My Resolutions for 2010: See More of Arizona

We’ve all had the conversation with a lifelong Arizonan who’s never been to the Grand Canyon, ridden a horse or done other things that tourists from around the world pay good money to come here and do.

This year, I resolve to see more of the state and I suggest you do too. I’m constantly amazed at the outdoor wonderlands, unique festivals and exquisite hotels, casinos and dining that are within our state. Take a day trip in any direction, and you’ll see what I mean.  All we do is drive in Phoenix anyway, why not make it an adventure.

I’ve created a list of places that I would like to see or do, but I’d love to hear where you plan to go.  So hear goes!

Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley 
Both of these national monuments are located on the largest Native American reservation in the U.S.  A favorite of the Hollywood Westerns, Monument Valley is known for its eye-popping landscapes.  The photos of this magical area are magnificent and I’ve always wanted to see them since I moved to Arizona.  I think that it would be a trip of a lifetime!

 
 
Hike Camelback
It’s right in my backyard, but for some reason Camelback Mountain, the signature of Phoenix, intimidates me.  Maybe, it’s the 6 o’clock news footage of yet another helicopter rescuing a lost hiker.  I make fun of these people, but deep down I think I might end up being one of them.  I’m going to get over my fear, and hike that darn thing in 2010.

Biosphere 2
In 1991, eight “Biospherians,” clad in Star Trek-like outfits were sealed inside a 3-acre glass-and-steel terrarium north of Tucson to see if human beings could live within an artificially created environment. Yikes!  Part of Biosphere 2 (map) is now operated by the University of Arizona and open to the public.  This innovative facility sounds amazing and I think that kids would love it too.

Chiricahua National Monument
The Chiricahuas are best known for their spectacular hoodoos and rock formations. Just south of Tucson, this monument offers amazing hikes, such as Echo Canyon Trail with its scenic views.  The Chiricahua Mountains extend for miles beyond the monument, with elevations greater than 9,000 feet, making them a great place to escape the heat. I’m hoping to go camping in the area to achieve the full experience.

Arcosanti
Architect Paolo Soleri’s counterculture experiment in urban living is just short drive north in Cordes Junction.  I imagine that this uber contemporary village, Arcosanti, is a shock to an area that is more like the Old West.  I’m always fascinated by architecture and I think that this unique place would make for an interesting day trip.

Wine Country
Until recently, I had no idea that Northern Arizona had such well-reknowned wineries.  I’m looking forward to sipping some of their award-winning vintages.

Tailgate at an ASU Football Game
I don’t know why, but every year I miss this opportunity.  I’ve always heard that tailgating at these games is a lot of fun.  I’m sure that many people have done this thousands of times. I just need to do it once and then I’m sure that I’ll make it a tradition.

Heard Museum – Hoop Dancing Competition
Another event that I have great intentions of seeing every year and still have not experienced.  Hoop dancing is done by Native Americans and this competition at the Heard Museum (map) determines the national winner.  It’s a weekend full of performances with dancers that use different size hoops, like hula hoops in an amazing fashion.  It’s truly unique to the Southwest.

Prescott Rodeo
I’ve been to Prescott many times for a quick getaway. But to truly experience the West, I need to head to the rodeo. Prescott’s Fourth of July rodeo has evolved from a relatively modest event in 1888 into a days-long celebration with bucking broncos and barrel racing, a dance, parade and lots of other activities for wannabe cowgirls and cowboys to wear their Stetsons and boots.

Rent a Cabana at Arizona Biltmore
I love the idea of renting a cabana poolside for the day at one of our luxurious resorts.  The Arizona Biltmore (map) is one of the Valley’s gems known for it’s gorgeous pool.  Having people wait on me and bring me food and beverages.  It sounds so decadent!

So that’s my list for 2010. What do you think? I’m looking forward to accomplishing each of these resolutions and sharing my experiences in this blog. I can’t wait to hit the road!

Photos from flickr:

Canyon de Chelly
Native American dancer
Arcosanti