Marana, Arizona is a charming desert town located in the northwestern part of the state, just a short drive from Tucson. This vibrant community offers a unique mix of old-west charm and modern amenities, making it a perfect destination for visitors looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure.
Marana is known for its outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and biking. Explore the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert with a guided desert tour or take a hike up the Tortolita Mountains. There are also plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife in the area, including a variety of birds, lizards, and tortoises.
The town also offers a variety of cultural attractions. Visit the Arizona State Museum to learn about the history of Marana and the surrounding area, or take a stroll through the Marana Heritage Museum to explore artifacts from the region’s past. There are also plenty of local festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Marana Days Festival that celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage.
Marana is a great place to stay, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore in the area, offering a range of flavors from traditional Mexican cuisine to modern American fare.
No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Marana, Arizona. Whether you’re looking to relax and enjoy the desert air or get out and explore the area, Marana is sure to have something for everyone.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Dove Mountain: Located in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains, Dove Mountain is a premier destination for outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It's also home to the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Tucson, providing plenty of luxurious amenities.
2. Gladden Farms: This rapidly-growing area offers plenty of amenities, including a YMCA, a community center, and a number of shopping and dining options. It's also close to Marana's industrial park, making it a great option for those who work in the area.
3. Heritage Highlands: With its stunning views of the Catalina Mountains and the Santa Cruz Valley, Heritage Highlands is a great option for those looking to experience a little bit of nature. It's also close to the University of Arizona and the Pima Air & Space Museum.
4. Continental Ranch: This vibrant community offers plenty of amenities, including a community pool, parks, and shopping and dining options. It's also close to the Tucson International Airport and major freeways, making it a great option for those who need to travel.
5. Oro Valley: Home to the popular Oro Valley Market Place, Oro Valley is a great option for those looking for plenty of shopping and dining options. It's also close to some of the area's major employers, such as Intel and the University of Arizona.
1. Marana Regional Airport: This airport is home to a variety of flight schools, private charters, and airshows. It is also the base of the Marana Police Department's helicopter unit.
2. Pima Air & Space Museum: This museum is the largest private air museum in the world, with more than 300 planes on display from all eras of aviation. Visitors can explore the history of aviation through interactive exhibits and displays.
3. Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain: This resort is located in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains, and it offers luxury amenities, championship golf courses, spa services, and fine dining.
4. Saguaro National Park: This national park is home to the iconic Saguaro cactus, which can grow up to 40 feet tall. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and camping.
5. Ironwood Forest National Monument: This monument is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep and endangered species such as the ocelot. Visitors can explore a variety of trails, including the Ironwood Trail, which offers spectacular views.
1. El Guero Canelo Sonoran Hot Dog: A classic Sonoran-style hot dog with bacon wrapped in a grilled bun and topped with jalapeno mayo, chopped tomatoes, onions, and beans.
2. The Marana Burger: A half-pound beef patty served on a lightly toasted bun with melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapeno mayo, and house-made BBQ sauce.
3. Shrimp Fajitas: Fresh and succulent shrimp cooked with peppers, onions, and tomatoes and served on a sizzling skillet with warm tortillas and all the fixings.
4. Pork Tamales: Hand-made tamales filled with a savory pork filling and steamed in a banana leaf.
5. Mexican Hot Chocolate: A traditional Mexican hot chocolate made with ground cinnamon, cocoa, and sugar. Served with a dollop of cream and a sprinkle of chili powder.