Tiny But Mighty, The Smallest State Park In Arizona Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
By Katie Lawrence|Published September 05, 2022
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
We’ve highlighted the Grand Canyon State’s largest state park, but the smallest state park in Arizona deserves love, too. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park in Flagstaff provides remarkable insight into one of the city’s most influential early families. It’s only five acres in size but offers the experience of a lifetime.
Situated on just five acres, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is the smallest state park in Arizona. What the park lacks in size, however, it more than makes up for in history — and grandiosity.
Designated as a state park in 1978, the property houses the adjoined features of lumber baron brothers, Timothy and Michael Riordan. The brothers came from an influential Arizona Territorial family who played a key role in the development of Flagstaff and the surrounding area.
Boasting remarkable feats of engineering such as indoor plumbing, a hot water heater, and even a revolutionary cooling system, the homes were well ahead of the rest of society when it came to modern luxuries.
After your tour is over, there is a museum section of the mansion that you can peruse to your liking. Guests can also take a self-guided tour of the well-manicured grounds, marveling at old-fashioned equipment and other unique items.
Tours are available year-round, so you can enjoy this incredible experience whenever you please. If you've never seen the mansion covered in snow before, it's a truly jaw-dropping sight!
Visit the park’s website or Facebook page for more information, such as current hours and entrance fees.
Have you ever been to Riordan Mansion State Park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more reasons to visit Flagstaff.
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