Top 5 Pools in Tucson for University of Arizona Students

Tucson summers definitely require some adjusting. After a long day of classes at the University of Arizona, there’s nothing better than cooling off in a pool. Thankfully, Tucson offers some of the best student housing communities with resort-style pools that make the desert heat way more fun.

We know that having access to high-end amenities is a top priority for UofA students looking for the perfect off-campus apartment. So to help you make the most of your time in Tucson, even when temps hit triple digits, we’ve rounded up the top 6 pools near the University of Arizona for students who love to spend a day poolside.

Let’s dive in!

Top 6 Pools Near UofA

• The Parker
  Address: 947 N Park Ave
  The Parker is known for its modern design and sleek rooftop pool area. The pool deck includes shaded cabanas, comfy loungers, TV’s, and plenty of space for groups to relax together. The rooftop area also features a hot tub and outdoor kitchen.
• The Pacific and Malibu
  Address: 1020 N Tyndall Ave
  The Pacific and Malibu are two high-rise student housing communities with stunning rooftop pool decks offering panoramic views of Tucson. Both locations feature sparkling pools, hot tubs, and outdoor lounge spaces. The Pacific and Malibu deliver the ultimate sky-high pool experience.
• The Mark Tucson
  Address: 55 N Park Ave
  Another downtown favorite, The Mark Tucson boasts a resort-style pool and sun deck with everything you need for a chill day off. Lounge chairs, shaded seating, and even a grilling station surround the pool. It’s a great place to unwind after class or spend your weekend in full vacation mode.
• Hub First
  Address: 1001 N Park Ave
  Hub at Tucson brings serious luxury to student living with its rooftop pool and sundeck that looks straight out of a high-end resort. The pool deck includes private cabanas, a large hot tub, an outdoor lounge, and some of the best campus views.
• The Cottages
  Address: 1000 E 22nd St
  The Cottages offer a more laid-back, community-focused vibe with a beautifully landscaped pool area perfect for relaxing after class. The largest pool on the list, and the largest pool in Southern AZ, it’s surrounded by shaded seating, palm trees, and a cozy fire pit area. It’s a great spot if you want a peaceful, more spacious pool experience with plenty of lush greenery to offset the desert heat.

Top Pool Amenities at UofA Off-Campus Student Housing

• The Parker
  • Pool Type: Ground Level
  • Pool Features: Cabanas, fire pit, shaded seating, grills, TV’s
• The Pacific and Malibu
  • Pool Type: Rooftop
  • Pool Features: Hot tubs, lounge areas, stunning city views
• The Mark Tucson
  • Pool Type: Rooftop
  • Pool Features: Lounge chairs, shaded seating, grill station
• Hub First
  • Pool Type: Rooftop
  • Pool Features: Hot tub, cabanas, skyline views, luxury pool deck
• The Cottages
  • Pool Type: Ground Level
  • Pool Features: Large pool, shaded seating, fire pit, landscaped grounds

Find Your Perfect Off-Campus Pool Day

We hope you enjoyed this list of our top pool decks for UofA students living off-campus in Tucson! If you’re still on the search for your perfect off-campus home, let’s get in touch! Contact The Cottages team for all your questions about UofA student living.

FAQs About UofA Student Pools in Tucson

• Which UofA student apartment has the largest pool? The Cottages offers the largest pool in Southern Arizona, perfect for relaxing and spreading out with friends.
• What’s the best rooftop pool near UofA? Both The Pacific and Malibu and Hub First feature rooftop pools with incredible views and resort-style amenities.
• Which pool has the most social atmosphere? The Mark Tucson and Hub First are popular for their lively pool decks with grilling stations, cabanas, and student events.
• Where can I find a relaxing pool environment near UofA? The Cottages provide a peaceful, landscaped pool area that’s perfect for downtime.

The Do’s and Don’ts for First Semester Wildcats at the University of Arizona

Whether you’re a freshman or just transferred, starting your first semester at the University of Arizona is an exciting new beginning! We also know it can be a little overwhelming. Between navigating campus, living in a new city, and trying to balance everything, it’s easy to feel lost. To help you start strong, here are some key do’s and don’ts every UofA Wildcat should keep in mind during their first semester.

