Cowboy culture runs deep in Southern Arizona, where cattle ranching has shaped the land for generations — including right here in Marana! That legacy thrives today at Gladden Farms, where families are just minutes from authentic Wild West experiences.

From action-packed stunt shows to up-close encounters with desert wildlife, adventure awaits!

Ready to saddle up? Check out these must-try experiences for the whole family.

Wild West comes to Downtown Marana

Psst… have you heard the news? Downtown Marana is growing, bringing even more cowboy-inspired fun just down the street!

Though it’s not here yet, we’re too excited not to share: A 20-acre, car-free district is in the works, featuring a rodeo arena, dance barn, brewery and lively event grove, giving families and Western enthusiasts a place to celebrate our ranching roots, right in our backyard.

Once complete, it’ll be the perfect spot to catch a rodeo, grab a bite or let your teens roam a little — all without going too far from home. Stay tuned!

Step back in time at Old Tucson

Old Tucson is a beloved local destination for families seeking an immersive Wild West experience, just under 40 minutes from home. Built as a movie set in 1939, this iconic attraction features live-action stunt shows, interactive exhibits and a recreated Western town to explore.

Over 400 films and TV shows were filmed here, with Hollywood legends like John Wayne, Ronald Reagan and Bing Crosby starring in some of the most famous Westerns ever made.

Kids will love dressing up as cowboys and cowgirls, riding the vintage carousel and enjoying activities like gold panning and wagon rides.

Did you know? The beloved 1993 film “Tombstone,” starring Val Kilmer and Kurt Russell, wasn’t filmed in the real Tombstone, but right here at Old Tucson Studios!

Visit the Old West as it stands today

For those eager to venture beyond their backyard, Southern Arizona boasts legendary Western historic sites perfect for day trips and weekend getaways.

Tombstone

No Wild West experience is complete without a trip to Tombstone, “The Town Too Tough to Die,” located just an hour and a half from Gladden Farms. Adventurers of all ages will enjoy strolling the same streets of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and the Clantons. Make fun memories with the family while exploring reenactments of the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, stagecoach rides and tours of historic saloons and buildings.

Did you know? Though the 1881 O.K. Corral shootout lasted only 30 seconds, it became one of the most famous gunfights in Wild West history. Interestingly, the showdown didn’t actually take place in the corral itself but in a vacant lot six doors down.

 

Copper mines & ghost towns

Less than half an hour from Tombstone, Bisbee offers a different slice of the past with its unique blend of mining history and creative charm. Families can take a tour of the Queen Mine, explore unique, quirky shops and enjoy the scenic mountain views that make Bisbee such a memorable destination.

The region is also dotted with fascinating ghost towns like Fairbank and Pearce, where visitors can explore abandoned buildings and imagine the lives of pioneers who once called these places home. These spots are ideal for kids and adults with a love of history and exploration.

Discover guest ranches

For a perfect vacation retreat, families can visit the many guest ranches near Tucson and Marana, where desert exploration, guided hikes, horseback rides, crackling campfires, cowboy crafts and hearty meals await — great for all ages.

Many ranches also host family-friendly events and workshops, giving kids the chance to experience cowboy life while parents enjoy some much-needed R&R. Explore Tanque Verde Ranch or White Stallion Ranch for authentic options near Gladden Farms.

Did you know? Historically, guest ranches gave urbanites, or “dudes,” the chance to experience cowboy adventure in the fresh air. The most famous of these ranchers, Theodore Roosevelt, was inspired by a successful dude ranch in South Dakota. He opened his own nearby, helping spark the Western adventure craze and inspiring generations of city-slickers to escape to the West for a taste of ranching life under wide-open skies.

Explore hands-on fun at the Children’s Museum Oro Valley

For families with toddlers or younger children, the Children’s Museum Oro Valley is a fantastic option. Located at the Tohono Chul gardens, this museum features interactive exhibits that engage young minds while introducing them to our unique desert environment and culture. The museum’s Western-themed events, like crafts and storytelling, make it a fun and educational stop for families with little ones in tow.

Did you know? The Children’s Museum Oro Valley offers Wee Storytime every day at 9:30 a.m., a great way to kick off a day of learning and exploration. Come lunchtime, pop into Tohono Chul’s Garden Bistro, open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for a scrumptious meal on their outdoor patio.

Meet exotic animals at Ghost Ranch Exotics

Located just outside Marana, Ghost Ranch Exotics is great for kids who love animals. This unique attraction features exotic and domestic animals, including species native to the Southwest.

Children can get up close with camels, goats, tortoises and other fascinating creatures in a safe and family-friendly environment. The ranch often hosts special events and birthday parties with Western themes, giving kids a chance to combine their love for animals with a taste of local culture. Visits are by appointment only, so make sure to book online before you go.

Did you know? Ghost Ranch Exotics is home to the largest capybara experience in the U.S. These famously friendly, semi-aquatic mammals are over 4 feet long, can weigh up to 145 pounds and are known for their gentle, peaceful nature — making them arguably the most lovable rodents around!

Western adventures at home

Cowboy fun doesn’t have to end when you leave the ranch: With a little creativity, you can bring the spirit of the Wild West right into your home!

Start with a backyard campfire for sharing classic cowboy tales under the clear Marana sky. Add s’mores, and you’ve got a timeless evening straight out of an Old West movie. For active fun, transform your yard into a rodeo arena with lasso practice or hobby horse races (check them out on TikTok!). Inside, create the perfect movie night with family-favorite Western films.

Did you know? Gladden Farms homes feature backyards perfect for a mini campout inspired by the open range. Plus, optional loft and flex spaces create cozy retreats for family entertainment. Whether you’re hosting a themed playdate or enjoying outdoor fun, your Gladden Farms home is the ideal backdrop for all your cowboy-inspired activities.

Put Down Roots at Gladden Farms

Nestled in the heart of Marana, Gladden Farms combines the peace of countryside living with the convenience of shopping, dining, parks and the I-10 just minutes away. Whether you’re looking for an open-concept layout, a dedicated play area or a cozy space to unwind, here you’ll find affordable, new construction homes that blend modern convenience with small-town charm. With monthly mortgages often lower than rent and homes built to fit every timeline, Gladden Farms makes it easier than ever to own a home ideally suited to your budget and lifestyle. Explore floor plans from award-winning builders and find your perfect fit today,