Founded in 1964, the Tucson Botanical Gardens is a historic property in mid-town Tucson located on the site of the Porter property. The Canadian Garden Council named it one of the “Top 10 North American Gardens Worth Traveling For.” Distinctive features include mature trees, expertly cultivated foliage, specialty gardens, and a magical butterfly exhibit that’s home to over 400 butterflies from 11 countries. The tropical butterfly exhibit features hundreds of butterflies and beautiful blooming orchids. Keep your eyes peeled for hummingbirds, cardinals, quail, butterflies, olive trees, dwarf citrus trees, bearded iris, wildflowers, and cacti. There’s also art exhibits and galleries and the chance to have breakfast or lunch in an outdoor setting.