You'll find plenty to do in Yuma.
Yuma, Arizona, is about 170 miles east of San Diego on the Colorado River, which forms a natural border with the state of California. This small city’s clean air, desert climate and mountain vistas make it a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy its cultural attractions and recreational activities.
Yuma Territorial Prison State Park
This park is home to Arizona’s first prison, which opened in 1876. Now a museum, the prison contains photographs and exhibits that give visitors a detailed look into what it was like to be an outlaw in the Old West. Apart from touring the prison itself, you can browse the gift shop, watch a video presentation or enjoy your own lunch in the picnic area. Restrooms are available. The park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Yuma Territorial Prison
1 Prison Hill Road
Yuma, AZ 85364
928-783-4771
azstateparks.com
St. Thomas Mission
Dedicated in 1923, this mission was built in the same location as the original mission where Father Francisco Garces was killed by Indians in 1781. The mission is a reminder of the long relationship between Yuma and the Quechuan Indian nation, dating back to the arrival of Jesuit priests from Mexico in 1539. Catholic services are held on Saturdays and Sundays. Guided tours are available upon request.
St. Thomas Mission
Fort Yuma Indian Reservation
Yuma, AZ 85364
760-752-0283
ragingmain.com
Cocopah Indian Museum
The Cocopah Indian Museum, in a village adjacent to Yuma, showcases the tribe's history and culture. The Cocopah are one of eight Yuma-area tribes that share a similar language. Visitors to the museum will find hand-crafted exhibits, a meeting place and a gift shop, as well as a park featuring a traditional Cocopah dwelling. Examples of traditional clothing, pottery and musical instruments all serve to educate guests. Authentic Cocopah bead work, native arts and crafts and jewelry are some of the items available in the gift shop. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated.
Cocopah Indian Museum
West County 15th Street and South Avenue G
Somerton, AZ 85350
928-627-1992
cocopah.com
Yuma River Tours
If you enjoy being on the water, you may want to take a boat trip on the Colorado River. Yuma River Tours offers several boating options, including jet boat tours, historic cruises and birding trips. As of June 2010, prices ranged from $48 to $95 per person, depending on the type and length of cruise you choose. Lunch and dinner cruises are also available, as are private charters.
Yuma River Tours
1920 Arizona Ave.
Yuma, AZ 85364
928-783-4400
yumarivertours.com
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge
This wildlife refuge comprises more than 25,000 acres and serves to protect various desert animals that live along the banks of the Colorado River. Egrets, muskrats, black-tailed jackrabbits, western whiptail lizards, desert bighorn sheep and mule deer are examples of animals you can see here. Visitors can choose to enjoy the refuge from the comfort of their vehicles on a scenic drive or on foot, following a self-guided walking trail.
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge
12812 N. Wildlife Way
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-783-3371
fws.gov
Tags: Cocopah Indian, Cocopah Indian Museum, Colorado River, gift shop, Indian Museum