September 2025, page 33

September 2025

32 SEPTEMBER 2025 I n southern Arizona lies Tubac, a charming village with a rich tapestry of creativity and culture, where the dust and dreams of another era still linger. Understanding the history starts with the story of Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. Wandering through the museum and the ruins of the old presidio, visitors find a story of passion and persistence, where Spanish soldiers and Native O’odham people worked together and shared this land long before statehood was considered. Artifacts, including tools of the trade from Arizona’s earliest settlers to the 1885 schoolhouse, stand as a reminder of how deeply rooted Tubac’s story is. From the state park, follow the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, an eight- mile round-trip hike that will lead hikers to Tumacácori National Historical Park. The trail hugs the Santa Cruz River, where as many as 350 bird species are known to flutter through the cottonwoods. Tumacácori National Historical Park is where the O’odham, Yaqui, and Apache peoples crossed paths with Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries, settlers, and soldiers from distant lands – in both conflict and harmony. The paths tell stories of culture, connection, and tradition. In the 1930s, Tubac blossomed into a vibrant artist colony, and now there are more than 100 galleries and shops highlighting everything from fine art to handcrafted jewelry. Tubac is known as one of the great art towns of the American West, and has become a creative retreat for painters, sculptors, potters, and jewelers. Tubac’s charm lies in how it blends artistic expression with historical depth and its roots. The best place to savor the heritage and soul of those roots is Elvira’s, a Mexican fusion restaurant where the décor is as bold as the flavors. Whether it’s the scampi al mojo de ajo, the mole, or the chile rellenos, every bite is layered with tradition that has been lovingly curated by generations of the Monroy family since 1927. If you are feeling dusty from travel, galleries, and culinary fiestas, the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa is the perfect place for rest. This property was once part of the historic Otero Ranch and is famous for its 27-hole golf course (Remember Tin Cup with Kevin Costner? Yep, that was filmed here!), desert views, and the cows that enjoy grazing the fairway – a charming blend of ranch life and golf resort vibes. Tubac is the picture of small-town Arizona, where history, art, and cultural heritage converge. It isn’t just a town to visit – it is a place to slow down, celebrate with food and drink, explore, be inspired, and belong. A hidden gem of art, history, and culture in Tubac Robin is the host and executive producer of the Arizona Highways Television , Saturdays and Sundays on CBS. BY ROBIN SEWELL Elvira’s Mexican restaurant has been owned and run by the Monroy family since 1927. (right) The Rogoway Turquoise Tortoise Gallery is one of hundreds of shops in Tubac.