Located in the Tucson Sky Islands Important Bird Area, Catalina State Park is home to 150+ species of birds. Experienced birding guides will help you spot and identify beautiful birds as you walk through the park for 3-4 hours. Bring binoculars and a birding field guide to enhance your experience! Guides are sold in the gift shop. Meet...

We will walk up the wash adjacent to the Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain.  Lush desert vegetation where we hope to see rock wrens, black-throated sparrows, cardinals, and pyrrhuloxia.  If you are a hiker, this trail is the jump-off point for many miles of other trails (there will be maps available at the trailhead). Directions:  Get...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Cherry blossoms are very popular during the Spring season and adorn some important spaces in the US, like Washington, D.C. In Japan, cherry blossoms are part of their culture and art. In this class, you will decorate a branch with colorful pink cherry blossoms made from crepe paper, and we will learn about Japanese culture...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Join us for our free docent-led tour in the lobby of the Bryant Bannister Tree-Ring Building (1215 E. Lowell St.). Visitors will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology and have a chance to examine specimens. During your 1.5 hour tour, you will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology, have a chance to...

The San Pedro River, a narrow green oasis rippling through desert grassland, is one of the last wild rivers in the Southwest and one of the most endangered. These 3-hour guided walks through desert grassland and among towering cottonwood trees will introduce you to the birds and other wildlife that make their homes in the...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Join us for one session or for a month of programming specially designed for homeschool students in grades 1–6! Taking place every Tuesday for a month from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., this hands-on program explores a new theme every unit through interactive science experiments, engaging activities, and guided investigations. Cost: $250 for a 4-session unit |...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

An engaging and exclusive presentation of the town of Jerome, as told by long-time local, Henry Vincent, in an outdoor setting. Featuring an overview of the geology, United Verde Copper Co. and United Verde Extension mines, and the Douglas family.

La Tierra del Jaguar teams up with The Northern Jaguar Project to give you the latest in big cat news! Learn about the ecology, behavior, and conservation of mountain lions, bobcats, ocelots, and jaguars. Explore each species' unique role within their ecosystems, their hunting and survival strategies, and the challenges they face due to habitat loss...

Join us for a relaxing and creative workshop where you’ll design your own beautiful pressed leaves or flower bookmark and matching keychain! In this hands-on class, participants will learn the art of arranging delicate dried leaves and flowers to create unique, functional keepsakes

This popular birding hotspot in urban Tucson offers an easy walk through marshes created by Tucson Water to see waterfowl, regular and visiting warblers, and several exciting species hiding in the reeds. Birders of all experience levels welcome! The Wetlands are located at 2511 W Sweetwater Drive. Limited to 12 participants per group.   **Registration...

This popular birding hotspot in urban Tucson offers an easy walk through marshes created by Tucson Water to see waterfowl, regular and visiting warblers, and several exciting species hiding in the reeds. Birders of all experience levels welcome! The Wetlands are located at 2511 W Sweetwater Drive. Limited to 12 participants per group. Leader: Donito...

Located in the Tucson Sky Islands Important Bird Area, Catalina State Park is home to 150+ species of birds. Experienced birding guides will help you spot and identify beautiful birds as you walk through the park for 3-4 hours. Bring binoculars and a birding field guide to enhance your experience! Guides are sold in the gift...

Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Experience a piece of Arizona history. Get an opportunity to explore the Pendley Homestead Apple Packing Shed. A ranger will be available to answer any questions about the homestead's history. Come and see the Bean Cutler 1933 Sorter and Bean Cutler Polisher added in 1946. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Resuming April 8,...

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Join us every Wednesday at 10 am in the Education Classroom for an interactive story session. This fun hour features nature-themed stories, songs, puppets, and sensory activities! Held rain or shine. Kids of all ages welcome, but we are geared toward infants through 7-year-olds. Registration is not necessary. Free with Garden Admission.

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Join skilled storytellers for a cup of coffee and candid conversation that entertains, educates, and encourages a sense of wonder about science and the natural world around us. This speaker series hosts guest lecturers and light refreshments. Along the 850-mile Arizona Trail, which spans the length of the state from Utah to Mexico, diverse ecosystems...

Creating an indoor garden with terrariums is a fun way to bring the outdoors in. Learn to construct and care for a terrarium filled with plants, mosses, and bioactive components. You will pick up plenty of care tips and facts to help you become the best plant parent possible. Some supplies are provided, an additional...

Spirit of Sonora is a signature community gathering of the Agave Heritage Festival, celebrating the living heritage of the Sonoran Desert and its agave cultures. This free, open-air event highlights bacanora alongside a wide range of agave-based products that reflect agave’s deep integration into regional life. Through tastings, music, presentations, vendors, and hands-on activities, Spirit...

