It would be hard to find more breathtaking sights anywhere in the world than you can see in Tucson. Just being here and experiencing one sunset can make you feel as lucky as if you'd just won a 2012 car sweepstakes. Between the rich forests and the majestic mountains this city is any nature lover's dream. But while you're enjoying the outdoors, there are lots of other activities and entertainment options within Tucson as well. Here is a short guide to some of the most popular attractions and some you may not have thought to explore.

When in the West, do as the cowboys do.

One of the best ways to see all that the land surrounding Tucson has to offer is to take a trip on horseback. Many of the local resorts offer horseback riding tours and lessons for those who have never ridden before. If you're everyday life has you working as something like an architect in Toronto and you've never had a chance to ride a horse than where better to saddle up? You could choose to spend the whole day out on the trails or just a couple of hours.

When your done you're ride, it will definitely be time to check out some genuine Southwestern cuisine. There's no doubt that you've picked up some fajitas on a lunch break from selling wrought iron furniture Toronto or maybe even tried some homemade salsa, but there's nothing like a Tucson mesquite-fired grill house. There are many restaurants in all price ranges throughout the city that offer award-winning dishes.

Take in some arts and culture.

Because of the city's rich history and commitment to culture, there is an endless supply of entertainment options throughout the city. You could check out where some of your favorite westerns were filmed at the Tucson Film Office or explore the skies with the whole family at the Challenger Learning Center of the Southwest or the Pima Air & Space Museum. And Butterfly Magic at the Tucson Botanical Gardens could warm the spirits of even someone suffering from seasonal affective disorder, Hamilton based or from New York.

You could also take part in one of the many festivals and events that happen within the city throughout the year. There are large events like the Tucson Rodeo and the celebration of the Spanish Day of the Dead or smaller events hosted by communities or even a local cricket club. Check out the city's events calendar to find out what's happening while you're in the area.