The Best Places to Drive from Benson, Arizona to Tucson, Arizona

When cruising from Benson, Arizona to Tucson, Arizona, you're in for a beautiful ride like no other. This journey features mountains, deserts, the thrill to do some hiking and exploring too. This journey will take you through a different landscape that you have never seen before. From spectacular natural landscapes to bustling cities, there’s something for everyone along this route.

We have outlined the top places to see while driving from Benson, Arizona, to Tucson, Arizona, from the most picturesque views to the must-see landmarks along this picturesque drive.

1. Kartchner Caverns State Park

Your journey from Benson to Tucson should start with a visit to the stunning Kartchner Caverns State Park. This cave system, located beneath the Whetstone Mountains, is among the most renowned wet caves globally, making it a remarkable destination for nature enthusiasts. The stunning formations that adorn the interior of the cave system, including stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones, make for spectacular views.

To preserve the natural caverns and keep them at peak condition, only guided tours are allowed, and spaces are limited, so be sure to plan accordingly and book a tour in advance.

2. Saguaro National Park

After Kotchner state park, your next stop should be Saguaro National Park, which is just a short drive from Tucson. This park is split into two districts, the East and the West, so be sure to plan accordingly. Both of these districts offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and a stunning view of the majestic saguaro cacti. Saguaro cacti only grow in the Sonoran Desert, and this National Park is full of them.

The East District houses the Rincon Mountain District, which offers outstanding hiking opportunities and a stunning view of the city of Tucson. The West District features the Tucson Mountain District, which offers an excellent location for camping and hiking opportunities. If you're a bird lover, this district is home to many different bird species you won't find anywhere else in the world.

3. Mission San Xavier del Bac

The next stop on our list should be the legendary Mission San Xavier del Bac. This beautiful mission church, built-in 1797 is located just a few minutes’ drive south of Tucson. This mission is famous for its Spanish-style architecture and stunning artwork both inside and outside the building. Mission San Xavier is an exceptional piece of history and is still used today as a church.

Take some time to view the stunning interior housing the ornamented ceiling painted by the first resident artist in California, Ignacio de Las Cano, in 1802. You will be fortunate to see one of the thirteen painted murals in the interior of the church.

4. Biosphere 2

Our next stop should be Biosphere 2, a palatable and unique research facility located 30 miles north of Tucson. This attraction is one-of-a-kind and offers visitors a chance to see science and architecture combined into one excellent location. Biosphere 2 is a vast scientific camp presenting earth systems science research.

Biosphere 2 is named for the Earth, as it is literally the lesser version of earth and operates similarly to our atmosphere. The location and vast expanse of land surrounding the facility make it a popular photo-op destination.

5. El Tiradito Wishing Shrine

Our last stop on the way to Tucson is El Tiradito Wishing Shrine. El Tiradito is historical and mesmerizing in equal measure, and it holds an impressive significance for the people of Tucson. The shrine is a place of historic significance, having been abandoned after a fire in the early 20th century.

According to legend, the shrine predates the 19th-century and is a miracle and hope to many people looking for answers and solutions. This place is unique, and visitors can leave a candle with their prayers inside the shrine.

Conclusion

The trip from Benson to Tucson is packed with must-see sites, and any of these listed locations guarantee an unforgettable experience. The changing landscape, historical significance, and mesmerizing views of the beautiful Tucson will make you feel like you’ve been on a grand tour. While we've only listed the essential destinations, there is so much more to explore along the way, so take your time and soak it all in. Make the most of your trip from Benson to Tucson, and let these five incredible stops be among your road trip memories.