Favorites from the Southwest
Regions of the United States
Southeast | Appalachian Highlands | Mid-Atlantic | New England | Great Lakes | Great Plains | Southwest | Mountain West | Pacific Northwest | California | Non-Contiguous
The Southwest is unique for its distinctive landscapes and mix of various cultural influences. The states in this region are Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. It was difficult narrowing my favorites down for this region and there are some fun cities and natural wonders that did not make the list. At the bottom are links to my photo galleries for the Southwest states.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
At over 18 miles wide and 277 miles long the canyon is an incredible site that, while slightly anticlimactic, should still be seen at least once. Like the ocean, the Grand Canyon is a friendly reminder of how small we are.
Monument Valley, Arizona
Located along the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley was the backdrop for many western films and TV shows. As a result the scenery, defined by towering sandstone buttes, has long been associated with the American Frontier. Officially known as Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it is the Navajo equivalent of a National Park.
San Antonio, Texas
The heart of San Antonio is the Riverwalk which is a network of pedestrian walkways, shops, bars and restaurants along the San Antonio River. There are connections to other notable points of interest such as The Alamo and HemisFair Park. The Tex-Mex food is delicious, although its best to go outside of the Riverwalk to find more authentic restaurants.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
With its Pueblo style architecture and vibrant mix of Spanish, Mexican, and Native American culture, Santa Fe is unlike any city in America. The historic district, centered around Santa Fe Plaza, is lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city is also home to the Loretto Chapel and the San Miguel Mission, the oldest known church in the continental United States.
3 thoughts on “Favorites from the Southwest”