Free Things to Do in Marana Today

If you’re on the hunt for free things to do, Marana has plenty to offer! From scenic hiking trails and biking paths to unique public art and historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re planning things to do in Marana today or looking for fun, free attractions nearby, this guide will help you uncover the best of what this vibrant community has to offer.

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Top 12 Free Things to Do in Marana, Arizona

1. Hike Local Trails

Explore the natural beauty of Marana with trails like Wild Burro Trail, Tortolita Mountain Park, and the network of paths in El Rio Preserve. These trails offer stunning desert vistas, ancient petroglyphs, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

2. El Rio Preserve

A must-visit for nature lovers, this 104-acre natural gem is steeped in history and ecological significance. Once a campsite for Juan Bautista de Anza during his 18th-century expedition, it has evolved into a vital riparian habitat that attracts 250 different bird species. With natural mounds, shade trees, and serene lakes, it’s a perfect spot for birdwatching and nature walks.

3. Public Art Installations

Take a self-guided tour of Marana’s public art, including murals, sculptures, and pieces like the “Deer at Tangerine Sky Park” and “Man on the Horse.” These installations reflect the town’s culture and provide great photo opportunities.

4. Wildflower Sightings (Seasonal Blooms)

While hiking or driving, enjoy the vibrant seasonal blooms of desert wildflowers. Spring is the best time for this, but the desert always offers surprising bursts of color.

5. The Loop

The Chuck Huckelberry Loop is a 137-mile accessible network of paved pathways, now featuring a new section in Northern Marana where you can ride 33 uninterrupted miles from Avra Valley Road to West Valencia Road. Perfect for cyclists, walkers, and runners, it offers stunning views and endless outdoor fun.

6. Western Movies

Marana has served as a backdrop for iconic Western films, making it a must-visit destination for movie buffs. The region continues to be a sought-after location for the Western genre, with plenty of spots where you can dive into its rich film history!

7. Local Events

Marana is bursting with free events year-round, offering something for everyone. Whether it’s dazzling fireworks, lively concert series, exciting fun runs, or vibrant festivals, there’s always something happening. Check out our events calendar to plan your trip and experience some of Arizona’s best budget-friendly celebrations!

8. Free Nights at the Children’s Museum

Experience the magic of the Children’s Museum Tucson with two free evening programs! Discovery Night takes place every Thursday from 5-7 pm, offering bilingual hands-on arts and science activities perfect for working families. On the second Saturday of each month, enjoy Art After Dark from 5:30-7:30 pm, featuring creative fun with local arts groups. Both events provide free admission and unforgettable opportunities for play-based learning and exploration!

9. Concerts in the Courtyard

Enjoy free monthly concerts featuring local bands at the Marana Municipal Complex courtyard! Bring your own chair or blanket, grab something to eat from local food truck vendors, and join in a fun-filled evening under the stars.

10. Biking in Marana

Whether you prefer rugged mountain trails or smooth, long-distance bike paths, Marana is a cyclist’s paradise. With scenic routes for every skill level and a community that embraces bike culture, it’s easy to see why cyclists love exploring Marana.

11. Ironwood Forest

Spend the day exploring the Ironwood Forest. Be sure you stop and admire the Shiva, an 80-arm saguaro that towers over visitors. For a guide to find it, visit the Friends of the Ironwood Forest National Monument website or download the pdf here.

12. Marana Splash Pads

Cool off from the desert heat with some aquatic excitement. Our splash pads are free in the summer for kids at Crossroads at Silverbell Park and Gladden Farms Park.

Don’t Break the Bank: More Budget-Friendly Activities

Visit the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch and Petting Zoo where you will get the opportunity to feed a variety of animals including goats, ostrich, stingrays, lorikeets and much more! Kids under 5 are FREE (regular price admission is $12-$15).

Catalina Brewing Company offers a mix of fun weekly events and budget-friendly specials, making it a must-visit spot in Marana. From DJ Bingo and trivia nights to live music and yoga classes, there’s always something happening. Don’t miss their rotating food trucks, pinball tournaments, and drink deals like Taco Tuesday and $1 off your first beer when you bike to the brewery.

Low cost guided hikes and other programming is offered by Marana Parks and Recreation including guided horseback rides, beginner mountain biking, and ethnobotany hikes. Check our events calendar for the latest opportunities or download the Marana Parks & Rec App to explore trail options, discover amenities, and sign up for guided hikes and programs—all in one convenient place!

Looking for even more budget-friendly fun? Check out Southern Arizona's Attractions Passport, also known as the Book of Fun! This handy pass offers discounts and deals on Southern Arizona’s unique attractions, making it the perfect companion for exploring the region while saving on admission prices.

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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.

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Ironwood Forest National Monument

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.

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