Shawn Pendley

Review of Tohono Chul Park - Tucson (Ari...

Tohono Chul is a delight that cannot be missed. Th...

Tohono Chul is a delight that cannot be missed. The gardens feature wonderful examples of native and desert-friendly plants through winding trails. You'll pass through everything from cactus and butterfly gardens to ripirian areas and learn about the plants and their history and uses along the way.

At the far end of the site is an art gallery, which is worth a visit, and in the courtyard, the gift shop has local specialties. If you've been inspired by your visit, Tohono Chul nursery has native plants for sale.

No visit is complete without stopping in at the restaurant, which has indoor seating and also outdoor seating in the courtyard or in the back under the trees. Beautiful. The menu offers unique takes on traditional dishes and a few surprises. For example, local heirloom beans, squash and cactus can be found on the menu. The prickly pear margarita is quite nice. I am partial to the trio of tacos. The restaurant is a little expensive, but I think it's worth it.