Below the Santa Catalina Mountains, between Tanque Verde Creek and Pantano Wash, tucked into a neighborhood near the intersection of Sabino Canyon and Tanque Verde Roads a small piece the Tucson Basin’s history is preserved by the Vista Del Rio Cultural Resource Park.

Hohokam lived here between 950 and 1150, perhaps irrigating and farming areas closer to the nearby washes. Pit houses and earthen roasting pits have been excavated here – artifacts including pottery, jewelry, arrow points and metates found.

There are not any excavated structures, elaborate reconstructions or large collections of artifacts on display at VDR – just a few informational signs and a subtle scattering of artifacts under a covering of creosote – an interesting look at what an unexcavated archaeological site often looks like and a wonderful space to walk thru and contemplate the past – just a small piece of the Tucson Basin and its history, but well worth a visit.