Tucson in Motion

In this episode, Tucson in Motion . . .

Welcome back to On the Fly! What comes to mind when you think of Tucson, AZ?

Do you envision the iconic Western movies filmed in Old Tucson, where cowboy legends came to life? Classics like Rio Bravo, starring John Wayne; the hilarious The Three Amigos, featuring Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short; or the unforgettable Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, with Burt Lancaster and Kirk Douglas, all brought their stories to life against Tucson’s rugged landscapes. Old Tucson Studios set the stage for these cinematic treasures, which became synonymous with the Western genre.

During our stay from December 14 to 21, 2024, Robert and Orasa Weldon's incredible hospitality gave us the fantastic opportunity to experience Tucson like never before.

For years, while working at GIA, I visited Tucson to attend the annual Gem & Mineral Show, which attracts enthusiasts from around the globe each February. However, the city's impressive network of over 130 miles of car-free bicycle trails, including the award-winning Loop, truly beckons. Tucson serves as a haven for cyclists of all levels, offering serene paths and the challenging climbs of Mount Lemmon for a magical exploration on wheels.

It didn't take long to realize that Tucson has much more to offer. Robert suggested Sabino Canyon, where trails wind through desert landscapes, leading to panoramic views of the Santa Catalina Mountains.

Imagine standing at dusk in Sabino Canyon as the sun sinks on the horizon. The sky exhibits vivid oranges streaked with soft pinks. Shadows stretch across sandy paths, and the air cools in the evening. Around you, the desert textures come alive: towering saguaro cacti stand as silent sentinels against the colorful sky. Barrel cacti and prickly pear dot the landscape, their green pads catching the fading light. Be careful–don’t touch.

Listen carefully; you hear the faint rustles of desert wildlife—a distant coyote call and a quail settling in for the night. The earthy aroma mingles with blooming desert flowers. It’s a moment of serene beauty, capturing Tucson’s enchanting natural world.

The vibrant Mercado District, Robert's neighborhood, is an eclectic cultural hub on Tucson’s west side. It blends old-world charm with modern design, showcasing colorful adobe homes and intricate ironwork courtyards. Brick-lined streets lead you through locally owned shops, artisan markets, and inviting restaurants featuring handmade jewelry, pottery, and boutique clothing.

Aromas of fresh coffees, tortillas, and roasted chiles drift from cozy taquerias, while cafes and wine bars provide places to unwind. The Mercado serves as a gathering spot where music, art, and good food unite, embodying Tucson’s rich cultural tapestry.

If you’re a train enthusiast, visit the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum at 414 N Toole Ave. It’s a must-see! One of the highlights is the Southern Pacific Steam Engine #1673, built in 1900, which has logged over one million miles. You can enter the engineer’s cabin and ring the train’s bell. Pull hard on the rope, and you’ll feel like you’re right there on the train!

My listening friends, if you’re looking for a delightful winter getaway, consider exploring Tucson’s vibrant blend of culture, history, and nature, which is truly irresistible; for those who can’t visit Tucson–flip on the television and watch an old Western movie.

I’m Patrick Ball; thanks for listening. See you next episode.