Park Profile: Purple Heart Park

Nestled in the Rita Ranch subdivision, Purple Heart Park is one of the few parks in the far southeast side of Tucson.

The park opened in the early 90’s and is “dedicated to the Military Order of the Purple Heart, men and women killed or injured during combat while members of the Armed Services.”

General Information

When is Purple Heart Park open?

6:00am to 10:30pm

Why would I visit Purple Heart Park?

To enjoy a picnic with family and friends
To cheer on a sports team
To go on a walk
To take your dog for a walk
To play on the playground
To swim at the public pool

How much does it cost to visit Purple Heart Park?

Free. Daily admission to the Purple Heart Park Pool is $2 for adults (18+) and $1 for youths (17 and under).

What is the parking situation at Purple Heart Park?

Free. There are two lots – one on the east side, one on the west side. Pull-in style parking.

What should I bring with me when I visit Purple Heart Park?

Water and snacks.

What is the best season for visiting Purple Heart Park?

October thru April are ideal because the temperatures tend to be more moderate than in the summer months. That said, PHP can also be enjoyed in the summer months – especially in the early morning hours and at dusk.

Who should I contact if I have a question, comment, or idea related to Purple Heart Park?

For questions regarding the park, please contact the Tucson Parks and Recreation, East District Administration Office at 520-791-5930. Business hours are from 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday.

PLAYGROUNDS

How many playgrounds are there at Purple Heart Park?

Two. The playground on the east side of the park has two regular swings, two baby swings, and two slides. The playground on the west side of the park has three slides and no swings.

What is the ground surface beneath the playgrounds?

The east playground has a dirt surface. The west playground has a rubber surface.

Are the playgrounds shaded?

The playground on the east side is not shaded. The playground on the west side has some shade.

Is there an area for tots & babies?

No.

PICNIC AREA

How many tables are there at Purple Heart Park?

Three ramadas – one on the east side, one on the west side, and one near the sports fields. There are also several other tables with BBQ grills that are unshaded.

Are trash cans available and easily accessible?

Yes.

Are there BBQ grills?

Yes. Adjacent to each table/ramada.

Is there an on-site restaurant or cafe?

No.

All this playing is making us hungry. What restaurants do you recommend in the area?

Unfortunately, the SE side of Tucson has yet to cultivate a dining scene. You could try Hotrods Old Vail at 10500 E. Old Vail Road (1.8 miles away). Or swing by for a few a la carte tacos at Saguaro Corners, 3750 S. Old Spanish Trail (5.8 miles away). Hacienda del Lago, 14155 E. Via Rancho del Lago, has an Everyday Breakfast Special for $4.99 that includes 2 eggs, hashbrowns, toast, and your choice of coffee or tea.

How close is the nearest grocery store?

Fry’s Food at 8080 S. Houghton Road is 0.6 miles away. Safeway at 9050 E. Valencia Road is 1.4 miles away.

How close is the nearest pizza delivery place?

Pizza Hut at 8140 S. Houghton Road is 0.6 miles away. Papa John’s Pizza at 8270 S. Houghton Road is 0.7 miles away. Domino’s Pizza at 8045 S. Rita Road is 1 mile away. Little Caesar’s (home of the $5 hot-n-ready pizza) at 9136 E. Valencia Road is 1.3 miles away.

RESTROOMS

Are restrooms available? Where are they located?

There are two unisex bathrooms, centrally located in the park. There are also two porta-potties near the sports fields.

Are toilet seat covers available?

No.

Are toiletries available?

No soap. No mirrors. No paper towels. No drying machines.

Is a family restroom available?

Both restrooms are unisex.

EVENTS

Can I rent a ramada for a birthday party or other event? What is the cost?

Yes. The rent is $15-$20 for a half-day or $25-$30 for a full day. Find more information here: http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/parksandrec/permits.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Museum	NO
Cafe	NO
Public Pool	YES
Splash Pad	NO
Parks & Rec Facility	NO
Sports Fields	YES – four baseball/softball fields and one sand volleyball court
Dog Park	YES
Skate Park	YES
Walking/Biking Paths	YES – the walking path covers 1-mile
Hiking Trails	NO
Art/Sculptures	NO
Garden	NO
Trees/Shade	Minimal
Lighting	YES

Ratings

OVERALL: 3.5

PLAYGROUND RATING: 3.5

CLEANLINESS OF RESTROOMS: 3.5

NOTES: Purple Heart Park is a mid-sized community park with lots of potential. The grass is well-maintained. The trees are starting to mature. And the dog park is top-notch! With continued care and some updates, the park could easily get bumped to a four or higher.