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Marana, Arizona
So, how far is Marana from Phoenix? Just about 90 miles southeast, which makes it a super manageable drive for weekend getaways or business trips. We’re close enough to big-city access but tucked away in our own peaceful pocket of the Sonoran Desert. And bonus: we’ve got our own regional airport, complete with a flight school, and we’re just 34 minutes from Tucson International Airport, or 80 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor.
One of the things I love most about Marana is the mix of old and new. Historically, this area was known for its rich farmland: crops like cotton and grains were everywhere. Fast forward to today, and Marana is thriving with new downtown development, creative events, expanding neighborhoods, and plenty of modern conveniences. Think dentist offices, eye care clinics, fire departments, and even a fully accessible hospital with an emergency center.
Weather-wise, it’s gorgeous most of the year, mild winters and those classic Arizona hot summers. Thanks to our slightly higher elevation compared to Phoenix, it’s just a little more comfortable during the peak heat.
And yes, there’s so much to do here! For kids, there’s fun splash pads, the MARC (Marana Aquatic and Recreation Center), and tons of sports and seasonal events. Grown-ups can check out local golf courses, try skydiving for a thrill, or join clubs at the active senior center. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime local, you’ll never run out of ways to connect and enjoy life here.
Marana’s that perfect blend of community charm, open space, and everyday convenience, and it’s only getting better.
Gladden Farms
Gladden Farms is a green-space centered, master-planned community in northwest Marana, known for its parks and trails. To get there, take I-10 Exit 240 (Tangerine Rd.) and head west toward the community.
Other Neighborhoods in the Gladden Farms Area
Dove Mountain
Dove Mountain is a scenic master-planned community nestled in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains. Many of its neighborhoods are tucked away from the bustle of town, offering a peaceful desert retreat.
Some locals have deemed it the largest cul-de-sac in the United States 😉
You can reach it by taking I-10 Exit 240 (Tangerine Road) and heading east toward the mountains.
Other Neighborhoods in the Dove Mountain Area
- Blue Agave
- The Bluffs
- Boulder Pass
- Boulder Canyon at Dove Mountain
- Butterfly Mountain
- Canyon Pass
- Casa Sevilla
- Del Webb
- Dos Lagos
- Dove Creek
- The Gallery
- Garden Estates
- Golden Barrel
- Hidden Springs
- The Highlands at Dove Mountain
- Los Saguaros
- The Preserve
- Quail Crossing
- Quail Crossing II
- The Ritz Carlton Residences
- Solana
- Saguaro Ranch
- Saguaro Reserve at Dove Mountain
- Sky Ranch
- Sonoran Preserve
- Tangerine Crossing
- Tortolita Reserve
- Tortolita Vistas
- Tortolita Ridge
- Tortolita 30
- The Villages at Dove Mountain
- The Villages at Twin Peaks
Continental Ranch
Continental Ranch is a well-established community in northwest Marana, conveniently located near shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. You can reach it by taking I-10 Exit 246 (Cortaro Road) and heading west.
Other Neighborhoods in the Continental Ranch area
Future Master-Planned Communities
Tortolita Shadows – 2500 planned homes coming soon