By Christie DeMason, MD, FAAOA Spring is here and whether we are ready for it or not, pollen season is here as well. There is a lot of information especially on social media about how to avoid pollen, but not all…
Beyond the AAOA Annual Meeting: Discovering Tucson from Ventana Canyon
September is a wonderful time to visit Tucson, with the desert landscape refreshed by monsoon rains and cooler evenings that make it easy to explore. Even during a busy and content-rich 2026 AAOA Annual Meeting, you’ll find no shortage of ways to enjoy Tucson—from scenic desert drives and unforgettable stargazing to excellent dining and quick outdoor escapes.
Things to Do in Tucson (Near Ventana Canyon)
Quick Nature Escapes (5–15 minutes)
- Visit Sabino Canyon Recreation Area for an easy walk, tram ride, or short hike
- Explore the Ventana Canyon trails directly from Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
- Take a short scenic drive toward Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway for cooler and mountain views
Scenic & Memorable Experiences
- Sunset views along Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
- Stargazing at Mount Lemmon SkyCenter
- Half-day visit to Saguaro National Park for classic desert landscapes
Dining & Social Spots
- Dinner at Flying V Bar & Grill (on-site, upscale Southwestern)
- Drinks and light bites at Cascade Lounge
- Local dining at El Charro Café or Wildflower
More to See Nearby (15–30 Minutes from Ventana Canyon)
If you can come a day early or extend your stay after the AAOA Annual Meeting, you’ll have time to explore several standout attractions just a short drive from Loews Ventana Canyon Resort.
- Head downtown to explore Fourth Avenue, known for its shops, cafés, and relaxed nightlife atmosphere
- Explore the iconic desert landscapes of Saguaro National Park, where towering cacti and scenic drives provide a quintessential Arizona experience
- Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a unique combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum that showcases the region’s biodiversity
- Step back in time at Mission San Xavier del Bac, a beautifully preserved historic Spanish mission
- Discover aviation history at the Pima Air & Space Museum, home to one of the largest aircraft collections in the country
Between-Session Refresh Ideas
Perfect for short breaks without overcommitting:
- Spa time at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort (massage, sauna, pool)
- Quick 20–30 min hike or walk on nearby desert trails
- Poolside reset with mountain views
- Early morning coffee + desert sunrise walk
- Short meditation or quiet time outdoors surrounded by desert scenery
Register for the 2026 AAOA Annual Meeting today, it is FREE for all AAOA Members, and start looking forward to an unforgettable experience in Tucson, AZ!
