Last Updated on August 27, 2023 by Kim Labriola
About Catalina Vista
Catalina Vista was first developed in 1940, although most homes in the neighborhood were built post-war. What makes this neighborhood distinctive is its wide, curvilinear, palm tree-lined streets; the wide, shallow lots; and the open spaces with 2 parks. The neighborhood is made up primarily of custom ranch style homes.
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Catalina Vista Location
This beautiful historic neighborhood is located in midtown Tucson, bordered by Campbell Avenue, Elm Street, Tucson Boulevard, and Grant Road.
Homes for sale in Catalina Vista neighborhood
Interested in buying or selling a home in Tucson? Contact us to go over your needs. 520-975-8956 or Hello@RealTucson.com
Neighborhood Amenities
Tahoe Park
The neighborhood has 2 small parks. Neighborhood kids love the larger one called Tahoe Park which features 2 playgrounds, picnic tables, towering palm trees, and a dog water station. Waverly Circle Park is a smaller grassy park encircled by beautiful historic homes.
Great Central Location
Catalina Vista is 1/2 mile from the University of Arizona. University Medical Center is just across Campbell Avenue, which also is the eastern terminus of the Tucson Streetcar line. Downtown is only about 3 miles away.
A popular neighborhood gathering place is the historic Arizona Inn, just south of the neighborhood in Blenman-Elm Historic District.
It’s also close to lots of local restaurants and shops along Campbell Avenue.
Public Schools
Catalina Vista is serviced by these TUSD schools: Blenman Elementary, Doolen Middle, and Catalina High.
A Brief History of Catalina Vista Neighborhood
In 1946 the city of Tucson was expanded to include Catalina Vista within the city limits. A street known as Potter’s Place is within the boundaries of Catalina Vista. Potter’s Place was first developed as a ranch back in 1907, by James Wheeler, who moved to Tucson from Seattle seeking a dryer climate to alleviate his tuberculosis symptoms.
Wheeler built Tucson’s first swimming pool on the property in 1910. In 1924 the property was sold to Leighton Kramer, who was one of the founders of the Fiesta de los Vaqueros Tucson Rodeo which was held on the property. Kramer built a large home called the Rancho Santa Catalina on the site. Kramer died in 1930. Dickinson and Sue Potter purchased Rancho Santa Catalina and the land in 1940 to establish The Potter School for Girls in the mansion, which was a college prep school for girls in grades 7-12. It operated until 1953.
Catalina Vista is listed on the National Register of Historic Districts
Catalina Vista was listed on the National Register of Historic Districts 2003. This designation can save on property taxes for qualifying homes in the neighborhood.
Interested in buying or selling a home in Catalina Vista or another historic area of town? Contact us to go over your needs: Hello@RealTucson.com or 520-975-8956
What We Love About Catalina Vista Neighborhood
- Beautiful homes along palm tree-lined neighborhood streets
- Historic charm and character of homes in the area
- Walkable to Arizona Inn, a great spot for dinner or drinks
- Easy access to University of Arizona and University Medical Center
Are you interested in buying or selling a home in Catalina Vista? Or are you interested in historic homes in Tucson? Contact us to discuss your options. Hello@RealTucson.com or 520-975-8956
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