Marana’s Best Outdoor Art: Murals, Sculptures, and Where to Find Them
Where to find art in Marana
The spirit of Marana shines through in our public art installations around town. Add these stops to your Marana itinerary!
If hiking, biking, or birding isn’t your thing, why not take a creative detour with a tour of Marana’s public art? Scattered across parks, libraries, and unexpected corners, Marana's sculptures, murals, and installations tell stories of community pride, history, and imagination.
With plenty of photo-worthy stops, exploring Marana’s public art is a fun way to connect with the heart of the town. Whether you’re a local looking to see Marana from a fresh perspective or a visitor searching for a unique cultural experience, this self-guided art tour offers something for everyone. Many stops are family-friendly, with parks and open spaces perfect for kids to explore.
Bookmark this page, lace up your walking shoes, and let Marana’s public art inspire your journey!
Start at the Wild Burro Trailhead near the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, where you’ll find the Discover Marana: Hiked It and I Really Liked It mural by local artist Joshua Woodhall. Painted on the side of the restroom building, this Impressionist-style mural celebrates the beauty of the Tortolita Mountains. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the mural and tag @DiscoverMarana on social media!
From here, explore the trails or head to the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain for a well-deserved lunch.
PicturedThe Impressionist-style mural by Joshua Woodhall celebrates the beauty of the Tortolita Mountains
Northeast Marana/Dove Mountain
Family Fun at Tangerine Sky Park
For a relaxing picnic stop, visit Tangerine Sky Park to see Deer on Tangerine by Trevor O'Tool. This painted steel installation features a family of deer among native desert plants. Along the way, look for educational signs about local wildlife and a rare crested saguaro. In spring, wildflowers often blanket the area. Park in the lot and walk to the installation along Tangerine Road.
The park also offers a playground, dog park, and a splash pad (seasonal), making it ideal for families.
CreditJ.D. Fitzgerald
Downtown and Northwest Marana
Public Art with a Ranching Flair
Marana’s growing Downtown District features Spirit of Marana, another Trevor O'Tool installation. This piece depicts a cowboy, a horse, and desert elements like a saguaro cactus and a cow, honoring the town’s ranching heritage.
Take a closer look at the installation by parking in the lot off Marana Main Street, where you can read its dedication plaque from the sidewalk. Nearby, grab a bite at Bisbee Breakfast Club or a coffee at Dutch Bros or Starbucks. For quick eats, head to the other side of Sandario to Taqueria Plaza’s food truck or the secret ice cream shop inside R&R Pizza Express. You can also grab a beer at the dive bar, La Tumbleweed.
Extend your visit with a stop at Heritage River Park about 2.5 miles away, where you’ll find the Man on the Horse statue, created by Marana High School students in 1994 and restored by town staff in 2022. At the park you can take a walk and pose for pictures with the large water tower or windmill that make this spot so unique. If you visit in October, chances are you’ll see our blooming sunflower field. It’s part of our Marana Fall Festival–a signature event worth planning your trip around.
As you head out for the day, check out the stunning mural inside the new Fry’s Food Store at Tangerine and Lon Adams Road, created by Tucson artist Jessica Gonzales. This vibrant piece celebrates the beauty and culture of the Sonoran Desert taking inspiration from Arizona’s iconic sunsets. The mural's themes of food, tradition, and connection to nature reflect the desert’s enduring spirit. This project is part of the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) placemaking initiative, bringing art into everyday spaces while supporting local artists and community engagement.
If you forgot anything for your trip, Fry’s is sure to have it. Additional food options are coming soon to this plaza as well.
Southern Marana
Shop and Seek
At the Tucson Premium Outlets at Marana Center, you’ll find five art installations scattered throughout the property. You can shop while you find these beautiful art pieces.
Macho B. by Lyle London (Canyon Court near Old Navy) Untitled by Steven G. Derks (Mountain Court near the Market Hall) Saguaro by Desert Steel (Valley Court near The Cosmetics Company Store) Flight by Jennifer Gilbert Asher and Mario Lopez (Valley Court near Saks OFF 5th) Break Fast by Patricia Fredrick (Desert Court, near the red umbrellas)
Tucson Premium Outlet Art
Southern Marana
Cycling or Walking Adventure
In Southern Marana, you can start your tour at the Crossroads at Silverbell District Park near Cortaro and Silverbell Road. There’s plenty of parking, bathrooms and a dog park if you’re traveling with your furry friend. The park itself is worth spending a few hours to learn more about the history and heritage of the Marana community. The site is an important archaeological and cultural spot and was once home to Indigenous people and later became a ranch in the 1800s. Look for signs to guide you to the interpretive panels to learn more about the remains of the house and other structures that are preserved on site.
From here you can see Wondrous, by artist Joe O'Connell. It’s a glistening stainless steel sculpture composed of a cloud of words located at the entrance of the Wheeler Taft Abbett Library. Spend some time soaking in all of the words before heading into the library to cool off on a hot day.
From here, ride or walk The Loop to see The Big Year by Trevor O'Tool and local students, located 1.5 miles away near the Amazon Distribution Center on Ina Road. Just remember you’ll have to get back to the parking lot for a 3 mile round trip.
CreditJ.D. Fitzgerald
“Hiked It and I Really Liked It” Mural by Joshua Woodhall
Marana’s outdoor art collection continues to grow, with two new pieces set to debut in 2025. Tag @DiscoverMarana in your photos and share your favorite finds with us!
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