Tucson is a college town (host to the University of Arizona), a military town (with the resident Davis Monthan Air Force base), and a border town (70 miles from Mexico).  It isn’t known for being a bustling town.

Movies are released after they’ve hit other major markets, boutique shops close early on Saturday, and on Sunday, they may be shuttered completely. But on a holiday weekend, even less is happening. Which made it the perfect destination to ring in the New Year. Quiet and restful, with aging family, after a busy 2015, and before what looked to be (and was!) an even busier 2016.

I love the desert. It’s not for everyone, but I think it’s beautiful. I love the architecture, the ranch style homes and Adobe. I love the endless hiking trails, the mountain range skyline, the endless variety of cacti, the sounds of howling coyotes in the distance, the bright blue sky, the big white clouds, and the SUNSETS!

So, when someone says, “there’s nothing to do in Tucson,” they may be right, I’m not going to argue, because it’s a matter of perspective. But I see it differently. Step outside, there is a lot to see and do.  Or don’t. Because every once in a while, I’m totally ok, content, and happy, with doing “nothing.” And eat, of course, I’m content to do nothing AND eat.

As we pulled into town, we decided on a Sonoran hotdog throw down! First stop, El Guero Canelo. The hot-dog was substantial, the bun was cloud-like, but the special Sonoran fixins were overpowered. The restaurant space was massive, then you realize it is basically a taco shop. Second stop, BK Tacos. The space is more intimate and comfortable. The dog was smaller too, the bun non-memorable, but the expected beans were a welcome treat. Our favorite ………….. BK Tacos.

Lunches were at neighboring (and sister) restaurants, Union Public House and Reforma Cocina Y Cantina. At Union, we sampled the pot pie, Mac n cheese, and UPH BLT. Everything was delish, flavorful, and perfect. We had similar expectations for Reforma, but didn’t leave quite as excited. Sampled the house made chips (yum!), tamale, torta de hongo, empanadas, tuna tostada, and the pineapple agua fresca (double yum!).

Dinner was the obligatory Tucson Tamale, to satisfy the seasonal craving. They have creative options, both fresh and frozen, and they ship anywhere.

Our final stop was breakfast at brewd Coffee Lounge, for a small bite and a dose of caffeine for the road. They have a great view of the foothills, an awesome coffee menu, and health-ful bites like egg white sandwiches and salads. We had the Amazing French Toast (amazing indeed, albeit one of the few less-healthy choices), and the turkey quiche.

Good food, good people, & good times is a good excuse for doin’ nothin’.  I ❤️ Tucson.