Adventures in Sweets

Introduction

The Warehouse Arts District in Tucson is an enclave downtown that was formerly home to railroad warehouses, but has been transformed into a community of artists, makers and creatives. It is the hub of Tucson’s creative scene that prides itself on being authentically Tucson. Conveniently located a short walk from the 11th stop (4th & 7th) on the (free) Sun Link Streetcar , it is easy to spend an afternoon there grabbing a bite to eat and popping in to the various galleries and studios. When I visited in April, these are three stops that I would encourage you to check out while you are there!

Santa Theresa Tile Works

Santa Theresa Tile Works, originally founded by Susan Gamble in 1989, is responsible for many of the mosaic art pieces around Tucson that give the city its distinctive southwestern style. Each tile in the workshop is handmade and resident artists can often be found working on projects that will be installed locally or nationally. In addition to seeing their work in progress, visitors are invited to drop in to create their own mosaic piece. No reservations (or experience) are required! I was initially a little hesitant to participate given my limited artistic abilities, but the staff was very encouraging and it was a fun way to flex those creative muscles we all have. You also walk away with a unique souvenir to remind you of Tucson! To top it off, all the proceeds from Santa Teresa Tile Works go directly back to the community and are donated to a local, free private school for children from low-income families.

Santa Teresa Tile Works, 440 N 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ

Anello

Around the corner from Santa Theresa Tile Works, is a nondescript pizza restaurant that is easily missed since there is no obvious signage out front. As soon as you step into Anello, you are hit with the mouth-watering aroma of wood-fired pizza. The sourdough pizzas on the menu consist of classic combinations made with fresh ingredients. While the pizza is the star, their focaccia is also a must-order and make sure to save room for the almond olive oil cake. If you place your order online to go, there is a pick up window in the alley which served a steady stream of regulars while we were there.

Anello, 222 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ

Crooked Tooth Brewing

Across the alley from Anello, is a home-grown brewery that creates regionally-inspired beer. Julie and Ben, the husband and wife duo behind the brew, chose the moniker Crooked Tooth Brewing to represent their desire to have everyone feel that they can show up to the brewery as their authentic self. This mission is reflected in the physical space they have created, as well as their commitment to their community through their support of local artists, creatives, and nonprofits. They are equally as passionate about their beer and have a rotating list of inventive and experimental beers on draft. In line with their desire to be an inclusive space, they also have a non-alcoholic beverage menu, use a gluten-reducing enzyme to limit the amount of gluten in their beer, and they regularly partner with various local food trucks and vendors.

Crooked Tooth Brewing, 228 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ 85705

Conclusion

Tucson is a vibrant city in the Sonoran desert and a visit to the Warehouse Arts District is the perfect place to discover your inner artist, enjoy a delicious wood-fired pizza and discover your new favorite beer.

*Gifted experience provided as part of TravelCon 2025