Located between Tempe and Phoenix, Papago Park is a 1,200-acre desert park that has welcomed generations of Arizonans. Its iconic Papago Buttes and towering red rock formations have withstood decades of change, quietly witnessing the urban development of Phoenix and Tempe, all while preserving the natural beauty of the Arizona desert.
A Timeless Desert Landmark
The first photo, taken in 1934, captures one of the park’s earliest events at the Papago Amphitheater, where approximately 6,000 people gathered for Easter Sunday at what was then a brand-new community space. In the photo, rows of vintage cars and a crowd of people fill the dusty valley, capturing a moment when the area was far less developed. The scene feels raw, open, and communal, a reflection of the Arizona desert before urban expansion.
A Glimpse into History
From 1914 to 1930, the area remained largely undeveloped under federal ownership. In 1933, the City of Tempe assumed control of the park and began improving it, adding trails, ramadas, fish hatcheries, and paved roads with the labor of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC, established as part of the New Deal during the Great Depression, employed thousands of men, including many World War I veterans, and played a crucial role in shaping the early civic infrastructure of Phoenix.
In 1942, the park was temporarily repurposed to meet wartime needs, serving both as a veterans hospital and a prisoner of war camp until 1944. After the war, ownership shifted in 1953 when the Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement acquired the land, and sold it to the City of Phoenix in 1959. The City of Phoenix reopened Papago Park to the public in 1960, establishing it as a major recreational and cultural space.
A New Era of Growth and Community
After reopening in 1960, Papago Park began expanding as a cultural and recreational hub for the Valley. The Phoenix Zoo opened in 1962, becoming one of the largest privately funded nonprofit zoos in the nation. The Desert Botanical Garden also grew significantly during this time, establishing itself as a renowned showcase for desert plants. Recreation flourished with the creation of the Papago Golf Course in 1963, which now serves as the home for the Arizona State Sun Devils golf teams. On the Tempe side, Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills was transformed into Arizona’s first fully lit 18-hole golf course, adding a modern element to outdoor activities. These developments transformed the park into a magnet for hospitality, dining, office, and mixed-use developments in nearby areas. Its central location between Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale further positioned Papago Park as one of the most strategically positioned and experience-driven submarkets in the Valley.
Rising Demand Around Papago
As many employers shift back to the office and reduce remote work policies, the demand for amenity-rich workplaces is rising. Companies are seeking locations that offer more than just traditional offices, focusing on environments that promote culture, wellness, and lifestyle amenities.
The recent opening of Gertrude’s by Tarbell at the Desert Botanical Garden underscores a broader trend: premium dining, curated experiences, and destination-driven amenities are elevating expectations for what a commercial district should offer. These lifestyle components not only increase foot traffic but also contribute to higher tenant demand and stronger long-term asset value.
The Enduring Papago Buttes
Today, Papago Park remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. Its network of trails offers opportunities for hiking, jogging, and cycling, while the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation provides both panoramic views and a glimpse into the area’s geological history. The Papago Buttes still stand unchanged, overlooking a landscape that now connects key points of the metro area. Paved roads, passing cars, and modern infrastructure frame the same terrain that once showcased Arizona’s untamed frontier. The red rocks of Papago Park remind us that even as cities expand and skylines grow, our connection to nature, history, and place endures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was Arizona’s population in 1934 compared to 2025? In 1934, Arizona’s population was roughly 500,000 people. By 2025, it has grown to over 7 million residents, making it one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with Phoenix and the surrounding metro area driving much of that expansion.
2. How old are the rock formations in Papago Park? The red sandstone buttes in Papago Park are 6 to 15 million years old, formed long after the original bedrock (Precambrian granite) eroded.
3. Are there any plans for development or changes at Papago Park? Current plans focus on preserving the natural landscape while enhancing visitor access and amenities. Improvements may include upgraded trails, better signage, and sustainable infrastructure to support increased tourism and community events, without compromising the park’s character.
4. What is the Papago “Hole-in-the-Rock”? The Hole-in-the-Rock is a natural sandstone formation within Papago Park featuring a large opening near its summit. It’s a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert. The formation is also historically significant, having been used by Native American tribes and early settlers as a lookout point, helping indigenous communities track the solstices and seasons for agricultural and ceremonial purposes.