Do’s as a UofA First Semester Student Living in Tucson

• Do take advantage of UofA campus resources
  Your tuition covers way more than just classes. UofA is filled with student support resources that you should utilize from your very first semester! The Think Tank offers free tutoring and writing help, CAPS provides mental health services, and the Student Success District is a top-tier place to study, recharge, and get connected.
• Do get involved early
  New city, new roommates, new schedule. All the changes can be overwhelming, and you’ll need to find your people to make things a little easier as a freshman at UofA. And the best way to find your people? Try things! Join a club that interests you, sign up for an intramural team, or go to the monthly resident events at The Cottages. UofA has hundreds of student organizations and thousands of students. With a little bit of effort, you’ll find your place and find your people.
• Do explore off-campus in Tucson
  Tucson is an amazing city to live in, and you won’t want to miss the fun outside of campus life. Hike Sabino Canyon, grab tacos at El Güero Canelo, check out the shops on 4th Avenue, or consider off-campus UofA housing. Exploring the city helps you unwind, make memories, and feel more connected to your new home. Plus, the Sun Link streetcar is free with your CatCard!

Don’ts as a UofA First Semester Student Living in Tucson

• Don’t ignore your UofA email
  We get it, no one likes checking their email. But here, it’s the main way professors, advisors, and campus offices will reach you. Ignoring your inbox means you might miss class changes, scholarship deadlines, or opportunities you didn’t even know existed. Turn on those email notifications, you’ll be glad you did.
• Don’t rely on high school study habits
  What worked in high school probably won’t cut it at UofA. College courses move faster, delve deeper, and expect a higher level of independent learning. Leave skimming the textbook the night before a test or cramming between classes in the past. Instead, try new habits like setting regular study times, reviewing material weekly, and finding a group of friends to study with.
• Don’t underestimate the Tucson heat
  If you’re new to Arizona, the heat will definitely take some getting used to. Walking across campus in August can be brutal if you’re not prepared. Tips to beat the heat? Invest in a reusable water bottle, wear your SPF, and look for shade when you can. That emotional support water bottle is about to become your bestie.

Your First Semester at UofA Is Just the Beginning

Your first semester at UofA is only the beginning of your journey! It’s expected to make a few mistakes along the way, we all do, but keeping these do’s and don’ts in mind can help you stay on track and make the most of your college experience. Be open, take care of yourself, and remember, you’ve got a whole campus of resources and fellow Wildcats cheering you on.

Bear Down!

FAQs for First Semester Wildcats

• What resources should I use first at UofA? Start with The Think Tank for academic support and CAPS for mental health. Both are free and easy to access.
• How do I make friends during my first semester? Get involved early. Clubs, intramurals, and resident events are some of the best ways to meet new people.
• What’s the best way to beat the Tucson heat? Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of shaded areas or the Sun Link streetcar.
• Should I live on-campus or off-campus my first semester? Both options work, but off-campus housing can give you more freedom and amenities. Many Wildcats choose student housing like The Cottages for a community feel.

Whether you're pulling an all-nighter, stopping in with the besties, or just need an iced latte to survive the Tucson heat, this city has a thriving coffee scene worth exploring. Here are the top five coffee shops every University of Arizona student should check out.

Coffee shops you need to try as an UofA student!

• Presta Coffee Roasters — Mercado San Agustín
  Location: 100 S Avenida del Convento
  

  Presta has earned a reputation as one of the best specialty coffee roasters in Tucson. The Mercado San Agustín location offers sleek architecture, open-air vibes, and expertly brewed coffee. It’s a little west of downtown but totally worth the trip for a high-quality experience.

  Website: prestacoffee.com

• EXO Roast Co. — 6th Ave
  Location: 403 N 6th Ave
  

  EXO is everything. Housed in a historic building with a rustic interior and an ever-changing seasonal menu, it’s ideal for students who want quality coffee in an artsy, lowkey setting. It's close enough to campus to be convenient, but just far enough to feel like a local discovery.

