The visitor center at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, closing 15 minutes before the park closes. It is open 7 days a week, except for Juneteenth, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving.
Entrance to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is free; no entrance fee or pass is required.
From Phoenix, take Highway 87/287 southeast to Coolidge, then follow the signs to the monumental ruins, nestled in the Sonoran Desert’s captivating landscape.
Parking is available in a sizable lot at the end of a 3/4 mile paved entrance road off Highway 87/287. It accommodates cars, RVs, and motorcycles, with no overnight parking and no parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, situated in the arid expanse of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient Hohokam people. This 472.5-acre site, northeast of Casa Grande and just a 20-minute drive off the I-10 highway between Phoenix and Tucson, preserves a group of structures dating back to the Classic Period, roughly between 1150 and 1450 CE.
The centerpiece of the monument is the imposing Great House, a four-story adobe structure that stands as a marvel of ancient engineering, its earthy tones blending seamlessly into the desert landscape. The surrounding area, once a thriving farming community, is dotted with remnants of an intricate irrigation system that harnessed the waters of the Gila River.
As visitors wander through the ruins, they can explore a ballcourt carved from the packed desert earth and a vibrant pollinator garden, each element a poignant reminder of the lives once lived here. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits and a compelling park film, providing depth to the stories of the land and its people.
Seasonal changes paint the desert in varying hues – the stark beauty of winter, the vibrant blooms of spring, and the golden light of summer. While there are no lakes or water bodies on site, the nearby Gila River and its historical significance add a layer of richness to the experience.
Local artisans and nearby towns offer additional allure, with opportunities to engage with the descendants of the Hohokam people who still live and thrive in the area. Special events, such as ranger-led tours and cultural festivals, bring the monument to life, inviting visitors to connect deeply with this ancient desert community. For those seeking a unique and enriching experience, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is an unparalleled destination, where the past meets the present in a landscape of enduring beauty.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 65 000
- Established year
- 1892
Top 3 Facts about Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
The main structure, built around 1350, is a four-story caliche building with outer rooms three stories high and an inner structure four stories high, constructed using traditional adobe processes with walls that are thicker at the base for added strength.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, cactus fruits, mesquite beans, and the medicinal creosote bush thrive. Local wildlife includes birds, squirrels, rabbits, and reptiles like snakes and lizards. Larger game such as mule deer and bighorn sheep inhabit the nearby mountains. The night-blooming cereus adds a touch of elegance, while the high abundance of Couch’s spadefoot toads and diverse bird species enrich the ecosystem. This unique blend of flora and fauna makes for an immersive and enriching experience amidst the desert’s sparse yet resilient beauty.
Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert’s arid landscape, this site sits within the down-dropped Picacho Basin, where Pleistocene river terraces and alluvium deposits tell the story of the Gila River’s ancient flow. The nearby mountains, including the Picacho and Casa Grande ranges, stand as testament to the region’s complex geology, with alluvial deposits reaching depths of 800 to 1,200 feet. The area’s harsh yet beautiful environment is marked by intense sunlight and sparse rainfall, averaging just 9 inches annually.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in the cooler morning of winter or early spring to avoid intense heat. Bring water, a shade umbrella, and camera gear for capturing desert flora and wildlife. Plan for a memorable afternoon with a self-guided tour and rest breaks under the protective canopy. Check az511.gov for traffic updates before your trip.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for desert temperature swings, sturdy hiking boots, and ample water. For camping, bring a sturdy tent, sleeping bags, and a multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the desert habitat by staying on trails, avoiding disturbance of ground squirrels and roadrunners, and bringing plenty of water to minimize waste. Wear sun protection and visit early or late to avoid harsh midday sun. Leave no trace to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 520-723-3172. Exercise caution and stay informed.
Seasons
In spring, temperatures rise to the 80s and 90s, but mild mornings make it ideal for exploring ancient ruins. Attend Family Resilience Day, a special community event, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this Sonoran Desert site. Bring sunscreen and water.
Explore ancient ruins under the scorching summer sun, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F. Though heat can be intense, the cooler evenings host special events like the speaker series and Native American artist demonstrations, making summer a unique time to visit.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures, ranging from 60s to 80s Fahrenheit. Enjoy the American Indian Arts and Music Festival in late November, featuring traditional crafts and farming techniques amidst the ancient ruins. Ideal weather makes it a perfect time to explore this historical landmark.
Visit in winter (December to February) when temperatures range from 40°F to 70°F, offering mild and pleasant conditions. Ideal for exploring ancient ruins and enjoying guided tours without the summer heat. Perfect for a serene and immersive experience.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Casa Grande Ruins National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Phoenix to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument takes approximately 51 minutes and covers a distance of about 48-55 miles. You take I-10 East toward Tucson and exit at AZ-387, then follow the signs to the monument in Coolidge, Arizona.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not allowed in the visitor center and should not be left unattended. Well-behaved dogs are permitted in most areas of the monument.
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Parking is free. There are no fees for entrance or parking, making it accessible for all visitors, including those with campers, motorhomes, or trailers.
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The top attraction is the “Great House,” a structure built by the ancestral Sonoran Desert people around 1350. This ancient building is part of a larger farming community that thrived for over 1,000 years along the Gila River. It was designated as the nation’s first archaeological reserve in 1892 and became a national monument in 1918.