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Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show

Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show

Photo gallery for Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show

Romantic Spanish Villa in hidden canyon close to shopping + dining.
Twilight on the front porch.  Best time for wildlife viewing
Room
Choose between hypoallergenic pillows of differing firmness for your comfort
Interior

Overview of Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show

Reviews
9.8 out of 10 Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • WasherWasherWasher
  • DryerDryerDryer
  • Air conditioningAir conditioningAir conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Tucson, AZ
  • Popular LocationCasino del Sol10 min drive
  • Popular LocationCasino Del Sol10 min drive
  • Popular LocationUniversity of Arizona17 min drive
  • AirportTucson, AZ (TUS-Tucson Intl.)18 min drive

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Master

1 Queen Bed

Tower Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining Area

About this property

Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show

Just 10 miles and 100 years from downtown this newer adobe home built in the classic Tucson styles offers an authentic Tucson experience. Passing through the entry of the Starlight Casa you cross a gateway between past and present.

The Starlight Casa is a reminder of yesterday and a harbinger of tomorrow incorporating modern passive solar design with ageless building practices originating in Babylon at the dawn of civilization. Though built with all the modern comforts of the present, the Starlight Casa is a portal into the past providing a sense of what life was like for Tucson's pioneers.


Who Else Wants to Feel Like a Pioneer without Sacrificing Comfort?

Then book the Starlight Casa and travel between eras enjoying the best of both incorporating creature comforts of the present while respecting and accentuating Tucson's original architectural elements.

Because you’ve read this far, you deserve a truly authentic Tucson experience, and you’ll find, as you read the entire description, even more...  

Since this is your holiday, your big break from life as usual, you’ll notice this property listing isn’t a few, measly sentences, haphazard room pictures, & a list of features looking just like every other listing.

This is a description more worthy your time, and ready to transport you to another. You may notice as you’re reading that you mind wanders… …picturing what's in store for you during your stay at the Starlight Casa.


You'll be ensconced in an intimate canyon setting studded with massive boulders.

It's the perfect peaceful retreat or a catalyst for tales of adventure. Evidence of Tucson's storied past surrounds the property. The abandoned gold mines in the canyon walls are reminders of hopeful miners from a time long since past. Perhaps you’ll be the next guest to find pottery shards from an earlier civilization along the wash immediately behind the home.


From several points on the property you can…
Feel the Peace from the White Dove of the Desert…

You'll enjoy panoramic views of the mission with its white towers reaching skyward from the surrounding fields. As you look upon the mission from this rare vantage point, you’ll be looking back in time… …back to the birthplace of Tucson.
The White Dove of the Desert, the San Xavier Mission, is Arizona's oldest intact European building. Returning to the Starlight Casa you can experience some of these original architectural elements inspired by the mission.


You can imagine Apache scouts atop the stone towers.

The canyon provided the ideal location for the Apaches to stage multiple raids upon the mission. Visitors from both near and far find the canyon and it's rich history a magical almost mystical place blending past and present in a vortex of time.

Prior to construction the site hosted a sweat lodge conducted by a Native American medicine man possessing an M.D. and Ph.D. Recently an owner of an adjoining vacant lot brought their newborn to the canyon for a naming ceremony ritual. If the location has this much appeal to natives, how much more magnificent will it be for your vacation?

Without this invitation you wouldn't find this place. There is a secret garden quality to the entire canyon hidden from prying eyes unless you know where to look. Even the artisans involved in the Starlight Casa's construction often commented that they never knew this place existed although they'd been in the area for decades.

Others tell stories of how they used to ride their horses all over the area yet somehow missed this place never knowing it was ever here.


Be Among Those Privileged Enough to Gain Passage...

…and you too will understand why everyone who does, feels happier and better for it.

There are 139 ageless building principles used in the design of the Starlight Casa that together form a language that speaks to you about the harmonious connection between yourself and nature. The canyon wildlife continue to use the same winding paths all around the home worn into the earth by earlier generations.

Often the local desert denizens visit the patios such as the desert tortoise shown in the property photos. Think about it…


Why Go on Safari when the Safari Can Come to You?

Multiple covered, outdoor seating areas connect the home to it's surroundings. The South facing back patio utilizes strategic design to maximize the sun's location in the sky throughout the year to allow for sun soaked winter afternoons and shady summer mornings. Sheltering the patio is Beehive Peak shaped by primordial winds and now home to a variety of wildlife.

While appreciating the ancient origins of the canyon walls you may be distracted into the present by coyotes scouting their next meal, hawks tending their nest high up on a craggy cliff face, or catch a glimpse of the javelina (ha va leena) returning to their beds where they lay together in sprawling pig piles. They look like hairy wild pigs but they're not pigs at all. Instead they're peccaries from South America.

Spend a late season morning on the North porch with a cup of complimentary coffee or tea and listen as the dawn chorus of the birds greets daybreak in celebration. If you're really lucky you might witness the rare and some say sacred dance of the cottontails where bunnies spring into the air kicking their heels skyward in pure joy somersaulting their tiny bodies before once again becoming earthbound.

After a full day of sights, you’re invited to turn your gaze toward the heavens from the rooftop deck as twilight blankets the night sky and…


Enjoy a 4th Dimensional Experience…

…as you look deep into the past over the infinite reaches of space seeing billions of stars as they looked thousands of years ago whose luminosity travelled at the speed of light to greet you in just this moment.

It’s this view that generated the name Starlight Casa.


