(Photo courtesy of Sedona Beer Company)

Escaping the Tucson Gem Show: Travel Guides for Nearby Foodie Destinations


January 19, 2024
By Tucson Foodie

Hey, the annual Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, other Gem Shows around town, and the crowds that come with them aren’t for everyone. For those who would rather use the hustle and bustle associated with Gem Show season as an excuse to hit the road and explore nearby cities, we at Tucson Foodie have a handful of guides prepared for some tasty motivation. 

Whether it’s the allure of Bisbee’s artistic charm, the breathtaking views of Sedona, or the urban buzz of Phoenix and San Diego, we’ve crafted a round-up of 15 spots perfect for your palate-pleasing retreat. Delve into our top recommendations for food and drink spots for each city, including Flagstaff — food and beer — and the vineyards of Sonoita-Elgin, by tapping or clicking the photos below to explore each destination’s guide. 

So, trade the gem-studded excitement for a culinary gem experience and let these guides be your compass as you wander, relax, and revel in a getaway beyond the Tucson Gem Show frenzy.

Have no fear, though, for those staying in town to get down on all of that Tucson Gem Show goodness, we’ve got you covered on the “Where to Eat” front, too. 

Our guides are curated by dedicated Tucsonans including the Tucson Foodie team, local experts, and members of the Tucson Foodie Insiders – all of whom share a passion for food. Based on audience feedback, our guides were our most-requested feature; hence, our increased focus on them. So, these guides are for you

We’re aware this list does not include all restaurants that could fit the title; however, we hope it offers you a good place to start and inspires you to explore the city and create a list of your own. Learn more about our guides process here, and find all of our guides at tucsonfoodie.com/guides.

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Check out all of our interactive guides for more local suggestions.

Tucson Foodie is a locally owned and operated community. Thanks to our partners and members, we are able to offer paywall-free guides and articles. We value your support and invite you to become a Tucson Foodie Insider today.

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