Barrio Viejo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n![](\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nStep back in time and explore Barrio Viejo. It is one of the only neighborhoods left standing after the Urban Renewal programs wiped out much of Tucson\u2019s historic Mexican barrios, offering a rare glimpse into the city\u2019s past.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Colorful adobe buildings line its narrow and quiet streets, showcasing the influence of Sonoran architecture and the deep cultural roots that shaped Tucson. Back in the day, these adobe houses were seen as being a part of a slum, but today they are celebrated as a reminder of the resilience of those who built the town. Now, even as pockets of local businesses have sprung up, including El Minuto Cafe, The Coronet Cafe, and 5 Points Market, it\u2019s still a whisper of the lively environment it once was.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nEl Tiradito Shrine<\/strong><\/h2>\nWhile you\u2019re exploring the old barrio, don\u2019t miss El Tiradito, a shrine that\u2019s rooted in folklore, with a history dating back over a century. Legend has it that after a steamy love affair with his mother-in-law, Juan Oliveras is killed by his father-in-law with an axe to the back. Due to the \u201cadulterous nature\u201d of his death, Oliveras is buried in unconsecrated land. Over time, El Tiradito, or \u201cthe little castaway,\u201d became a sacred site where visitors light candles and leave offerings; it\u2019s believed that if a candle burns all night, a wish will be granted.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Every time I\u2019ve visited, candles are already burning, their wax dripping down, covering and darkening the shrine\u2019s walls \u2014 a sign of all those who\u2019ve come to pray. The shrine remains a significant place for the Latine community, hosting vigils and events, including memorials like the one recently held for Congressman Raul Grijalva.<\/p>\n
Mercado San Agustin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nNear the base of Sentinel Peak, also known as \u201cA Mountain,\u201d is Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant open-air courtyard that brings together traditional flavors with modern vibes. It\u2019s home to a bustling farmer\u2019s market, along with a hub of Latine-owned local shops and eateries like Seis Kitchen and La Estrella Bakery (one of Tucson\u2019s most beloved and historic pan dulce spots). You can sip coffee with pan dulce, enjoy some of Tucson\u2019s Mexican food, and shop artisan goods \u2014 all in one place.<\/p>\n
Just steps away is the MSA Annex, an extension of the mercado that\u2019s made from repurposed shipping containers. It\u2019s packed with even more local gems like Rollies Mexican Patio<\/a> (go for rolled tacos and birria ramen), Why I Love Where I Live <\/a>(a shop completely devoted to celebrating local vendors), and Decibel Coffee Works<\/a> (famous for its small-batch roasted coffees), offering an eclectic mix of shopping, food, and community space.<\/p>\nMission San Xavier del Bac<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nMission San Xavier del Bac<\/a> is one of Arizona\u2019s oldest European structures and a key cultural and spiritual landmark. Founded by Father Kino to spread Catholicism to Indigenous communities, the mission is a breathtaking example of Spanish colonial architecture. Every detail, from the floor-to-ceiling artwork to the intricate sculptures, tells a centuries-old story.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nThough the church is beautiful inside and out, my favorite memories are of hiking the hill beside it to reach the cross at the top to find a moment of spiritual connectedness. There is something so special about this historic landmark and the earth it sits on: Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, a federally recognized Native American tribal land. It\u2019s open to the public, but it\u2019s important to show respect for their land, culture, and customs when you visit (that means not disturbing natural elements and being mindful of private residences). Near the church, pick up some fry bread, a fried sweet or savory dough treat from Santa Rosa Cafe<\/a>, an O\u2019odham family operation; peruse the assortment of Native American jewelry at gift shops; and stop by the San Xavier Co-Op<\/a>, a farm that\u2019s run by members of Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, to pick up fresh produce and sundries.<\/p>\nTumerico<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nTumerico <\/a>is a vibrant, Latina-owned gem that reimagines traditional Mexican food through a plant-based, locally sourced, and sustainable lens. Named the number-one vegan restaurant in the U.S.<\/a>, it\u2019s more than just a place to eat \u2014 it\u2019s a celebration of culture, flavor, and community.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nWalking inside you\u2019ll be greeted by Spanish music playing softly overhead and colorful art lining the walls. On my last visit, a large family behind me was teaching their three young children Spanish by naming the foods on their table, a beautiful reminder of how deeply culture and food are intertwined. Their tacos de papa taste just like my mom\u2019s, the beans are pure comfort, and the jamaica is perfectly sweet. It\u2019s the perfect place for sobremesa, where food naturally sparks connection and conversation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
