Tucson Interactive Map
Explore this detailed Tucson map showing neighborhoods, landmarks, and transportation networks. Tucson lies in the Sonoran Desert basin bordered by mountain ranges and saguaro forests.
This interactive map of Tucson allows you to explore the city's geography, including its desert basin setting, surrounding mountain ranges, and distinctive Sonoran Desert landscape. Click on markers to learn more about specific locations across Old Pueblo.
About Tucson - Old Pueblo
Tucson lies in the Sonoran Desert basin bordered by mountain ranges and saguaro forests. Founded in 1775, the city covers 240.8 sq mi with a population of 548,073 and serves as a center for aerospace/defense, education/research, optics, and tourism/outdoor recreation.
The Tucson map reveals the city's unique desert setting and its role as a major southwestern cultural and educational center surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Tucson Quick Facts
- Nickname: Old Pueblo
- State: Arizona
- Population: 548,073
- Area: 240.8 sq mi
- Founded: 1775
- Region: Southwest
- Time Zone: Mountain Time (MT) — no DST observance
Tucson Geography and Neighborhoods
A rectilinear arterial grid spreads across valleys between mountain ranges; I-10 skirts Downtown, while I-19 runs south to the border. The modern streetcar connects Downtown, 4th Avenue, and the university area.
Major Neighborhoods
- Downtown Tucson - Historic core with government buildings and cultural venues
- 4th Avenue - Eclectic district near the University of Arizona with shops and restaurants
- Foothills - Upscale residential area in the Santa Catalina Mountain foothills
- Midtown - Central residential and commercial district with historic neighborhoods
Tucson Transportation Networks
Sun Tran buses serve the metro area along with the Sun Link streetcar connecting Downtown to the University of Arizona campus.
Major Transportation Hubs
- Airport: Tucson International Airport (TUS)
- Highways: I-10, I-19, SR-210 (Aviation Parkway)
- Public Transit: Sun Tran buses, Sun Link streetcar
- Rail: Amtrak Sunset Limited service (tri-weekly)
Tucson Landmarks and Attractions
The Tucson map reveals numerous attractions that celebrate the city's desert environment, Native American heritage, and Spanish colonial history in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.
Notable Attractions
- Saguaro National Park - Two districts protecting iconic giant saguaro cactus forests
- Mission San Xavier del Bac - Historic Spanish colonial mission known as the "White Dove of the Desert"
- University of Arizona - Major research university and home of the Wildcats
- 4th Avenue - Historic district with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment
- Sabino Canyon - Desert canyon with hiking trails and scenic tram rides
Tucson Economy and Industries
Aerospace/defense, education/research, optics, and tourism/outdoor recreation drive Tucson's economy. The city hosts major research institutions and defense contractors.
Key Economic Centers
- University of Arizona - Major research institution and economic driver
- Downtown - Government offices and business district
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base - Major military installation and aerospace hub
- Oro Valley/Marana - Growing business and technology corridors
Tucson Climate and Geography
Hot desert climate moderated by elevation; monsoon storms in summer. The city's location in a high desert basin provides dramatic seasonal weather patterns and stunning mountain vistas.
Tucson's geography in the Sonoran Desert basin, surrounded by mountain ranges including the Santa Catalinas, Rincons, and Santa Ritas, creates diverse microclimates and exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.
How to Use This Tucson Map
This interactive Tucson map provides multiple ways to explore Old Pueblo. Use the zoom controls to focus on specific neighborhoods or landmarks, and click on markers to access information about attractions, transportation, and local areas.
Whether you're planning a visit to Tucson, studying Sonoran Desert ecology, or researching southwestern culture, this map serves as your comprehensive guide. The map includes major highways, desert parks, and highlights both natural and cultural attractions.
For educational purposes, this Tucson map helps students understand how desert geography influences urban development, showing how the city has evolved from a Spanish colonial outpost to a modern desert metropolis while preserving its natural environment.