The Top 13 Historical Sites in Arizona!

The most recognized canyon on the planet? Historic trading areas? Ancient fossil sites? You’ll find all that and more in Arizona. Arizonans are proud of the deep history of their state. Just because the state was one of the last to join the union, there is still a plethora of significant places dating back hundreds of years. Here are the top 13 historic sites to explore in Arizona.    

1. Hubbell Trading Post, Ganado, AZ

Located in Ganado, the trading post has a long history that dates to 1878 and continues to function as a trading post to this day. Hubbell’s offers locals (and guests) groceries, grain, hardware, coffee and stunning Native American Art. 

2. San Bernardino Ranch, Douglas, AZ

This ranch located in Douglas was once owned by John Slaughter, who used to be a gunfighter and lawmaker. Also known as the Slaughter Ranch, the area was home to two cattle ranches as well. 

3. Grand Canyon

The biggest attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the World—The Grand Canyon needs no introduction. It offers different viewpoints and lookout areas from the North Rim to the South Rim. The structure is simply one of the most breathtaking natural wonders you will ever lay eyes on. The canyon is 277 river miles long, can be up to 18 miles wide and one mile deep. 

4. Monument Valley

Located between Arizona and Utah, the valley showcases the beautiful rock formations of the Wild West. If you are looking for views and photography, it would be considered sinful to miss this historic place.

5. Hoover Dam

One of the most celebrated structures in human history, the Hoover Dam is an artistic structure that was completed in 1935 and created Lake Mead. This lake is said to be around 110 miles long, linking Arizona and Nevada. 

6. Old Oraibi

America’s oldest continuously inhabited settlement and was declared a national historical landmark in the year 1964. It is located in the Navajo County, in the northeastern area of the state. The area has been inhabited for almost 1,000 years and even today, people aren’t quite sure how many people populate the village.  

7. Jerome Historic District, Jerome, AZ

The district is famous for its significance in copper mining. The streets are seen with several mining cars spread around. In 1966, the district was named a National Historic Landmark. 

8. Havasu Falls

What makes Havasu Falls so unique is that the water falls in a forked angle from about 100 feet. The fork creates an illusion that the blueish green water is actually made up of two waterfalls. The historic site is so resort-like in its appearance, you almost won’t believe the space is natural.  

9. Yuma Crossing, Yuma, AZ

The historic Yuma Crossing was used for centuries to safely cross over the Colorado River. It’s now a national heritage site. The very first Europeans to visit Yuma Crossing came in 1540. 

10. Fort Huachuca

The fort was used by African American soldiers in World War I and as training grounds for World War II. The Fort Huachuca’s origins go as far back in time of the Indians feud. The area now hosts a variety of activities ranging from golf, to horseback riding, to bowling. 

11. Glen Canyon Recreational Area

It’s home to one of the largest manmade lakes in the world, Lake Powell. The area is filled with red walls and beautiful blue water combined with a desert landscape. The Glen Canyon Recreation Area covers an astonishing 1.25 million acres of space. 

12. Petrified Forest National Park

The unique park showcases stunning sights that involve fossilized beasts and petrified wood. There is a visitors center located that provides valuable information on the park’s history.

13. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

It’s famous for the organ pipe cactus that grows at an alarming 25 ft. high. The zone is also well-known for its numerous species of cactus. The flourishing community of cacti and other plants are truly a sight to behold. 

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