Infused with a collegiate blend of good times and artsy energy, the area around the University of Arizona has an urban vitality unlike any other Tucson neighborhood.
Take the trolley to the university and the nearby commercial area of Fourth Avenue to relive your college years while discovering a contemporary city scene. The U of A grounds are a de facto botanical garden and home to some of Tucson's premier museums.
After a time on campus, head to the student haunt of Fourth Avenue, whose galleries and restaurants also draw residents with decidedly postgraduate tastes.
DITCH THE CAR Old Pueblo Trolley (6 p.m.–10 p.m. Fri, noon–midnight Sat, noon–6 Sun; $1 one-way, $2.50 day pass; 520/792-1802), which runs almost to the university's main gate, connects Fourth Avenue and campus. The line runs vintage trolleys, including one from Kyoto that's urban transit and retro art piece all in one.
EAT
The B Line With both terrific baked goods and pancakes for breakfast, and a selection of Mexican entrées and pastas for lunch and dinner, it's fresh and affordable. INFO: $; 621 N. Fourth Ave.; 520/882-7575.
Joel's Bistro The Sorbonne comes to the Sonoran, bringing a taste of Paris to the U of A scene. INFO: $$; 806 E. University Blvd.; 520/529-7277. DRINK
Frog & Firkin The pub's expansive patio makes it a classic kick-back-with-a-pint hangout. INFO: $; 874 E. University Blvd.; 520/623-7507.
DO
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| Rob D. Brodman |
| A mini hub of activity in downtown Tucson is Fourth Avenue; close to the University of Arizona, it has a variety of boutiques, day spas, and cafes. |
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The University of Arizona Mineral Museum Tucked in the lower level of the Flandrau science center, it displays minerals, gemstones, and meteorites of positively otherworldly shapes and hues. INFO: Closed Mon–Wed; $5; 1601 E. University Blvd.; 520/621-4227. The University of Arizona Museum of Art With a time-spanning and globe-trotting collection, it's like a survey course in art history. INFO: Closed Mon; free; 1031 N. Olive Rd.; 520/621-7567.
SHOP
Arroyo Design The store specializes in custom-designed mesquite furniture. INFO: Open Mon–Sat and by appointment Sun; 224 N. Fourth Ave.; 520/884-1012.
Conrad Wilde Gallery The attractive space is a top spot to check out Tucson's contemporary art scene. INFO: Closed Sun–Mon; 210 N. Fourth Ave.; 520/622-8997.
MAKE IT AN OVERNIGHT
Peppertrees B&B Inn (from $140, including breakfast; 520/622-7167), with its courtyard and gardens, provides a sanctuary in the heart of the university neighborhood. Stay in a Mexican-style casita with a private patio or a 1920s Territorial-style house. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, innkeeper Jill McCormick shows off her skills with creative, balanced breakfasts featuring organic ingredients.
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