By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Memorial Day weekend is just days away, but drivers may want to think twice before planning a long road trip.
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Near Interstate 10 and Congress Street in downtown Tucson, unleaded gas was listed at $4.66 per gallon, highlighting the pinch many families could feel as the holiday approaches.
With prices trending upward, tourism leaders said there are plenty of ways to celebrate without spending extra money just to get to your destination.
Local options to beat the heat — without hitting highway
For many southern Arizonans, the start of summer comes with a familiar strategy: find ways to cool down.
“We seek water, we seek shade, we seek cooler temperatures,” said Graeme Hughes, executive vice president of Visit Tucson, who noted locals often become “more resourceful” as temperatures rise.
Visit Tucson has been compiling a seasonal list of events, discounts and staycation-style deals available across the region — and not just for out-of-town visitors.
“We’ve been working hard for the past several months to really catalogue everything vendors, suppliers, and venues here in Southern Arizona are offering for summer visitors,” Hughes said.
Resort day passes, summer packages draw locals
One example is the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, located in the Catalina Foothills, which is promoting its summer offerings during the slower season.
“There’s a little bit of something for everyone,” said Matthew Coelho, senior marketing manager at Westin La Paloma.
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Coelho said the resort’s summer promotions, including its “summer splash” package, often bring in locals — not only from Tucson, but also from the Phoenix area.
“We do see a lot of locals here from the Tucson and Phoenix area as well,” he said.
And for people who don’t want to book a room, Coelho said many resorts still offer ways to enjoy pools, dining and other amenities.
“You don’t have to be staying here in order to enjoy these amenities,” Coelho said. “You can actually just come visit on the property.”
How long will the deals last?
Visit Tucson said summer promotions are expected to run from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day in early September.
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