Family Trip in Feb

Question

My husband and I are looking to come mid-February for a week with our kids (7 & 3). We usually book vacation rentals. We are mainly looking to get outside in the sunshine. We know we definitely want to go to Saguaro NP and Catalina SP. Any recommendations for areas to look for rentals in? Any great kid friendly recommendations? We also like to go to great playgrounds if there are any.

Answer

Visiting Tucson in mid-February is a fantastic choice for a family getaway. The weather is usually mild and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities with kids. Since you enjoy vacation rentals, focusing on areas that are convenient to Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park will maximize your outdoor time.

Recommended areas for vacation rentals:

Oro Valley / North Tucson: Close to Catalina State Park and offers easy access to hiking trails, bike paths, and family-friendly restaurants.
East Tucson / Tanque Verde: Quiet neighborhoods near Saguaro National Park East, providing a scenic desert setting and plenty of outdoor space for kids to play.
Central Tucson / Midtown: Convenient for accessing both Saguaro NP and Catalina SP, plus you’ll be near parks, playgrounds, and city amenities.

Kid-friendly recommendations and activities:

Saguaro National Park: The short, easy hikes like the Desert Discovery Trail and Signal Hill Trail are perfect for children. Interpretive signs and giant saguaros make it educational and fun.
Catalina State Park: Easy loop trails such as Romero Ruins Trail or Canyon Loop Trail are suitable for kids. Pack a picnic and enjoy the shaded areas.
Reid Park Zoo: A great spot for younger children to explore animals in a manageable setting.
Children’s Museum Tucson: Hands-on exhibits and activities for ages 3–7.
Playgrounds and parks: Consider Himmel Park and Reid Park for large playgrounds and open spaces for running around.
Tucson Botanical Gardens: Easy walking paths, beautiful scenery, and often seasonal kid-friendly activities.

Additional tips for your week-long trip:

Plan early morning or late afternoon hikes to avoid the midday sun, especially with younger children.
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water for outdoor activities.
Consider renting a car if you want flexibility to explore both Saguaro NP East and West sections as well as other attractions around Tucson.

With these areas and activities, your family can enjoy a mix of scenic desert landscapes, accessible hikes, playground fun, and educational experiences suitable for both your 7- and 3-year-old kids.