Home to well-known cities, stunning scenery, and fascinating historical sites, the Southwest has all the ingredients for an adventurous summer. With so much to see and do across the region, picking just a few activities for a brief vacation can present a challenge. We’re here to help with a quick look at some fantastic summer activities in the Southwest.
Visit Big Bend National Park
West Texas has some stunning natural scenery, and Big Bend National Park encapsulates what many love about the region. Majestic mountains and canyons surround this remote park in the Chihuahuan Desert that had been inhabited by indigenous groups for thousands of years. Today, with more than 150 miles of breathtaking trails through diverse environments, the park is a dream come true for hikers. For those who prefer to drive, the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers spectacular vistas of the park’s magnificent landscapes.
Experience Outdoor Adventure at Angel Fire
Angel Fire is one of New Mexico’s most popular year-round destinations. This alpine mountain town houses the Angel Fire Resort, a heavily trafficked ski area in New Mexico’s Rocky Mountains. During the summer, this resort maintains its allure, transforming into a bustling hub for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The resort offers mountain biking courses for all experience levels, a massive zipline, and 18 holes of alpine golf.
Aside from the resort, Angel Fire is just a short drive from Eagle Nest Lake. The spectacular mountain lake is stocked with salmon, trout, and other freshwater catches, offering some of the best fishing in the region.
Go Rafting Through the Grand Canyon
If you want an unforgettable way to explore one of the country’s most incredible natural areas, consider a rafting adventure through the Grand Canyon. Numerous guides and companies in the area will take visitors on a journey along the Colorado River through the canyon. Seeing the remarkable landscape from the water below makes for an exciting memory that’ll last forever, and it is also an incredible way to beat the dry Arizona heat. From longer camping trips to short day trips, there are guided options for every experience level.
Take in the Culture of Santa Fe
Founded in the early 1600s, New Mexico’s capital is a gorgeous center for art, history, and culture. Santa Fe boasts spectacularly preserved architecture, a significant arts community, and an acclaimed Southwestern food scene. With ongoing events and shows throughout the season, summer is the perfect time to take in all this city has to offer. For one, the renowned Santa Fe Opera runs throughout the summer at a stunning outdoor venue. And Santa Fe’s major summer festivals include Santa Fe Art Week, the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, and the Traditional Spanish Market, all of which showcase the city’s culture.
Spend a Day Inside at Phoenix’s Museums
If Arizona’s heat is getting to you or you are navigating a rainy day, Phoenix has an array of renowned museums for people of all interests. We’ve listed a few below:
Arizona Science Center: This interactive museum has four levels of hands-on exhibits to enjoy for some family fun.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix: Another family-friendly option, this children’s museum offers endless ways to learn and interact.
Heard Museum: The Heard Museum has preserved and displayed tens of thousands of artifacts and artwork from Native American tribes of the Southwest.
Phoenix Art Museum: The Phoenix Art Museum houses a massive international collection and consistently displays rotating exhibitions.
