Cross country travel should definitely include these 7 Best Southwest Travel Destinations. For any family hitting the road this year, these are fun locations that are perfect for your itinerary. The beautiful deserts, cliffs, rocks and rivers throughout these states will have you snapping pictures left and right. Bits of culture, amazing cuisine and even shopping will give everyone in the family a place to enjoy time away from home. You can even turn this guide into an amazing road trip if you start at either San Diego, California or San Antonio, Texas and follow the destinations in order from San Diego to San Antonio or vice-versa.
7 Best Southwest Travel Destinations
San Diego, California: On the edge of California, this city that closely borders both the Ocean and Mexico is a hub of culture. Not only are there amusement park adventures and one of, if not, the best zoo known to man in this city, you have incredible world-renowned chefs, shopping districts and downtown nightlife. This city has historical missions, churches and outcroppings that reflect the progression of the area over the last few centuries. No city clings to the past while embracing the future quite like San Diego.
Joshua Tree National Park, California: This National Park is a photographers dream. The sky is stunning at sunrise and sunset. With hiking trails, campsites and tons of natural rock formations and wildlife unique only to this park it is an outdoors mans dream.
Las Vegas, Nevada: The ultimate destination for gambling, music, shows and nightlife Las Vegas is the heart of the desert. Not only does it focus on tons of fun for adults, there are great attractions for the kids. Roof top amusement parks, water parks, kid friendly events and magic shows abound throughout the city.
Grand Canyon, Arizona: The ultimate wonder of the world is found in the natural formed Grand Canyon in Arizona. This Southwest travel destination is a popular location for tourists year round, but the beauty is breathtaking. Whether you pay for the tours, simply stop at an overlook and take a few pictures or stay in the area to camp this is a great choice for your next vacation.
Boulder, Utah: This location is the adventurers dream. The rock formations, waterfalls and state park trails make this a great destination for the family that loves outside adventures and hiking. This is all about the beauty of nature. Turn off the outside distractions and focus on a beautiful world around you in Boulder. Rock formations, rivers, dried riverbeds and unique outcroppings make the perfect landscape for family pictures.
Four Corners: This destination is the one place you can stand in four states at one time. A fun tourist site, the Four Corners is a great little side trek on any Southwest or cross-country vacation. Stand in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah all at the same time when you visit this popular location. I read on Google that the monument might not even be placed in the right spot. I guess you’d have to visit to find out for sure.
San Antonio, Texas: This city is most well-known for he Alamo, but once you arrive you’ll find a thriving food scene, music life and of course an incredible zoo for the kids. Theme parks, restaurants, shopping and classic historical architecture make this a great destination to spend a few days and explore.
As you travel this year, consider these 7 best Southwest travel destinations as potential places to take your family for a visit. From stunning historical landmarks, to adventures and beyond the Southwest has tons to offer the traveling person or family. Grab the maps, compass and a few bottles of water and set out for an incredible vacation when you choose these best Southwest travel destinations for your next family trip.