Arizona Illustrated

Tucson Tours – El Presidio Museum Tucson’s El Presidio marks the city’s birthplace and stands as a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Established in 1775 as a Spanish military fort, it protected settlers and fostered a thriving community. Over time, El Presidio evolved from a military outpost into a cultural hub, reflecting the diverse influences of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American settlers. Today, the historic district features preserved buildings and the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Tucson's colonial past and enduring multicultural spirit. El Presidio remains a vital cultural landmark, symbolizing Tucson's origins and its enduring spirit of resilience and multiculturalism. It serves as a reminder of the city's rich history and the diverse peoples who have contributed to its unique character. Milagro Cohousing Milagro is a thriving multigenerational cohousing community on Tucson's west side. It’s just fifteen minutes from downtown but feels a world away. Residents share a common vision of supporting each other and respecting the Sonoran Desert. Tucson Jazz Festival The Tucson Jazz Festival brings world-class musicians to the desert, uniting artists and fans for a celebration of sound. From legendary performers to rising stars, discover how jazz takes center stage in the heart of Arizona. Pickleball’s Popularity Even though pickleball was invented on Bainbridge Island (near Seattle) Washington in 1965, the game has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, with millions of players. Pickleball courts are being built across the world, and now there are more than 11-thousand locations to play in United States according to USA Pickleball. Fans have organized multiple competitions and hope to include the sport in the Olympics, perhaps as early as 2028 or 2032.