The opening date for the CLDA Final Mile Forum and Expo in Phoenix is rapidly approaching! As a native Arizonian, I look forward to the opportunities our visitors will have to explore the many exciting attractions nearby. I use the term “native Arizonian” loosely, as most of us do in Arizona. The running joke is that no one really has lived here all their lives, those that have are like unicorns. The population of the Phoenix Metropolitan area has nearly doubled over the past 30 years and a large chunk of our growth has come from people moving from other places. I would say the general rule is if you moved here before high school you are a “native.” I just made the cut having moved to Arizona in 8th grade when dad moved us all here to start Canyon State Courier.
Discussed in this email are some of my suggested stops for your itinerary, either this trip or in your future trips after you fall in love with Arizona.
If you have been following my emails over the past two months, you have already seen recommendations for visiting places in Tombstone, Oatman, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Ahwatukee, and Tempe. In this email I will highlight a few more must see places in Arizona.
Tombstone
Although I have mentioned Tombstone before, the “Town Too Tough to Die,” is often considered to be the most authentic Old West destination in the U.S. Walk in the footsteps of Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp, and countless others. Take a foot or stagecoach tour to get the inside scoop on main attractions and historic buildings, or just cozy up to the bar in an old fashioned saloon and imagine what it was like to have a life expectancy of 40 years. Most old towns in Arizona have an abundance of paranormal activity if you like that as well. Before you leave, be sure to check out the Gunfighter Hall of Fame and the Boothill Graveyard.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff is bursting with small town charm, historic sites, and amazing natural wonders you’ll have to see to believe. I especially love Flagstaff in the spring when the flowers are in bloom and the temperatures are mild. You might not think of snow and Arizona in the same thought, but Flagstaff sees over 100 inches of snow each year placing it among the snowiest incorporated cities in the United States. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, consider taking a short hike along Mt. Elden or Mt. Humphreys. At Wupatki National Monument, you can see ancient pueblos. Other popular attractions include the Lowell Observatory, Meteor Crater, and the lava tube cave. Flagstaff is a great place with its own distinct vibe. The urban dictionary might define someone in Flagstaff as a “granola girl,” if you want to experience that vibe then Flagstaff is the perfect place to go.
Sedona
Sedona could be an article all of its own. Sedona, located about an hour south of Flagstaff, is famed for its red rock formations and spiritual vortexes. The natural attractions are popular among hikers, but you can also see the vivid canyons and buttes from the comfort of a hot air balloon, or my personal favorite, from the scenic overlook at the Sedona airport. I know that sounds weird to go to the airport for a scenic view, but it is a quick drive up to the top of the hill and then for the three dollar parking fee you can watch the most amazing sunsets you will ever see in your life. They are right up there with a Grand Canyon sunset.
After being in awe of the red rock surrounding the city, do the touristy walk and pick up some souvenirs for the kids at the 80-plus shops and art galleries that dot the downtown area. I try to get up to Sedona at least once a year and every time I am there I eat breakfast at the Coffee Pot Restaurant. Home to 101 omelettes, I am proud to say I have eaten quite a few. Every time I visit I am intrigued to try the peanut butter and jelly omelette, but so far it has eluded me. Sedona has so many outdoor activities and is a unique eclectic town, it is a must visit city in Arizona.
The Grand Canyon
It’s no surprise that a visit to the Grand Canyon is on everyone’s bucket list, and it’s easy to take a day trip there from Phoenix. Visit the South Rim, which is open year-round. A guided hike is one of the best ways to see the sights and learn more about this natural wonder, but if you’re feeling adventurous, consider signing up for a white water rafting trip!
These are just a few of the exciting things to do and see when you visit Arizona for the CLDA Final Mile Forum and Expo. I hope you enjoy your stay in Phoenix, and take advantage of the many natural wonders and attractions throughout the state.
Just a few fun facts about the Grand Canyon to leave you with…
- Most of the Grand Canyon consists of rock that is 1 mile deep, 18 miles wide and 277 miles long.
- There are more than 20 layers of rocks throughout the Grand Canyon.
- The Grand Canyon is considered one of the 7 wonders of the world.
- More than 5 million people visit this large attraction every year. According to National Geographic, this makes the Grand Canyon the second most visited park after the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Major John Wesley was the first person to explore the Grand Canyon in 1869 by way of the Colorado River.
- Last, but certainly not least, the short-horned lizards that live in the Grand Canyon are known to shoot blood from their eyes to scare away predators. This is no joke, check out the picture below.
