There’s a myth floating about that Tucson is invariably, debilitatingly hot during the late spring and summer. Truth be told, it depends a lot on the time of day. Daytime temps can easily soar in to the 100-degree range during the summertime. But evening brings them trundling down, to a more habitable 66 to 85 degrees.
That’s when the locals come out to play – and that’s how you should structure your time out of doors.
That said, here are some suggestions on how to apportion your deep-desert dwell during the coming months:
Head to downtown Tucson for some of the best French-inspired meals in the country. They’ve got the table set at Maynards Market & Kitchen. Their wine shop is superb, and there’s a weekly farmer’s market to prime your appetite.
See a classic film under the stars at Cinema La Placita. The shows are Thursday affairs, and they rack up the reels beginning May 3 with the 1983 teen flick Valley Girl, the Hitchcock thriller Shadow of Doubt, and the 1950’s kid’s classic (this reporter still thinks it’s cool) Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.
Hydrate and lace up your running shoes for the Meet Me Downtown 5k Night Run and Walk. June 2 is the date, and you don’t have to be even a remotely elite athlete to enjoy this one. Less than rabid runners, walkers, wheelchair contestants – all are invited. Post-race is special: live music, a kid’s pavilion, snacks, and a slew of discounts at area eateries and bars.
Cool off indoors, at the Children’s Museum Tucson and leave with a potentially healthier child. A new exhibition, Bodyology, helps kids 2 to 12 learn about what makes their body tick – and lays out some healthy eating habits in the process. Children explore a farmer’s market, garden, juice bar and (they really like this part) oversized body parts. If you’re in search of savings, know that admission is a mere $2 the second Saturday of each month.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: KentV999)
