Attending the creative performances of dance and theatre is a popular activity among Tucson residents and visitors alike. The Arizona Theatre Company, Arizona Onstage Productions, Thom Lewis Dance Company and Ballet Tucson feature some of the finest musical and dancing presentations in the area.

Tucson is home to the University of Arizona, which is located right in the central area. Unlike many other city hearts, central Tucson is bicycle-friendly, and some streets only allow local automobile traffic. The area around the university is known for its eclectic mix of stores, with the El Con Mall providing a more traditional shopping experience.