Tanque Verde Ranch

Tanque Verde Ranch sits on 640 acres in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains on Tucson’s east side, and its history as a ranch goes back to 1868. Today it is one of the best-known guest ranches in the Southwest, with 74 rooms and suites, most with a fireplace and patio, and what it calls Arizona’s largest stable of more than 150 horses.

Riding is offered every day, from lessons to breakfast rides, picnic rides and all-day rides into the desert. The nightly rate also covers guided hiking, nature walks, mountain biking with bikes and helmets provided, and tennis on five courts, with a resident pro from October through April. A counselor-supervised children’s program for ages 4 to 11 includes riding lessons, which makes it a strong choice for families.

The ranch has indoor and outdoor heated pools, whirlpools and a children’s wading pool, an exercise room, saunas and a spa. Choose the American Plan rate if you want three ranch meals a day included; check how each rate is described when you book. Tucson International Airport is the nearest major airport.