Journey back in time to the era of copper and gold prospecting on this trip to Jerome! Explore the Gold King Mine Ghost Town, Jerome State Park, and the charming downtown, filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Transportation and entrance fees are included; lunch and other add-ons are at the participant's own expense. Activity...

Be part of history and the future! Join us at Mission Garden to plant agave in the traditional Hohokam style, inspired by ancient plantings on Tumamoc Hill. These agave plants will provide food for bat pollinators and may even become part of a future festival’s roasting pit. No experience is needed, and families are encouraged...

Be part of history and the future! Join us at Mission Garden to plant agave in the traditional Hohokam style, inspired by ancient plantings on Tumamoc Hill. These agave plants will provide food for bat pollinators and may even become roasted at a future festival. No experience is needed, and families are encouraged to join!...

Every second Thursday of the month, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM At Mission Garden, meet at the front gate No registration required FREE Walk around beautiful Mission Garden with one of the garden's expert birders. We'll look for seasonal and resident birds and learn to identify some common calls and songs. The garden is a...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Join us for a peaceful and mindful walk through the Rio Salado habitat. Together, we’ll explore the trails, enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, and observe the wildlife that calls this area home. These calm, mindful walks are designed to be accessible and welcoming for all. Please reach out with any accessibility needs so...

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Kiwanis Preschool Pioneers is for children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult. Children will hear stories with a historical theme, interact through music and movement, and engage in an activity that promotes learning.  Focus books: “Don’t Call me A Pig” and “What if You had an Animal Tail?” This event is FREE thanks to the...

Join us for our free docent-led tour in the lobby of the Bryant Bannister Tree-Ring Building (1215 E. Lowell St.). Visitors will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology and have a chance to examine specimens. During your 1.5 hour tour, you will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology, have a chance to...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Heralded as the “Tree of Wonders”, the agave has been celebrated for centuries throughout Mexico and the American Southwest, and utilized to make over 40 products - from textiles to tequila. Uncover the adaptations that enable this native succulent to thrive in the hot and harsh Sonoran Desert, and discover how a prized ornamental holds...

Formerly known as STEAM Lab, this refreshed program brings nature and STEAM together in hands-on adventures! Interactive experiments and creative projects invite kids to explore, invent, and uncover the wonders around them, turning curiosity into a fun-filled learning adventure. Registration is required. Ages 6 - 12

This high-tech scientific tool replaces traditional eyepieces with high-definition LCD screens. Explore and investigate nature both indoors and outdoors!

Birds of a feather flock together as experienced birders enhance their bird identification skills. This class will introduce birders to advanced techniques such as behaviors, calls, and locations to aid in recognizing birds. 18+ years Apr 9, 2026 - Apr 23, 2026 Thu 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Trip Rating: Moderate. Walking Distance: 2 miles on uneven dirt trails with some steps. This trip is ideal for beginner birders or visitors eager to learn about the birds of the Sonoran Desert. If you’re an experienced birder, I’ll be asking for your help. We’ll explore the less-traveled area accessed from the Sabino Canyon overflow...

For out-of-town visitors and those new to the Sonoran Desert, Tohono Chul’s easy-walking trails and beautiful gardens provide close-up looks at many of the typical birds of the Sonoran Desert. Of the more than 500 bird species that spend time in Arizona during the year, 140 are known to have visited Tohono Chul, and on...

Join us at the Birding Trail kiosk (next to campsite #12 in Patagonia Lake State Park) for a ranger led hike to learn about the diverse avian wildlife at Patagonia Lake and Sonoita Creek. The park is designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. If you are a bird watcher you may hit...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Field Notes: Regeneration in Bloom brings together a mix of 2026 panel proposals and festival-curated adaptations, all centered on agave as a practical tool for regenerative agriculture in arid and semi-arid landscapes. Across the session, we look at how agave can support soil restoration, water-smart farming, and long-term resilience, grounded in ecological knowledge and place-based...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Join Georgia Lord Library's Master Gardener Terri Kelly at noon. Presentations will be timely for the season covering topics from vegetable gardens, to landscape watering, to desert adapted plantings and everything in between. This month: Essentials of successful container gardening, including pot selection, creating the right soil mix, watering strategies for containers in the heat,...

  Bacanora is born in the Sonoran sierras — and its future is increasingly binational. This session begins with a focused panel born out of our community-led Field Notes series featuring producers, exporters, distributors, and industry leaders examining how bacanora moves from rural production to U.S. markets. The conversation will address trade pathways, regulatory frameworks,...

Remember to join us this Friday at Eagle Fest to learn more about NPC! This is a free, family-friendly festival packed with entertainment, activities, and fun! Enjoy music, free food, and an NPC demo fair featuring interactive booths showcasing the college’s programs. Plus, you can enter to win a $500 scholarship! Whether you’re a future...

