Tanque Verde Ranch is a historic guest ranch located on 60,000 acres of stunning desert landscapes near Tucson, Arizona. Established in 1868, it is recognized as one of America’s last luxurious outposts of the old west. The ranch offers comfortable accommodations and a variety of activities for guests, including horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and hiking. Visitors have noted the scenic views, especially on the patio of the cantina, where happy hour features good prices for drinks. While the riding program is suitable for those looking to enjoy a leisurely experience, guests have mentioned that the reservation and billing systems can have errors, so it is advisable to double-check details. The dining experiences, particularly during events like the Thanksgiving Brunch, have received high praise for delicious food and attentive service. Activities like falconry, cooking classes, and crafts have added to the positive experiences, making it a great getaway for friends and families. Overall, Tanque Verde Ranch is highly recommended for its beautiful location adjacent to Saguaro National Park and diverse offerings that cater to various interests.
Why we love it: An all-American dude ranch where guests can play cowboy in luxury Highlights:- A superb riding program that brings over 150 horses to the mesquite corral each morning- Luxury amenities like an outdoor pool and spa to balance out the adventure- Regular dining events like private-chef dinners and barbecues The Review: Founded in 1868, this Tucson guest ranch sits below the Rincon Mountains, overlooking the rolling foothills of Saguaro National Park. It's often ranked among America's top resorts and wedding destinations-and for good reason. Not only does it deliver Southwestern charm in the form of pink adobe architecture, but it runs one of the nation's top horseback-riding programs, with everything from team penning and mountain adventure rides to the signature "Harmony with Horses," which teaches interspecies communication. The ranch also offers a host of other activities, including yoga, hikes, mountain biking, photography courses, and naturalist-led walks to explore the desert's edible and medicinal plants. There's even a kids' day camp for ages four to 12 with tennis, arts and crafts, swimming, and more. Rooms here feature exposed beams and brick, punctuated with dark wood furniture and pops of Southwestern fabrics. Each has a desk, coffeemaker, and small refrigerator, while the biggest suite also includes a fireplace and sleeps up to six. When guests start feeling saddle sore, they can rejuvenate with a full-body massage in the spa, or grab a prickly pear margarita at the Dog House Saloon. For a full meal, head to the on-site restaurant, which serves Southwestern cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or attend one of the specialty dining events held each week, including private-chef dinners and cowboy cookouts.
