Behold the Many Wonders of the Southwest
Characterized by its dry climate and desert landscapes, the Southwest contains an abundance of natural wonders, with nearly as many different cultural influences. Like each region in the United States, the Southwest is an America all its own, welcoming visitors from near and far to its magical corner of the country.
You’ll cover a lot of ground on a road trip across the Southwest. From some of the most majestic natural formations in the world, to the largest Native American population in the United States, the Southwest has a spiritual depth unlike many other places on the planet. This journey will take you through the area’s colorful landscapes, as well as expose you to such classic American features as the Route 66 Road Trip, and the uniquely western “cowboy culture.”
Phoenix, Arizona
Like the rich red hue that colors much of the landscape, and the otherworldly plants that make a home in the arid climate. A trip to the Phoenix area should include some spa-time relaxation, and of course a journey to the northern part of the state to behold the Grand Canyon. Arizona is home to a large indigenous population, with a quarter of the state composed of Native American Reservations, including the largest in the country, The Navajo Nation.
Where to Stay:
- JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa
- Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes
- Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff
What to Eat:
- Modern goes majestic at Futuro, a hyper-minimalist coffee bar inside of a hair salon that serves up exquisite Mexican drinks, and sometimes offers brunch.
- See how Phoenix does tacos at Tacos Chiwas.
- For a meal with epic views of the Grand Canyon, stop by the Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim(open mid-May to mid-October).
What to See:
- Phoenix is known for its many offerings of natural spa treatments. Treat yourself to one at the Revive Spa at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge.
- Phoenix is a golf town, and even if you don’t play, you can get lessons at AZ Golf Lessons.
- Head north to Flagstaff to see a truly magical wonder of the world: The Grand Canyon.
- Visit Sedona to experience the new-age Community and the stunning Red Rocks.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Adding to the beauty of the area are the blue skies and sunshine that Albuquerque inhabitants enjoy about 310 days out of the year. It’s no surprise then, that Albuquerque is considered by some to be the Hot Air Ballooning Capital of the World. While you’re there, stop by the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, or head over to Rainbow Ryders to go up in a hot air balloon yourself. In addition, New Mexico is home to 23 Native American tribes, and Albuquerque is the perfect starting point from which to learn about the area’s Native American heritage and culture.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- Learn to cook while eating from the Earth at The Sprouting Kitchen
- Sample modern dishes made with indigenous influence at Indian Pueblo Kitchen
- For a Mexican-inspired meal, visit Paloma Restaurant - Santa Fe
What to Do:
- Visit otherworldly realms at renowned interactive art space, Meow Wolf.
- Head down the road to Santa Fe for the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and SITE Santa Fe for contemporary art.
- Get an overview of the 19 Indian Pueblos of New Mexico at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, or go to Acoma Pueblo, also known as Sky City, and considered to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America, dating back to 15 AD.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma has the largest remaining stretch of Route 66--one of the US Highway System’s first roads--with a mixture of natural and man-made wonders to see along the way. Kitschy oversized landmarks populate the route, giving you the chance to see everything from the largest concrete totem pole (Totem Pole Park, Chelsea,) to “The Blue Whale”, a giant, cartoon-ish whale floating atop a roadside pond. A trip to Oklahoma should also include exploration of the state’s cowboy culture, as well as a dip into the art scene in Oklahoma City.
Where to Stay:
- AC Hotel by Marriott - Oklahoma City Bricktown
- Courtyard Oklahoma City Downtown
- Ambassador Hotel, Oklahoma City
What to Eat:
- Follow the 20-meter soda bottles to Pops, where you can sample over 700 kinds of soda, from “dirt” to “mustard” to classic root beer.
- Grab brunch at the unpretentious local favorite, Neighborhood J.A.M.
- For fresh pizza that’s healthy, visit Stone Sisters Pizza Bar
What to Do:
- Experience cowboy culture at the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds, or the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
- Check out Factory Obscura, a 550-square meter immersive art exhibit.
- Ride the Wheeler Ferris Wheel in Downtown Oklahoma City.
Austin, Texas
An influx of population has brought an abundance of young people to Austin, and with them, tech start-ups, indy music and a ton of new dining options. Catch some live shows while you’re in town, but don’t forget to get out and explore the many parks and lakes in the area, as well.
Where to Stay:
What to Eat:
- Breakfast tacos are big in Austin and Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ’s are a favorite of the locals.
- Lunch and dinner tacos are big, too. For a popular Tex-Mex version, try Torchy’s Tacos on South Congress.
- Grab a yummy brunch at Magnolia Cafe
What to Do:
- Take a boat or kayak ride on Lady Bird Lake.
- Check out the Texas State Capitol.
- For live music, check out Austin City Limits Live at Moody Theater.
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