35 Best Things to Do in Yuma, AZ (2026 Guide)

There are many fantastic things to do in Yuma AZ, nicknamed the sunniest city in the world.

This pretty city in southwestern Arizona, bordering Mexico and California, is renowned for its history, rugged desert landscapes of the Sonoran Desert, museums, excellent architecture, spacious parks and pleasant winter weather.

Yuma is not one of the main cities in Arizona, and it is a shame, given its splendid location and tons of activities with something available for everyone.

Located along the south bank of the Colorado River, the town was founded in the 1850s and, later on, was the centre for military and mining operations. 

Yuma was also the primary centre for steamboats, which became the prime source of commute for thousands of families that migrated to nearby California gold rush towns at the start of the gold mining history.

Today, Yuma is one of the most preferred places to live in Arizona, especially by retirees, and attracts most of its visitors during winter thanks to its excellent cool weather.

Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway to Yuma to explore architecture or want a secluded holiday without the large crowds in tourists cities, or enjoy relaxing water activities in the Colorado River, in this post, I cover the best things to do in Yuma AZ, with kids, what to expect and useful tips to help you enjoy a fantastic trip in Arizona.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Is Yuma good for a weekend trip? Yes. Yuma works best as a low-stress 1 to 2 night getaway built around downtown history, river parks, local food, and one side trip like Castle Dome or the dunes.

What should you do first in Yuma? Start at the Visitor Center in Historic Downtown, then build your day around the prison, Pivot Point, and the riverfront cluster.

Is Yuma better in summer or winter? Winter and spring are far easier for walking and sightseeing. Summer works better if you plan around water, shade, and sunset timing.

Can you do Yuma without a car? You can enjoy the historic core without much driving if you stay near Downtown/Pivot Point, but bigger side trips like Castle Dome and the dunes are much easier with a car.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN YUMA AZ

VISIT YUMA VISITOR CENTER

One of the free and top places to visit in Yuma, AZ, is Yuma Visitor Information Center located in a stunning heritage building along Main Street in the heart of Historic Downtown Yuma.

This is the easiest first stop in Yuma, and I mean that in the most affectionate, practical way possible.

The visitor center sits right in historic downtown, so it works beautifully as your “okay, what are we doing first?” reset point before you start wandering.

Thanks to friendly volunteers, you will get a walkthrough of what to see, any special events and glimpses of the history of Yuma.

Grab copies of printed maps, brochures, and booklets, or if you plan to use Google Maps, you can download the many routes on your mobile at the visitor centre.

It is also the best place in Yuma to shop for those fridge magnets and other cute souvenirs.

Hours (2026): Open Tuesday–Saturday, 9 am–5 pm, closed on major holidays. Plenty of free parking on Main St. and in the lot behind the center.

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YUMA TERRITORIAL PRISON STATE

Among the top things to do in Yuma AZ is the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park. 

Located along the Colorado River, the huge detention facility, which opened in 1876 before Arizona was a state, housed more than 3,000 convicts in a maze of stone corridors.

Yuma Territorial Prison Park was Arizona Territory’s first prison.

Many notorious criminals of all levels were sentenced to various degrees of punishment here until 1909.

After closing in 1909, it became a high school for four years and a homeless shelter.

Later on, it became a state historic park and an open-air museum. Today it’s the most popular tourist attraction in Yuma.

You can discover the lives of inmates in an Old Southwest prison. 

Explore cell blocks, dark cells, the entrance gate, a library, and prison yards on a self-guided walking tour of Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park. 

Learn about the tales of prisoners and the history of the prison through the artefacts.

Climb the reconstructed guard tower for spectacular panoramic views of Yuma City and the Colorado River.

Walk in the eerie prison cemetery.

Check out the park’s schedule of events before planning your visit, as they sometimes host fun haunted night tours of the prison, especially around Halloween.

Get a mugshot of yourself in the original mirror used for prisoners’ mugshots, one of the fun things to do here.

Hours: Summer (Jun 1–Sep 30) 8:30 am–4:00 pm.

Seasonal (Oct 1–May 31) 9:00 am–4:30 pm.