El G\u00fcero Canelo<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885866.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nStep back in time and explore Barrio Viejo. It is one of the only neighborhoods left standing after the Urban Renewal programs wiped out much of Tucson\u2019s historic Mexican barrios, offering a rare glimpse into the city\u2019s past.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Colorful adobe buildings line its narrow and quiet streets, showcasing the influence of Sonoran architecture and the deep cultural roots that shaped Tucson. Back in the day, these adobe houses were seen as being a part of a slum, but today they are celebrated as a reminder of the resilience of those who built the town. Now, even as pockets of local businesses have sprung up, including El Minuto Cafe, The Coronet Cafe, and 5 Points Market, it\u2019s still a whisper of the lively environment it once was.\u00a0<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885860.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nEl Tiradito Shrine<\/strong><\/h2>\nWhile you\u2019re exploring the old barrio, don\u2019t miss El Tiradito, a shrine that\u2019s rooted in folklore, with a history dating back over a century. Legend has it that after a steamy love affair with his mother-in-law, Juan Oliveras is killed by his father-in-law with an axe to the back. Due to the \u201cadulterous nature\u201d of his death, Oliveras is buried in unconsecrated land. Over time, El Tiradito, or \u201cthe little castaway,\u201d became a sacred site where visitors light candles and leave offerings; it\u2019s believed that if a candle burns all night, a wish will be granted.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Every time I\u2019ve visited, candles are already burning, their wax dripping down, covering and darkening the shrine\u2019s walls \u2014 a sign of all those who\u2019ve come to pray. The shrine remains a significant place for the Latine community, hosting vigils and events, including memorials like the one recently held for Congressman Raul Grijalva.<\/p>\n
Mercado San Agustin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nNear the base of Sentinel Peak, also known as \u201cA Mountain,\u201d is Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant open-air courtyard that brings together traditional flavors with modern vibes. It\u2019s home to a bustling farmer\u2019s market, along with a hub of Latine-owned local shops and eateries like Seis Kitchen and La Estrella Bakery (one of Tucson\u2019s most beloved and historic pan dulce spots). You can sip coffee with pan dulce, enjoy some of Tucson\u2019s Mexican food, and shop artisan goods \u2014 all in one place.<\/p>\n
Just steps away is the MSA Annex, an extension of the mercado that\u2019s made from repurposed shipping containers. It\u2019s packed with even more local gems like Rollies Mexican Patio<\/a> (go for rolled tacos and birria ramen), Why I Love Where I Live <\/a>(a shop completely devoted to celebrating local vendors), and Decibel Coffee Works<\/a> (famous for its small-batch roasted coffees), offering an eclectic mix of shopping, food, and community space.<\/p>\nMission San Xavier del Bac<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nMission San Xavier del Bac<\/a> is one of Arizona\u2019s oldest European structures and a key cultural and spiritual landmark. Founded by Father Kino to spread Catholicism to Indigenous communities, the mission is a breathtaking example of Spanish colonial architecture. Every detail, from the floor-to-ceiling artwork to the intricate sculptures, tells a centuries-old story.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nThough the church is beautiful inside and out, my favorite memories are of hiking the hill beside it to reach the cross at the top to find a moment of spiritual connectedness. There is something so special about this historic landmark and the earth it sits on: Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, a federally recognized Native American tribal land. It\u2019s open to the public, but it\u2019s important to show respect for their land, culture, and customs when you visit (that means not disturbing natural elements and being mindful of private residences). Near the church, pick up some fry bread, a fried sweet or savory dough treat from Santa Rosa Cafe<\/a>, an O\u2019odham family operation; peruse the assortment of Native American jewelry at gift shops; and stop by the San Xavier Co-Op<\/a>, a farm that\u2019s run by members of Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, to pick up fresh produce and sundries.