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ARTS & CULTURE
(Photo of Lowell Observatory, in Flagstaff, AZ, by Mike Cavaroc)
Arizona, called the Grand Canyon state, is not only home to abundant natural wonders, sights and outdoor recreational opportunities.
It is also a state that has tremendous historical and cultural value.
Arizona's history is one that is rich in prehistoric, Native American, Hispanic, and Old West cultures. If it's cultural immersion you're looking for, look no further. And while you're at it, add some days to your trip to the Grand Canyon. Adding some cultural experiences and visits to historical sites will enrich your vacation experience. Arizona is known for its arts, history and culture and after exploring these pages you'll see why.
Consider the following…
Traces of early agricultural civilization (early, as in 20,000 years ago) can still be seen in the form of high cliff dwellings used by people in prehistoric times.
In 1539, the first Spanish explorer arrived in search for gold. In 1775, the Spanish established Fort Tucson.
It was in Arizona that the great Indian chiefs Geronimo and Cochise led their people against the frontiersmen. Today, more than 14 Indian tribes call Arizona home and are represented on 20 reservations.
Tombstone, AZ, was the site of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral, which was the West's most famous shoot-out.
To be sure, a Grand Canyon vacation is a very unique cultural experience, and as such, we encourage visitors to think beyond Grand Canyon National Park, where you will experience this region's vast cultural heritage.
Here we provide an overview into Arizona's history, including stories about historic sites, national monuments, destinations that are particularly rich in history, arts and culture, and cultural activities and events.
Here we highlight some of the cities and towns in Arizona that are famous for their love and display of the arts, as well as provide a brief sampling of cultural events that take place in this region. For starters, we'll provide information about Sedona, Flagstaff, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Prescott and Tucson – all artsy destinations in their own right. Then, we'll provide visitors with information about how to witness a reenacted Old West gunfight, ride a historic railway, attend a rodeo, and more. > See MoreHistory buffs will not be disappointed. Arizona delivers big when it comes to historic sites and opportunities to take a step back in time. We share information about the many national monuments that commemorate and showcase historically significant sites, including cliff dwellings, pueblos, fossils and petrified forests, trading posts, mines and ghost towns, and more. We also highlight some of the activities available for visitors that enable you to engage in Arizona's cultural past and present, including rodeos, powwows, (re-enacted) Old West Shoot Outs, Chuckwagon dinners, train rides, and more. > See More > See MoreBecause this is a place where history and culture are everywhere, there is no shortage of preserved and interpreted cultural artifacts and art. Arizona boasts many communities that are known for their assortment of museums, historical centers and art galleries. Here we highlight some of the most notable museums and galleries that can be enjoyed as part of the Grand Canyon vacation experience. > See More
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