Admission: Adults $10, Youth (7–13) $7, kids 6 and under free.

EXPLORE COLORADO RIVER STATE HISTORIC PARK

Colorado River State Historic Park is a part of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, which also includes the Yuma Territorial Prison State Park, East and West Wetlands Parks and the Historic Downtown District.

It is one of the best places to experience the rich history of the town.

I highly recommend spending a few hours at Colorado River State Historic Park, as it is one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ, home to the old U.S. Army Quartermaster Depot.

Colorado River State Historic Park, formerly the Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, was established in the 1960s. 

It was an Army supply and distribution warehouse and played a vital role in the expansion and development of Yuma and the larger Southwest.

After being abandoned for decades, it became Colorado River State Historic Park, and today is one of the most-visited attractions in Yuma. 

Visit the Colorado River State Historic Park to learn about the rich Colorado River’s past, when it was the only route connecting cities and towns all across the southwest, and a primary trade route.

Do you know? Colorado River State Historic Park comprises some of Arizona’s oldest buildings, most of them restored and well-maintained. Also, check out the many cars and old wagons, which were important transport modes.

Colorado River State Historic Park (quick notes)

• Address: 201 N. 4th Avenue, Yuma
• Hours: Typically Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm; closed Monday
• Admission: Adults $10, youth ages 7–13 $7, ages 0–6 free
• Why go: one of the easiest downtown history stops to pair with Main Street and Pivot Point

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HEAD TO YUMA PROVING GROUND HERITAGE CENTER

Yuma Proving Ground Heritage Center, a functioning Army installation and research facility for the US Army, is one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ, with your kids. 

One of the largest military installations in the world, the Yuma Proving Ground, tucked away in the remote Sonoran Desert, is about a forty-five-minute drive from downtown.

It is a fantastic place to show them the operations of the US defence in a fun, interactive way.

Yuma Proving Ground celebrates the extensive military history of the city, and this top attraction must be on your itinerary, especially if you are visiting Yuma for the first time.

The harsh desert environment of the proving ground has been used to test equipment and ammunition since 1950, where they test a wide range of equipment, from trucks and tanks to helicopters, planes and fighter jets.

Check out the many military pieces, learn about the history of their operation dating back to the 1940s, and see the old artillery, large military tanks, and cool exhibits, including bullets, big guns, and old photographs, among the extensive collections at this heritage museum.

Opening hours – Between Tuesday and Friday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is free.

You need a visitor pass to enter, only available to US and Canadian citizens. Also, allow some time to go through a law enforcement background check on all visitors.

VISIT GATEWAY PARK

Gateway Park, located beneath a bridge along the Colorado River at the very end of Madison Avenue in Historic Downtown, is one of the best things to do in Yuma. 

This served as the border between the Arizona Territory and Mexico. 

This massive freeway bridge offers much-needed shade to the beach, making it a very popular swimming spot during the summer.

It is one of the most popular riverfront parks in Yuma and attracts families, friends, and pet owners for picnics, swimming, fishing, and easy walks with Colorado River views.

Gateway Park gets very crowded in the summer as people flock here to cool off along the sandy strip and walk their pets.

You can rent or reserve ramadas(recommended during summer) and let your kids have fun in the play area.

There are well-maintained restrooms, outdoor showers, BBQ grills, plenty of green spaces, and fishing piers.

One of the many fun things to do in Yuma is the hour-long Yuma River tubing activities, which begin at Gateway Park. Join the locals for a jog, walk, or bike along the river.

This is the best place to capture the beautiful views of the historic Ocean To Ocean Bridge, a National Historic Landmark initially designed to carry the Ocean to Ocean Highway.

VISIT THE COCOPAH MUSEUM

Among the oldest inhabitants along the lower Colorado River, Cocopah were the Native Indians, also nicknamed the River People.

One of the unique things to do in Yuma AZ, is to learn all about them at the Cocopah Museum, which also houses a casino, the Cocopah Speedway, and golf courses on the Cocopah Reservation.

