Things To Do
in Yuma
Yuma, Arizona sits at the southwestern edge of the United States along the Colorado River, where desert landscapes meet riverfront life. Known for its warm winters, it serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation and Mexican-influenced cuisine. The city blends agricultural history with a growing arts and culture scene in Old Town and along the riverfront.
Its desert climate promises endless sun and unique outdoor adventures most of the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe in downtown Yuma, where you can savor delicious huevos rancheros and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Yuma Historic District, marveling at the well-preserved buildings that showcase the city’s rich history. Don't forget to visit the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, where you can learn about the fascinating stories of the inmates who once lived there.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delightful lunch at one of Yuma's popular Mexican restaurants, indulging in authentic dishes like carne asada burritos. Post-lunch, head over to the Yuma Art Center, where you can engage with local art exhibits or participate in creative workshops. Spend the afternoon wandering along the Colorado River, soaking in the scenic views and perhaps spotting some wildlife.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water. After dinner, take a stroll along the Riverfront Path, enjoying the gentle evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar for live music, immersing yourself in Yuma’s vibrant nightlife.
Start your adventure with a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the Imperial Sand Dunes, just a short drive from Yuma. Once you arrive, rent an ATV or a dune buggy to explore the vast, golden sands and experience the thrill of riding through the dunes. Be sure to take plenty of breaks to enjoy the stunning desert landscape and capture some memorable photos.
After hours of fun in the sand, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the designated picnic areas amidst the dunes, soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. Spend the afternoon continuing your exploration, finding the perfect spots to relax or climb to the top of the highest dune for a panoramic view of the desert. If you're feeling adventurous, try sandboarding down the slopes for an exhilarating experience.
As the day winds down, head back to Yuma and freshen up before dinner. Treat yourself to a hearty meal at a local steakhouse, where you can indulge in a perfectly grilled steak accompanied by a side of roasted vegetables. After dinner, consider visiting a local brewery to sample some craft beers, reflecting on the day’s excitement.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $70-130 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic items) per week | $40-90 |
| 🚌Public transportation (1 ride) | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm winter weather and sunny days
- Access to outdoor recreation along the Colorado River
- Border-area culture with Mexican influences
- Generally affordable travel and food
- Family-friendly attractions
- Very hot summers with high daytime temperatures
- Limited public transit and car-dependent layout
- Some areas require driving between attractions
Places to Visit in Yuma
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic river views, historic bridges, and sunset silhouettes.
Adobe architecture, color-washed walls, and shadows for dramatic shots.
Water channels, marshlands, birds, and reflections at golden hour.
Wide river panoramas and desert silhouettes from elevated viewpoints nearby.
Food in Yuma
Yuma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised beef served with tortillas; a popular choice at local taquerias in Old Town.
Must-Try!
Carne asada or al pastor tucked into corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and lime.
Fresh river fish with cabbage, crema, and lime; common near the riverfront dining options.
Stuffed peppers with cheese or meat, typically served with rice and beans.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, salsas, churros, and casual bites from local vendors.
Casual stalls offering tacos, elotes, and aguas frescas in a lively outdoor setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a smile go a long way; bilingual communication is common in border-adjacent areas.
Stay on marked trails, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife and quiet spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Yuma
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant and bar service: 15-20% of the pre-tax total. Tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi/ride-share drivers; consider rounding up on small purchases.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for street vendors and some markets; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect extreme heat; hydrate, wear sun protection, schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.
Pleasant temperatures; great time for river walks and hiking; some monsoon humidity and dust storms possible.
Mild days and cool nights; ideal for outdoor exploring and city events.
Blooming desert flora and wildlife activity; longer daylight for outdoor adventures.
Yuma at Night
Hiking in Yuma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep desert ascent with panoramic views; best in cooler months.
Desert canyon hike with historic mining area near Yuma.
Short, easy loop along bird-friendly wetlands, great for beginners.
Airports
How to reach Yuma by plane.
Domestic flights and connections; easy access to downtown Yuma.
Small regional airport near El Centro, CA, a short drive from Yuma for connections.
Major hub about 180 miles away; many international and domestic connections.
Large hub about 170 miles away; frequent US- and international-flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant portion of the population; strong cultural influence.
Seasonal residents drawn to warm winters.
Active, family-oriented community with parks and educational sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sand dune activities and off-road recreation in nearby desert areas.
Fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the Colorado River.
Basketball, baseball, and football at local parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yuma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for bean-based dishes, veggie fajitas, and veggie burritos; request no lard-based seasonings; check for dairy-free options.