  Website: exocoffee.com

• Raging Sage Coffee Roasters
  Location: 2458 N Campbell Ave
  

  Raging Sage is a cozy, family-owned spot known for its house-roasted beans and laid-back patio. It's one of the most established local coffee shops in Tucson and a great place to get work done without the distractions of busier downtown cafés. Try a scone, and thank us later.

  Website: ragingsage.com

• Cartel Roasting Co. — Downtown
  Location: 210 E Broadway Blvd
  

  Cartel is one of the most recognizable names in Arizona’s coffee scene. The downtown Tucson location is bright, industrial, and full of energy. With plenty of seating and a commitment to high-quality coffee, it’s a favorite for UofA students, locals, and tourists.

  Website: cartelroasting.co

• Yellow Brick Coffee — The Benedictine
  Location: 800 N Country Club Rd, Ste 3180
  

  If you're looking for a unique café off the beaten path, Yellow Brick delivers. Located inside The Benedictine, a renovated historic monastery, the space is as beautiful as the coffee is bold. It's ideal for weekend study sessions or when you just want a change of scenery.

  Website: yellowbrickcoffee.com

Honorable Mentions

Want to branch out even more? These other spots are worth adding to your Tucson coffee tour:

• Savaya Coffee Market — Thoughtfully sourced, roasted, and brewed with serious attention to quality
• Decibel Coffee Works — A hidden gem at MSA Annex with a creative, indie vibe
• Caffe Luce — Downtown mainstay with fast service and solid Wi-Fi
• Ombre Coffee Roasters — Quiet and clean, great for solo studying
• Black Crown Coffee Company — Known for artsy interiors and small-batch coffee
• Ren Coffeehouse — Great outdoor seating at St. Philip’s Plaza
• Le Buzz Caffè — On the east side, perfect for a weekend coffee and brunch trip

It doesn’t matter if you’re a cold brew loyalist, matcha enthusiast, or a straight-up espresso kind of person, Tucson has a coffee shop for you. Whether you're headed to class or just need a reason to leave your apartment, these spots offer more than just caffeine. Exploring Tucson is part of what makes the UofA student experience unique.

FAQ

• What is the closest coffee shop to the University of Arizona campus? EXO Roast Co. on 6th Ave and Cartel Roasting Co. Downtown are both close and convenient for UofA students.
• Which coffee shop is best for studying in Tucson? Raging Sage Coffee Roasters and Yellow Brick Coffee are known for calm, comfortable spaces perfect for focused study sessions.
• Where can I find specialty or third-wave coffee near UofA? Presta Coffee Roasters and Cartel Roasting Co. are both highly regarded for their specialty coffee programs.
• Are there coffee shops in Tucson with unique atmospheres? Yellow Brick Coffee offers a historic monastery setting, while EXO Roast Co. combines rustic charm with creative seasonal menus.
• Which coffee shop has the best food or pastry options? Raging Sage is loved for its house-made scones, and Cartel Roasting Co. often pairs great coffee with fresh pastries.

5 Benefits of Signing Your Lease Early as a UofA Student Living in Tucson

When you start looking for an off-campus apartment at the University of Arizona, it might surprise you how early students are signing their leases. In Tucson, it’s common for students to start looking a year in advance.

At The Cottages, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with trying to find your home away from home. We have helped hundreds of students navigate the leasing process, and we know how important it is to find the right place for your college years.

Whether you are a freshman looking into leaving the dorms or a returning student ready for a change, it’s time to understand the benefits of signing your lease early as a student at the University of Arizona.

What Do We Mean by “Early”

At the University of Arizona, “early” really depends on your priorities and situation. UofA Wildcats involved in Greek life or athletic programs can sign leases more than 12 months before the intended move-in date. But for most, students start getting their off-campus housing spots for next fall in October of the current year.

Here at The Cottages, we typically begin renewals and new leasing early in the fall semester. So if you want your choice of floor plans, roommates, and parking options, it’s almost time to find your home in Tucson.

