Take A One-Day Road Trip To Any Of These 10 Fantastic Arizona Destinations
Another week just started but if you’re already feeling drained and looking forward to the weekend, then you might already be thinking of heading out of town for at least a day. We’re going to make that just a little bit easier for you with a list of some cool places to visit right here in Arizona.
For this list, we’re keeping the destinations simple so that you can take the time to really explore each area. So, fill up your gas tank, charge up your phone, and bring along your favorite travel companion. This is going to be a fun weekend!
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Tortilla Flat is an old ghost town that has turned into a mini destination with reconstructed buildings, beautiful desert views, and some fascinating history. This is also the perfect place to grab a bite to eat!
The next stop is Tonto National Monument, which features even older Arizona history with two ruins that date back several centuries. You can hike to both but be sure to make your reservation in advance if you want a tour of the Upper Cliff Dwelling. You can get more information at the National Park Service website.
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Afterwards, check out Flintstone's Bedrock City in Valle for a more romanticized vision of our past and a chance to relive your childhood. While the park has been up for sale for a year and a half now, you can still stop by to visit. Admission costs just $5 and you can visit daily from 7am to sunset.
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Fairbank dates to 1881 and was a prominent rail stop due to its proximity to mining, mill, and processing towns like Tombstone and Contention City. The town's population peaked within five years but began to decline once Tombstone's mines flooded. It was completely abandoned by the 1970s and you'll find quite a few buildings still standing today.
Just a few miles down the road from Fairbank is Tombstone, one of the more popular "ghost towns," although it’s not really one. This historic town has quite the reputation and it’s definitely worth the time to visit.
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This art installation and home in Cornville is little known and quite the sight to see. Designed by artists Michael Kahn and Leda Levant, the structure has a magical, subterranean feel to it. That’s no surprise since the home is composed of items like driftwood, stone, broken pottery, and other recycled materials. Be sure to schedule your visit in advance! You can find details for scheduling a visit at their website, eliphante.org.
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Mission San Xavier del Bac was founded in 1692, making it one of the oldest European structures within Arizona’s boundaries. The mission is one of the most stunning examples of Spanish colonial architecture and we’re not surprised it’s frequently called our White Dove of the Desert.
Tumacácori is just one year older than San Xavier but time and human interaction has really taken a toll on the mission. A visit and tour here will give you more insight into the mission’s deterioration.
So, these places look pretty awesome and we know how fun each place can be. Let us know where you like to head for a weekend day trip near your home!
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