En Route To Tucson

Driving southeast from Phoenix for about 60 miles will bring you to the Casa Grande and Coolidge area, where you can learn about the Hohokam people who once inhabited this region. If you're continuing south toward Tucson and you're not in a big hurry, I suggest taking the scenic Pinal Pioneer Parkway (Ariz. 79), which was the old highway between Phoenix and Tucson before the interstate was built.

Attractions Along the Way -- Attention discount shoppers! In the town of Casa Grande you can shop 'til you drop at the Outlets at Casa Grande, 2300 E. Tanger Dr. (tel. 800/405-5016 or 520/836-9663; www.outletsatcasagrande.com). You'll find this collection of discount outlet stores at exit 198 off I-10.