When someone brings up Tucson, what comes to mind?
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As a travel writer, I consider the city highly underrated and under-the-radar—though some locals might prefer the city to stay out of the limelight.
Tucson is one of the US’s best wintering destinations. It’s also one of the more affordable small cities that has loads of character. There’s something for nature-lovers, food-lovers, and fans of slow living. Even wine-lovers have something to look forward to at the area’s local wineries.
In short, it’s a Southwestern stop that you need to pencil in if you’re a fan of the desert and dry heat—and especially if you look for destinations with a strong cultural impact. Tucson, thanks to its proximity to the border with Mexico, is an intercultural hub that has shaped the town’s identity.
It’s Southwestern through and through, in other words—and you can feel that in the design of some of its coolest Airbnbs. If you enjoy a little cowboy flair, here’s where to stay.
Airbnbs in Tucson with a classic Southwestern feel
Palo Verde Guesthouse
This guesthouse is decked out in rustic Southwestern style, from the wooden cabinets to the tilework. It’s a simple studio that comes with a shared patio, which also showcases Tucson’s Southwestern desert feel. Book now.
Hillside guesthouse near downtown
This studio is yet another guesthouse that lets you set up shop near downtown Tucson. It comes with a balcony with seating that overlooks a lovely hillside. According to the hosts, it’s a popular spot to sit and spot local wildlife, from birds to wild pigs. Book now.
Brick bungalow charmer
This one-bedroom bungalow, dating back to 1942, delivers on Southwestern design, from the cactus-dotted patio to the interior appointments. It has a high-design feel, which might not be to everyone’s tastes, but the materials used are a callback to the area’s rustic charm. Book now.
Casita Vega near University of Arizona
This gorgeous little studio sleeps up to three and is located only minutes from the University of Arizona. It doesn’t have a pure Southwestern feel—but it has a bright and bohemian feel that touches on Arizona’s Mexican heritage. Just a heads up: this is a guesthouse located on a larger property. Book now.
Sonoran-style bungalow
This Guest Favorite is a bungalow that sleeps up to two guests. It showcases Tucson’s Southwestern, Sonoran style of décor. The kitchen has colorful, Spanish-style tilework, while some older wooden features have been restored. Still, the property has been updated with modern features, giving you the best of both worlds. Book now.
Full home near Alvern Park
This two-bedroom home sleeps up to six with its sleeper couch. From the Adobe-style exterior to the terracotta tile floors, you’ll feel fully immersed in the Southwest. The interior features gorgeous wood features and a traditional adobe fireplace. It feels both rustic and upscale, giving you the feel of an Adobe cottage with the amenities of a hotel. Book now.
Charming duplex
This Adobe-style rental is part of a duplex, which has shared laundry in the back of a unit. The host is the same as the rental listed above, and this is also a Guest Favorite rental. You’ll notice a cozy interior that showcases the Southwestern flair, along with another inlaid Adobe fireplace. There’s also an exterior patio where you can enjoy the vibrant desert sunsets. Book now.
Desert experience in a historic guest ranch
Simple, comfortable, and with insane views of the surrounding desert, this historic guest ranch lets you play the part of a cowboy. Or, at least, feel like you are, thanks to its more rural location and the property’s history. Its ranches date back to the 1930s and 40s, giving you the perfect balance of old and new. Just a disclaimer: there are multiple bungalows and ranches available for rent on this property, so you aren’t fully remote. Book now.
Desert garden house near University of Arizona
This guesthouse is part of a 1940s Adobe home, which comes with a shared patio with a beehive fireplace and plenty of seating. It’s also an eco-friendly home that uses rainwater as much as possible, is powered fully by solar energy, and abides by all recycling and composting rules. They even offer an electric vehicle charger. Book now.
