If you’ve lived in the Old Pueblo for more than a week, someone has probably told you to "just meet at Udall." It is the default setting for Eastside life. Officially named Morris K. Udall Regional Park, this 170-acre spread is basically the living room of Tucson. But honestly? Most people only see the sliver they use—the dog park, the pickleball courts, or maybe the farmers market—and miss the weird, cool, and actually useful stuff hidden in plain sight.
You’ve got the Catalina Mountains staring you in the face from almost every angle here. It’s stunning. But it’s also a chaotic mix of intense athletic energy and retirees playing cards in the AC.
The Pickleball Empire and the Secret Observatory
Let’s address the neon-yellow elephant in the room: pickleball. If you think you’re just going to stroll up to a court at 9 a.m. on a Tuesday and start dinking, you’re dreaming. Udall Park is the undisputed capital of Tucson pickleball. With 18 courts (12 outdoors and 6 indoors), it’s a scene. You have to "rack up" your paddle to get in line. If you’re a beginner, don’t be intimidated, but definitely bring a Franklin 40X ball if you want to fit in with the locals.
What most people totally miss is the history under their feet. Before this was a park, it was a U.S. Coast Guard and Geodetic Survey Magnetic Observatory. Since 1909! They used to measure the Earth's magnetic field here because it was "out in the middle of nowhere." Now, it’s surrounded by Tanque Verde road traffic and a Sprouts.
Staying Cool (and Sane) in the Desert Heat
Tucson summers are brutal. Fact. But Udall is one of the few places where you can actually survive outside if you time it right. The Udall Pool is a 25-yard by 25-meter beast. It’s got 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, which is getting harder to find in public pools these days.
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Kinda important note: the pool goes through maintenance phases, so always check the City of Tucson Parks and Rec site before you haul your gear down there.
If you have kids, the splash pad is the real hero. It runs from April through October, roughly 8 a.m. to sunset. It’s free. It’s loud. It’s wet. It’s perfect.
- The Fitness Room: Located in the Morris K. Udall Center.
- Indoor Track: Upstairs, away from the sun.
- Carol West Senior Addition: A dedicated space for the 60+ crowd that’s actually very active.
The 2026 Upgrades: What’s Actually Changing?
If you've noticed construction fences lately, it’s because the 2018 bond projects are finally hitting their stride. We’re talking about a massive $13 million+ investment. By the end of 2026, the park is going to look pretty different.
The city is adding two new covered basketball courts—thank god, because playing on asphalt in June is a form of torture. They're also throwing in two new lighted soccer fields and an inclusive playground. This "inclusive" part is a big deal. It means the equipment is designed for kids with sensory or physical disabilities, not just the standard "climb and slide" setup.
Why the Friday Farmers Market is Better Than the Rest
Everyone talks about the Heirloom Farmers Market at Rillito on Sundays. It’s great, sure. But it’s a zoo. The Udall Park Farmers Market on Friday mornings (usually 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) is the locals' secret.
You can actually park.
You’ll find about 40 vendors. The grass-fed beef and local honey are staples, but honestly, just go for the fresh tortillas and the coffee. It’s a way more chill vibe than the weekend madness. Plus, you’re right next to the Tucson Desert Art Museum if you want to make a morning of it.
Practical Tips for the Udall "Newbie"
Parking is a nightmare during soccer tournaments. If you see a sea of white minivans, just turn around and head to the Sabino Canyon entrance or the smaller lots off Prudence Road.
The walking path on the east side is paved and roughly 2.6 miles if you do the full perimeter. It’s got some decent elevation changes—nothing crazy, but enough to make you feel it.
- Dog Park Etiquette: There are separate areas for large and small dogs. Use them. The "large" side is about an acre of dirt and turf. Bring your own water bowl just in case, though they have fountains.
- The Library Connection: The Udall Center isn't just for gym rats. There’s a small library presence and a ton of classes—everything from "A Matter of Balance" for seniors to robot-building for kids.
- Hidden Art: Keep an eye out for the murals and sculptures. The city is integrating more local art into the new playground structures.
What to Do Next
If you’re planning a trip this week, check the weather and aim for an early morning walk before 9 a.m. to catch the light hitting the Catalinas. If you’re looking to join a league, head to the recreation center front desk and ask for the "Blue Sheet"—it's the holy grail of city-wide class listings. For those who just want a picnic, grab a spot near the Laszlo Veres Amphitheater; it’s usually the breeziest part of the park.
Stop by the Friday morning market at 7200 E. Tanque Verde Rd to grab some local salsa before it sells out. Once the new LED lights on the soccer fields are fully operational later this year, evening walks will be a lot safer and more vibrant, so keep an eye on the Ward 2 updates for the official ribbon-cutting dates.