Tanque Verde is a rural town located in Pima County, Arizona, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 1682. The name Tanque Verde roughly translates to "Green Tank" in Spanish. It is considered a suburban area of Tuscan, and the city consists of a few homes, a school, and a post office.
The community was founded in the late 19th century, when it was recognized as a convenient stopping point along the stagecoach route between Tucson and a silver mining camp in the nearby Santa Rita Mountains. In the 1920's and 1930's, Tanque Verde was known for its guest ranches, including the Tanque Verde Ranch, which was visited by many Hollywood stars, including John Wayne.
Today, Tanque Verde is popular for its ranches, which attract guests from all over the world, who come to experience horseback riding, hiking, and other outdoor activities in the beautiful landscapes of the Sonoran desert.
Culture: Tanque Verde is a rural community that has retained its rustic, western charm. The community is brought together by the Tanque Verde School District, which consists of a single K-8 school, and the Tanque Verde Lutheran Church, which holds Sunday services and community events. The area is known for its cowboy culture, and every February, the town hosts the Tanque Verde Ranch Rodeo. The community comes together to celebrate with contests, food, and a rodeo competition.
Local Attraction:
1. Tanque Verde Falls: Tanque Verde Falls is a sought-after attraction in the area. The falls, located in Tanque Verde Canyon, cascade 100 feet down, creating a scenic oasis in the desert. Visitors can navigate the canyon by hiking trails or horseback riding to reach the falls.
2. Saguaro National Park: Named after the famous saguaro cactus, this national park is within driving distance of Tanque Verde. Visitors can see the giant cacti and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Sonoran desert.
3. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: Located just outside Tanque Verde, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum showcases the natural history of the Sonoran Desert. The museum features exhibitions, a zoo, and a botanical garden featuring local flora.
Food:
Tanque Verde is celebrated for its southwestern cuisine, especially Tex-Mex and BBQ. The famous Steak Out Restaurant and Saloon, a local staple, serves up classic American fares such as steaks, burgers, and BBQ ribs. Tanque Verde is also home to various food truck serving authentic Mexican cuisine.
People:
Tanque Verde has a population of just over 1,600 residents, most of whom are Caucasian and Hispanic Americans. The community is small, friendly, and tight-knit, with residents enjoying outdoor activities and the rural way of life.
History:
Tanque Verde began as a stagecoach stop in the late 19th century and was later popular among Hollywood stars visiting the various guest ranches in the area in the 1920s and 1930s. Today's Tanque Verde is a thriving rural community that retains its rustic, western charm and continues to attract visitors looking for an authentic taste of the American West.
In summary, Tanque Verde offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences that make it an attractive destination for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and fishing, while also experiencing the community's cowboy culture.