2010 04 08 AZ, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Our day in Tucson started with a drive through Arizona toward Saguaro National Park. While looking for a place to grab a bite to eat we discovered there wasn't much available in the area. A Park Ranger suggested we try the cafe at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum so we were off. The museum is open every day of the year. It was founded in 1952 and is a private, non-profit whose operations and growth are entirely financed by admissions, memberships and contributions.

We were pleasantly surprised with our visit. Stunning examples of over 100 species of cactus and other desert plants were set in a landscaped setting. A nicely paved 1/2 mile loop trail provided sweeping views of the Avra and Altar valleys. Plants, Animals and minerals are also on display - probably one of the most interesting mineral displays I've ever visited. There is a Bighorn sheep exhibit and 2 aviaries one with over 40 species of native birds, the other with several species of native hummingbirds. There also fish and amphibians too. A great place for kids, young and old.

Back to why we came....Food! The food at the Ironwood Terraces Restaurant was delicious. Joe had a nice Cobb salad and I had a delicious blue corn crusted chicken breast with chipotle sweet potatoes. Not at all what we expected - we were sure it would be a hot dog kind of menu!