Why I XO Tucson

In my world, "XO" has always been more than a sign-off to friends and family—it’s a symbol of genuine connection. I founded XO Tucson as a tribute to the city that raised me; a place defined by its deep history, world-class flavors, and soulful community.

A City of Legends

Settled on one of the longest continuously inhabited spots in North America, Tucson has a character that is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s a spirit so distinct that it has been memorialized in dozens of popular songs over the decades.

Culture & Conservation

Tucson is home to a landscape and a lifestyle like no other.

  • UNESCO City of Gastronomy: A world-renowned culinary scene with a growing list of James Beard-recognized talent.

  • Conservation Culture: A community dedicated to protecting our unique saguaro forests and desert wildlife.

  • Authentic Spirit: A place where historic roots meet a thriving modern art and wellness scene.

    Tucson is as unique as its name, and everyone has a different reason for why they love it. I’m here to help you discover yours.

The XO Tucson Soundtrack

The XO Tucson Soundtrack: A collection of songs that mention the Old Pueblo.

XO Tucson | Top Fives

XO Tucson
Screen Shot 2019-07-10 at 8.15.28 PM.jpg
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Tucson, Arizona

Tucked away in a corner of St. Philip’s Plaza at River and Campbell is this bright and friendly gem of a coffeehouse. I passed by Ren for a whole year, never quite registering that it was there, and once I visited, it instantly became my favorite place in town.

Read more →
Myiarchus_cinerascens.jpg
My Top 5 Favorite Tucson Birds

This bird is on this list not because it is the most beautiful, not the most impressive...it’s here because it cracks me up! We had a breeding pair in our Saguaro in the backyard this Spring, and every morning…

Read more →
sabino-creek-hike-tucson.jpg
Top 5 Easy Hikes in Tucson Arizona

Sabino Lake Loop is a 2.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Tucson, Arizona that features a small lake and hiking along Sabino Creek. It’s a good trail for all skill levels, and if there is water in the canyon, you could be getting your feet wet!

Read more →

XO Tucson | Values

  • Kitchen scene with two chefs working: one chef is seen from the back, wearing a white uniform, working at a counter with fresh greens, and another chef in the background is wearing a white hat and apron, busy preparing food.

    Culture & Food

    "A city celebrated for its food scene."

    -The New York Times
    4/17/2025

  • Silhouette of cactus plants against a starry night sky with the Milky Way galaxy.

    Natural Beauty

    "For decades, Tucson and surrounding communities have maintained outdoor lighting regulations that limit light pollution and safeguard stargazing…one of the best cities for seeing stars."

    -The New York Times
    4/7/2026

  • A city skyline with tall buildings and mountains in the background.

    Job Growth

    "Tucson is a standout city for a tech career in 2026, especially if you thrive in specialized fields like aerospace, defense, or applied AI."

    -NuCamp
    3/30/2026

  • Close-up of a silver, corrugated metal surface with a wavy edge, likely a stack of metal sheets or cans.

    Conservation

    "The One Water approach—valuing every water source and using each drop wisely…is actively shaping how we manage water for today and for generations to come. Tucson is one of the first communities in the nation to move from One Water planning into full-scale implementation, and the results are already creating an impact."

    -City of Tucson
    July 2025