People come from across the world travel to Arizona to see the sights, but when you call Arizona home, you can explore everything that the state has to offer at your leisure. When you live in a Castle & Cooke master-planned community in Sierra Vista, some of the best parts of the state are at your doorstep, but there are amazing stops to make across Arizona that can’t be missed. Make the most of living in this state that hosts everything from stunning landscapes to big-city excitement. As you make your plans for exploration, make sure these items are on your Arizona travel bucket list.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is arguably the best-known attraction in Arizona, but don’t let the fact that tourists flock there keep you from enjoying its beauty. The Grand Canyon is in an extremely remote location, approximately 80 miles from Flagstaff. There is so much to experience here, from seeing the canyon itself to hiking, camping, and rafting through the surrounding national park. For a true tourist experience, stay in Grand Canyon Village, or consider staying inside the park in an eco-friendly lodge. Keep in mind that the park can get extremely busy. Also, if a multi-day rafting trip is a priority for you, be sure to apply for a rafting permit well in advance of your desired dates of travel. There are only a limited number of permits issued each season.
Monument Valley
If the crowds at the Grand Canyon leave you wanting a little space, then visit Monument Valley. Located in the far northeastern part of the state, Monument Valley spans the border of Arizona and Utah. It sits on the grounds of the Navajo Nation, and members of the Navajo Tribe offer tours of the valley. You can also explore Monument Valley on a self-guided tour, so you can take in the towering red sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations on your own time. Crowds are usually sparse, so you can take your time and recharge your batteries in the peacefully quiet scenery.
Jerome
Jerome’s standing as a tourist destination is a relatively new phenomenon. The town was a copper mining town for most of its history, but it is now a favorite spot for people who love good art, good food, and good views. The town is in the Black Hills—on the very side of Cleopatra Hill, about one mile up in the sky. When you’re in Jerome, you can look out over the Verde Valley to see the Red Rocks of Sedona and the San Francisco Peaks. In the town, stroll around to visit local artist galleries, wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and unique shops. If you have a few days in the area, you can also visit nearby Cottonwood, and if you love Jerome, don’t forget to put Bisbee—a similar town that is home to the smallest bar in Arizona just a short drive from Sierra Vista—on your must-see list as well.
Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam
Sitting right in the middle of the desert is the beautiful Lake Mead. Lake Mead was created when the Hoover Dam was built on the Colorado River, creating 700 miles of shoreline. There are tons of water sports to do on the lake, as well as plenty of hiking trails. While you are there, visit the Hoover Dam itself, which runs along the border between Arizona and Nevada. You can tour the dam and even take a helicopter tour to truly appreciate the marvel.
Lake Havasu City
If you want to see the London Bridge, you may be surprised to know that you don’t need a passport. Instead, visit the original London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, where it was relocated in 1978. This city is a popular retirement place, but it is not a sleepy town. There are lots of outdoor activities to take part in during the day, and great restaurants and bars to fill your evening.
Arizona Wine Country
Arizona has three wine regions, and they are all worth a visit. Sonoita, Willcox, and the Verde Valley are all home to world-class wine producers, most of whom have tasting rooms and shops on site, so you can bring home bottles you won’t find anywhere else. This being Arizona, you can count on all three wine regions being surrounded by stunning scenery and options for hiking, scenic drives, and other adventures. Sonoita and Wilcox are particularly close to home for Sierra Vista residents, so they may become frequent weekend destinations if you’re a wine lover.
Customize your new construction home or select from move-in ready homes from Castle & Cooke to create your home base for exploring all of Arizona. With the features you’ll find in our communities, you’ll love staying home just as much hitting the road. Learn more about our new homes in Sierra Vista by calling us at (520) 378-5110.