From 1350 C.E. to 1450 C.E., ancient Sonoran Desert people lived and worked the land that currently houses Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Today, a four-story great house towers over the desert and the remains of a large walled compound and a sophisticated irrigation system — since the house was built well before written history, its purpose is a mystery. Explore the site at your own pace, using the interpretive signs to learn about the lifestyles of the ancient people who once farmed nearby. Situated between Phoenix and Tucson, Casa Grande makes a lovely day trip or a base camp for exploring Arizona's desert landscape.
RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
The weather at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument can be intense — in the summer, daytime temperatures regularly rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're planning to camp, an RV is a cool, breezy escape from the summer heat and the winter winds. Don't have a motorhome? A rental from RVshare offers both convenience and comfort.
RV Rentals Near Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
Things To Do Near Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is small but fascinating. The main attractions are the ruins; bring a picnic, and enjoy a meal with a view of the ancient structures. The surrounding desert stretches for miles in every direction, offering panoramic views. Enjoy the year-round sunshine in the wide-open desert, or head east into the Pinal Mountains for cool breezes.
Hiking Trails
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Self-guided Ruins Tour
A short path takes you from the visitor center to the Casa Grande ruins. Flat and easy to access, this route is usable for visitors of all mobility levels. As you walk, stop to read the interpretive signs — they explain the structures and tell you about the purpose of each one in everyday life. Keep an eye out for the viewing platform that overlooks an ancient ballpark.
Location
Casa Grande Visitor Center
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Poston Butte Trail
Located about 11 miles from Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, the Poston Butte Trail takes you to some of the most beautiful views in the area. It's a short climb to the top of the butte; once there, you can see across the desert and over to the mountains in the distance. A stone pyramid at the top marks the spot where Charles Poston, a Lincoln-era politician, is buried.
Location
13993 W. Hunt Highway, Florence, AZ 85132
Length
1 Mile Round Trip
Intensity
Easy to Moderate
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North Mountain Park Nature Trail
Drive 17 miles west to find North Mountain Nature Trail. Located in the North Mountain Park, this short loop is mostly flat; it's a great option for families with kids or beginning hikers. The wide dirt path takes you through the desert and past several washes and hills. The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of opportunities for off-trail exploration. Make sure to take ample water, particularly in the summer and fall; the sun is hot, and shade is minimal.
Location
11401 W. Camdon Dr., Casa Grande, AZ 85194
Length
1.4 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Casa Grande
Casa Grande is the largest of the ruins at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. You can't miss it — it rises four stories above the ground and sits under an enormous ramada that reduces the effects of erosion. Named by a Catholic priest in 1690, the purpose of the giant house is a mystery to archaeologists and anthropologists.
Location
Casa Grande Visitor Center
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San Tan Mountain Regional Park
Enjoy the classic Arizona scenery at San Tan Mountain Regional Park, which sits north of Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Rugged, rocky mountains rise out of the desert, peaking at an elevation of approximately 2,500 feet above sea level. Popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and photographers, the park is an excellent spot to watch a sunset or a sunrise.
Location
6533 W Phillips Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
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Casa Grande Main Street
Walking down Casa Grande Main Street is like stepping back in time; the buildings and signs have been painstakingly renovated to retain their historic charm. Packed with restaurants and shops, Main Street is a fun place for a stroll or a quick drive.
Location
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Museums
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Casa Palomino Mexican Restaurant
With its friendly service and excellent food, Casa Palomino Mexican Restaurant makes a great stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner during your visit to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. It's located less than five minutes from the park.
Location
1076 N. Arizona Blvd., Coolidge, AZ 85128
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Rolbeto's Taco Shop
If you need a quick meal on the go, look no further than Rolbeto's Taco Shop. Grab a plate of tacos or Mexican favorites such as enchiladas and fajitas, and head to the shaded outdoor dining area for a relaxed meal.
Location
631 N. Arizona Blvd., Coolidge, AZ 85128
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Tag's Cafe
When you're craving a hearty diner meal, Tag's Cafe has you covered. The large breakfast menu is available all day, but you can also opt for salads, sandwiches, and meaty dinner entrees.
Location
156 N. Arizona Blvd., Coolidge, AZ 85128
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MAE New Age Boutique
Whether you're in the market for a souvenir or a handmade skincare product, the selection at MAE New Age Boutique is sure to please. There's even a line of grooming products for men, so you can find something for everyone on your list.
Location
228 E. Broadway Ave., Coolidge, AZ 85128
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Safeway
Stock up for your camping trip at Safeway; it's located right across from the park's entrance, so it's a convenient stop on your way in or out.
Location
1449 N. Arizona Blvd., Coolidge, AZ 85128
How To Get To Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
From the Phoenix metro area, the fastest way to get to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is usually to take I-10 south. At exit 185, take County Road 387 east to County Road 282. From there, drive east, and turn south on North Arizona Boulevard. The park entrance is less than 1 mile from the turn.
Address
1100 W. Ruins Dr., Coolidge, AZ 85128
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument offers the chance to peer back in time and imagine the lives of ancient Native American people. Whether you want to explore the ruins or enjoy the view from the picnic area, this spot is a must-see destination for kids and adults. When you bring an RV, it's a breeze to camp near the monument or up in the surrounding mountains any month of the year.