Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chandler to Yuma
Arizona is known for its expansive deserts, hazy vistas, and red rock formations that leave an indelible impression on travelers. The drive from Chandler in central Arizona to the city of Yuma, located near the California border, traverses a beautiful landscape that showcases the state's natural beauty. The journey is 184 miles long and takes approximately three hours to complete. Along the way, travelers can explore numerous picturesque towns and quirky roadside attractions that are off the beaten path. In this article, we introduce five unexpected places that you should visit during your trip from Chandler to Yuma.
Gila Bend, AZ - The Halfway Point
Located roughly halfway between Chandler and Yuma is Gila Bend, AZ, a small town that is a fantastic place to take a break from driving. The town has a rich history that dates back to pre-Columbian times, and it is also home to the world-famous Space Age Lodge. This motel was built in 1963 and exemplifies the mid-century modern architecture that is iconic in the United States. The Space Age Lodge is perfect for travelers of all ages who want to experience something out of the ordinary.
Favorite Food: La Cocina Restaurant
La Cocina is a family-owned restaurant that offers delicious traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is spacious, clean, and has friendly staff who are always willing to help. Their menu is extensive, and we recommend trying their carne asada tacos, which are made with authentic Mexican flavors.
Dateland, AZ - A Desert Oasis
Dateland is a tiny unincorporated community that is located 70 miles southwest of Gila Bend. The town is a desert oasis that is best known for its date palms that cover the area. The town's name comes from the date groves that were planted during World War II, as they served to provide food for soldiers during their deployments. Today, Dateland is a popular stop for road trips because of its unusual attractions, including a date factory, small museum, and gift shop.
Favorite Food: Date Shake
The date shake is a must-have when visiting Dateland, and we recommend stopping at the Dateland Travel Center, which serves the best shakes in the area. The shake is made with locally-grown dates and is a refreshing drink that is perfect to have on a hot day.
Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
The Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is a must-visit destination for all history buffs. The prison was operational from 1876 to 1909 and housed some of the most notorious criminals of the time, including train robbers and polygamists. Today, the prison has been converted into a museum, which houses exhibits that tell the story of the prison's history. Visitors can take guided tours of the prison and learn about its unique architecture and its place in Arizona's history.
Favorite Food: Prison Grill
The prison grill is located near the prison's entrance and serves tasty sandwiches, salads, and burgers. Their burgers are especially good, and we recommend trying their bacon cheeseburger, which is made with locally-raised beef and served with a side of fries.
Martinez Lake
Martinez Lake is a picturesque lake located near the Arizona-California border. The lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters, and it offers a host of water-based activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The area around the lake is also home to many diverse species of wildlife and plants, which makes it an ideal location for nature lovers.
Favorite Food: The Bamboo Bar and Grill
The Bamboo Bar and Grill is located on the shores of Martinez Lake. The restaurant offers gorgeous views of the lake and serves delicious food. We recommend trying their fish tacos, which come with a side of rice and beans.
Castle Dome Mines Museum & Ghost Town
The Castle Dome Mines Museum & Ghost Town is located just 16 miles north of Yuma. It is an abandoned mining town that was established in the late 19th century. The town was once a hub of mining activity, and it had its own post office, school, jail, and more. Today, Castle Dome is a ghost town that is open to the public. Visitors can explore the various buildings and see the equipment and artifacts that were used in the mining operations.
Favorite Food: Castle Dome Cafe
Castle Dome Cafe is located near the entrance to the ghost town. They serve a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and burgers. We recommend trying their BLT, which is made with fresh ingredients and is the perfect meal to have after exploring the ghost town.
Convincing Them to Take This Trip
Arizona is a beautiful state that offers a wide range of landscapes and experiences for travelers to explore. The drive from Chandler to Yuma is an excellent opportunity to experience some of the unique attractions that make Arizona stand out. From the date palms of Dateland to the abandoned mining town at Castle Dome, there is something for everyone on this road trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a journey that you won't soon forget!