Smack dab between Phoenix and Tucson off Interstate 10 sits the town of Casa Grande, Arizona. Just an hour from each of the big cities, Casa Grande serves up a sweet slice of small town America in the heart of the desert.
This story has been created in partnership with the Experience Casa Grande, Arizona.
The 1920s Mission Revival style building (formerly a church) now houses the Museum of Casa Grande in the city’s historic downtown.
Take Me Back…
Although three hours south of the Route 66, the throwback road trip vibe in Casa Grande delivers retro nostalgia like a drive-in diner carhop. Of the many lodging options available, a reservation at the Francisco Grande Hotel & Golf Resort puts you in the footsteps of the rich and famous of bygone days. Even John Wayne himself kept a penthouse on the top floor of the swanky Francisco Grande! The modernizations make a stay at the historic property more comfortable, without compromising the history of the resort. The rooms overlook a sea of green, including a beautiful 188 acre golf course and a swimming pool surrounded by palm trees—a true oasis in the desert!
History is never far from your thoughts in Casa Grande, particularly as you explore their downtown, one of Arizona’s quaint Main Street communities. Over 40 buildings on the National Historic Registry are now home to a variety of locally-owned businesses, including boutiques, cafes, and museums. The self-guided walking tour is a great way to explore the history and art downtown. But the real ‘highlight’ will be your after-dark visit to the Neon Sign Park. This Instagram heaven allows pedestrians to stroll through an impressive collection of retired signs aglow with the full spectrum of colors. The glowing tubes, twisted into shapes and letters, visually transport you back to the days of classic cars and soda fountains. You won’t want to miss it!
Dig in Deeper
The ancestral Sonoran Dessert peoples still perplex archeologists – the purpose of this complex and the details about its construction is still a mystery! Photo courtesy of the National Park Service.
Any good road trip calls for some sightseeing. Casa Grande’s most famous attraction bears the same name: Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. The site was named by early Spanish explorers and in 1892 became one of the first federally protected archeology sites in the U.S., preserving pre-Columbian history for modern visitors. Around 1350 CE, the ancestral Sonoran Desert people built the structures, including the literally translated “Great House,” which still towers four stories high 800 years later. Entrance to the monument is free year-round and guided tours are available during the cooler months (October through April). The National Parks-run museum and bookstore are a cool respite for summer visitors, too.
Those craving a truly unique, hands-on experience, should make a reservation to tour Caywood Farms. The fifth-generation working cotton farm gives visitors an up-close look at modern cotton ginning—including a hayride behind an antique tractor out to the field to pick some cotton to take home with you! The 2.5-hour tour is sure to break your presumptions about Arizona and agriculture!
Venture into the Wilderness
Photo courtesy of Arizona State Parks & Trails
Arizona is, however, synonymous with desert and Casa Grande is an ideal basecamp to explore the Sonoran wilderness and view the iconic saguaro cacti. Over 70 miles of motor-free trails criss-cross Picacho Peak State Park, perfect for hikers and mountain bikers of all levels. The Spanish picacho translates to “peak” (yes, that would make its name “Peak Peak”) and long before you arrive, there is little question why; the mountain’s spire dominates the landscape and has served as a landmark for centuries. The park rangers provide guided hikes, star talks, and hands-on wildlife programs throughout the year. If your trip doesn’t line up with their schedule, don’t fret—you can always pack a black light to go scorpion hunting after dark if you are brave enough!
Not the hiking or biking type? You can still experience the outdoors without sacrificing your adventurous spirit. Immerse yourself in striking vistas, abundant wildlife, and diverse flora via a professionally guided Jeep tour. Rob’s Red Jeep Rambles will take you into the Sonoran Desert National Monument, along the edges of Tabletop Mountains Wilderness. The 4-hour tour allows for plenty of stops for photo ops and a bevy of stories from your informative driver. You’ll never see the desert the same way again.
Off the beaten path fans will want to check out Rob’s Red Jeep Rambles, touring the backroads of the Sonoran Desert National Monument.
Casa Grande flawlessly intertwines ancient and modern history with a dash of culture, adventure, and beauty, all just a stone’s throw from two metropolitan areas. Slow down and cruise into this desert gem. It’s a welcomed slow roll into the good ol’ days.
