Tail-Wagging Adventures in Tucson, Arizona
- Luie Boone
- Sep 3
- 7 min read
This vacation destination is a part of our third series of blog posts titled Rover Ready.
Luie Boone can't read recipe cards, but he's fluent in the language of sizzling skillets. The moment that his hoomans start prepping Creamy Tuscan Chicken, he's front and center. His ears are perked, his tail is wagging, and his nose is working overtime. He knows he can't eat it. Garlic is a big no-no for pups, but, oh, he just loves the smell. So, if Tuscon, Arizona, smells anything like that creamy, garlicky masterpiece, Luie Boone is more than ready to hop in the car and get a vacation with his hoomans started!
Tuscon, Arizona, is a desert city. Not dessert, Luie Boone. Stop thinking with that hungry brain of yours. This desert city is known for its sunshine, relaxed atmosphere, and wide-open spaces. It also happens to be one of the most dog-friendly places in the Southwest! Whether you’re strolling through the city streets, hiking desert trails, or relaxing on a shaded patio, Tucson offers plenty of ways to explore with your pup.
You don't need to worry about finding a place to stay, because so many hotels and rentals in Tucson welcome dogs. Some even go out of their way to make your pet feel like a guest by offering welcome treats, comfy dog beds, and plenty of space to stretch out after a long day! There are even nearby boutique hotels, with pet perks. And vacation rentals are especially convenient if your dog enjoys a yard or likes having more room to roam. Luie Boone will go into detail about his hooman's choice of vacation rental, the Vista Velo, below.
Outdoor adventure is where Tucson really shines. The desert landscape offers endless hiking opportunities, though it’s important to always stick to dog-friendly trails. The paved Rillito River Park Trail is one local favorite for an easy stroll. For more of a challenge (and big, gorgeous views), visit the Agua Caliente Hill. There are even trails in the Sabino Canyon that allow dogs. If the heat is too intense, try to visit these trails in the early morning or later in the evening. Aways remember that the desert climate can be hot and harsh, so it's important to carry extra water and protect your pup's paws from the sand.
The city’s food scene is just as welcoming to dogs as the outdoors. Many restaurants have shaded patios, where dogs are treated like regulars. Some even offer special treats or water bowls. It’s easy to find yourself lingering at a spot like Barrio Brewing Company, with its big outdoor seating area and refined menu. Luie Boone also recommends Prep & Pastry. It's a great spot for enjoying a hearty brunch... and, hopefully, purchasing a pastry that your pooch can enjoy. Overall, downtown Tucson has plenty of restaurants and coffee shops that encourage you to bring your furry companion along.
When you’re not on the trails or dining out, Tucson has more to offer dog owners. There are local parks like Reid Park and Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, which have off-leash areas where dogs can run and socialize. And don't forget about the colorful downtown streets, which are perfect for wandering and exploring together. A day trip to nearby Mount Lemmon is also worth it. Mount Lemmon has cooler mountain air and pine forests, which can give you and your pup a refreshing break from the desert heat.
Tucson makes traveling with a dog feel effortless, but don't forget that a little preparation goes a long way. We recommend that you pack collapsible bowls, plenty of water, and even a cooling vest or bandana to help keep your pup safe and happy in the desert climate. Also, being mindful of wildlife and choosing the cooler hours of the day for outdoor activities helps make every outing more enjoyable.
At the end of the day, Tucson is a city that makes it easy to create memories with your dog. Watching the sun set over the desert, sipping coffee on a shaded patio, or just walking through the town with your pup trotting happily at your side—it's all a part of the experience. Maybe, just maybe, for Luie Boone's happiness, cooking up a fresh plate of dog-friendly Tuscan Chicken is on the menu for your vacation, too.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Tucson, Arizona. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Vista Velo
This rental has 4 bedrooms with 4 beds and 3 bath.
