Summary
Situated in south-central Pima County on the border with Mexico, Sahuarita, along with the adjacent Green Valley, is located south of Tucson near the Tohono O’odham Nation Reservation.
The area was originally inhabited by the Hohokam people, who were hunters, gatherers, and farmers that constructed canals to irrigate their crops, primarily maize, beans, and squash.
As of 2010, Sahuarita had a population of over 25,000, and in addition to its compelling history and breathtaking geology, it has emerged as a center for cuisine, art, and a growing wine industry.
The region boasts numerous parks, national forests, museums, and galleries; thus, despite its seemingly remote location, a variety of entertainment options are readily available.
Below are twelve notable activities to engage in while visiting Sahuarita.
1. Titan Missile Museum
For those who remember the tense years of the Cold War, names such as Minuteman and Titan will likely ring a bell.
These designations referred to America’s nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles, which remained on alert for years, awaiting launch orders that fortunately never materialized.
Situated on West Duval Mine Road in Sahuarita, the Titan Missile Museum is the sole remaining site of its kind.
Guided tours of this well-preserved facility are typically conducted by retired Air Force veterans who are knowledgeable, passionate, and occasionally theatrical, adding to the overall experience.
All other Titan missile installations were dismantled in the subsequent decades after the Cold War as they were considered outdated and unnecessary.
The tours span several hours and require an admission fee, so it is advisable to check online prior to visiting.
2. Green Valley Farmer’s Market
Operating year-round and abundant with fresh produce, food, and artisanal crafts, the Green Valley Farmer’s Market is conveniently positioned just off I-19, a few miles from Sahuarita.
It is reputed to be the largest and oldest farmer’s market in southern Arizona, functioning every Wednesday.
Whether you seek wild Arizona clover honey, original oil paintings, or turquoise earrings as a gift, you will find a diverse selection here.
There are also numerous prepared food options, including pizza, hot dogs, coffee, and unique tequila-flavored lollipops containing baby scorpions, both delightful and safe to consume.
Farmer’s markets provide an excellent opportunity to engage with locals while supporting the farmers, artists, and entrepreneurs within the community.
3. Anamax Recreation Center
Recreation centers, similar to farmer’s markets and parks, serve as valuable resources for visitors searching for low-cost and convenient activities for all ages.
Situated on South Camino De Las Quintas in Sahuarita, Anamax Recreation Center features a dog park, sports facilities, and serene nature trails.
This center includes baseball fields, playgrounds, a soccer field, a skate park, and shaded seating areas suitable for picnics or relaxation.
Throughout the year, the park hosts various special events featuring live entertainment and art shows, offering a dynamic experience for attendees.
A simple online search will direct you to the City of Sahuarita’s website, which provides a detailed map and additional useful information.
4. Community Performance and Art Center
Located on West Continental Road in Green Valley, just a short distance from Sahuarita, the Community Performance and Art Center hosts numerous live events annually, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
The center also features a dedicated art gallery that not only showcases local artists but also features special monthly exhibits.
Facilities are available for rental, accommodating events and gatherings.
Regarded as an intimate venue, the center has hosted diverse events such as women’s film festivals, big band concerts, and tributes to legendary artists.
Attendees have noted that there are no poor sightlines within the venue.
It is advisable to consult the website to check event listings and acquire tickets in advance.
5. Asarco Mineral Discovery Center
Mining has been a significant industry in Arizona for over a century.
Historically, many miners were solitary prospectors hoping for fortune, enduring harsh conditions and often concluding their lives in poverty.
Currently, mining in Arizona is predominantly conducted by large corporations employing substantial machinery and resources.
Established in 1997, the Asarco Mineral Discovery Center aims to highlight the industry’s significance and educate the public on its historical importance.
Located a brief drive south of Tucson, tours showcase a working open-pit copper mine.
The sheer scale of the mine and the advanced, multi-million-dollar equipment required for ore extraction are truly impressive.
It is recommended to reserve a spot on a tour in advance, as schedules may vary.
6. Madera Canyon
Located in Tucson just off Interstate 19, Madera Canyon is a favored hiking destination for locals seeking to enjoy the natural beauty that characterizes the region.
The trailhead is accessible via Old Tucson Road, complemented by parking pullouts along the route.
