WPA sidewalk stamp

Near University Boulevard a few blocks from the campus, a sidewalk marking caught our eye.  “USA–WPA-1938” was stamped into the cement sidewalk.  The WPA – the Works Progress Administration – was a program of the 1930s that put people to work during the “Great Depression” (as opposed to our current depression – small “d”).  Many public works projects were accomplished during that time.  The quality of the workmanship is obviously exceptional for it to survive like new for 70-plus years as it has.

"A" mountain - Sentinel Peak -in the distance

From a parking garage in the UA campus, “A” mountain is off in the distance.  “A” Mountain, also called Sentinel Peak, is nearly 3,000 feet high, and was created from volcanic rock.  From its location a few miles west of the city, it offers a sweeping view of the Tucson valley area, but has become somewhat of a hangout.  Suggestion: only go in the daytime.

Also, if you like to see swanky resort hotels and great scenic views, head west, as well, to the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort.  My first reaction: the architecture of the side facing the valley looked rather like a hospital, albeit a well-heeled hospital.  The scenic vista is spectacular, though, with Tucson stretched off in the distance.

JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort

Hotel lobby entrance

Tucson Valley view from west

Nearby, hillsides of saguaro dot the landscape. Certain areas of Arizona just have proliferations of these amazing, spiny flora.  They can live for hundreds of years, outliving humans.  With their arms stretched skyward, they are an inspiring sight.  When, birds peck out a hole for a nesting area, the holes are evident and, later, when the cactus tries to heal, it creates a “boot”–shaped structure that is much prized for decoration.

Saguaro on West Tucson hillside

Join us next week as we enjoy a Mexican feast.

Main Gate of University of Arizona

However, the University of Arizona is a major attraction in itself.

Most recent statistics at UA show enrollment of 37,000-plus, 29,000 of which are undergrads.  With a large urban campus, including residential housing, UA offers attractions for visitors and students alike.  There is a science museum, an art museum, a photography exhibit and a large bookstore that non-students can also use.  The campus is walkable, so parking a vehicle and strolling around can give access to most interesting sights.  In the heat of the summer, Tucson can be steamy. But in the spring, there is still snow on the mountains that are at a higher elevation.

Old Main at U of A

UA library with snow-capped mountain in background and book fair tents

On weekends, the Old Pueblo Trolley can take you on an inexpensive sight seeing tour of historic areas, downtown, shopping and land you at the entrance to UA.  We decided to explore that option for a new view of Tucson.  However, we found that the route of the trolley was not the full route shown on their Web site.  For the price, we couldn’t really complain (25 cents on Sunday).

In March, there is a very large book fair, so reading aficionados can look at books, meet authors and stroll UA campus.

U of A Stadium - with no "Wildcats" in isght

With both the book fair and the trolley, we figured that’s most of a day to explore – things to see and do in Tucson.  If you add in the museums and other UA attractions, you could easily spend 2-3 days in Tucson.  If you visit one of the many resorts, add in a few more days – even great golfing.  In other words, Tucson is a great destination.  Only 90 miles from Phoenix, Tucson also has its own airport, southwest of the city.

So, this week join us for some Tucson sights and, of course, you have to eat! (We’ll highlight at least one restaurant.)