Long before the coming of the Spanish Conquistadors and missionaries in the 17th Century, the Marana/Avra Valley area was inhabited by the Hohokam Indians, who developed extensive canal systems from the Santa Cruz River for irrigated agriculture. By the coming of the first Spaniards to the area in the 1690s, the Hohokam had long since disappeared, and their irrigation works had become ruins. Today, Marana is a thriving community with plenty for visitors to see and do, including golf on one three championship golf courses.
Things to do in Marana
Breakers Water Park
The Breakers Water park features 20+ acres of fun filled water slides, the Breakers Bay Wave Pool, Munchkin Marsh kiddie playland, Surf-side Deli and Cantina, volleyball courts, and ramadas for Group Catered Functions. Call 520-682-2530 for more information.
Picacho Peak State Park
Picacho Peak was a landmark for those early explorers traveling the desert. Jesuit priest Father Kino mentioned Picacho Peak in records of his journeys, and in 1775, the DeAnza Expeditions passed by the Peak. Many more were to follow, including the forty-niners who passed through on their way to California. This was also the site of the Arizona's only Civil War battle. Every March, "The Civil War in the Southwest" comes alive again as over two hundred re-enactors converge on Picacho Peak on foot and horseback. The park offers hiking and picnicking. Call 520-466-3183 for more information.