six minutes from Tubac.

Its distillery holds the doors to fine winemaking and fermentation never seen anywhere else.

Their tasting flight includes a mix of white, red, and port-style wine samples, with a glass souvenir for you to bring home.

Its wooden cabin-style rooms offer a simplistic wine tasting journey that focuses on the senses.

Savor a glass of white wine with friends or listen to ambient music, and feel transformed.

At Flying Leap Tasting Room & Fine Art Gallery, find yourself immersed in the art of curated wine.

Final Thoughts

With eclectic galleries and impressive museums, Tubac is a reminder of art and culture at its peak.

The town remains at the middle point between modern and classic, advancing with history to the present.

Explore the hidden depths of preserved art and culture by bookmarking this list of the best things to do in Tubac.

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