Eatin’
So you’re in Tucson, but do you really know Tucson? The answer is NO if you haven’t made it over to Pat’s Drive-In, 1202 W. Niagara St. at Grande Avenue. Pat’s has been a Tucson landmark for over 40 years and everybody from suits in BMWs to OGs in low-low’s come enjoy the best chili dogs and french fries on the planet. They also serve burgers, fish, shrimp and chicken, but it’s really all about the dogs. If you’re looking for something a little more gourmet, try Hotel Congress’ Cup CafǸ, 311 E. Congress St. We recommend the tortilla soup with a cool glass of lime-aid and a slice of key-lime pie from award winning desert chef Bill Roberts. Cheba Hut, 1820 E. Sixth St., has the super tasty baked subs in town as well as a classic rock soundtrack to perfectly match the jungle theme of the spot.
Clubbin’
Congress also gets packed on Thursday night’s “”Optimist Club”” and is a much hipper alternative to the McDonalds of night clubs: Maloney’s. Che’s Lounge, 346 N. Fourth Ave., always provides good music and an eclectic mix of people and is another great option for the T-Town clubber, just please don’t pronounce it “”Shay’s,”” you’ll sound like an idiot. Google revolutionary legend Che Guevara to learn about the name before you go out – it will give you something to talk about while you’re there. Vaudeville Cabaret, 110 E. Congress St., provides classic and underground hip-hop music you won’t find on MTV with their “”Ill Styles”” weekly, every Friday night, plus they have $2 pints. You can’t beat that.
Sweatin’
It’s pretty hot outside, but DeAnza Drive-In Theatres, 1401 S. Alveron Way, is a good place to cool down and catch a flick, 50s style. Funtasticks Family Fun Park, 221 E. Wetmore Road, has batting cages, go-carts, bumper boats and golf on a very small course with small clubs. If sweating while bending into crazy positions is something that sounds like a good idea, try Yoga Oasis, 2631 N. Campbell Ave. They offer birthday specials and the first visit is only $9, which is actually cheaper then a movie and popcorn, and your improved limberness will surely impress your significant other. If you’re less into the peace and serenity of yoga, give rock climbing a shot at Rocks and Ropes, 330 S. Toole Ave. You’ll get the rocky experience without the danger of falling from hundreds of feet in the air onto jagged-edge cliffs and washes that actual nature would provide you with.