Whether you got a small bonus this month or you’re attempting to have a little fun on a tight budget, Tucson provides plenty of activities for just under $20. Thankfully, we live in a city where treating yourself doesn’t have to include dropping half your last paycheck at a sub-par club in the city, or shelling out a crisp Jackson just for a cab ride (here’s looking at you, New York). So if you’re looking to break up the monotony of your usual weekend activities, try one of these for under $20.
Tucson Museum of Art / $5 (with student ID), free on the first Sunday of the month
Take the afternoon to visit the Tucson Museum of Art, an enlightening place that is full of art from various heritages and cultures. TMA showcases a variety of different works of art, with this month’s exhibits including “A Show of Hands,” Bob Kuhn’s “Drawing on Instinct” and “Rock/Paper/Scissors.” Each exhibit is sure to entertain just about everyone, and would make for a fun date idea or spur-of-the-moment afternoon field trip.
140 N. Main Ave., tucsonmuseumofart.org
Club Congress / Admission varies
Because Club Congress is a smaller, more intimate venue, few of its shows cost more than $20 for a ticket, and free shows are offered at least once a month. As long as you keep your bar tab in check, Hotel Congress will almost always promise a memorable and inexpensive experience with good music and even greater company.
311 E. Congress St., hotelcongress.com
Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway
The only cost for this casual drive is gas money, a Red Bull or two, and maybe some IHOP after the trip. Mt. Lemmon is easily one of Tucson’s most-visited attractions, with the promise of hiking, sightseeing and homemade fudge when you reach an elevation of 8,200 feet. This byway will take drivers through hairpin turns that offer incredible views of Tucson and the surrounding area. Stop at one of the many turnouts to take pictures or to let a friend unload their car sickness. Either way, the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is a great way to forget about Tucson city life for a while.
go-arizona.com/Mt-Lemmon-Scenic-Byway
Tucson Botanical Gardens / $12 (with student ID)
Arguably one of the best botanical gardens in the U.S., this attraction is a staple of the Tucson sightseeing scene. With more than 10 different gardens and tours offered throughout the day, the Tucson Botanical Gardens play to your nature-loving side. Take advantage of the expansive Butterfly Garden, or step into the Backyard Bird Garden to catch a glimpse of cardinals, hummingbirds or quail. Experience these exhibits at any time, as the museum is open seven days a week, year round.
2150 N. Alvernon Way, tucsonbotanical.org
Golf N’ Stuff / $8.50
Golf N’ Stuff will bring back a wave of nostalgia as soon as you step through its large, castle-themed doors. The traditional mini golf setup you played as an 8 year old might have included meager decorations and no more than three holes per round, but Golf N’ Stuff is a fairytale-themed, 18-hole golf course with charming castles, houses and statues. For just $9.50 more, consider the All Park Pass, which also includes arcade games and a choice of bumper boats, go-karts or laser tag.
6503 E. Tanque Verde Road, golfnstuff.com
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