Wide open spaces and winding roads highlight southern Arizona.

Over the years, I have penned many Rider articles about entertainment opportunities that can enhance great rides. I?ve written about riding to a Pearl Jam concert in Montana. I have traced my way on the tarmac and in print from watching “Hamlet” in Oregon to “Much Ado” in Utah. I love mixing concerts and theater with motorcycle travel.

While riding is clearly a great social-distancing activity, you may think that the post-ride entertainment aspect has been nullified by Covid. To some extent, that is certainly true. However, responsible and creative venues and organizers are finding ways to stage safe theatrical and musical events.

Southern Arizona?s wine country is a mix of grasslands and grape vines.
On a recent tour through southern Arizona?s mine and wine region, I found two such events at the end of lengthy days in the saddle. Both were entertaining and, most importantly, I left each feeling public safety was prioritized and well-planned.

Tucson Blues

After carving through the historic mine country of south central Arizona, I spent a night at the historic Hotel Congress in downtown Tucson. It so happened that there was a Blues and BBQ event being staged at the hotel. The outdoor concert filled my post-ride afternoon and evening with a nice diversion.

Blues, BBQ, and public safety at the Hotel Congress in Tucson.

Masks and social distancing were mandated, and th...