Relaxing Wind Down in Southern Arizona's Wine Country

Start your day off with an absolute treat: a locally made and authentically delicious bagel. Bubbe's (Grandma's) is a standout breakfast spot, with huge and reasonable bagels complete with a delightful variety of schmears. Their rapid expansion tells you that these bagels are the real deal. Splurge for the white fish salad bagel sandwich and you will not be disappointed.

This is the visitor center for the East Division of Saguaro National Park. You may think, more Saguaros? But this division has a surprisingly distinct landscape. The East wing of the park features a beautiful one-way loop drive at the base of the Rincon Mountains with a few easy trails along the way. Chat with a ranger at the visitor center for more information on the park.

On your way into the Sonoita and Elgin area, stop off at Copper Brothel for a tasty lunch. Complete with raunchy brothel-based names for their brews, and Southwestern-inspired food and American favorites, they have a small plate or entree for everyone. The pork green chile is a great place to start!

Something of a newcomer on the Southern Arizona wine scene, Autumn Sage boasts one of the more lovely vineyards and tasting rooms. With a peaceful pond, frequent live music and a super consistent lineup of wines, this is a top stop in Sonoita/Elgin. Autumn Sage is one of the countries largest Sagrantino grape producers, and their Sagrantino Estate wine is the star of the show.

Around since 2010, Flying Leap has rapidly developed a reputation as one of the region's top winemakers. If it has flavor, Flying Leap can create it: having expanded with a distillery, and also serving as the parent company to a spice maker, this vineyard with humble beginnings is dominating the Arizona food and beverage market. Do not miss the Cabernet Franc (if it is available: it goes fast!).

This is what saving the best for last tastes like: BOCA is Tucson's finest taco joint. Chef Maria Mazon was born in Tucson and raised in Sonora, Mexico, and her regional classics and modern twists have earned her a slew of accolades. Do not miss the salsa flight and fresh made tortilla chips. Two tacos is typically plenty for one, but share a few if you are traveling with others. Both flour and corn tortillas are standouts.