<\/p>\nTumerico<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nTumerico <\/a>is a vibrant, Latina-owned gem that reimagines traditional Mexican food through a plant-based, locally sourced, and sustainable lens. Named the number-one vegan restaurant in the U.S.<\/a>, it\u2019s more than just a place to eat \u2014 it\u2019s a celebration of culture, flavor, and community.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nWalking inside you\u2019ll be greeted by Spanish music playing softly overhead and colorful art lining the walls. On my last visit, a large family behind me was teaching their three young children Spanish by naming the foods on their table, a beautiful reminder of how deeply culture and food are intertwined. Their tacos de papa taste just like my mom\u2019s, the beans are pure comfort, and the jamaica is perfectly sweet. It\u2019s the perfect place for sobremesa, where food naturally sparks connection and conversation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
El G\u00fcero Canelo<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885868.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nNear the base of Sentinel Peak, also known as \u201cA Mountain,\u201d is Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant open-air courtyard that brings together traditional flavors with modern vibes. It\u2019s home to a bustling farmer\u2019s market, along with a hub of Latine-owned local shops and eateries like Seis Kitchen and La Estrella Bakery (one of Tucson\u2019s most beloved and historic pan dulce spots). You can sip coffee with pan dulce, enjoy some of Tucson\u2019s Mexican food, and shop artisan goods \u2014 all in one place.<\/p>\n
Just steps away is the MSA Annex, an extension of the mercado that\u2019s made from repurposed shipping containers. It\u2019s packed with even more local gems like Rollies Mexican Patio<\/a> (go for rolled tacos and birria ramen), Why I Love Where I Live <\/a>(a shop completely devoted to celebrating local vendors), and Decibel Coffee Works<\/a> (famous for its small-batch roasted coffees), offering an eclectic mix of shopping, food, and community space.<\/p>\n Mission San Xavier del Bac<\/a> is one of Arizona\u2019s oldest European structures and a key cultural and spiritual landmark. Founded by Father Kino to spread Catholicism to Indigenous communities, the mission is a breathtaking example of Spanish colonial architecture. Every detail, from the floor-to-ceiling artwork to the intricate sculptures, tells a centuries-old story.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Though the church is beautiful inside and out, my favorite memories are of hiking the hill beside it to reach the cross at the top to find a moment of spiritual connectedness. There is something so special about this historic landmark and the earth it sits on: Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, a federally recognized Native American tribal land. It\u2019s open to the public, but it\u2019s important to show respect for their land, culture, and customs when you visit (that means not disturbing natural elements and being mindful of private residences). Near the church, pick up some fry bread, a fried sweet or savory dough treat from Santa Rosa Cafe<\/a>, an O\u2019odham family operation; peruse the assortment of Native American jewelry at gift shops; and stop by the San Xavier Co-Op<\/a>, a farm that\u2019s run by members of Tohono O\u2019odham Nation, to pick up fresh produce and sundries.<\/p>\n Tumerico <\/a>is a vibrant, Latina-owned gem that reimagines traditional Mexican food through a plant-based, locally sourced, and sustainable lens. Named the number-one vegan restaurant in the U.S.<\/a>, it\u2019s more than just a place to eat \u2014 it\u2019s a celebration of culture, flavor, and community.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Walking inside you\u2019ll be greeted by Spanish music playing softly overhead and colorful art lining the walls. On my last visit, a large family behind me was teaching their three young children Spanish by naming the foods on their table, a beautiful reminder of how deeply culture and food are intertwined. Their tacos de papa taste just like my mom\u2019s, the beans are pure comfort, and the jamaica is perfectly sweet. It\u2019s the perfect place for sobremesa, where food naturally sparks connection and conversation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\nMission San Xavier del Bac<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885873.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nTumerico<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885874.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nEl G\u00fcero Canelo<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11885878.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11888765.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![](\"https:\/\/homestac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/11888766.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n