Your Home Base for the Best of Tucson

Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, a college town, a military hub, and a gateway to stunning desert landscapes. Here are some of our favorite things to see, do, and eat within easy reach of The Kennedy.

Viewing:
a table with food and drinksLink to Larger Item Photo, Taqueria Pico de Gallo - ListItem1, ListItemCarouselImage1

Taqueria Pico de Gallo Distance: ~0.4 miles | 2618 S 6th Ave

The closest restaurant to The Kennedy. Authentic handmade tacos, burritos, tostadas, and arguably the best horchata in the city.

a plate of meat and mashed potatoesLink to Larger Item Photo, Silver Saddle Steakhouse - ListItem2, ListItemCarouselImage1

Silver Saddle Steakhouse Distance: ~0.9 miles | 310 E Benson Hwy

Right on Benson Highway, this Tucson classic serves up mesquite-grilled steaks, prime rib, and BBQ ribs in a timeless western atmosphere. One of the highest-rated restaurants in south Tucson.

food on a wooden boardLink to Larger Item Photo, Rollies Mexican Patio - ListItem3, ListItemCarouselImage1

Rollies Mexican Patio Distance: ~1.9 miles | 4573 S 12th Ave

A Tucson staple and UNESCO City of Gastronomy certified restaurant. Known for birria tacos, Sonoran hot dogs, and bold, creative Mexican flavors. A local favorite you won't want to miss.

Lindys on 4th burgersLink to Larger Item Photo, Lindy's on 4th - ListItem4, ListItemCarouselImage1

Lindy's on 4th Distance: ~2.2 miles | 500 N 4th Ave

Tucson's most celebrated burger joint. Fresh, never-frozen beef from Arizona family-owned ranches, creative toppings, and a lively atmosphere featured on national TV.

El Güero Canelo foodLink to Larger Item Photo, El Güero Canelo - ListItem5, ListItemCarouselImage1

El Güero Canelo Distance: ~2.5 miles | 5201 S 12th Ave

A Tucson institution since 1993 and James Beard Award winner. Famous for its award-winning Sonoran hot dog, carne asada, and caramelos. A must-try Tucson experience.

a group of people clinking glasses of beerLink to Larger Item Photo, Barrio Brewing Co. - ListItem6, ListItemCarouselImage1

Barrio Brewing Co. Distance: ~2.6 miles | 800 E 16th St

A Tucson favorite since 1991, known for handcrafted beers, laid back atmosphere, and Southwest inspired pub fare. A great spot to experience Tucson's local craft beer scene.

Kino Sports ComplexLink to Larger Item Photo, Kino Sports Complex - ListItem7, ListItemCarouselImage1

Kino Sports Complex Distance: ~1.2 miles | 2500 E Ajo Way

The largest professional sports and entertainment venue of its kind in Pima County. Spanning over 300 acres of natural grass fields and facilities — built for teams and fans alike.

University of ArizonaLink to Larger Item Photo, University of Arizona - ListItem8, ListItemCarouselImage1

University of Arizona Distance: ~3.2 miles | 1200 E University Blvd

A world-class public research university and home of the Wildcats. A hub for college sports, alumni events, and Tucson's vibrant college-town energy.

Line of military fighter jets ready for takeoff during a scenic sunset.Link to Larger Item Photo, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base - ListItem9, ListItemCarouselImage1

Davis-Monthan Air Force Base Distance: ~4 miles | S Wilmot Rd

Home to the famous Boneyard aircraft storage facility. A major destination for military families and personnel visiting Tucson.

Mission San Xavier del BacLink to Larger Item Photo, Mission San Xavier del Bac - ListItem10, ListItemCarouselImage1

Mission San Xavier del Bac Distance: ~6 miles | 1950 W San Xavier Rd

Step into centuries of Arizona history at Mission San Xavier del Bac, a beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial mission often called the “White Dove of the Desert.” Intricate artwork, historic architecture, and cultural significance make it one of Tucson’s most treasured landmarks.

Historic space suits showcased in a museum with ample natural light.Link to Larger Item Photo, Pima Air & Space Museum - ListItem11, ListItemCarouselImage1

Pima Air & Space Museum Distance: ~7 miles | 6000 E Valencia Rd

Explore one of the world's largest aviation museums at Pima Air & Space Museum, where hundreds of historic aircraft are on display across expansive indoor and outdoor exhibits. It's a fascinating destination for history buffs, aviation enthusiasts, and families alike.

Saguaro National ParkLink to Larger Item Photo, Saguaro National Park - ListItem12, ListItemCarouselImage1

Saguaro National Park Distance: ~13 miles | 3693 South Old Spanish Trail

Iconic giant saguaro cactus forests with scenic drives, hiking trails, wildlife, and ancient petroglyphs. A true Arizona bucket-list experience.

a group of people holding glasses of beerLink to Larger Item Photo, Gentle Ben's - ListItem13, ListItemCarouselImage1

Gentle Ben's Distance: ~4.1 miles | 865 E University Blvd

Gentle Ben's has been a Tucson favorite since 1971, opening around the same time as The Kennedy. Known for its house-brewed beers and spacious patio overlooking the street, it's a popular spot for gathering with friends.

a group of people sitting at tables outside at nightLink to Larger Item Photo, Sky Bar - ListItem14, ListItemCarouselImage1

Sky Bar Distance: ~4.1 miles | 536 N 4th Ave

Sky Bar has been a Fourth Avenue favorite for years, offering a unique mix of live music, local art, and stargazing. Known for its astronomy theme and patio telescopes, it's a laid-back spot where guests can enjoy a drink while taking in Tucson's night sky.

a street with cars and people on itLink to Larger Item Photo, Fourth Avenue & Downtown - ListItem15, ListItemCarouselImage1

Fourth Avenue & Downtown Distance: ~4.4 miles | Fourth Avenue

Fourth Avenue and downtown Tucson are home to a variety of bars, live music venues, and local favorites, all within easy reach of The Kennedy. If you're looking for the perfect spot for a night out, just ask our front desk for recommendations.

Lively crowd capturing concert moments on smartphones, vibrant lights create dynamic atmosphere.Link to Larger Item Photo, Club Congress - ListItem16, ListItemCarouselImage1

Club Congress Distance: ~5 miles | 311 E Congress St #1811

A Tucson nightlife staple, Club Congress blends historic charm with live music, special events, cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere that has welcomed locals and visitors for generations.

a person pouring a drink into a glassLink to Larger Item Photo, Batch - ListItem17, ListItemCarouselImage1

Batch Distance: ~5 miles | 118 E Congress St

One of Tucson's top whiskey destinations, Batch pairs an extensive spirits selection with creative cocktails, a cozy atmosphere, and its signature whiskey-and-doughnut experience.

a group of drinks on a barLink to Larger Item Photo, The Shelter Cocktail Lounge - ListItem18, ListItemCarouselImage1

The Shelter Distance: ~8.2 miles | 4155 E Grant Rd

The Shelter is our kind of place. It opened in 1961 in an old bomb shelter. It is full of red light, funky old style, and JFK photos and fun junk. It has one of the best drink lists in town and is just ten minutes away.