Nature, history – and the river that made them. That’s what Yuma is all about.
Our geography shaped the Southwest. Because the Yuma Crossing was the safest spot to ford the Colorado, all roads led here for travelers from the early Spanish explorers to Okies fleeing the Dust Bowl. That rich heritage is showcased at two state historic parks (Yuma Territorial Prison and the Quartermaster Depot) and at local, tribal, military and private museums.
At Pivot Point on the historic riverfront, listen to the “ghost train” arrive on the spot where the first train entered Arizona in 1877. Bike miles of paved paths or hike the beautifully restored Yuma East Wetlands.
If you want rugged outdoor adventure, Yuma’s the perfect jumping-off spot to hundreds of square miles of wilderness in the Imperial, Kofa and Cibola national wildlife refuges, and the gateway to the Imperial Sand Dunes – a hot spot for off-roaders and movie makers alike.
With the Colorado River running through it, Yuma offers lots of wet fun all year round, from a quiet paddle to waterskiing. Take a jet boat tour into unspoiled terrain where wildlife abounds or stake out a fishing spot along miles of backwater channels.
New this year, we’re showcasing our $3.2-billion agriculture industry with hands-on experiences from tours that take you from field to feast to cooking classes that combine healthy, Yuma-grown ingredients with border sabor (flavor), to our annual culinary festival, Yuma Lettuce Days (March, 2012 dates TBA).
With so much to do, you’ll want to stick around – good thing we have nearly 4,000 hotel rooms and 23,000+ RV spots, plus three great casinos, affordable golf and restaurants to fit every taste and budget. |
