Welcome to Vail
Family-friendly suburb replete with natural beauty
Located 34 miles southeast of Tucson and home to resort-like master planned communities, Vail boasts majestic mountain vistas, breathtaking sunsets, and perfect year-round weather that makes it an ideal location for thrilling outdoor adventures in the desert. Home to one of the best School Districts in the entire state, families are drawn to Vail for its tranquil, relaxed pace of life and the top-notch education it promises their kids.
Named for pioneer ranchers Edward and Walter Vail, who established ranches in the area in the late 19th century, Vail was originally a water stop on the Southern Pacific Railroad. With plenty of wide-open spaces, a few local eateries, and lots of local chains, including an expansive Fry's Food & Drug grocery featuring a bountiful produce section and pharmacy, this neighborhood serves up its fair share of treasures.
Take a drive through the streets of Vail to marvel at the uniform design of the neighborhood's homes for miles upon miles, coated in earthy tones to blend into the desert landscape. Many of these residential structures are single or dual-story homes.
What to Love
- Easy access to the highway
- Horse properties
- A+ neighborhood schools
Local Lifestyle
Blending rural charm with urban sophistication, Vail's affordable real estate market and remarkable school district attract plenty of young professionals and new families.
While the neighborhood is quieter than some, the School District comes to the rescue with sports events, extracurricular activities, and carnivals to spice up the atmosphere - earning the school system a reputation as the "hub" of community life in Vail. You'll also find quite a number of children's activities available, including Ballet Rincon, Springs Gymnastics, and Vail Soccer Club among others.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Anchored by Super Walmart, Petco, and T.J. Maxx,
Houghton Town Center is where local shopping happens. Home to big box stores, national retailers, and fine restaurants, you’ll be spoiled for choice once you drive up to this sprawling mall. From Dunkin’ Donuts to McDonald’s, Panda Express, and more!
If you don’t fancy chain fare, there are also local restaurants in the area! Come into
Arizona Pizza Company for fresh garlic bread, pizzas smothered in a variety of toppings, and Capri salad. For chicken wraps, Rueben sandwiches, and yummy tortilla soup, stop at
Montgomery’s Grill & Saloon. If you’re looking for light Italian fare, hop by
Argenziano’s for everything from pasta to seafood soup, salads, and tiramisu served alongside specialty wine!
Things To Do
Serving as a Gateway Community to the
Arizona Trail, Vail is a paradise of outdoor recreation. While the town’s cultural scene isn’t as hot as that of bigger towns nearby, there is still a plethora of children’s activities and family fun to partake in.
Stroll through rows of grapevines flanked by breathtaking mountain views at
Charron Vineyards & Winery Tucson — a quaint, family-owned winery noted for producing distinctive wines, including their award-winning White Merlot. Enjoy the gourmet picnic baskets while you sip in the tasting room, and be sure to check out the delightful gift shop on your way out.
Go camping with the kids in a private cabin set against the picturesque beauty of
Kartchner Caverns State Park, and explore the surrounding trails. Dive into horseshoe tournaments with the whole family, or check out the go-kart races and corn hole at
Vail Fest. Here, food trucks deliver excellent dishes to the crowd, and you can go horseback riding or visit the petting zoo! Join people from all over the country for exuberant shows, great concerts, carnival rides, and more at the
Pima County Fair!
Schools
Vail is served by the Vail Unified School District, renowned for its excellent schools. A few of its prestigious academic institutions include: