Four unique state parks to visit in Pinal County
Picacho Peak State ParkPicacho Peak State Park website. Nothing tells the history of an area more than its environment. Whether it be the natural surroundings of native plants and animals or the careworn facades of historic buildings. These are the earmarks of progression in America’s history. Arizona’s Pinal County is a bevy of natural and manmade landmarks, and luckily some have been preserved in the state park system. Here are four such examples located in Pinal County that are well worth a visit.
Read full storySt. Anthony’s Monastery is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert
St. Anthony’s MonasterySt. Anthony’s Monastery website. Travelers visit destinations for a variety of reasons. Some love to discover unique and interesting landmarks that are specific to the regions they explore. These sites create indelible memories.
Read full storySculpture meets nature at the Triangle L Ranch
One great thing about living in this part of Arizona is watching it steadily discover its place in the global art community. Sometimes difficult to find, there are hidden gems throughout the region with collections that may foretell the future of how Arizona will continue to define itself as a major contributor to the contemporary art world.
Read full storyGoodwill store on Hunt Highway is now open
Goodwill in San Tan Valley on West Hunt HighwayTimothy Rawles. Second-hand merchandise giant and reseller Goodwill has opened a new location in San Tan Valley. Located next to Walmart Supercenter on Hunt Highway this store opened on June 3.
Read full storyBarbed wire, cowboys, and prison inmates on display at the Pinal County Historical Museum
Pinal County Historical MuseumCourtesy of The Pinal County Historical Museum. The Pinal County Historical Museum offers visitors a unique mix of regional history, local true crime stories, and prison artifacts. This diversity of exhibits sometimes walks a fine line between the morbid and the educational. But those who are curious about Pinal County's history will most likely find it all interesting.
Read full storyThe Peppersauce Cave is an Arizona hidden gem complete with an underground lake
Peppersauce Cave is a hidden explorable limestone cave within the Santa Catalina Mountains. People who want to hike this small, cavernous system can expect to walk about one mile of mapped underground pathways. It’s not for the casual explorer who is used to handrail assistance and helpful amenities, but the difficulty level might be okay for beginners.
Read full storyThe midcentury allure and chilling past of Florence’s Blue Mist Motel
Back when automobile travel was the main mode of transportation across America, roadside motels like The Blue Mist in Florence were a common sight along the lonely highway. Motorists would spot large marquees touting all the modern amenities from air conditioning, kitchenettes, and TVs to later HBO. These roadside sleepovers were almost as important as gasoline to the tired driver.
Read full storyCafé Rio celebrates new San Tan Valley location with a celebration event
Cafe Rio Mexican Grill is getting ready to open a new location in San Tan Valley on June 10. The restaurant is famous for its sweet pork Barbacoa among other delicious and fresh offerings.
Read full storyThe Black Heritage Music Experience II celebrates Black Music Appreciation Month with a night of live soul music
Theo HuffCourtesy of the artist. President Biden declared June 2022 as Black Music Appreciation Month, and music lovers can celebrate that decree on Saturday, June 11, at The AZ Black Heritage Music Experience II. Biden’s proclamation reads, in part:
Read full storyA brief history of Filiberto's Mexican restaurants
Filiberto's on 19th Ave & Pinnacle Peak in Phoenix, AZFiliberto's Facebook. If you live anywhere in one of the southwest’s many buzzing cities you are probably not far from a Mexican food chain with the suffix “Bertos” in its name. And if you don’t, one is probably on its way.
Read full storyA concentration camp memorial exists in Pinal County: Regulated visiting is possible
Gila River War Relocation Center MemorialWikipedia. In 1942, concentration camps were erected across America just after the beginning of World War II. Over 120,000 people, mostly of Japanese ancestry, were removed from their homes and forced to live in these guarded encampments. One of them is right here in Pinal County.
Read full storySmall wonders, big history, fill the Dwarf Car Museum
Ernie Adams and one of his dwarf cars: a 1942 Ford ConvertibleDwarf Car Promotions. One of the biggest concepts in Maricopa City is, ironically, perhaps, one of its smallest. It’s a fleet of classic cars that have been painstakingly reproduced to almost half the size of their original full-scale counterparts. The entire collection can be seen at the Dwarf Car Museum. But before you gas up and head to this unique mini metal menagerie, there’s some history behind it.
Read full storyAirport Tavern is a layover full of history, spirits, and tasty grub
The outside courtyard at Airport Tavern in Casa Grande, AZAirport Tavern -- Julie Mikkelsen. Sometimes, in a small town, the local bar is a popular gathering place, just like a church. In Casa Grande, the Airport Tavern has a long history of being such a communal space, but uplifting spirits here don't require a sermon.
Read full storyThe Tom Mix memorial in Florence marks the legendary star’s final ride into the sunset
He did for the silent Hollywood western what Elvis did for rock and roll and was just as revered for his talents. His name was Tom Mix, a traveling rodeo showman who entered Tinseltown when it was still called ‘Hollywoodland.’
Read full storyGoodwill hunting: Unique thrift stores in Pinal County
Pinal County can be a bargain hunter’s paradise, you just have to know where to look. Big box thrift and consignment shops are dappled around the region, but some small mom and pop shops funnel their money into local causes.
Read full storyGeocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt for the entire family
Unlike the treasure hunters portrayed in Hollywood movies, you don’t need a fedora and a bullwhip like Indians Jones to go on an adventure when there’s an easier way. Geocaching only requires a phone, a little bit of patience, and a pair of comfortable shoes. It is an app-based game that started back in 2000 when GPS satellites allowed non-military people to better pinpoint locations on a map. The technology is capable of guiding users to specific locations enhanced by a topographical overview of terrain and landmarks.
Read full storyArizona Wheel Estate: Pinal County RV parks and resorts
Rancho Sonora Inn & RV ParkRancho Sonora RV Park (website) (Pinal County, AZ) Sitting behind the wheel of an RV is one way to explore Arizona’s scenic landscape. Parking that same vehicle and getting outside to examine nature can enhance the whole experience. Gas up, grab some groceries and let us tell you about some great parks and resorts to plant your home on wheels.
Read full storyDon’t get rattled, it’s snake season: Handy tips for chance encounters
(Pinal County, AZ) Yell the word “snake” amongst a group of hikers in the desert and you might get the same reaction as shouting “shark” at the beach. But panic is the last thing you should do when encountering a curled-up predator in any environment.
Read full storyTo summit-up, Silly Mountain is a great place to hike
(Apache Junction, AZ) Don’t be surprised if seasoned Arizona hikers list Silly Mountain in Apache Junction as one of their favorite spots. With its variety of different trails, gorgeous views, and native wildlife, it might become your go-to hiking destination as well, whether you’re new to the state or a longtime resident.
Read full storyLittle horses create big memories at The Pony Ranch
Children riding the carousel at The Pony RanchThe Pony Ranch (Facebook) (Casa Grande, AZ) An opportunity for kids to meet, or even ride, a pony might light up their faces with big smiles. Beyond that excitement, the connection between humans and animals can be a beneficial one — studies have shown that equine interaction may be therapeutic to both children and adults.
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