Best Of Tucson®

Best Urban Landscaping

University of Arizona Campus

That big, grassy expanse running down the center of the UA campus is great if you're a dog fetching Frisbees; the rest of us can appreciate other elements of the university's remarkably varied landscape. Start with the remnant of the Joseph Wood Krutch cactus garden, which used to stretch from the midpoint of the mall all the way to Old Main; check out its rare boojum trees. Head south on Highland Avenue, and swing right into Highland Commons to stretch out in the sunny amphitheater. Admire the 60-year-old eucalyptus trees along Bear Down Gym, then hike to the west end of campus to inspect a grove of olive trees planted in the 1890s. Maps and guides to UA flora, including tree and plant walks, are available at the UA Arboretum website.

Runners up:

2. Tohono Chul Park

7366 N. Paseo Del Norte

742-6455; tohonochulpark.org

3. Tucson Botanical Gardens

2150 N. Alvernon Way

326-9686; tucsonbotanical.org