Sahuaro Ranch Park

A Glimpse into Arizona's Past

Established in 1886 by William Henry Bartlett, this 17-acre historical retreat marries recreational fun with a beautifully preserved late 19th-century ranch. Not just any old park, this place earned its spot on the National Register of Historical Places and has been dubbed the "Showplace of the Valley".

Wander through 13 original historic buildings including the stately Main House, the charming Foreman's House, and the rustic Barn - all thoughtfully restored to their former glory. These buildings tell silent stories of early settlers and how agriculture shaped the region. While you can explore the historical grounds freely, the Main House offers guided tours if you want the full historical experience (just check ahead for tour times).

Nature's Touch

The grounds here are surprisingly lush for Arizona, boasting citrus groves, fig trees, date palms, olive trees, and various fruit orchards that showcase the area's agricultural roots. The rose garden is particularly special - a fragrant oasis that's absolutely worth lingering in, especially during blooming season.

One of the coolest things about this park? The wildlife! Peacocks and chickens roam freely around the grounds, adding unexpected charm and delight for visitors of all ages. You might also spot rabbits hopping around if you visit during quieter hours. The peacocks are definitely Instagram-worthy, but probably don't try to eat your lunch around them - they've been known to get a bit too friendly with visitors' food.

Things to Do

Beyond soaking in the history, the park offers various activities, exhibits, and tours that keep the spirit of early Valley settlement alive. The focus here balances preservation with education about the early Valley settlement.

But don't worry, modern-day fun hasn't been forgotten. The park balances its historical side with plenty of recreational options including multiple playgrounds suited for different ages, sports fields for baseball, basketball, soccer, and volleyball, plus a dedicated dog park where your four-legged friends can run free. The expansive grassy areas are great for spreading out a blanket for an impromptu picnic or tossing a frisbee around.

Gather & Celebrate

Scattered around the grounds are numerous picnic tables, plus larger covered ramadas complete with built-in grills that you can reserve for gatherings. These spaces have become local favorites for family reunions, birthday celebrations, and community get-togethers. Even on busy weekends, the park's spacious layout means you can usually find a quiet corner to call your own for a few hours.

Picture Perfect

It's no surprise that Sahuaro Ranch Park has become a hotspot for photographers. The historic buildings, blooming rose garden, and orchard areas create stunning backdrops for wedding photos, quinceañeras, and portrait sessions. You should know that some photography sessions require permits, so it's worth checking with Glendale parks before planning a professional shoot.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of time to explore both the historic treasures and recreational areas of this unique community space - truly a place where Arizona's past and present converge.