Tucson Trip Questions
 

I'm going to attend a business conference in Tucson Aug 1-4. I'll be staying at the Marriott Starr Pass Resort. Classes will be in session until about 5:00 p.m. each day. I'm looking for recommendations on restaurants, nightlife, "don't miss" activities, etc. that I might experience in the evening (without a car). Also, what is the best mode of transportation from TUS to the Marriott?

If you are planning on leaving Star Pass, a rental car is the economic and convenient option. Taxi is the only alternative to a rental car.

The restaurants at the Marriott are actually good. The views from Star Pass are outstanding. Food and service are fine.

The better restaurants in Tucson are on the north side along ?Skyline Drive about 15 miles from Star Pass. Terra Cotta, Blue Point, JBar or Mosaic are possibilities.

Don't miss hiking Sabino Canyon, a 30 minute rental car drive from Star Pass. Museum of the Desert is another good activity. If you are a casino person, the Indian casinos S. of town are acceptable.

Thanks, but I'm not planning on renting a car for this trip, so I'm somewhat limited in how far I can stray from the resort. Activities will need to be at night as I'm attending sessions all day until 5:00 p.m.

Well, if you are not renting a car,
then you will be staying at the
JW, 24/7, Aug 1-4. The "don't miss" activities will require a car.

It's too bad you won't rent a car, because a stroll through Sabino Canyon near sunset would be fabulous, as would a visit to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum
(what stumpworks call the Museum of the Desert). The Museum is open on Sat. nights 'til 10 PM through August and is very cool to see in the evening.
All those restaurants
are very good as well.

Even at 5PM on those dates, it could easily be well over a 100 degrees or you'llbe in the midst of a monsoon/thunder and lightning rainstorm for an hour or so.

I would inquire with the JW if they have a shuttle or if you will need to arrange for one prior to ferry you to from TUS.

R5

Unfortuately, the resort is a little isolated - definitely nothing like what you're asking for within walking distance. I suppose the desk could call you a cab if you want to get out, but for sure your own wheels would be more convenient.