Food Tour of Tucson with 6 Tastings of Southwestern Flavors

Tucson , United States

Food Tour of Tucson with 6 Tastings of Southwestern Flavors

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(254 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join Secret Food Tours on a food tour through downtown Tucson. You'll dine in a number of locally owned restaurants, trying some of their signature dishes.

Learn the story of a city that started with open spaces and rich agriculture and became an eclectic part of the southwestern United States. At the end of your Downtown Tucson food tour, you'll have sampled some of this city’s most delicious dishes and gained a better understanding of its culture and history.

Your Tucson food tour starts here as you imagine everything you’ll see and all the delicious dishes you’ll try. All the food will be served with water.

Available options

Private Tucson Food Tour

Private Tour Upgrade: Choose this option to upgrade to a private food tour of Tucson for only you and your group

Tucson Small Group Food Tour

Small Group Tour: Choose this option to join our Secret Food Tour Tucson in a group of 12 people or less!

What's included

Special Elote Pizza

Water

Hand-Crafted Tea

Cochinita (slow-braised pork specialty)

Sonoran Hot Dog – Tucson’s most iconic bite

Homemade Tamales

Our Delicious Secret Dish!

Detailed itinerary

Your guide will meet you inside The Mercado, next to La Estrella. A modern adaption of old world architecture within an expanding downtown, you can find everything from clothes to tacos.

Situated within Viente de Agosto Park sits a statue of a beloved and controversial General Villa. You will learn why this particular piece was gifted by the Mexican government and what role Pancho played in Tucsons rich history.

In this century old theatre, you will see innovative art deco that changed how theatres transferred sound and captivated an audience. From vaudeville to rock concerts, this venue remains a top performer!

Within a mundane parking lot, experience a colorful array of creativity that brings downtown Tucson to life. From local to national artists gathering annually for all to see year-round!

Walk through an iconic and upscale establishment that earned its way to the top. With gangsters, ghosts and a thriving music scene, learn why this hotel is never shy of visitors.

Walk through a captivating architectural gem that includes colorful mosaics, intricate iron works and magnificent stained glass, all crowned with an impressive bell tower that stands as a prominent landmark. Learn which notorious outlaws were forced within its walls and pay tribute to a beautiful memorial dedicated to its beloved citizens.

Stopping at the first building in the city, you will gain a better understanding of what life was like for settlers in this new town. A faithful and meticulously reconstructed Presidio allows visitors a glimpse from the past.

Officially the oldest and cherished family operated Mexican restaurants, steeped in culinary tradition. Not only will you be immersed within the culture of the Sonoran region, you will find a sweetly crafted mini chimichanga to cap off a truly unique tour through the beautiful city that is Tucson!

What's not included

Transportation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

56 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

198 reviews

5★

178

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

* Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

* Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.

* This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Meeting point

We will meet at the Mercado San Agustin, 100 South Avenida del Convento, Tucson, AZ 85745.

Important notes

• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time to check-in with their guide.
• Our Secret Food Tours Guide will have an orange umbrella at the meeting point for easy recognition.
• Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated.
• The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol is 21 years old.
• Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

About Tucson

Tucson, nestled in the Sonoran Desert, is a vibrant city known for its rich Native American and Old West history. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, stunning desert landscapes, and world-class outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Saguaro National Park

A stunning desert landscape filled with giant saguaro cacti, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

A unique blend of zoo, botanical garden, and museum, showcasing the wildlife and plants of the Sonoran Desert.

Museum 2-3 hours $25 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5-12)

Old Tucson

A historic theme park that recreates the Old West, featuring live shows, stagecoach rides, and Wild West stunt shows.

Historical/Entertainment 2-4 hours $25 for adults, $15 for children (ages 5-12)

Mission San Xavier del Bac

A beautifully preserved 18th-century Spanish mission, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sonoran Hot Dog

A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and a variety of condiments, unique to the Sonoran Desert region.

Snack Contains pork and gluten

Chiles Rellenos

Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, coated in egg batter, and fried, often served with a tomato-based sauce.

Dinner Vegetarian (check for cheese and batter ingredients)

Prickly Pear Margarita

A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and prickly pear puree, giving it a unique pink color and sweet-tart flavor.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in Saguaro National Park Mountain biking in the Tucson Mountain Park Hot air balloon rides Spa treatments at luxury resorts Picnicking in Reid Park Stargazing at Kitt Peak National Observatory Visiting the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Exploring the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the most popular time to visit due to pleasant weather and various festivals. Expect cooler mornings and evenings, and warm afternoons.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tucson is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in less populated areas, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Tucson International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By bus

Tucson Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, with real-time tracking available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Tucson Tanque Verde Catalina Foothills

Day trips

Mount Lemmon

30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day

A scenic mountain range with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a cool, forested environment.

Tombstone

60 miles (97 km) • Full day

A historic Old West town known for its role in the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and its well-preserved Western heritage.

Bisbee

90 miles (145 km) • Full day

A charming, artsy town with a rich mining history, known for its colorful buildings, art galleries, and unique shops.

Festivals

Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase • February Tucson Meet Yourself • October Tucson Rodeo (Fiesta de los Vaqueros) • February

Pro tips

Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Explore the 4th Avenue Shopping District for unique local crafts and vintage finds
Take a day trip to Mount Lemmon for a cool, forested escape from the desert heat
Try a prickly pear margarita, a local favorite made with the fruit of the desert's iconic cactus
Attend a performance at the Rialto Theatre for a taste of Tucson's vibrant arts scene