Find saguaros and solitude in Marana, Arizona
Exploring Marana, Arizona: a 2-day itinerary
Have just a couple of days to enjoy Marana? Melynda Harrison of the travel blog TravelingMel.com has ideas for you!
This 2-Day itinerary for Marana, Arizona is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and culinary exploration.
Getting to Know Marana
Known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene, Marana offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.
Marana (rhymes with banana) is located about 10 miles northwest of Tucson. We’ve been through Marana before - to hike Picacho Peak, visit Saguaro National Park, and en route to other destinations, but I’d never had the time to explore.
Marana is a 122-square mile community, so there is a lot to see and do. Join me as I guide you through a few of the highlights in a 2-day itinerary in this captivating desert town. And I’ll share some other options for things to do in Marana and hiking trails near Marana at the end.
Marana, Arizona 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Outdoor Exploration and Local Cuisine
Morning: After breakfast at My Place Hotel, make your way to Ironwood Forest National Monument, a protected area spanning over 129,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert. Named for the ancient ironwood trees that thrive here—some of which can live for more than 800 years—the monument is a haven for biodiversity, including desert bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and rare plant species. This rugged landscape is also steeped in history, with cultural sites from the Hohokam period and remnants of early mining operations.
Begin your visit at the Titan II Missile Interpretive Site, a unique landmark that tells the story of America’s Cold War history. The Titan II missile was once part of a nationwide defense system, with over 50 silos spread across southern Arizona. Today, the interpretive site provides insight into the role this missile system played in maintaining national security during the mid-20th century.
Next, head to the Waterman Restoration Site, where efforts are underway to protect and restore desert ecosystems. This area is a great introduction to the monument’s natural beauty and conservation efforts. Don't miss the chance to hike the Waterman Trail, a short but scenic path that showcases the diverse flora of the region.
As you leave the Monument, keep an eye out for the awe-inspiring 80-armed cactus, a massive multi-stemmed saguaro that’s become a local icon. It has something like 40 arms, but it's called 80-armed for some reason. It's also referred to as Shiva. I did not find it, but there are several cacti with the multi-arm mutation to ogle at.
One important note: while admiring this incredible cactus, resist the urge to get too close. The soil around its roots is delicate, and compacting it can harm or kill the cactus. Appreciate its grandeur from a respectful distance (about the same distance as its height), ensuring it thrives for future visitors to enjoy.
Midday: Take a leisurely scenic drive through the north end of Saguaro National Park Tucson Mountain District (West), a breathtaking part of the park known for its towering saguaros, rugged mountain backdrops, and sweeping desert vistas. As you wind your way through this area, you'll feel surrounded by the majesty of the Sonoran Desert, with saguaros stretching toward the sky in every direction. This section of the park is less visited than other areas, providing a more peaceful and immersive experience.
Along the way, stop for a short hike on one of the trails off Picture Rocks Road, such as the Wild Dog Trail or the Cottonwood Trail. These paths offer a chance to wander through dense stands of saguaros, mesquite trees, and cholla cacti while listening to the sounds of the desert. Keep an eye out for wildlife—this area is home to jackrabbits, quail, and even the occasional desert tortoise.
I stopped at unnamed pullout and walked up a wash - it was beautiful!
For more help with your Saguaro National Park West visit be sure to check out Discover Marana's guide.
Lunch: For a taste of local flavor, head to Nana’s Kitchen for a late lunch. Indulge in one of their acclaimed margaritas. Their Mango Tamarindo and Sonoran Passion Margaritas won Best Overall in both the People's Choice and Judge's Choice categories at the 2022 and 2023 World Margarita Championships, respectively. I had the Mango Tamarindo and it was excellent. So were the fish tacos.
Late Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Tucson Premium Outlets, a shopper's paradise just a short drive away. This outdoor mall offers a wide variety of stores, and I was pleased to find a few local shops mixed in with the big names.