Check out the stunning artefacts and exhibits that take you back in time several hundred years to give glimpses of the rich culture and traditions of the Cocopah historic people.

ENJOY BIRDWATCHING AT THE EAST WETLANDS AREA

The Yuma East Wetlands, part of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, is one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ, for nature lovers.

Once a dump site, the 1,400 acres is now a protected wetland area that features wildlife habitats along the banks of the Colorado River and a popular hangout spot among locals and tourists thanks to the many activities to enjoy amidst peaceful, lush landscapes.

You can enjoy biking, exploring hiking trails, horseback riding alongside the Colorado River, admiring the beautiful views, birdwatching, walking your dog, or having a relaxing picnic.

The most popular way to explore the East Wetlands is the easy, 2.6-mile heritage trail.

EXPLORE YUMA CROSSING NATIONAL HERITAGE

The Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places, is one of the major attractions in Yuma.

Yuma Crossing grew around a natural crossing point on the lower Colorado River.

Before modern bridges and vehicle travel, it was the only place narrow and shallow enough to cross the river for hundreds of miles, which is a big part of why Yuma became so historically important.

The area itself is packed with many local attractions today.

The Yuma Landing Historic Site Landmark mainly features a statue and plaques dedicated to Robert G. Fowler, the first person to fly from the East to the West Coast of the United States, and a beautiful plaque depicting the history of the crossing. 

Stop by here to enjoy the beautiful views of the Colorado River and the mountains on the horizon.

OUTDOOR + FAMILY-FRIENDS THINGS TO DO

ENJOY TUBING

One of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ, in summer to cool off is River Tubing, one of the best ways to experience the Colorado River.

For an hour, you can enjoy floating from upstream, passing under the Ocean to Ocean Bridge and ending at West Wetlands Park(takes more than an hour).

Stop for snacks, admire spectacular landscapes along the river, soak in blissful sunset views, swim at secluded beaches and splash with friends along the way.

For a shorter ride, start at Gateway Park and head to Centennial Beach.

Due to its immense popularity, expect packed crowds on the weekends and holiday summer months.

SPEND AN AFTERNOON AT THE SANGUINETTI HOUSE MUSEUM

Sanguinetti House Museum and Gardens, nicknamed the jewel of the historic part of the city, is one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ.

Former residence of prestigious local merchant E.F. Sanguinetti, The Arizona Historical Society Sanguinetti House Museum and Gardens is a beautiful 19th-century mansion(built in the 1870s) surrounded by manicured gardens.

Now a museum run by the Arizona Historical Society, Sanguinetti House houses plenty of exciting exhibits showcasing the story of E.F. Sanguinetti and his role in the growth of the Yuma community.

Take a guided tour of this beautiful house adorned with historic furniture, décor, and artefacts, and end your visit by strolling in the vast and colourful rose garden.

Throw in the historic architecture, and this is a perfect destination for both history buffs and architecture fans alike.

Opening hours – Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM.

HIT THE BEACH AT WEST WETLANDS PARK

West Wetlands Park, located in the north of the city, is one of the most famous places in Yuma for families, especially during summer.

Another part of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, West Wetlands Park, is a large, 110-acre open space. 

It is worth visiting West Wetlands Park for at least a few hours to escape the heat and enjoy a quiet picnic lunch surrounded by lush green wetlands, overlooking pretty views. 

Kids will have fun at the famous Castle Park playground, a state-of-the-art, large, castle-themed children’s play area boasting many adventure games that will keep them engaged for hours.

You can take one of the many trails to enjoy birdwatching and admire the views of the Colorado River.

It is no surprise that West Wetlands Park is the most popular park, as claimed by the locals, given its beautiful winding pathways, tranquil gardens and a pretty pond where you can also enjoy fishing.

You can also enjoy boating(using the boat launch at the riverside) along the Colorado River and walking up to Centennial Beach, an artificial beach area on the Colorado River known for its wide strip of sand, perfect for wading or swimming in the warm water. 

If you are here on summer evenings, you will love the many musical performances and plays by talented local artists.