5 Reasons to Sign Your Off-Campus Housing Lease Early in Tucson

• 1. Lower Rates and Leasing Specials:
  Most off-campus apartments in Tucson use tiered pricing, which means that the earlier you sign your lease, the lower the rate is likely to be. As more units are leased, prices usually go up. Signing early can help you secure the best possible rate, especially at high-demand properties. Even if prices only rise incrementally, you’ll notice those changes adding up over the course of a 12-month lease. Off-campus student housing properties also usually offer leasing specials early in the leasing season—such as waived fees, gift cards, and discounted VIP rates—so signing early puts you in the best position to take advantage of limited-time offers.


• 2.Better Chance of Securing Parking:
  Parking around the University of Arizona can be a challenge, especially during peak class hours or game days. While some students rely on biking or walking, many still prefer to have a car on campus. Parking spaces at off-campus apartments can be limited. By signing early, you have a better chance of reserving a spot that is close to your unit or near amenities. Waiting too long can leave you without a parking space or force you to rely on street parking.


• 3.More Floor Plan and Room Options:
  One of the most overlooked benefits of signing early is having more options. The earlier you begin the leasing process, the more likely you are to get your preferred floor plan, unit location, and bedroom layout—it’s pretty much first come, first serve. Plus, some units offer exclusive features such as balconies, upgraded finishes, or proximity to the pool or clubhouse. If these features are important to you, signing early gives you the best chance to secure them. This also applies to individual bedrooms in multi-bedroom floor plans—some rooms may have more windows and natural light, be slightly larger, or be in quieter locations. The earlier you sign, the more flexibility you and your roommates will have to choose the best arrangement.


• 4.Flexibility in Roommate Selection:
  At The Cottages, our specialty is keeping the whole friend group together. When you sign early, you can guarantee you’ll be sharing the same standalone, cozy cottage with the besties. If you have chosen your roommates, signing your leases around the same time ensures the leasing office can place you together. If you wait too long, there may not be enough availability in a single unit to accommodate your group. If you’re still looking for roommates, most housing communities offer roommate matching services that can help connect you with people who share your interests and habits. When you wait too long, the pool of available matches becomes smaller, sometimes making it harder for you to find the right fit. Pro tip: Talk with the leasing team if you are waiting for others to sign so they can hold your spot. We’ll always try our best!


• 5.Reduced Stress and Increased Security:
  College life is demanding, and housing is one area where planning ahead makes a big difference. Signing your lease early provides peace of mind and removes one of the biggest tasks from your to-do list. Once your housing is secured, you can begin thinking about furniture, décor, and logistics without the stress of finding a place last-minute. You’ll have more time to coordinate with roommates, prepare for your move, and get excited about your new space. Securing your apartment early allows you to enjoy the rest of the school year knowing that your living situation for the next term is already taken care of—seriously, don’t wait until finals to find housing unless you want the most stressful semester of your life.

If You Want to Live in UofA Off-Campus Housing, Sign Your Lease Early

From lower rates and better room options to increased flexibility and peace of mind, there’s really no reason to procrastinate.

At The Cottages, we’re here to help you find the right UofA off-campus home just for you! Our team is happy to answer your questions, walk you through the floor plans, and help you and your roommates secure your ideal apartment.

Interested in living at The Cottages?
Contact our leasing office to schedule a tour or learn more about our floor plans, rates, and availability. We’re excited to help make Tucson, AZ feel like home!

FAQ

• When should UofA students start looking for off-campus housing? Many students begin their search in October for the following school year, though some involved in athletics or Greek life sign leases more than 12 months in advance.
• Why does signing early save money? Most student housing properties in Tucson use tiered pricing, meaning rates increase as availability decreases. Signing early locks in the lowest rates and leasing specials.
• How does signing early help with roommate arrangements? It gives you the flexibility to live with your chosen roommates or use matching services while the pool of available matches is still large.
• Are parking spots guaranteed at student apartments? Not always. Parking is often limited, but signing early increases your chances of reserving a convenient spot.
• What’s the biggest benefit of signing early? Peace of mind. Once your housing is secured, you can focus on school and preparing for your move without last-minute stress.