A nominal fee is required for park entry, with discounts offered for seniors and military personnel.
The trail to Madera Canyon is particularly well-liked and features a creek that typically flows despite the surrounding arid landscape.
The canyon and park are home to various desert wildlife, including deer, javelinas, birds, snakes, and occasionally tarantulas.
For optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, it is advisable to visit early in the morning or in the afternoon when many desert animals are active.
Camping facilities are also available for those interested in an overnight experience.
7. Tubac
Among Arizona’s remarkable historic destinations, Tubac holds substantial significance as one of the oldest European settlements in the state.
Founded in the mid-1700s, the town initially served as a Spanish fort intended to safeguard missionaries who sought to convert the Native Americans to Christianity.
Today, Tubac is equally renowned for its vibrant art scene, galleries, and dining establishments that specialize in fusion cuisine, blending traditional recipes with modern influences.
Guided tours of the fort are available, and the town center provides a charming locale for leisurely strolls, enjoying refreshments, and exploring unique shops and galleries.
While Tubac is somewhat secluded, there are accommodations nearby; ensure you are aware of distances before making arrangements.
8. Tumacacori Mission
Known in Spanish as Mission San Cayetano del Tumacápac, Tumacacori Mission was established in 1692 by Spanish Jesuit missionaries who aimed to convert local Native American populations.
About 60 years post-establishment, the Native Americans opposed the missionaries’ practices and their interferences in native affairs.
After a period of abandonment, the missionaries returned and constructed a new mission in the Spanish Colonial architectural style.
In the mid-1700s, the missionaries were recalled to Spain amid allegations of accumulated wealth and inappropriate conduct.
The mission is located within Tumacacori National Historic Park, which encompasses approximately 360 acres.
The park and mission are conveniently accessible from Interstate 19.
9. The Tucson Museum of Art
Located on North Main Avenue in Tucson, The Tucson Museum of Art is a mere 15-minute drive from Sahuarita and is an essential destination when visiting the area.
The museum features multiple galleries displaying both permanent and temporary exhibits, focusing primarily on southwestern and Native American art, encompassing both contemporary and traditional works.
Additionally, it houses various artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations in Mexico and Central America.
A bookstore and gift shop are also available on-site, alongside a restaurant and café.
While you can visit at any time, it’s advisable to check the calendar beforehand as there might be special events or exhibits you wouldn’t want to miss.
10. Green Valley Pecan
Similar to mining, cattle ranching, and tourism, nut production plays a significant role in Arizona’s economy.
You may have observed expansive orchards along the interstate to the south of Tucson; many of these trees are pecans, thriving in the region’s challenging climate.
Located on East Sahuarita Road, Green Valley Pecan is among the leading producers in the area.
Guided tours of the operational farm are available, along with a well-stocked gift shop featuring delicious products such as roasted pecans, pecan oil, and classic pecan pie.
They are open daily, offering visitors the chance to explore the farm and select gifts for family and friends back home.
Their products are packaged for freshness, ensuring they retain quality during travel.
11. Desert Diamond Casino
Matching the offerings of its counterparts in Tucson, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, the Desert Diamond Casino in Sahuarita operates 24/7 and serves as an excellent venue for relaxation and entertainment.
While it is a popular choice among local gamblers, it also caters to those simply looking to experience its amenities.
Facilities include a 2,000-seat concert venue, a sports bar, a restaurant, and the well-liked Diamond Buffet, renowned for its high quality, comparable to Vegas establishments.
Located conveniently near Tucson International Airport, the casino features hotel accommodations, making it a suitable stop for those embarking on an Arizona adventure.
12. Gene C. Reid Park
Due to its moderate winter climate, Arizona serves as a seasonal home for many Major League Baseball teams that flock here annually to prepare for the upcoming season.
Encompassing over 130 acres, the park is centrally located in Tucson and features a baseball stadium accommodating nearly 10,000 spectators, where the Colorado Rockies conduct their training.
With two lakes, public swimming pools, playgrounds, and a small zoo, this park is a must-see destination.
The park also offers numerous trails that meander through Tucson’s urban landscape, featuring a golf course, picnic areas, and tennis courts.
For more information before your visit, check the park’s official website.
