Tucson and Southern Arizona Shopping

Despite the waves of modernity that continue to wash over it, southern Arizona always emerges with reverence for its cultural influences and attention to detail, making it one of the best places to shop in the Southwest—even if you're just browsing.

With its proximity to Mexico, its numerous artisan and Indian communities, a prominent wine region, and a storied past, this booming area is bursting with rare culinary and curio items, home and garden decor, fine art, folklore, and clothing. Tucson is a wealth of wares, but a great way to find some firsthand bargains and fun is to go straight to the source—like Amado, Tubac, and Bisbee for resident fine art and serious souvenir shopping; Tombstone, where Old West kitsch and curios are alive and well; Sonoita, Elgin, and Willcox for some of the state's award-winning wines. The shopping list goes on, but your bucks can stop right here. There are many southern Arizona specialties to leave room for in your suitcase, or for which to bring an extra bag altogether.

Events to Shop

Tubac Festival of the Arts. A rural artisan extravaganza, Tubac Festival of the Arts brings artists from around the country to exhibit their eclectic, fine, and tourist-oriented art. 520/398-2704. www.tubacaz.com/festival.asp.

Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. Shop like a rock star at the annual February Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, the world's largest, exhibiting precious stones, fossils, and jewels from around the globe. 520/322-5773. www.tgms.org.

Quick Bites

Tucson's St. Philip's Plaza is near La Encantada and Tucson Mall and features upscale shops, great atmosphere, and acclaimed eats including

Vivace. Vivace serves fresh pastas, pizzas and salads. 4310 N. Campbell Ave., Foothills, Tucson, AZ, 85718. 520/795-7221. www.vivacetucson.com.

If you're in the Downtown, University, and 4th Avenue area, pop into

Delectables. There's a solid selection at Delectables of fresh gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts. 533 N. 4th Ave., University, Tucson, AZ, 85705. 520/884-9289. www.delectables.com.

Top Shops

Native and Mexican influence: Given the influences of the area, "ethnic" art is always in, especially pottery, baskets, rugs, furniture, and Mexican crafts including signature folk art depicting skeletons of the dearly departed honoring El Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead). Check out Del Sol in Tucson or visit San Xavier Plaza on the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation.

Consumables: For flavorful finds, wines from regional vineyards such as Callaghan Vineyards and Keeling Schaefer Vineyards are a winning gift, as are local seasonings from Santa Cruz Spice Factory.

Fashionable Finds: Not so much into local flare or things that don't relate to fashion? Make your way to outdoor mall La Encantada for upscale, limited-location clothing boutiques like J. Jill and Lucy.