We started the tour at the Tucson visitors centre. There we chatted with a very friendly representative of the city. Actually, I have to say that most people we have met here have been very friendly and helpful. The tour began and ended at the visitors centre. Over the next 2 1/2 hours we followed the turquoise line as it winded its way through downtown Tucson. I have included a few of the many pictures we took on the walk. One of the points of interest that did not make the cut was the Hotel Congress. This venerable old hotel has seen a lot of action over the years. It has played host to the famous and infamous. John Dillinger and his gang stayed at the hotel. He was recognized and captured shortly thereafter in Tucson.
It wasn't all beautiful buildings and palm trees in downtown Tucson. Unfortunately Tucson is suffering the economy like most other cities. We saw similarities to what we saw in Sacramento when we were there for the marathon in December. There are definite signs of economic stress. There are many, many empty stores. There are very few restaurants or coffee shops. Although not as bad as Vancouver's downtown east side, there were many down and out folks on the street. I think it is important to see the bad along with the good. The core of any city is it's heart. I make it a practice not to ignore the complete picture. I feel that to do so would be wrong and would leave the wrong impression. A practice Vanoc and the IOC could follow, but I digress....
We wrapped up the day with a meal at El Charro mexican restaurant and a movie. We saw "Crazy Heart". Jeff Bridges deserved his Oscar nomination for his portrayal as burned out country music writer and singer. Decent movie, but not great.
Enjoy the pics!
St. Augustine Cathedral, built in 1896
Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, reconstruction of the 1775 fort.
Adobe wall of the Presidio at the original site of the 11 acre fort.
Plaza La Placita, the heart of downtown Tucson.
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