Just as the Pioneers Who First Settled the Area…

...stone was gathered from the location for the foundation and the walls forged from adobe blocks molded from the sands of time. In accordance with tradition the patio wall follows the contours of the land creating a 'wild run' that merges into a living fence made from ocotillos that grow profusely throughout the desert.

Occasionally the ocotillos of the fence appear as though their time has passed. Sporadically throughout the year they produce dark green leaves and flame orange blossoms that lick the sky encouraging rains that like a fountain of youth turn back the clock.

Authentic Tucson architectural design elements appear to slow time until inside the home where state of the art appliances allow you to prepare a warm meal in minutes. Don't be surprised if you never have to adjust the thermostat since the natural building materials combined with the high ceilings moderate temperatures providing unsurpassed comfort while reducing allergens inside the home.



100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Should you fail to find the temporal or architectural qualities of the Starlight casa satisfactory you can 'travel back in time' and change your mind. We're so confident that you'll be enchanted by the magic of the 'Starlight Casa' that we guarantee your satisfaction in writing within the hospitality agreement. So go ahead and pick your travel dates and request your agreement while you’re still on this listing. 

You’re one step away from a truly authentic Tucson experience. There is a first come, first serve policy for reservations so you only have a small window of time to reserve your dates for this life altering and time twisting vacation before someone else. 

Property manager

Andrew F
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English
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Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Mountain view

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed
We do NOT allow pets. Please book elsewhere.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 21522400

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Tucson

This holiday home is located in Drexel Heights, a neighbourhood in Tucson, and is in a rural area and near theme parks. Tucson Mall is worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Pima Air and Space Museum and Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Tucson Greyhound Park and Children's Museum Tucson are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Tucson, AZ

What's nearby

  • Casino del Sol - 10 min drive
  • Casino Del Sol - 10 min drive
  • Tucson Convention Center - 15 min drive
  • Kino Sports Complex - 15 min drive
  • University of Arizona - 17 min drive

Getting around

  • Roy Laos Transit Center - 13 min drive
  • Tucson Station - 19 min drive
  • Tucson International Airport (TUS) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • Dutch Bros Coffee - 7 min drive
  • Tania's Flour Tortillas - 3 min drive
  • McDonald's - 5 min drive
  • Starbucks - 7 min drive
  • McDonald's - 10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Tucson Time Machine Journey–Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Wildlife Show located?

Located in Drexel Heights, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Casino del Sol, Tuscon Spectrum and Casino Del Sol. Tucson Mountain Park and AVA Amphitheater are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 124 out of 132 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 132 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 132 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 132 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 132 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sandra M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Saguaro Heaven
The listing description was spot on! We enjoyed the silence of this well equipped VRBO. It was equal distance to the National Parks and the city but far enough away to afford wildlife and serenity.
Stayed 13 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

nick y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Very cool spot
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brett B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house and location
We loved this place. It was close to everything in Tucson, yet felt remote which is exactly what we were looking for. The house was well equipped and very comfortable. We'd definitely recommend it to anyone.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Desert Dream
If you seek peace, solitude and breathtaking views in every direction, this is THE place for you! This beautiful home was designed to allow immersion in its surroundings. The enchanted rooftop deck, front porch and back deck allow you to follow the sun through-out the day. While the Wi-Fi was good, the TV was a challenge to figure out. A smart TV would be nice for streaming shows by the cozy fire in the evenings. We all enjoyed our stay here and will likely return!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paula R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Good to be back!
This casa is our favorite place to stay in Tucson (and we've stayed in many over the years). The surrounding desert setting is outstanding, and the spacious and comfortable house fits well in the environment with its generous patios and modern adobe construction. A very special place! We were happy to be back. Great access to the south---Madera Canyon, Tubac and Tumacacori, wine country and more. Even closer to Saguaro Park West, Desert Museum and Tucson Mountain hiking.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2023

About the host

Hosted by Andrew F

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

Even now nearly 14 years later I still remember the first time we saw the canyon like it was yesterday. It was completely by accident. One Saturday I happened to be working as a real estate agent showing a friend homes in the area. Wanting Rhonda to get to know his family better, for the 1st time in 12 years I brought her along on an appointment with me.


In an attempt to take a short cut to the next house we tried to go through the canyon. As soon as I saw the for sale sign, we stopped so I could get out. The place was completely captivating unlike any other I'd ever seen in Tucson after living here for 40 years and seeing more than a 1000 homes in my 12 year career.


After seeing so many homes it was surprising that only 5 homes or so were truly memorable. This was something that I continued to wonder about throughout my time as an agent. What made those few homes so charming?


We were fortunate to win the property from a competing buyer. Since then we've come to regard ourselves as custodians of this valuable resource including the plants and wildlife it is home to. In 2008 during an annual family retreat when we gather together to celebrate the past year and share our visions for the coming year, one of our goals was to build a home that our family could use to carry on our tradition.


For 10 years we had been collecting ideas for our dream home largely from multi million dollar homes throughout Arizona that we wanted to somehow incorporate into our more modest budget.

What makes this property unique

During project planning once again I returned to the question of the source of indefinable charm that only 5 homes in a thousand possess. A builder friend recommended the work of architect Christopher Alexander who studied some of the most loved buildings throughout time in an effort to capture that special quality that makes these structures so appealing.


Alexander ultimately came to describe this quality as wholeness. According to Alexander there are 151 patterns that form a timeless way of building. So far we've been able to incorporate 112 of them. Hints of the pattern language are included with your welcome email. During your stay see how many you can identify.

Languages:

English

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