VISIT CASTLE DOMES MINES MUSEUM

Arizona also has its share of mining towns as a part of the Gold Rush era, and Castle Dome Mines Museum is one of the ghost towns in Arizona. 

Get transported back in time to the days of the gold rush of the 19th-century Wild West with a trip to the ghost town of Castle Dome City at the Castle Dome Mine Museum, one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ.

Located about an hour’s drive northeast of downtown Yuma, Castle Dome is more than just a museum; it’s a ghost town, and back in its prime, it was a larger town than Yuma.

You will find more than fifty buildings atop over 300 abandoned mines, recreated to showcase the lives of the inhabitants that occupied the mining district of Castle Dome in the 1860s and 1870s.

Explore the buildings, including homes, original saloons, blacksmith shops, general stores, hotels, a bank, post office, shops, and a church, home to unique artefacts, to learn more about the town’s history, which was eventually abandoned in 1978.

You can choose from various experiences, from a self-guided walking town tour to a more adventurous underground mine tour.

Check out some authentic artefacts, ancient tools, gems and mining equipment from the mines below on these tours, one of the top Yuma attractions you can enjoy with your kids.

PICNIC AT MITTRY LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

If you want something beyond history and architecture, plan to spend a few hours at the famous Mittry Lake Wildlife Area, just half an hour’s drive to the northeast of town. 

It is one of the best things to do in Yuma AZ, for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts, and no wonder it is a favourite spot among locals for picnic walks and running.

Home to Mittry Lake, the area is enriched by the abundant wildlife occupying the floodplain of the Lower Colorado River, overlooking majestic mountains dramatically on the horizon.

The lush vegetation encompassing over 600 acres of aquatic habitat and 2400 acres of marshland or uplands means you have a place to escape the scorching heat in the otherwise arid landscapes of Yuma. 

You can enjoy birdwatching, hiking and biking alongside the lake or go fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and camping in the wildlife area. Boating is one of the most popular ways of exploring the Mittry Lake Wildlife Area. 

ADMIRE THE WORK OF LOCAL ARTISTS

If you are a fan of art, one of the best ways to experience community art in the city is by visiting Yuma Art Center.

Home to many exciting artworks and exhibitions, the Yuma Art Center is one of the top things to do in Yuma AZ that you can conveniently include on your way to neighbouring Gateway Park and the Yuma Territorial Prison. 

Besides enjoying all its intriguing installations, you can also catch concerts, plays and dance performances in its historic theatre.

Yuma Art Center, formerly an old Vaudeville theatre, established in 1912 at the time of the formation of the Grand Canyon State, is now a solid space for the artistic community, attracting around 100,000 visitors yearly.

Check out the many stunning art installations in the stylish galleries, including artworks by local artists alongside historical photos.

The centre also regularly organizes lectures, classes, film screenings, community art classes, drama workshops and other community-focused arts programming.

Some of the famous events at The Yuma Art Center you should attend are Art in the Park and the Children’s Festival of the Arts, especially if you are traveling to Yuma with kids.

If you are in Yuma on the first weekend of October, check out the famous YumaCon festival at the Yuma Civic Center.

During summer, you can also watch concerts, plays and dance performances in its historic theatre.

VISIT IMPERIAL NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful wildlife park along the lower Colorado River spanning 25000 acres. 

It is known for being the top place for birdwatching, as over a hundred migrating birds nest here.

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1938 at the time of the construction of Imperial Dam, and one of the best things to do in Yuma AZ, outdoors is to enjoy the serene backwaters.

One of the best ways to explore the marshy lakes and wetlands is to hike around its vast trails. 

Cool off by fishing and boating on the river or camping overnight along the lakes.

Begin your visit by heading to the visitor centre to learn about the trails and events, and check the exhibits to learn about the various migratory birds.

Opening hours – The tourist centre is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM from November to May.

VISIT YUMA COUNTY LIBRARY

If you are a bookworm like me, you will love your visit to the Yuma County Library, located at South 21st Drive, a free Yuma attraction.

This stunning public library is one of the best things to do in Yuma AZ, and is home to plenty of books, including exquisite collections of journals and even a selection of e-books that can be downloaded onto your phone or tablet.

