A large expanse of rural desert, rugged mountains, and surprising marshes, Western Arizona is an area that perfectly illustrates the stark contrasts you’ll see in our state. The western border is defined by the mighty Colorado River and its banks—making this our west and only coast—yet it often goes ignored for more active areas around the state.
Today we’re going to give western Arizona some love by highlighting some of the best things to see and do in this area of the state. Who knows? Some of the activities may surprise you.
1. Hike to and enjoy a dip in the Arizona Hot Springs near Hoover Dam.
Check out our article featuring the hike for details!
2. Get a taste of Americana at the Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman.
Address: 120 W Beale St, Kingman
3. For another perspective in history, check out the Castle Dome Mines Museum and Ghost Town, about 40 miles north of Yuma.
Address: 27550 E County 15th St, N State Route 4, Yuma
4. There’s, of course, also the Colorado River and its numerous activity possibilities: boating, rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and tubing.
5. When in Kingman, also visit the abandoned Gold King Mansion, once used by the mining corporation to entertain investors.
For more information on how to access this place, visit the Bureau of Land Management website.
6. One of several marshes in this area of the state, Havasu National Wildlife Refuge in Topock is perfect for canoeing, wildlife photography, and enjoying the scenery.
7. If you’re in Quartzsite, be sure to stop by Hi Jolly’s monument to pay respects to the who attempted to introduce camels to Arizona's deserts.
8. You also shouldn’t miss a chance to see the iconic Hoover Dam and take a tour!
9. While at Hoover Dam, be sure to also stop by Lake Mead for fun water activities, hiking, and biking.
10. Fellow Anglophiles can also get a small thrill by visiting the London Bridge that transported to and lovingly rebuilt in Lake Havasu City.
11. Stop at the Oatman Hotel for a meal and a chance to meet Oatie the ghost if you stay the night. Oh, and pet the wild burros!
Address: 181 Main St, Oatman
12. In Parker you’ll find the Poston Memorial Monument, dedicated in memory of the Japanese Americans who were detained here during World War II.
Address: 23701 Mohave Rd, Parker
13. There’s also the western portion of Route 66, which includes some winding two-lane roads that give you a sense of adventure.
14. And, of course, there’s also the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park which is a perfect mix of criminal and Wild West history.
Address: 1 Prison Hill Rd, Yuma
Looking for other areas to travel to in the state? We suggest checking out our list of essential tours that every Arizonan should take at least once.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!