Arizona
Fall Vacations & Unique Travel Spots
Kitt Peak National Observatory
The world's largest collection of optical telescopes is located high above the Sonoran Desert under some of the finest
night skies in the world. Kitt Peak, on the Tohono O'odham Reservation, is home to twenty-two optical and two radio
telescopes representing eight astronomical research institutions. The Kitt Peak National Observatory Visitor Center is
open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's day. You can stargaze at
Kitt Peak with our Nightly Observing Programs.
Location: Tucson, AZ
CLICK HERE
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Children's Museum of Phoenix
Acting on the principle that learning is a joy, the Children's Museum of Phoenix provides hands-on exhibits and
educational programs to engage the minds, muscles and imaginations of children and their families - while promoting
cooperative interaction, fostering cultural understanding and enhancing parenting skills.
Location: Phoenix, AZ
CLICK HERE
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Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Reflecting one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes of North America, the cultural resources of Canyon de
Chelly include distinctive architecture, artifacts, and rock imagery while exhibiting remarkable preservation integrity
that provides outstanding opportunities for study and contemplation. Canyon de Chelly also sustains a living community of
Navajo people, who are connected to a landscape of great historical and spiritual significance. Canyon de Chelly is unique
among National Park service units, as it is comprised entirely of Navajo Tribal Trust Land that remains home to the canyon
community. Activities include: Auto tours, hiking, rock art viewing, interpretive exhibits and talks, horseback riding,
picnicking and photography. Concession jeep tours are also available.
Location: The Visitor Center is 3 miles (4.8 km) from Route 191 in Chinle, AZ
CLICK HERE
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Petrified Forest
With one of the world's largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood, multi-hued badlands of the Painted
Desert, historic structures, archeological sites, and displays of 225 million year old fossils, this is a surprising land
of scenic wonders and fascinating science. Travel through the park is by private vehicle, bicycle, motorcycle, or
commercial tour only. The park road, parking lots, and pull outs are suitable for large recreation vehicles, including
those towing smaller vehicles. Off road vehicle travel is not allowed within the park, including mountain bikes.
Location: Petrified Forest, AZ
CLICK HERE
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Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Sunset Crater Volcano was born in a series of eruptions sometime between 1040 and 1100. Powerful explosions profoundly
affected the lives of local people and forever changed the landscape and ecology of the area. Lava flows and cinders still
look as fresh and rugged as the day they formed. But among dramatic geologic features, you'll find trees, wildflowers, and
signs of wildlife.
Location: From Flagstaff, take U.S 89 north for 12 miles (19km), turn right on the Sunset Crater - Wupatki Loop road and
continue 2 miles (3km) to the visitor center. Flagstaff, AZ
CLICK HERE
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