The iconic Saguaro cactus is the very embodiment of the Southwest, and indeed, the desert itself. The unique adaptations that vegetation comes up with for desert survival make some of the most interesting, unusual, and beautiful plants in the country. Wildflowers such as striking gold poppies and desert marigolds, red and pink penstemons, purple lupines, and orange globe mallows add welcome splashes of color. Seeing a blooming cactus is a special treat: ocotillos, chollas, and prickly pears all have vibrant, fragrant blossoms, as of course do the saguaros themselves. Saguaro National Park is split into two sections—the Tucson Mountain District sits west; the Rincon Mountain District sits east; and the city of Tucson and its 1-million residents sits in between the two. While the two sides of the park bare the same name and share likeness in desert landscape, they are quite different in terms of nuance.

credit: Max Goldberg

It is one of the largest air and space museums in the world and includes more than 300 aircraft and spacecraft. Museum has many aircraft that had previously been stored at the base and this is the primary reason the museum exists at this location. It was opened to the public on the 8th May 1976 with 35 aircraft it is now exhibitting around 300 aircraft. The staff are so very helpful, friendly and committed to the Museum.

credit: hyku