What makes a city surprising? According to AFAR, it’s another way of calling it underrated or lesser-known. The magazine recently published their list of “9 of the Most Surprising Cities in the U.S.,” and Tucson made the cut! Here are just a few things that set the Old Pueblo apart from other cities.

We already knew how amazing Tucson is, but it's nice to finally see the rest of the world warming up to the idea.
Flickr/Dirk DBQ
According to AFAR, the Old Pueblo is among the most underrated and "surprising" cities in the U.S.—and we couldn't agree more.
You can't talk about Tucson without mentioning the all-important Sonoran Dog.
TripAdvisor/CMPTexas
There's a restaurant on every corner serving up this local delicacy, but few compare to the quality and authenticity dished out by El Guero Canelo. Owner Daniel Contreras has three restaurants in the city, so there's no excuse not to stop by!
Certain places are must-visits when in Tucson, and the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures is among them.
TripAdvisor/travelguru-su
This unique and family-friendly museum features over 500 antique and contemporary dollhouses, many showcasing the unique construction style of various historic buildings around the city.

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Arizona is also home to some of the darkest skies in the nation, which you can admire firsthand at the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter, located about 17 miles outside of Tucson.
Facebook/Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter
Not only will you see millions of stars and other celestial bodies, but you can also marvel at the city skyline that appears to stretch infinitely into the distance.
Perhaps the most magical thing about Tucson is its vast, rugged desert landscape.
Flickr/John Fowler
Just outside of the city, Saguaro National Park spans over 90,000 acres and boasts more than two million Saguaro cacti. This particular type of cactus is only found in the desert Southwest, and each one can live up to 250 years!
If you're in search of a place to stay after exploring the park from dawn 'til dusk, look no further than La Posada Lodge and Casitas.
La Posada Lodge website
Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this boutique hotel offers a unique blend of modern luxury and historic Southwestern décor and architecture.
All in all, Tucson being ranked among the most surprising cities in the U.S. comes as no surprise to native Arizonans (although it's still an impressive accolade!)
Flickr/psyberartist
To read the full report by AFAR, click here.

Do you think Tucson is among the most surprising cities in the nation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section, and check out our previous article for a fun bike adventure to embark on while you’re in town.

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Featured Addresses
Tucson, AZ, USA
8892 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85749, USA
El Güero Canelo Restaurant, 2480 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA
5900 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704, USA
Saguaro National Park, Arizona, USA
The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, 4455 E Camp Lowell Dr, Tucson, AZ 85712, USA