WEST TUCSON. Officially called Sentinel Peak, this landmark is visible from all over town. The huge whitewashed "A" on the side of the mountain has been repainted every year since 1915 when ardent U of A fans initially showed their support. Drive to the top for an awesome view of the city and surrounding desert landscape. Tucson's annual Fourth of July fireworks display is launched from here as well.

WEST TUCSON. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is one of Tucson's star attractions, with good reason. Part zoo, part natural history museum, and part botanical garden, the facility is set on 21 acres and is home to numerous animals that roam freely within invisibly-fenced enclosures. After checking out the exhibits in the main visitor center, wander along two miles of paved pathways, where you can catch sight of endangered species such as the Mexican wolf, thick-billed parrot, ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, and the Gila topminnow; and not-so-endangered critters like leafcutter ants, black bears, river otters, bighorn sheep, coatis, beavers, coyote, javelinas, black-tailed prairie dogs, termites and roadrunners. And don't miss the captivating cactus garden or the Hummingbird Aviary!

EAST TUCSON. A 55-acre sanctuary situated right in the city ­ it's not only a haven for wildlife, it's a peaceful retreat for people, too. A mile-long loop trail passes all manner of desert plant life ­ mesquite, desert hackberry, fishhook barrel cactus and catclaw acacia to name a few ­ which harbor a wide variety of birds and other critters like cottontails and gila monsters. If you're planning to stroll through around midday, pack a lunch. The Desert Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden is an especially entertaining spot for a picnic.

MARANA. One of Tucson's two water parks, Breakers boasts Arizona's largest wave pool, plus five super slides, two tube slides and an entire section set aside especially for little kids. When it's time for a break, huge shade umbrellas and covered ramadas protect guests from the blazing desert sun, and the snack bars offer cold drinks, pizza and other kid-friendly food. No outside food or drink is permitted.

CATALINAS. About 20 miles north of downtown Tucson, this popular park offers gorgeous desert vistas and plenty of recreational activities that allow you to take in the scenic beauty of the area. Have a picnic at one of more than 100 picnic areas, hike one of numerous well-groomed trials, or participate in a geological dig. Camping, horseback riding and bird watching are also available.