Advice on considering retiring to Arizona

Question

My wife and I are going to take a vacation to Arizona to check out if we really would like to retire there in a few years. My wife loves the dry heat. We want to stay for a bout 10 days and she thinks the Tuscon area is where we should go. We were thinking about getting an Airbnb ( maybe two places for different experiences) for the days we are there so we can enjoy (pretend we are retired) and explore the area. We would also need to rent a car. Any suggestions on places to stay, things to see, and where the best neighborhoods are would be greatly appreciated.

Answer

Spending 10 days in Tucson is a great way to get a feel for life in southern Arizona. Tucson offers a mix of desert landscapes, cultural attractions, and a laid-back lifestyle that many retirees find appealing. Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore the area, as attractions and neighborhoods are spread out.

For accommodations, staying in two different Airbnbs is a smart idea, as it allows you to experience varied neighborhoods and environments:

Downtown Tucson: Staying here puts you close to restaurants, galleries, and cultural attractions like the Tucson Museum of Art and the historic 4th Avenue district. Great for people who enjoy walking around neighborhoods with a lively vibe.
Foothills or Catalina Foothills: These areas offer more suburban and upscale desert living with scenic mountain views. Perfect if you want a quieter, more residential experience with easy access to hiking trails in the Catalina Mountains.

During your stay, consider these activities and sights to get a broad sense of Tucson life:

Saguaro National Park: Split into East and West units, the park showcases the iconic saguaro cacti and has many short and long hiking trails. Great for experiencing the Sonoran Desert landscape.
Sabino Canyon: Offers easy to moderate hikes, tram tours, and stunning desert scenery. Ideal for trying out hiking options for retirees.
Old Tucson Studios: If you enjoy Western history and themed attractions, this is a fun half-day stop.
University of Arizona: Check out the campus, botanical gardens, and events if any are happening during your visit.
Food and local culture: Explore Tucson’s culinary scene, especially Sonoran-style Mexican food, coffee shops, and local breweries.

For neighborhoods, some of the best options for considering retirement are:

Catalina Foothills: Scenic, safe, and offers easy access to nature and golf courses.
Oro Valley: A bit further north, family-friendly, quiet, and very suburban with shopping and services.
Downtown Tucson / 4th Avenue: More urban, walkable, with restaurants, nightlife, and local events.
Sabino Canyon / Flowing Wells area: Close to nature with affordable housing options and quiet residential areas.

Other tips for your visit:

Plan your day trips around early mornings or evenings to avoid the peak afternoon heat.
Rent a car with good air conditioning and consider having GPS or a map handy to explore more remote areas.
Spend some evenings sitting outside to get a feel for the desert nights, temperatures, and wildlife activity.
Visit a few local grocery stores, cafes, and markets to get a sense of everyday life in Tucson.

This approach will give you a well-rounded perspective of what it’s like to live in Tucson and help you decide if it fits your retirement lifestyle.