In 2019, Americans spent around $927 billion on domestic travel which shows we love to explore new places.
Visiting the desert lets you escape the stress from city life, immerse yourself in beauty and tranquility, and watch unreal sunsets. Perhaps you’re eager to visit desert towns but you’re not sure where to start.
Sounds familiar? Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Here are seven to consider.
1. Marfa, Texas
If you’re looking for great Texas desert towns then visit Marfa. There’s no doubt you’ve seen the fake Prada Marfa store, its famous landmark, as Marfa has become an art hub since the ‘70s. Because of this, visit Ballroom Marfa, an art space filled with work from famous and emerging contemporary artists.
Make sure you’re there in September so you can attend the Trans-Pecos Festival to catch great performances. You should also take a day trip to Balmorhea State Park so you can take a dip in a giant spring-fed swimming pool to cool off.
And don’t forget to check out the Marfa Mystery lights which have been baffling residents and tourists for generations. These are white, blue, red glowing orbs that appear in the desert.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Find directions to Sedona so you can experience this glorious desert town. You’ll be mesmerized by the deep red rock canyons that you can hike through.
Aside from the stunning landscape, Sedona is a popular spiritual hotspot. Many believe the rocks, known as the Vortexes, emit energy, so check this out.
You must also visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross where you can drink in the stunning views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Note that it’s best to visit in the morning so you miss the crowds.
If you have time, you should also visit the Verde Valley Wine Trail and the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village to truly soak in Sedona.
3. Boulder City, Nevada
Want to explore Nevada Desert Towns? Then Boulder City’s for you.
Visit Hoover Dam to see the giant masterpiece constructed during the Great Depression and brush up on your knowledge by visiting its museum. You should also check out the Nevada Southern Railroad Museum for an interesting afternoon with the family.
Adrenaline junkies should visit Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon Zipline Tour which you can reach after a moderate hike.
If you want to explore the scenery, the Historic Railroad Trail should be on your list. And you mustn’t forget to load up on Tex-Mex so you experience a true Southwestern feast.
4. Ojo Caliente, New Mexico
One of the best small desert towns is Ojo Caliente in New Mexico. The hot springs are a must-see so you can feel your stress subside at the town’s only spa. You can find four types of mineral water and choose between 10 pools for a one-in-a-kind experience.
You must also visit the Puye Cliffs where Native Americans lived centuries ago and you can still see their cave dwellings. And, to deepen your historical knowledge, head to the Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center where you can learn about the dinosaurs that have been discovered in the region.
After that, spend time in the great outdoors by going hunting, fishing, and boating. Note that you must get a permit before hunting or fishing in Ojo Caliente’s lake.
5. Moab, Utah
Utah boasts many natural wonders and a huge collection of national parks. Head to Moab, a town in Utah’s high desert, that offers incredible landscapes. You can also visit wineries to produce high-quality wine from locally grown grapes.
A trip to Moab isn’t complete without hiking to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. It’s a three-mile round trip and the landmark is right at the end so keep going! Note it’s best to reach the Delicate Arch in the late afternoon so you can catch a remarkable sunset.
If you’re a keen cyclist, explore the famous Slickrock trail for a rewarding trail. And you mustn’t miss out on the Island in the Sky with views that give the Grand Canyon a run for its money.
6. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is one of the best California desert towns so check it out. This is the go-to place if you want to improve your physical and mental wellbeing thanks to the wide selection of bathhouses and hot springs.
You should also check out the Palm Springs Art Museum and Moorten Botanical Garden to admire the native plants. If you’re after adventure, hike to a waterfall in Tahquitz Canyon to escape the heat.
7. Tuscon, Arizona
Eager to check out small desert towns in Arizona? Then you mustn’t miss out on Tucson.
Spend the afternoon hiking the Sabino Canyon and around Saguaro National Park so you’re fully immersed in the scenery. You must also check out Tohono Chul Park, which means “Desert Corner”, where you can visit the onsite museum and learn more about the Sonoran Desert.
And step back in time by visiting the Old Tuscon studios, perfect if you’re a fanatic about classic Westerns. This is the studio location for famous movies like Little House on the Prairie and Gunfight at the O.K Corral.
Those Are the Best Desert Towns to Visit
Hopefully, after reading this article, you now know which desert towns to check out.
Visit Marfa to experience the art scene, Palm Springs to unwind, and Sedona to explore the incredible landscape. All of these towns offer something unique to visitors so consider what you and your family want and choose accordingly. Happy traveling!
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