The library regularly hosts exciting events and activities like adult book clubs and story times for kids.

LEARN ABOUT THE CITY HISTORY AT YUMA HISTORY MUSEUM

Dedicated to the history of tourism in Yuma, one of the attractions you must check out is the Yuma History Museum.

As the name indicates, the Yuma History Museum showcases the history of the city and the growth and development of Western Motel over the last 75 years.

Located in the lobby of an old-fashioned motel, you can find an excellent collection of exhibits.

CHECK OUT THE UNIQUE CLOUD MUSEUM

One of the offbeat things to do in Yuma AZ is the Cloud Museum, an outdoor museum dedicated to historic vehicles. 

If you love antique automobiles and all sorts of old vehicles, you will love visiting this museum.

There are many exhibits of cars, trucks, and other artefacts including the wagons and traditional methods of commute and tools, making it worth an interesting stop. 

Opening hours – Open every day from 9 AM to 4 PM 

RELAX AT RAY SMUCKER PARK

Yuma is famous for its many lush spaces, and one of the favourites among locals is Ray Smucker Park, located on South Avenue A in the heart of Yuma.

Summer evenings and weekends attract large families that come here for a relaxing time, while the kids have a blast in the playgrounds.

Apart from the picnic areas and playgrounds, active adventure seekers have plenty of trails for hiking, jogging, biking, and walking around, taking in the fresh air and pleasant views.

Enjoy hiking the Ray Smucker Park trail loop, the iconic attraction in the park, offering stunning skyline views. No matter how you wish to spend your time, this park is one of the fun, free things to do in Yuma Arizona.

HEAD TO PIVOT POINT INTERPRETIVE PLAZA

Located on Madison Street and the Colorado River in Gateway Park, one of the top spots in Yuma is Pivot Point Interpretive Plaza, a historical park.

Pivot Point Interpretive Plaza was constructed to mark the crossing of the first train entering Arizona in 1877, which crossed over a swing bridge.

Today, you can learn all about the railway history and the past of Yuma at this outdoor exhibit via easy-to-read panels. Also, check out the original steam engine in the plaza.

FUN THINGS TO DO IN YUMA AZ

ENJOY A FEW HOURS IN THE DUNES

Twenty miles west of the city, one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ, for outdoor lovers is the incredible dunes, the largest inland dunes, stretching over 40 miles along the eastern edge of the California Imperial Valley.

The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area is one of the top filming locations thanks to its dunes that reach 300 feet tall, including Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, The Scorpion King, and Jumanji 3.

It is one of my favourite photo spots in Yuma, especially during sunset when the bright oranges of the dunes glow as the setting sun casts its magic on these landscapes while also painting the skies with vibrant hues.

Since Imperial Sand Dunes offers the most extensive area for off-roading, it is a paradise for sandboarding and all-terrain vehicle adventures along the 40-mile drivable land, including dirt biking, quad biking and dune buggy riding.

You can also hike in the dunes if off-roading is not your cup of tea. Plus, the area is dog-friendly, so bring your pets for a fun outdoor day.

Note that during the off-roading peak season, only off-road vehicles are allowed on the dunes, so plan your visit accordingly.

HAVE A SPLASH AT WAYLON’S WATER WORLD

The only outdoor water park open exclusively during the summer, and one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ is Waylon’s Water World Park, and as you can expect, it is a top attraction worth visiting with your kids for a packed day in the water.

Located ten minutes’ drive east of downtown, Waylon’s World has more than a dozen wild and wet rides, with something in store for all types of adventure seekers.

Whether you want to enjoy a ride on the lazy river circling the park, sunbathe, or go on roller coaster slides like the Red Racer or Big Bowl, you can do them all.

You can also enjoy go-karts, mini golf, pool tables, and batting cages, or play many games at the large arcade available in the ZFunFactory, open throughout the year.

TASTE THE BEST BREWS AT PRISON HILL BREWING COMPANY

If you are a beer person, do not miss checking out the only microbrewery in the town, Prison Hill Brewing Company, one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ.

