Totorus

Photo credit by Rickvg

Arizona is definitely one of those interesting states to visit. Although part of a long-running joke expressing disbelief (involving ocean front property), there are a number of reasons to visit Arizona. The desert state is well known as the southern limit of the Grand Canyon, but there are some other places to visit.

Photo credit by Al_HikesAZ

There are numerous destinations in the United States that would entertain and interest individuals and families alike for an extended weekend or a full vacation. One of the most popular destinations for a family vacation is Phoenix, Arizona. Though the city of Phoenix has more than enough attractions in it to occupy visitors, there are still occasions when it is nice to escape the urban area of Phoenix, and explore the surrounding area. There are some great day trips available in the Phoenix, Arizona area. Here is a look at nine of them which will turn a good Phoenix vacation into a great Arizona vacation.

Photo credit by Al_HikesAZ

It surprises a great deal of people to find out that Phoenix, Arizona is the second largest city in terms of population in the Western United States. The city has a reputation as home to senior citizens and retired couples looking to escape the cold weather of the north. While there is a large population of people who fall into the older age groups, Phoenix is also home to a lively entertainment, business and tourist industry. The city takes advantage of its well deserved reputation of having year round warm temperatures by offering a number of outdoor recreational opportunities that help visitors and locals enjoy the sun and warmth of the area. Phoenix has a rich history with many ties to the American Old West, Native American settlements and early exploration by European settlers.

Photo credit by Adventures in Librarianship

If you are into bird watching, Arizona is among the places you should go to for this hobby. This place is home to a large variety of birds which are flying around against lovely landscape. From small to large birds, Arizona can blow your mind with what it has to offer. Here you can see some common birds, such as the gray and black hawks, different species of owls, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and nightjars among a long list of others. Aside from these bird breeds, the place also offers rare species of birds, as well as seasonal fliers, such as sparrow, kingbirds, tanagers, warblers, and chickadees.

Photo credit by StevenM_61

Millions of people head to Arizona every year when the weather starts to turn cold in their own hometowns. One of the exciting and satisfying cities that they choose to go to is Tucson, and when you see all that Tucson has to offer, it is easy to see why people flock there to get out of the cold every year. The city of Tucson truly does offer something for the entire family.