Overview: What Makes Sahuarita Unique?
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Sahuarita, which lies about a 20-minute drive south of Downtown Tucson on Interstate 19, is one of the fast-growing communities in Arizona. Its location is advantageous as it remains near the Tucson International Airport, which is only a 20-minute drive away.
The town’s strategic location makes it easy to reach and convenient for those who call it their home. Aside from that, Sahuarita is close to the lively city of Tucson, providing access to a diverse labor pool and consumer markets that make up an economic potential for Sahuarita.
Sahuarita is fortunate to have abundant natural resources and mineral deposits, which present excellent opportunities for mining, resource extraction, and agriculture.
The fertile land in the area allows for the cultivation of various crops, including traditional ones like cotton, wheat, pecans, and citrus fruits.
The agricultural abundance in this area not only sustains the livelihoods of the locals but also boosts the economy and strengthens community bonds through shared traditions and farming methods.
However, Sahuarita’s dynamic growth is not only due to its strategic location and good transportation. The proactive attitude of the town towards business development is a key factor in its attractiveness, creating a harmonious relationship between commerce and recreation.
Sahuarita’s business-oriented approach makes it an ideal destination for recreation and other fun activities that residents and visitors can enjoy.
The town’s policy in promoting business also guarantees the abundance of recreational investments, ranging from well-kept parks and other sports and recreational facilities to the local dining and entertainment infrastructure, even for the use of all people of different ages and interests.
Now, let’s explore some of the best things to do in Sahuarita, AZ, and its surrounding areas!
Outdoor Adventures
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Nature Parks
Sahuarita Lake is a fantastic desert oasis, offering year-round recreational activities for any outdoor enthusiast. This beautiful town-owned and -managed public park allows the residents and visitors to get away from the city rush and enjoy the natural peace of the park.
As soon as you get to Sahuarita Lake Park, you will be fascinated by its magnificent natural setting. The most outstanding feature of the park is undoubtedly the lake, or, more precisely, the sparkling lake, whose transparent water reflects the fantastic clear sky of Arizona.
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Here are some of the activities that can be enjoyed at Sahuarita Lake Park:
- Walking/Jogging: This park has an adequately maintained track that lines the lake bank, offering a tranquil setup for a walk or a source of energy to runners.
- Fishing: The Arizona Game & Fish Department takes care of stocking the lake, bringing in different types of fish, from small ones to bigger ones, so that anglers of all levels can come and enjoy casting their lines and reeling in a catch amidst the serene waters.
- Attending Concerts/Events: At the park, it operates Lakeside Live Concert Series, a free event that transforms it into a place where music and entertainment are available, creating a perfect festive mood for family and friends.
- Nature Appreciation: Sahuarita Lake Park, with its blissful scenery, including a glistening lake itself and surrounding forest, gives visitors a chance to experience nature intimately and to appreciate the Tucson area’s most unique pleasures.
- Picnicking: Picnic tables or designated areas for picnicking are familiar sights in parks, providing visitors with a perfect place to enjoy a fulfilling meal amidst the scenic surroundings, all easily within view.
A wide variety of recreational activities, arts, and natural beauty make Sahuarita Lake Park the place where one can find not only entertainment but also aesthetic satisfaction and feelings of tranquility and peace in the hectic routine of everyday life.
This extensive and beautiful public park was recently voted one of America’s Top 100 Parks, and it is easy to see why it has received such recognition.
With the distinction of being the oldest and the biggest park in Sahuarita, Anamax Park provides many facilities and things to see across the extensive area.
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Facilities and Amenities
Anamax Park also contains many fields for fans of different sports like baseball, softball, soccer, and others. Playing pick-up games or in organized league play does not have an age limit, and you find players of all ages throughout the year.
The park also has a skate park where skateboarders and BMX riders frequently attempt to work on tricks and stunts.
Serene Escape
If you like quieter rest, Anamax has got you covered, too! You can bring a picnic and use one of the numerous Ramada areas over the park.
The children could play in the playgrounds, write papers online while lying on the grass or go to the new courts for bodyweight exercises. In the off-leash dog parks, dogs can play and run around while their owners gossip.
Also, the park provides community gardens where local gardeners can rent a plot to grow fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers.
Here’s a quick overview of the activities and amenities you can enjoy at Anamax Park:
- Athletic fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and others.
- Skate park for skaters and bikers to pull off tricks.
- Multiple playgrounds for children
- Outdoor fitness court
- Off-leash dog parks
- Community gardens
- Ramada areas are shaded for picnics and relaxation
- Open green areas for games and fun
Regardless of the types of activities that you like, you will find many ways to have fun and stay active at the award-winning Anamax Park. Come and enjoy one of the nation’s top public parks in Sahuarita. Pack the picnic, bring the sports gear, or just lay around and relax.