Prison Hill Brewing Company is famous for its wide range of handcrafted brews using locally sourced ingredients, including foreign ales and wheat beers and gets its name from the nearby Yuma Territorial Prison Museum and Park. 

It is one of the best family-friendly places to eat in Yuma, located conveniently downtown. 

Known for its delicious taste and large portion sizes, no wonder it gets very crowded, thanks to its wide menu offering tacos, steaks, sandwiches, and burgers coming in clever prison names.

Among the brews, try their Jailbait Blonde pale ale, Grand Theft Hefe, and Solitary Stout. If you want something different, go for their Chango Malo, a coconut milk stout or the English-style bitter.

EAT AND GAMBLE AT LUTES CASINO

If you are looking for a quirky place, head to the legendary Lutes Casino in the historic district of Gold Rush, one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ.

Lutes Casino was formerly one of the famous casinos in the heart of the mining town.

Lutes Casino, home to Arizona’s oldest pool and dominoes hall, is today a quirky bar and restaurant with eclectic décor and a menu of All-American fare. 

Lutes Casino is known for the infamous Lutes Especial: a sandwich made of a cheeseburger, a hot dog, and a special sauce.

Also, try their baskets of chicken wings and a variety of tacos that taste best with cold craft brews. 

You can also spend a few hours at the many pinball machines, trying your luck after your tummy is full.

SHOP AT ARIZONA MARKETPLACE

Arizona Marketplace is the best place to go if you love flea markets.

One of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ, is at Arizona Market Place, an expansive open-air flea market; you can shop for tons of things, ranging from jewellery and clothing to handmade crafts and everything in between.

If you wonder what to do in Yuma AZ, for a relaxing activity, the colourful Arizona Market Place is where you need to go, and also the best place to collect souvenirs.

After all the shopping, treat yourself to all types of tasty snacks and drinks, from burgers to tacos and sandwiches, hot dogs, the local special date shakes, and ice cream.

ADMIRE ART AT THE MUSEUM OF HISTORY IN GRANITE

Regarded as the “Official” Center of the World, the Museum of History in Granite and the Centre of the World is one of the unique things to do in Yuma Az, located a short drive from downtown Imperial County, California, across the border.

The Museum of History in Granite, established in the ’80s by Jacques-Andre Istel, is a unique outdoor museum that features many monuments made from granite, each 100 ft (30 m) long, including the iconic spiral staircase to nowhere, formerly part of the Eiffel Tower.

Check out the other granite monuments depicting the History of Arizona, the History of the French Foreign Legion, Aviation History, language, parachuting, and the ambitious History of Humanity. 

Open from March to December, it is one of the unusual attractions in Yuma worth visiting, and you will even get a certificate when you visit.

CHECK OUT THE COOL DATE FARM IN YUMA

Martha’s Gardens Medjool Date Farm, or Martha’s Gardens, is an organic farm located in the city and one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ to learn about dates.

It is one of the best attractions in Yuma to escape the scorching heat for some time as you can comfortably stroll amidst the shady palm groves, taste fresh date shakes of Medjool, apart from learning about dates on one of the many exciting tours of its vast farm.

Open since 1990, this family-run farm was started by Nels Rogers and his wife, Martha, overlooking the Gila Valley, thanks to the excellent, bright weather of Yuma. 

Known for its best organic farming practices, it is one of the leading producers of large volumes of Medjool dates exported worldwide.

Join a guided tour of this date farm, among the best local attractions in Yuma, to know how this farm works. Savour their dried dates, famed date shake, bread, and macaroons.

Before you go: Martha’s Gardens runs on seasonal hours. Winter and spring visitor hours are broader, while summer hours are shorter, so check the official site before you go.

Good planning note: tours are typically a cooler-season experience, so this is one of those stops that works best between late fall and spring.

WATCH AIR SHOWS

Marine Corps Air Station Yuma is one of the top Yuma attractions you should visit, especially when they host spectacular air show events.

Open to the public since 1962, where you will see the brilliant display of skills by military and civilian plane owners, including skydivers performing thrilling stunts in the air.

