Considered the biggest attraction in all of the southwest, Tucson is not your typical Arizona town, featuring modern shopping malls, spacious family parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and old western vacation ranches all in one spot.  From the Colossal Cave Mountain Park (a popular attraction among families and little kids) to privately-owned vacation ranches just outside of Tucson, there is promise of adventure wherever you turn -- an ideal vacation spot for restless kids and busy families.

Lodging, a key point in Tucson, ranges from your run-of-the-mill hotels to local ranches, an attraction itself in sunny Tucson.  Surrounded only by vast, colorful deserts and thriving wildlife, ranches are very popular for long, summery vacations.  They tend to be pricier than hotels in town, however.  Older kids, on the other hand, will enjoy the modern hotels located inside of town (usually running about $50 cheaper than locally owned ranches).  Another advantage of these modern hotels are the numerous attractions nearby, including Tucson's affluent shopping district.  Visit a couple of state parks for a fun, family adventure.  Want to learn more about vacations in Tucson?  Learn more about vacation lodging at Tucson's official wiki, which covers hotels, motels, ranches, family attractions, and nearby cities.

• Read more reviews of kid-friendly hotels in Tucson at CiaoBambino.com