It’s summertime, and many are hitting the road for the coast, the pines or other cooler climates. But don’t forget Tucson! This sister to the southeast is just a short jaunt from Phoenix and holds a treasure trove of hidden gems!

Case in point: Tohono Chul, the stunning 49-acre botanic garden, arboretum and nature preserve located at 7366 N. Paseo Del Norte, offers cool events, seasonal experiences, discounts and deals that are well worth the drive!

To help keep things cool, Tohono Chul’s summer hours begin at 7 a.m. (closing at 2 p.m.) through Monday, Sept. 7. On Friday and Saturdays, Chillin’ at the Chul events offer extended nighttime hours from 6 to 9 p.m., with live music, drinks, shopping, art exhibits, family-friendly activities such as silent disco and after-hours garden experiences for the whole family. These events are free for members and children under the age of two and just $5 admission for the general public.

Tohono Chul’s free daytime admission for active-duty military personnel and their families is offered throughout the summer through the Blue Star Museum program, a collaboration between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families.

Summer is also the perfect time to obtain a Tohono Chul membership for a steal. New members will receive 25% off annual family-level memberships and above, through Tuesday, June 30. This discount can be obtained online using code FAMILY2026. It is offered at the admissions windows as well.

For more about Tohono Chul, visit www.tohonochul.org.