Parque Los Arroyos is a fresh haven that mosques and tourists love. This community park offers a distinct combination of art, recreation, and natural sceneries, which makes it a perfect hub for like-minded individuals to unwind, escape, and entertain themselves for ideal moments.
The park is home to “Woven Bonds We’ve Grown Upon,” a sculptural installation by Jessica Gonzales that is by far the most visually arresting artwork in the park.
Noted for its dazzling shapes, this vantage point has become a professional photographer’s utopia where enthusiasts worldwide come to capture the devilishly intricate design.
However, Parque Los Arroyos offers more than just pleasant scenery or must-try things to do in Sahuarita, AZ. The park’s small walking loop is the ticket to serenity for residents who need to escape the wired city, even for a few minutes.
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Make yourself at one with the natural surroundings as you leisurely walk along one of the well-maintained trails, taking deep breaths of the fresh air and enjoying the lovely atmosphere.
Thrill lovers and adrenaline junkies around will find their world at the park’s extreme bike riders’ circuit. This adrenaline-pumping element is where cyclists turn on the full throttle of their power and skill and also experience the thrill of cruising over the ups and downs of the terrain.
Park Los Arroyos has a spectacular wide range of activities that capture everyone’s interest. From artistic appreciation to friendly competition, relaxed walking to high-energy hiking adventure, and everything under the sun, everything under the sun is taken care of through this community park, which has various activities that cater to different needs and desires.
Cultural Exploration
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Museums and Historical Sites
Built around 1960, the Titan Missile Museum is proud to have the most giant missile ever deployed by the U.S. Air Force – the Titan II, which served as an intercontinental ballistic missile.
People looking for memorable things to do in Sahuarita, AZ, may visit a launch control center’s underground premises during the Cold War, the peak of the United States-Soviet Union tension.
Guided tours offer a unique experience, starting from labyrinthine corridors, where visitors will learn about the specific rules and regulations that were used in the operation of these sites of the missile bases.
From the control room to the living quarters, all parts of the facility are kept in pristine shape, providing an opportunity to see what the guards’ lives were like during those crucial times when the nation’s safety was at stake.
If you are interested, here are the price list and their operating hours for your reference:
| GENERAL ADMISSION | PRICING AND RATES |
|---|---|
| Arizona Aerospace Foundation Member | $1 |
| Adults (13 & up) | $16.50 |
| Seniors (65+) | $15.50 |
| Pima County Residents | $14.50 |
| Juniors (Ages 5-12) | $12.00 |
| Children (Ages 0-4) | $1 |
| Topside OnlySelf Guided Tour; no reservation required; purchase upon arrival | $7 |
We highly advise making online reservations to secure your desired tour slot.
| SEASON / MONTHS | DAYS OPEN | TIME | REMINDERS |
|---|---|---|---|
| REGULAR HOURSFrom October to May |
| 9:45 AM to 5PM |
|
| SUMMER HOURSFrom June to September |
| 9:45 AM to 5PM |
|
This center, known as the Mines and Civilizations Museum, began its activities in 1997. The ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center has been a source of learning that has shed light on the significance of the copper mining field in the evolution of civilizations and the formation of landscapes.
With its engaging indoor and outdoor exhibits that strive to emulate the transformation process from one side to the other, the Copper Center assures every visitor leaves the place awed and enlightened.
An Epic Adventure of the Writings of Copper
Copper refining processing is the central theme of the center’s free self-guided tour, allowing visitors to interact with both indoor and outdoor exhibits and watch the actual copper production process.
Visitors can experience first-hand how copper mining was advancing creatively and innovatively since mining is the main product that shaped the world as we see it.
Underground Venture
Those who want to get an in-depth account of the operation of a mine can opt for an exceptional experience, a tour of the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center. Competent guides will accompany you while you traverse the dark earth, receiving the educational tidbits of mining victories and struggles.
The Company Store
A trip to the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center will never be completed if you do not stop by the Company Store. This is where you can find various educational toys and souvenirs, from geological specimens to books about Arizona’s prosperous mining history.
Every item is a physical souvenir that one can hold to remember the wealth of knowledge and experiences gained from his or her visit; that is why it is the ideal souvenir to love for a long time.
During the mine tour, visitors must wear closed-toed shoes such as tennis shoes or boots; Crocs, flip-flops, or sandals are not permitted.