Planet Earth is a truly fascinating place. The only known world where life has flourished. But how did it all begin? That’s what Little Eve, the young bear in Krutart Studio’s new film, is about to discover. A story kids love, and parents enjoy just as much. Eve is small, but her problems feel huge....

POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION examines the lives of residents of Pompeii before and after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. through artifacts on loan from the Naples National Archeological Museum. Visitors to the exhibition will travel back in time to 79 A.D. when Pompeii bustled as a commercial port and strategic military and trading...

New in 2026, an opportunity to taste agave spirits that don’t often show up on a bar list. This intimate evening brings together a handful of small-scale producers — the people making distelado de agave in limited runs, with attention to place, craft, and tradition. Each producer will share the stories and practices behind their...

Enjoy our Explorers fun patch activities and games alongside other Cadette Troops! Come together and learn navigation and orienteering techniques while demonstrating teamwork. This camp is specifically reserved for Girl Scouts in grades 6-8. Ages 11 - 14 4/10/26 – 4/11/26 Time: 6:15 p.m. – 9 a.m. Sleeping Area: Desert Tents  

Join us for a special cocktail workshop with Gary Nabhan, agricultural ecologist, ethnobotanist, and celebrated author whose work has long explored the plants, cultures, and foodways of the desert Southwest. A leading voice in the international Slow Food and Slow Drinks movement, Nabhan has spent decades documenting and preserving the agricultural traditions and biodiversity of...

Trip difficulty: Easy. Walking distance: About 1.3 miles. Trip Duration: 2-2.5 hours. Elevation gain: None. Ground condition: Groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available at the park’s entrance. Benches are available at periodic intervals around the wetlands. Are you new to birding and looking to learn some of the basics? Then this field workshop...

We will start from Oro Valley’s Honey Bee Canyon Park and will walk the wash to the north to just beyond the site of the Hohokam Petroglyphs (at 1 mile) and look for some local specialties like the Gilded Flicker and Black-throated Sparrow. Driving directions: From Tangerine Rd. and Rancho Vistoso Blvd., go north for...

Explore the slopes of Tumamoc Hill on a guided hike to learn about the natural and cultural history of Tucson and the Sonoran Desert. This tour offers insights into the ecology, cultural history, and desert adaptations that have shaped this unique landscape and agave farming and resilience. Enjoy stunning views while discovering how agave has...

Pinal County Animal Care and Control will bring 10 shelter dogs available for walking the Nature Loop with you to enjoy nature, meet new people, get some exercise, and get a break from shelter life. Participants will sign a waiver to take the shelter dog for a walk. Meet at the Ironwood Ramada. Dog food...

Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Explore the wonders of the monarch butterfly. Milkweed and monarch butterflies have an intrinsic connection. Learn the benefits of growing milkweed in your garden and how to attract monarch butterflies back to the community. Participants will receive a mix of milkweed seeds for their home gardens. 18+ years

Field Notes: Tending Agave brings together growers, land stewards, and producers from across the U.S. and Mexico to explore the practices, landscapes, and traditions that shape how agave is cultivated today. 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM | Setting Up an Agave Farm Community-led session Moderated by Ian Beger (Castle Rock Hot Springs) Ofelia Lichtenheld (The...

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Celebrate the amazing world of herbs! Join us on an ethnobotanical journey in learning about the medicinal properties of herbs. Featuring a professional herbalist, we will also explore one plant medicine in particular, talk about its many usages, and explore its properties &  history. Tea will be provided. Please bring a Journal and something to write with....

The Cave Creek Museum’s AZ GOLD MINING EXPERIENCE™ is unique with its display of the complete hard rock ore extraction process, with the mine shaft, tramway, ore carts, crushing and extraction, that are always on display, but operated only during these events. The highlight is Arizona’s only fully operational ten-stamp ore crushing mill. The ten 1,000-lb...

Join Sky Island Alliance and the Tucson Botanical Gardens for a 2-part class on how to use motion-activated cameras to observe animals in your backyard and contribute to regional wildlife conservation efforts! In part one, participants will learn about conservation efforts by Sky Island Alliance and learn how to operate backyard wildlife cameras. In part two, students...

The Nature Program is a live reptile exhibit and the perfect opportunity for people of all ages to learn all about Arizona’s wildlife! Our team of passionate, experienced volunteers are here to answer your questions and show you how these animals have adapted to survive in the Sonoran Desert. This program is weather dependent. Meet at...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Join us for a special Arizona250 celebration at San Rafael Ranch Historic District, located within the San Rafael State Natural Area. This commemorative event invites the public to experience one of Arizona’s most significant historic ranching sites while celebrating Arizona’s rich heritage, landscapes, and communities. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic ranch...