Photos courtesy of Airbnb
It features the following amenities:
Views of the Catalina Mountains
In-ground spa that fits 10 people
Lap in-ground pool (40 feet in size)
Outdoor dining seating on patio
BBQ grill
Beautiful fountain located under two mature palm trees
Nature trail through backyard botanical gardens
Unique desert plants and flowers
What does Luie Boone think of this rental? He woofed:
From everything that I've overheard about Vista Velo in Tucson, Arizona, (and I've overheard a lot), I can hardly sit still with all my excitement. This place sounds like a literally puppy paradise. There's a backyard trail, which leads through desert plants flowers. I'm going to claim that as my own sniffing garden. I've heard that there are birds, bunnies, and even a lynx that sometimes visits the arroyo. If you're wondering what an arroyo is, just like I was, well here you go: An arroyo is a dry channel or stream bed, which can fill up during rainstorms! How cool! You know what else is cool? The rental we are staying in owner has a golden lab named Leia, but everyone calls her "Doggo." I really hope that I can meet her, so we can trade sniffs and maybe even share some treats. My hoomans and I are really excited about the 40-foot lap pool, the in-ground hot tub with Catalina views, and relaxing by the fountain under the palm trees. The house has four bedrooms, which means plenty of cozy spots for me to nap. I'm really looking forward to quiet neighborhood walks and hikes in Sabino Canyon. There will be so many new smells! Vista Velo sounds like the ultimate getaway for sniffers like me.
Paws Venture Here
Sweetwater Preserve
The Sweetwater Preserve is a just over 700-acre preserve, which is located in the eastern foothills of the Tucson Mountains. There are a variety of trails, which are great for all levels of hikers. Although dogs are permitted on the trails, so are horses and mountain bikes! Please be sure that you're careful when venturing on the trails with your pooch.
Catalina State Park
You can bring your canine companion with you to explore this state park, which is over 5,500 acres. It sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. Here, you can explore the foothills, canyons, and streams! You can also gaze wonderingly at the cacti, like the pooch pictured to our left.
Mount Lemmon
Mount Lemmon is the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains, topping out at more than 9,000 feet! There is a 4-mile loop, which can be accessed, with your buddy, at the Marshall Gulch Picnic Area. This loop is a gentler climb and has many scenic viewpoints to check out.
Pusch Ridge Wilderness
This wilderness towers over Tucson and the surrounding desert. It is one of the most prominent features of the Santa Catalina Mountains. Please note that from January 1st to April 30th, many Forest Service system trails here are prohibited due to the bighorn sheep lambing season. Luie Boone's lamb toy, Mr. Lambchop, will be very happy to hear that they are protected!
Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Regional Park
This is a unique 101-acre park with a perennial warm spring. The stream here links together three ponds within the park. The ponds are fed by the spring water, and they support diverse wildlife and fish populations. Don't miss out on strolling the network of paved and gravel trails here with your buddy.
Painted Hills Trails Park
This is a 285-acre natural open space park, which is renowned for its picturesque stands of saguaros. It is also notable for its many peaks and natural quietness. The park has approximately 4 miles of trails to stroll with your best friend. Large mule deer can regularly be seen on the property. Other wildlife that can be sighted include bobcat, javelina, coyotes, and the occasional Gila monster! For those who don't know, the Gila monster is a type of venomous lizard.
Desert Discovery Trail
This is a half mile trail that is easy, paved, and accessible. Interpretive signage along the trail provides an introduction to the ecology and habitats of the Sonoran Desert. There are several shade structures and benches along the way! Luie Boone reminds you to take advantage of these shaded areas to cool down and drink plenty of water so you do not get dehydrated.
BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon
At BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon, your pup can join you on an outdoor patio and have the opportunity to order a food item off their dog menu! The hoomans can enjoy modern Mexican fare, with imaginative salsas and many craft beers. Yum, yum, yum!
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Tucson, Arizona
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that's got Luie Boone's leash in a twist. He woofed:
The desert in Tucson, Arizona, is full of smells that I've never experienced. There is the desert sand, desert flowers, and even some little critters scurrying around—like the Gila monster! Oh, and don't forget about the cacti. I've heard that there are thousands and thousands and thousands of them everywhere. There are tall saguaro cacti reaching to the sky, clusters of prickly pears, and all other kinds of spiky plants. At first, I un-wisely thought, "Jackpot! New things to sniff!" But my hoomans said, "Nah-uh, off-limits!" You know why? Because the cacti are prickly menaces! I suppose that means no cacti sniffing for me, but I'll be just fine, because there is still so much to explore and sniff when I wander safely with my hoomans by my side.
Comments