Ghost towns are scattered all across Arizona, many of which were thriving cities back in the heyday of mining. While these communities have become tourist attractions in modern times, slightly larger small towns like Tubac often get swept under the rug. Nestled between two mountain ranges, this bucket list destination with just over 1,000 permanent residents is known for its art, historic park, renowned restaurants, and unparalleled scenery.
A small town of just over 1,000 in Santa Cruz County, Tubac was established in the 1750s as a Spanish presidio. It was among the first stops along the Camino Real, or Royal Road, which connects missions from California to Mexico.
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Tubac is now a well-known art community with more than 100 galleries, home decor boutiques, jewelers, and potters. It also boasts an art school, an array of upscale restaurants, and a full-service golf resort that overlooks a sprawling valley.
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Among the aforementioned eateries is Elvira’s, a contemporary Mexican restaurant serving up traditional cuisine with its own special twist. The sleek and modern, yet vibrant and whimsical decor is what draws people in, but the exquisite food keeps ’em coming back.
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Popular menu items include a variety of mole dishes, tacos, seafood, beef tongue, and many more scrumptious entrees. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the famous Elvira’s Flan, and an extensive drink menu features handcrafted cocktails, margaritas, beer, wine, and scotch.
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Perhaps the most popular attraction in town is Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. It preserves the ruins of a Spanish fortress called Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac and several other historic buildings, establishing a timeline of when, how, and by whom the area was settled over the years.
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High desert mountains surround the city, making for unparalleled outdoor adventure opportunity. Hike the Anza Trail along the Santa Cruz River and explore Madera Canyon, setting up camp for the night at either Tubac Trailer Tether or Flying W RV Ranch/Sunflower Camp.
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No matter what time of year you visit Tubac, rest-assured the scenery is always picturesque. Whether a winter wonderland or cloudless summer sky, every season has its perks in this little slice of Arizona paradise.
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Visit the city’s Facebook page to learn more.
Facebook/Tubac, Arizona
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Facebook/Elvira’s Tucson
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Have you ever been to Tubac? If so, what’s your favorite attraction there? Let us know, and check out our previous article to learn more about Elvira’s: Family-Owned Since The 1920s, Step Back In Time At Elvira’s In Arizona.
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Address: Tubac, AZ, USA
