There’s no shortage of things to do in Yuma, Arizona, but it’d be a shame to miss out on the region’s many day trips.
Outdoor adventures, unusual flavors, and the perks of a border town mean you’ll have diverse options.
Today, we’re scouting the five best jaunts near this desert oasis.
Let’s jump in!
Why You Need to Put Yuma, Arizona, on Your Next Trip Itinerary
Founders established Yuma, originally called Arizona City, in 1871. However, European explorers first entered the area in 1540. They traveled north along the Colorado River from the Sea of Cortez until they found a natural passage formed by unusual geographic formations. The so-called Yuma Crossing proved critical for Spanish expansion into the region.
These days, this destination at the crux of Mexico, California, and Arizona has metropolitan amenities and a small-town feel.
The Guinness Book of World Records named it the Sunniest City on Earth. In fact, more than 90% of the year, you’ll enjoy blue skies and warm weather. Its climate and proximity to striking scenery make it the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature.
In cooler months, it’s a haven for snowbirds. While the average population is less than 100,000, that number nearly doubles between January and March. Folks come from all over to hike, off-road, and tube down the Colorado River.
Here’s where to stay: 9 Awesome RV Parks in Yuma, AZ (Exclusive Video Tours)
These Are the Best Day Trips From Yuma
One of the best things about Yuma is the many fantastic day-trip destinations nearby. Once you’ve explored the city, take the time to get out of town and see what else is in the area.
#1 Naked Dates Farm
Medjool dates are a specialty fruit in the region. Of course, you’ll find plenty of farms where you can take tours and taste these sweet gems. But this one is the only place in Arizona that strictly grows organic.
Even better, they offer a lot more than dried produce. You can grab lunch at their restaurant, which serves everything from bacon-date melts to fruit-free shrimp tacos. They also have a brewery on-site.
The shop sells a range of goods, such as honey, soaps, fresh eggs, and cookies. But their shake is the item you won’t want to pass up. Sweet, creamy, and icy cold, it’s the perfect treat to take along on your walking tour of the grounds.
Naked Dates Farm is in Wellton, about 30 minutes from Yuma. They’re open from November to April, so plan accordingly.
Pro tip: Don’t rely on your maps app to get you there. Instead, check the Naked Dates Farm website for detailed driving directions.
#2 Martinez Lake
Just south of the nearby Imperial Wildlife Refuge is Martinez Lake. This artificial waterway is part of the Colorado River. It’s the ultimate day trip for anglers from Yuma. You can catch catfish, tilapia, crappie, sunfish, bluegill, and several bass species.
However, there’s a lot to do here, even if you’re not interested in casting a line. Of course, boating is a popular activity. Whether you bring your own boat, canoe, or kayak or rent one when you arrive, you’ll appreciate the ability to get out on the water.
Additionally, there are trails for hiking and horseback riding.
Martinez Lake is a waypoint for many migratory birds, so bring your binoculars. You might spot bighorn sheep, deer, wild horses, donkeys, and smaller critters like foxes, muskrats, and beavers.
The area surrounding the lake also has shops, restaurants, and vacation rentals. Even better, it’s less than 45 minutes from Yuma.
We also found 5 Fun and Free Things To Do in Yuma, Arizona
#3 Imperial Sand Dunes
If off-roading on some of the country’s largest inland sand dunes gets your engine running, we’ve got a Yuma day trip for you!
Over one million thrill-seekers head to Imperial Sand Dunes throughout the year. Off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts flock here, especially when the summer heat has passed. With some hills towering 500 feet tall, you’re bound to get an adrenaline rush.
OHVs are available for rent. But be aware that you’ll need a permit from October to April.
While the main site is just over an hour from Yuma in Glamis, California, this 40-mile-long sandbox has multiple access points. You can reach some of them in as little as 20 minutes.
If you prefer a lo-tech experience, the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness doesn’t allow motorized vehicles, so you can get some peace and quiet.
#4 Los Algodones, Mexico
You’ve probably heard of people heading south of the border for medical procedures, dental work, and low-cost pharmaceuticals. Los Algodones is the premier destination for budget healthcare. In fact, it’s even earned the nickname “Molar City.”
You’ll find more doctors, dentists, opticians, and pharmacies here than just about any other place in the US or Mexico. And it’s in northern Baja California, a mere seven miles from Yuma, making it a quick and easy day trip. Parking lots sit along the border, so walking across is a breeze.
When you get here, you’ll notice an abundance of restaurants, food carts, and boutique shops. After you take care of any medical needs, spend some time perusing the streets in this pedestrian-friendly area.
Los Algodones is also exceptionally safe. Many folks worry about violent crime in border towns, but that’s typically not a concern here. However, you’ll want to practice the same caution you would use elsewhere.
#5 Castle Dome City Ghost Town
Take a step back in time at one of Yuma’s most historically significant day trips. Castle Dome City is the former site of a major mining operation. In fact, it was the longest-functioning mine network in Arizona. Silver, gold, copper, and lead, copper were the main exports.
Over 60 original buildings still stand here today, including a schoolhouse, barber shop, and saloon. The Castle Dome Mine Museum features thousands of artifacts collected from 300 shafts and the surrounding desert.
You can take a guided tour 100 feet below ground at the Hull Mine. When you reach the bottom, you’ll see the stunning fluorescent wall. Some say this perfectly preserved specimen looks like shimmering stars. Red, green, and violet hues appear all around you.
You might forget for a moment that you’re underground and not in outer space.
Discover more Yuma: RVing Yuma, Arizona
You’ll Want More Time To Explore These Yuma Day Trips!
While Yuma, Arizona, offers plenty of activities in town, its many nearby day trips make it even more special. The region’s natural amenities provide countless outdoor opportunities, whether you want to relax or get your blood pumping. Delicious food and cultural expeditions only add to the excitement.
Next time you head to the Sunniest City in the World, schedule an extra day or two to explore the surrounding areas.
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