Another standout store is Tucson Games and Gadgets, which offers a fantastic array of locally made crafts, quirky gadgets, and Tucson-themed items.
As you stroll around the outdoor mall, take your time to enjoy the lovely sculptural art that adorns the public spaces. The mall features a collection of eye-catching sculptures that reflect the creativity and culture of Tucson.
Evening: Return to My Place Hotel for some relaxation before dinner at The Blacktop Grill. Known for its award-winning street food, including vegan and keto options, don't miss the Sonoran Hot Dog, a local favorite.
Night: Cap off your evening with an unforgettable experience of stargazing in Saguaro National Park, which has been designated as an Urban Night Sky Place by the International Dark-Sky Association. This special designation is given to areas "that promote an authentic nighttime experience despite being in the midst of significant artificial light." Many visitors also choose to join guided night sky programs offered by the park during certain months, where rangers share stories about the stars, constellations, and the science behind the night sky.
Day 2: Nature and Local Charm
Morning: Start your day early with a peaceful and refreshing morning at El Rio Preserve. This nature preserve is known for its rich biodiversity, with a variety of bird species, desert wildlife, and vibrant plant life. As the sun rises, the cool morning air provides the perfect atmosphere for birdwatching and exploring this beautiful area.
The preserve's mix of riparian habitats, wetlands, and wooded areas creates an ideal environment for both migratory and resident birds. Bring your binoculars to spot species like egrets, vireos, cormorants, warblers, mallards, and hummingbirds, or simply enjoy the sound of chirping birds and the rustling of leaves in the breeze.
If you prefer to get moving, El Rio Preserve offers a great opportunity for walking or biking. The Chuck Huckelberry Multi-use Loop path, also known as “The Loop,” is a well-maintained, multi-use trail system that stretches for over 130 miles around Marana. The section that runs through El Rio Preserve offers scenic views of the surrounding desert landscape, with gentle curves, wide paths, and easy access for both walkers and cyclists.
Breakfast: Before heading home, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at Bisbee Breakfast Club, a local favorite known for its delicious morning fare. I got the huevos rancheros, which is my go-to order whenever it's available, so I am kind of an expert. The Bisbee Breakfast Club version was delish and I especially like the salsa verde option!
I am so glad I got to discover the charm of Marana, Arizona, where each corner offers a new adventure and a taste of authentic desert living. Whether exploring its natural wonders or savoring its culinary delights, Marana promises an unforgettable getaway.
This itinerary/blog post showcases local businesses in our community. We feature partners that serve food and drink, offer recreational opportunities, places to stay, and shopping. We value accuracy, fairness and balance in our advertising and marketing. We would love to showcase your business to our visitors. These advertising and marketing opportunities (social media, articles, website, and ads) are open to all businesses within Marana and the designated two-mile “Pima County Tourism Partner Zone” around the town limits that meet this criteria. If you want to be featured on our website or in social media, please contact us at MaranaInfo@Maranaaz.gov.
Related Content:
Taking its name from one of the longest living trees in the Arizona desert, the Ironwood Forest National Monument is a true Sonoran Desert showcase. Keeping company with the ironwood trees are mesquite, paloverde, creosote, and saguaro. The Silver Bell, Waterman and Sawtooth are rugged mountain ranges, from 1,800 to more than 4,200 feet in elevation. Desert valleys filled with diverse wildlife, such as pronghorn and mule deer, complete the setting.
8225 N. Courtney Page Way Marana, AZ 85743 (520) 395-2508
8300 N Thornydale Rd. Suite 120 Tucson, Arizona 85741 (520) 261-2675 Website
8530 N. Joplin Ln. Marana, AZ 85742 (520) 724-0602 Website Find A Room
Tucson Games and Gadgets at Tucson Premium OutletsTucson Games and Gadgets
6401 Marana Center Blvd
Suite 920
Tucson, AZ 85742
6401 Marana Center Blvd Suite 920 Tucson, AZ 85742 Website