Sooner or later you will have to visit the American Southwest of you want to see some of the world's greatest natural wonders. There's the Grand Canyon, of course. And the stunning sand dunes of White Sands National Monument. You can visit unique underground features of Antelope Canyon.
I've been writing about the Southwest for decades and I never get tired of it. I like to visit in March because the weather is nice but not too hot.
Cities like Scottsdale, Santa Fe, Phoenix, and Albuquerque let you admire Southwestern art, and learn about the history of the region's nuclear missile testing and development.
How to Get to the Southwest USA
- By Air: Major airports include Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), Albuquerque (ABQ), Las Vegas (LAS), and Salt Lake City (SLC).
- By Car: A road trip is the best way to explore the Southwest. The first time I was there, we rented an RV to travel between national parks and towns.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak’s Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles with stops in Albuquerque and Flagstaff.
Where to Stay in the Southwest USA
- Under Canvas Grand Canyon has Glamping tents near the South Rim
- I've been recommending La Fonda on the Plaza (Santa Fe, NM) and it's an awesome place to stay. The romantic adobe-style hotel is in the heart of Santa Fe.
- Zion Lodge (Utah) is perfect if you want to stay inside the park.
Best Things to Do in the Southwest USA
Wander Through the Stunning Curves of Antelope Canyon -
Explore Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West -
Learn about snakes at The American International Rattlesnake Museum -
Step Into a Ghost Town’s Past at Ashcroft Townsite -
Venture Underground at Carlsbad Caverns -
Discover Ancient Wonders at Chaco Culture National Historical Park -
Visit Crow Canyon Archaeological District -
Ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad -
Stand in Awe at the Grand Canyon -
Play on Towering Sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Wander Through the Stunning Curves of Antelope Canyon
- • Explore Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West
- • Learn about snakes at The American International Rattlesnake Museum
- • Step Into a Ghost Town’s Past at Ashcroft Townsite
- • Venture Underground at Carlsbad Caverns
- • Discover Ancient Wonders at Chaco Culture National Historical Park
- • Visit Crow Canyon Archaeological District
- • Ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- • Stand in Awe at the Grand Canyon
- • Play on Towering Sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park