If you are here during the airshow, you can also check out the exhibits of many stunning modern aircraft, a fun activity for kids.

Check out their calendar online to plan your visit to an air show.

STOP BY YUMA CONSERVATION GARDEN

One of the best things to do in Yuma Az with kids is visit the Yuma Conservation Garden, located only 10 minutes from downtown.

Home to hundreds of magnificent desert plants of the Sonoran desert landscapes, this botanical garden, spanning 28 acres, offers the best way to get introduced to distinct and rich vegetation and wildlife.

Check out the interactive watershed model, old trucks and tractors, and remains of ancient agricultural practices.

Stroll along the lake or take one of the walking trails known for birdwatching.

WATCH A MATCH AT MEYERS FIELD

Whether you want to catch the latest local matches or love playing while in Yuma, head to Meyers Field, home to many types of courts and play areas with sports for every player, including a baseball field, two football fields, and outdoor basketball courts.

There are also two tracks for runners.

STROLL IN ROBERT J. MOODY GARDEN

One of the lesser-known things to do in Yuma AZ, is the Robert J. Moody Garden, located on 28th Street.

This botanical garden is not only open to the public 24 hours a day every year, but it is also one of the free Yuma things to do.

Named after the renowned philanthropist, Robert J. Moody Garden features an abundance of flora and fauna spanning its themed gardens, including a children’s garden, tropical garden, healing garden, xeriscape garden, and desert wildflower garden.

There are plenty of shaded picnic spots for you to relax and breathe the fresh air, apart from enjoying the lush space and the serenity.

TASTE PEANUT BUTTER AT THE PEANUT PATCH

If you are visiting Martha’s Date Farm, add a stop at nearby Peanut Patch, one of the fun things to do in Yuma AZ.

The Peanut Patch, operating since the 1940s, is a family-owned organic peanut farm known for its nut, fudge, candy store, and delicious gourmet food.

HIKE THE TELEGRAPH PASS TRAIL

If you are an avid hiker and want to experience the stunning views surrounding the city, hike the stunning Telegraph Pass trail.

This is a sunrise, cooler-month, bring-more-water-than-you-think trail, not a “squeeze it in at noon” idea. Go for the open desert scenery and valley views, not for shade or lush scenery.

It is also a popular biking trail, and you can also spot plenty of animals, including coyotes and rattlesnakes. Keep your eyes open for many pretty migratory birds as well.

SHOP AT YUMA INDOOR MARKETPLACE

If flea markets are not your thing, check out Yuma Indoor Marketplace, the pretty shopping district in the Palo Verde Village downtown Yuma

It may not be a huge space, but it gives you enough options thanks to dozens of boutique shops, big brands, and local outlets with cute cafes, restaurants and bars sprinkled in between perfectly, allowing you to dine and drink amidst shopping.

Stroll through this free open-air shopping centre after you have had your fill of the history and architecture of the city.

TAKE YOUR PUP FOR A WALK AT BARK PARK

One of the pet-friendly things to do in Yuma AZ is Bark Park, a large three-acre dog park fully fenced at East Palo Verde Street.

Apart from your pet, you can have a fun time walking the trails or relaxing in the shaded areas while your pup roams free, enjoy a rail jump or crawl through tubes.

Know this before you plan

• If you only have 1 day: Do the Visitor Center, downtown, Yuma Territorial Prison, Pivot Point, and sunset at Gateway Park.
• No-car version: Stay near Downtown/Pivot Point, keep your trip focused on the historic core + riverfront, and skip long detours like Castle Dome unless you have a ride planned.
• With kids: West Wetlands, Gateway Park, the scavenger hunt, and one easy history stop work better than trying to stack too many museums in one day.
• If you hate crowds: Visit November through April, start downtown early, and save the riverfront for golden hour instead of midday heat.

Yuma is at its best after the sun stops trying to win a personal argument with your forehead. The evenings cool down, the riverfront looks dreamy, and Historic Downtown becomes the kind of place you actually want to wander.

Here’s the easiest “signature night” plan to make Yuma feel like a real trip, not just a stop.

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