If you want to book a reservation, here are their rates and operating hours:
Free Self-Guided Center Tour
| SEASON / MONTHS | DAY SLOTS | TIME SLOTS | NO OPERATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUMMERFrom May to September | Wednesday to Sunday | From 9AM to 3PM | Closed on major holidays |
| WINTERFrom October to April | Wednesday to Sunday | From 9AM to 5PM | Closed on major holidays |
Ticketed Mine Tours
| SEASON / MONTHS | DAY SLOTS | TIME SLOTS | NO OPERATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUMMERFrom May to September | Thursday to Sunday |
| Closed on major holidays |
| WINTERFrom October to April | Wednesday to Sunday |
| Closed on major holidays |
Mine Tour Prices
| AGE CATEGORY | RATES |
|---|---|
| Adults | $17.50 |
| Seniors (62 years old) and Active Military | $14.00 |
| Children (5 to 12 years old) | $7.00 |
| Children (0 to 4 years old) | FREE |
*** Green Valley and Sahuarita residents receive a $1 discount on the tour upon presenting proof of residency.
Dining Experiences
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Best Restaurants and Cafes Near Sahuarita, AZ
Craving Mexico’s intense flavors and the brightness of the spices? From the moment you enter through the doors at Manuel’s, the atmosphere welcomes you into Mexico’s homely comfort and hospitality.
Having a menu as vast as the Mexican seascape, Manuel’s provides an array of delicious options to appeal to any palate. For them, chefs go to great lengths to ensure their food is always made with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques handed down from generation to generation.
Here are some of their must-try dishes from their delectable menu:
- Carne Asada: Taste the deliciousness of Carne Asada made well with succulent top sirloin, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy avocado slices.
- Chile Colorado: Discover mouthfuls of tender pieces of beef gently simmered in a mixture of chiles, tomatoes, and other spices, creating rich and delicious flavor profiles.
- Camarones Rancheros: Enjoy six jumbo shrimp artfully sautéed with onion, bell pepper, green onion, soy sauce, cilantro, and tomato, and have a blast of flavor in every morsel.
Arizona Family Restaurant has become a beloved classic American Diner in The Grand Canyon State with its warm ambiance, friendly service, and mouth-watering dishes.
One of the chief traits distinguishing the Arizona Family restaurant from others is that they strive to provide hearty, home-style cooking using only the freshest and best ingredients.
From the meticulously prepared fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to the exquisite Southwest-inspired huevos rancheros and carne asada tacos, enough scrumptious alternatives are worth a try.
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The dishes below are among the best offerings from Arizona Family Restaurant’s menu:
- Grilled Reuben or Randy: Grilled marble rye topped with either sauerkraut or coleslaw, 1000 Island dressing, and Swiss cheese that will leave you craving more with every bite.
- Eggs Benedict: A classic breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs served atop toasted English muffins, smoked pit ham, and topped with a special sauce.
Ragazzi Italian Restaurant has been a symbol of good food for 25 years, providing guests with a sensual experience far beyond palate explorations.
At Ragazzi, they ensure that the menu is not just a reflection of the Italian heritage but also that it captures the full spectrum of the rich biodiversity of traditional cuisine. All their dishes come with tales attached to the culture, tradition, and the undeniable appeal of Italian culinary art.
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If you are craving for something Italian, here are some of the best dishes from Ragazzi’s menu:
- Signature Dish for March – Brasato di Agnello: Savor the succulence of slow-braised lamb shank bathed in a luscious brown demi-glace, complemented by velvety parmesan mashed potatoes and delectably roasted vegetables.
- Ravioli Di Aragosta con Gamberi: Indulge in succulent lobster-stuffed ravioli paired with plump shrimp, all bathed in a luscious rosé sauce.
- Spiedini Skewer Adriatico: Grilled scallops and prawns on skewers, perfectly seasoned with a fresh herb breadcrumb coating. Served alongside a tantalizingly peppery green sauce that adds flavor to every bite.
Final Thoughts
Embrace the unrivaled natural beauty and rich heritage of Sahuarita, AZ, as you indulge in this town’s diverse activities and experiences.
So be ready for whatever kind of experience you crave, whether an outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a relaxing vacation; Sahuarita City will delight you with an unforgettable journey.
Time to reserve this fantastic once-in-a-lifetime retreat in Sahuarita, AZ! You can contact us for further consultations by calling 520.245.9000 or 520.398.8221 or emailing Sally@Tubac.com.
Also, to serve you more efficiently, we have our social media pages down here so you can connect with us directly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Sahuarita?
Among the top attractions in the town are the Sahuarita Lake and Titan Missile Museum.
People come to Sahuarita Lake to refresh themselves, enjoy the scenery, and carry out recreational activities like fishing and boating.
Meanwhile, visiting the Titan Missile Museum is a trip down memory lane to the Cold War era, where visitors can see a deactivated intercontinental ballistic missile site and its historical role.
What outdoor activities are popular in Sahuarita?
A few of the top outdoor activities in Sahuarita, AZ, that can be enjoyed are hiking through the impressive desert, bird watching in the parks, playing golf, and watching over the beautiful scenic views.
Is Sahuarita a safe place to visit?
Sahuarita, Arizona, is generally considered a safe place to visit. It is among the sought-after destinations in Arizona for its natural beauty and recreational activities, so many visitors come here safely to spend their time there.
