Must See Sights and Landmarks in Mount Lemmon Area

"West of town, Gates Pass Road winds up and over a saddle in the Tucson Mountains with stunning views of Avra Valley and the mountains beyond it. This is arguably one of the best, if not the best places to view the sunset in the Desert Southwest. From the parking lot, walk westward to reach Gates Pass Trail."

"What is it: Elevated at 3,169 feet, Gates Pass is a mountain pass overlook at the crest of the Tucson mountains. Why go: Pack yourself a picnic and head out of the city. Tucson is known for its sunsets, which paint the sky in broad strokes of violet, rust and rose."

"Then drive to the El Presidio district downtown and explore the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block and Presidio San Agustín del Tucson for a few hours. For lunch, go to El Charro Café, right near the museum, or to Cafe Poca Cosa, a short walk away, before taking a short drive south on I-19 and checking out San Xavier del Bac."

"Although Arizona didn’t join the union until 1912, the territory has a history that precedes its statehood. Presidio San Agustin del Tucson is one of the most incredible shows of the history of Tucson, Arizona. This is a recreation of a Spanish fort, known as the Tucson Presidio."

"Like many other states that were former Spanish colonies, the city of Tucson started with a presidio and a mission. The original Presidio San Agustín del Tucson was finished in 1776. However, when America took over, the presidio was dismantled."

"If you’re an early riser, I’d suggest heading downtown to the St. Augustine Cathedral before 7am. You can stand across the street and watch as the rising sun lights up the Spanish revival cathedral, and the tall, skinny imported palm trees cast their shaggy shadows against the glowing building. It’s a perfect Southwestern scene."

"Another amazing church in Tucson, the Cathedral of Saint Augustine stands as a monument to the power of faith. This Catholic Church brings in devoted visitors who want a glimpse of how much majesty is on display. Its one-of-a-kind design is the kind of thing that shows architectural as well as religious wonder."