Experience a piece of Arizona history. Get an opportunity to explore the Pendley Homestead Apple Packing Shed. A ranger will be available to answer any questions about the homestead's history. Come and see the Bean Cutler 1933 Sorter and Bean Cutler Polisher added in 1946. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Resuming April 8,...

Discover the deep roots of the Sonoran Desert in an engaging program with Jacelle Ramon-Sauberan of the Tohono O'odham Nation, exploring how her people cultivated the land and sustained rich traditions long before modern cities. This free program is made possible by Arizona Humanities. To register, visit: https://www.tubacpresidio.org/events. FREE

Bring your potted plants and cuttings to swap with other plant lovers at Red Mountain Library. Paper cards will be provided for you to fill out the identity and care instructions for the plants you are swapping. Maricopa County Master Gardeners will be conducting planting demonstrations and providing propagation recommendations and tips to help you...

In partnership with the Tucson City of Gastronomy, we present Las Hijas del Maguey (Daughters of Maguey) - a documentary that follows the Mujeres del Mezcal y Maguey de México, a collective of women organizing for visibility, fair recognition, and a stronger future for the communities who sustain agave culture. Through their stories, the film...

This exclusive Cave Creek Museum adventure is a “must”! Cave Creek Museum has partnered with Rackensack Canyon Tours to bring Arizona’s one and only total gold mining experience to life.  After seeing the interactive, action-packed Arizona Gold Mining Experience (AZGME), Gold Fever lovers break for lunch and return to Cave Creek Museum to leave promptly at...

Join us for a lively and entertaining walk of the park grounds, featuring a brief overview of the town of Jerome, its mining operations, and its people. Presented by environmental geologist Hal Hatfield.

Heralded as the “Tree of Wonders”, the agave has been celebrated for centuries throughout Mexico and the American Southwest, and utilized to make over 40 products - from textiles to tequila. Uncover the adaptations that enable this native succulent to thrive in the hot and harsh Sonoran Desert, and discover how a prized ornamental holds...

Some of Arizona's earliest mining and refining can be found in central Arizona from Jerome to Mayer. Mining activities started shortly after the establishment of the Arizona Territory in 1863. The first smelter began operation in 1866 to process lead and silver ores along the Agua River. This presentation will discuss the process of materials going...

Set up camp amongst the beautiful trees and grass. Share the adventure of overnight camping with family, friends, and neighbors! Dust off your camping gear - it's time for Camping Under the Stars! Activities Include: Environmental exhibits Cowboy singalong Stargazing and telescope viewing Campfire Movie in Marana Crafts and Games Raffle S’mores   Check in:...

Across Mexico, agave grows in landscapes defined by soil, climate, elevation, and season. These conditions shape how the plant develops in the field, influencing everything from sugar formation to harvest decisions, and ultimately the flavors that appear in the glass. In this seminar, we explore terroir in practical terms. How do soil composition and elevation...

Located in the Tucson Sky Islands Important Bird Area, Catalina State Park is home to 150+ species of birds. Experienced birding guides will help you spot and identify beautiful birds as you walk through the park for 3-4 hours. Bring binoculars and a birding field guide to enhance your experience! Guides are sold in the gift...

The UA Campus Arboretum is home to many trees and plants that provide us with delicious and nutritious food. Some have been imported from other parts of the world and others have been here for thousands of years. Join us for a specially curated tour of the Edibles! After you register you will receive a...

Part art. Part engineering. Totally amazing! Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! Marvel at over 40 wildly creative sculptures made entirely of LEGO® bricks at this exhibition, included with Zoo admission and free for Zoo members from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily....

Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Join us the 2nd Sunday in April from 10 AM to 3 PM for a market experience that’s anything but average! Each event features a new theme with on-street entertainment, interactive art, themed activities, snacks, and drinks — plus plenty of fun for all ages. This month: Citizen Science! The outdoor market lines Mill Avenue...

Join geology interpreter John Sutton for a fascinating journey back 1.7 billion years. Learn how powerful geological forces shaped the Verde Valley and laid the foundation for Jerome's rugged landscape and rich mining history. Perfect for history lovers, rock hounds and curious minds of all ages. This program is scheduled every Sunday at 10 a.m.,...

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. Hikes are included with park entrance fees...

Experience a piece of Arizona history. Get an opportunity to explore the Pendley Homestead Apple Packing Shed. A ranger will be available to answer any questions about the homestead's history. Come and see the Bean Cutler 1933 Sorter and Bean Cutler Polisher added in 1946. Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Resuming April 8,...

Red Rock State Park is located at the base of the Mogollon Rim, the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. The escarpment is over 200 miles long and ranges in height from 2,000 to 3,000 feet over the valley below. Over millions of years of erosion the rim has receded over four miles leaving behind the...