Places to Go and Things to Do for The Best Southwest Experience
From Kristin Finan, former About.com Guide
Top Spots for Natural Beauty
The Southwest has some of the most striking scenery in the world. From the Grand Canyon, to the mountains of Colorado, we highlight information you need to know to visit the natural treasures of the Southwest.
- Zion National Park, Utah
- Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
- Grand Canyon by Mule
- Saguaro National Park, Arizona
- Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
- Grand Canyon West Skywalk
- Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizona
- Kartchner Caverns State Park, Arizona
Experiencing Native American Southwest
A visit to the Southwest is not complete without experiencing the rich cultural traditions and art of the Native Americans. Learn about visiting Pueblos, how to buy Indian art and where to find some great Native American celebrations. If you know where to go and when, the Native peoples of the Southwest will extend a warm welcome to you.
- Gallup's Intertribal Indian Ceremonial
- Visiting Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico
- The Heard Museum Indian Market - Phoenix, AZ
- Visiting Taos Pueblo, New Mexico
- Litchfield Indian Market, Phoenix Area, AZ
- Visiting Acoma Sky City - The Pueblo High on the Mesa
- Internationally Acclaimed Santa Fe Indian Market
- Trading Posts of the Southwest
- Visiting Canyon de Chelly in Northern Arizona
Southwest for Families
The Southwest with it's wild west excitement, living history museums and outdoor activities makes for a wonderful family vacation. We lead you to events and destination sure to make great family memories.
- Fun Things to Do with Kids in Arizona
- Rancho de las Golondrinas Living History Museum - Santa Fe
- Great Golf Resorts for Families
- Train Rides and Rail Vacations
Mexican Color and Culture
The Southwest is full of Mexican and Spanish influence. From food to festivals, you will enjoy the South of the Border flavor found throughout the Southwest. Often, there is a mixture with local Anglo and Indian cultures that produce a unique Southwest experience. You can't go home without having a top notch margarita or even crossing the border for some international fun.
- Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
- Top Places for Zesty Margaritas
- Dia de los Muertos - Celebrating the Day of the Dead
- Heard Museum Spanish Market - Phoenix, AZ
- Visiting Nogales, Mexico
- Crossing the Border at Algodones
- What You Need to Know About Border Towns
- Fantastic, Fresh Southwest Salsa Recipe
- 16th of September - Mexican Independence Day
Southwest Sports and Recreation
The Southwest is a mecca for people who love to participate in and watch sports. It might be football, golf or hiking, but the Southwest is truly enjoyed by active people.
- Southwest Golf Resorts with Activities for the Whole Family
- Hiking the Sedona Back Country
- Running and Walking Events Across the Southwest
Traveling Historic Route 66
As I travel throughout the Southwest, I always detour off the main highway when I see a Historic Route 66 sign. I am on the lookout for roadside diners, motor courts and filling stations that just could be vestiges of the Route 66 era. We have articles that describe how you can find the vestiges of Route 66, "The Mother Road," in each of the Southwest states.