Lodge at a Glance: Lodge on the Desert

The historic Lodge on the Desert has been through many incarnations since it was built in 1931. Starting out as a family home, the lodge was converted to an inn and later used as a World War II military barracks with only stucco walls and an outdoor pool to provide respite from the heat. Today, the 5-acre property in midtown Tucson has been redesigned and expanded to include 100 guest rooms—complete with air conditioning—but has remained true to its Southwestern roots. Paths wander through lush gardens with palms and native cacti, and Southwestern artwork can be found throughout the grounds, lobby, and common areas.

• Locally sourced ingredients make up dishes such as whiskey-glazed bone marrow and bacon wrapped pork tenderloin at the onsite restaurant.
• Try this: prickly-pear margarita, putting a local twist on the classic drink
• Cool off with a swim in the recently updated outdoor pool with trickling fountain.
• Where you’ll stay: All rooms have free WiFi, adobe walls, and views of the mountains or gardens, and some even have cozy fireplaces.

Tucson, Arizona: Southwestern History and Culture Amid the Cacti

Tucson—or the Old Pueblo—is a bastion of southwestern culture surrounded by mountains and desert. Over the city’s long history, it’s absorbed elements from the many peoples who have lived or passed through here: Native Americans, Europeans, Latinos, and Asians to name a few. Today, this unique blend is especially evident in the downtown restaurant scene, where you can get authentic chilies rellenos, sushi, and upscale bistro fare with fine wines from nearby vintners.

Those willing to make the short trip outside of downtown can soak up the area’s gorgeous natural landscape at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combined botanical garden and zoo. Here, mountain lions, gila monsters, and more than 1,200 kinds of plants inhabit 21 acres of desert scenery.

Mission San Xavier del Bac, the “White Dove of the Desert,” is one of the oldest intact European structures in Arizona. This sprawling white adobe church, located about 10 miles south of downtown, was built in the 1700s. It’s a striking example of the area’s Spanish colonial architecture, with an interior adorned with frescoes and sculptures.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Love to travel? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for travel tips, inspiration, and photos from around the world.