Southern Arizona Tour – Part 3: Art, Wine, and Hidden Histories
- Michelle Laudermilk
- May 25
- 4 min read
Discovering Art, Wine, and History in Southern Arizona
After two inspiring days exploring the desert’s natural beauty and cultural richness, Part 3 of our Southern Arizona tour introduced an entirely new layer of discovery. From the futuristic vision of Biosphere 2 to the artistic energy at Triangle L Art Ranch, followed by an indulgent afternoon at Windmill Winery and a walk through hidden tunnels beneath historic Florence, this leg of the journey reminded me just how full of surprises Arizona can be.
Each stop offered a different lens on Southern Arizona—its bold innovation, creative spirit, agricultural bounty, and sometimes quirky, sometimes mysterious past. Here’s a look back at a day filled with curiosity, creativity, and a few sweet childhood memories.
Walking the Future at Biosphere 2
Science and Sustainability in the Heart of Southern Arizona
Our day began with a guided tour of Biosphere 2, nestled in the desert hills north of Tucson. Walking toward the gleaming glass structure with its futuristic domes and lush interiors, I felt a little like I was stepping into a sci-fi film—fitting, since the concept behind Biosphere 2 once aimed to replicate Earth’s ecosystems in space.
We learned about the original eight “Biospherians,” many of whom had lived in a commune before joining the two-year mission in the early 1990s. Living in complete isolation, they focused much of their time on growing and preparing enough food to sustain themselves. They recorded meticulous daily logs, capturing every experiment, crop yield, and even emotional challenges—an incredible testament to their dedication and curiosity.
Though no longer sealed off, the Biosphere is still used for climate and environmental research today. The property also includes accommodations and event spaces—ideal for academic retreats or even imaginative travel experiences.
As I walked through the different biomes—lush rainforest, arid desert, and ocean habitat—I was transported back to a movie I’d seen as a child in the early 1970s called Silent Running. That film sparked my young imagination with the idea of living in a garden habitat in outer space. Being here brought that memory to life and reminded me of the deep roots many of us have in the dream of living closer to nature, even if it’s under glass.
Creative Energy at Triangle L Art Ranch
Where Art and Nature Meet in Southern Arizona
From futuristic ecosystems to grounded artistic expression, our next stop was Triangle L Art Ranch in Oracle, AZ. This eclectic, rustic space is a vibrant fusion of nature, art, and imagination. A gentle walk through their Sculpture Park introduced us to large-scale pieces tucked among trees, whimsical installations catching the light, and quiet moments of beauty where art meets environment.
The ranch is home to resident artists and includes an art gallery showcasing local and visiting creators. I especially loved learning about their Glow Festival, an annual autumn event where the sculpture park is transformed into a magical nightscape of glowing artwork, lights, and performance. For those looking to extend the experience, their cozy guesthouse cottages offer overnight stays surrounded by creativity and calm.
Indulgence and Hospitality at Windmill Winery
Southern Arizona’s Flavorful Side: Wine, Cuisine, and Stories
In the afternoon, we arrived at Windmill Winery in Florence, and I can honestly say the setting took my breath away. Surrounded by vineyards and rustic charm, the winery blends elegance and heritage seamlessly.
Our lunch, catered by Mt. Athos Restaurant & Café, was delicious—Mediterranean flavors with warm hospitality and a spread that felt both homey and elevated, and some of the best Greek food I’ve tasted outside of Greece! During our wine tasting, we sampled a range of varietals; my personal favorite was a light, citrusy, and slightly earthy Pinot Grigio that would be perfect for sipping on a warm Arizona evening.
We were also treated to a private tour by the owner, whose passion for the winery came through in every story. One of the most fascinating details? The winery’s large barn was originally a historic structure from Wisconsin. It was dismantled board-by-board and painstakingly rebuilt onsite—a beautiful nod to preservation and reuse. The property is also home to a flock of exotic, prize-winning pigeons, adding another layer of uniqueness to the venue.
Hidden Stories in Historic Florence
Discovering Local Legends and Prohibition-Era Secrets
Our next stop of the afternoon took us to the heart of historic Florence, a town with deep Wild West roots and more than a few secrets beneath its streets.
Inside the charming Sweet P’s Candy Shop, I was instantly transported to my childhood. Among the colorful bins and retro candy displays, I spotted two longtime favorites—bubble gum “cigars” and sweet-tart necklaces. Just seeing them brought back a vivid memory of being four years old again, peering longingly at the candy counter in a country store during a weekend trip to a lakeside lodge in Northern Minnesota. That moment of 1960s nostalgia was as sweet as any treat I bought.
But the real surprise came next—a guided tour of a hidden speakeasy and underground escape tunnels used during Prohibition. Beneath the unassuming town streets, we explored narrow passageways once used by locals to move alcohol discreetly and evade detection. The speakeasy itself had all the ambiance you’d hope for—vintage furniture, brick walls, and secret doors. It was like stepping into a real-life time capsule.
A Day of Art, Wine, and History in Southern Arizona – Final Reflections
Why These Experiences Belong on Your Group Travel Itinerary
This part of our tour felt like opening a treasure chest—each stop revealed something unexpected and rich in experience. From science and self-sufficiency to expressive art, flavorful wines, and secret histories, the day reminded me just how diverse and layered Southern Arizona can be.
These experiences left me inspired—not just as a traveler, but as a tour designer. Each of these sites could become a meaningful part of a future itinerary for my groups. They offer something for everyone—curiosity, culture, beauty, and surprise.
Stay tuned for Part 4, where we’ll explore the beauty of Boyce Thompson Arboretum, enjoy a tour (and ice cream!) at Agritopia, and cap the day with dinner and an evening stroll in downtown Gilbert. More discoveries await!
Comentários