Yuma Territorial Prison
Sitting on a bluff overlooking the Colorado River, three miles west of the confluence of the Colorado and the historic Gila River, stand the ruins of Arizona’s famous Territorial Prison, and a short distance west are the remaining buildings that served as a part of the Yuma Quartermaster's Depot. Fernando de Alarcon, who accompanied Coronado on his search for the Seven Cities of Cibola, passed this site in 1540. Padre Kino saw the present location of the Prison and the Quartermaster's Depot in 1683, and Padre Graces established a mission directly across the river and was later killed there by the Indians in 1781.
Colorado River State Historic Park
The park is the original home of the Yuma Quartermaster Depot, an Army supply depot that operated from 1865-1883. The site served as the main supply depot for all Army forts in Arizona Territory during the Indian Wars. Supplies primarily arrived from the west coast of California, traveling first on ocean steamers to the mouth of the Colorado before being transferred onto river steamboats for their trip upriver to the Yuma Depot. From Yuma, mule-drawn wagon trains delivered supplies to Arizona’s frontier outposts.
Yuma Sand Dunes
Yuma serves as the gateway to one of the nation's largest mass of inland sand dunes, which extend for more than 40 miles along the eastern edge of California Imperial Valley. Now a national recreational area, this natural sand box acts as a magnet for off-road enthusiasts in all but the hottest months and welcomes more than one million visitors every year. Just 20 miles west of Yuma, the dunes also have served as a movie location since the silent-picture era. Moviemakers first filmed here in 1913, and pictures have been made here in every decade since, including Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, The Scorpion King, and Jumanji 3. During peak season, only permitted vehicles are allowed in the recreation area, but rangers do allow quick stops for a look or a photo without charge.
Eat Local Julieanna’s
For almost a quarter of a century, Julieanna’s Patio Cafe has been a favorite destination for dining in Yuma. Built in 1996 Julieanna’s has long served as a prime location for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, engagements and weddings. https://www.julieannas.com/
Takos and Beer
Good Food For Good People We strive to provide the Yuma county with the best takos and beer. We love our community and are passionate about good-for-you food that brings a smile to your face. We support local farmers by purchasing seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs. https://www.takosandbeer.com/
Seasonal Post – Summer Water Activities
Just a handful of Arizona towns can boast a location on one of the most mighty rivers in the U.S., the Colorado River! The River provides year-round recreation and enjoyment, from wild to mild. From high-speed boating and jet-skiing to silent sports like kayaking and paddle boarding, to finding your piece of beach for wading during a family picnic, the River provides every opportunity to enjoy its green shores, wildlife, and cool waters. Warm and sunny winters make a great time for boating or paddling, while in the hotter weather in spring and summer, you can make a splash with the wetter options like tubing and waterskiing. On the edge of downtown, pleasantly calm waters roll along the East and West Wetlands parks, providing tranquil places to stroll or jog, gather with friends, or let young ones run off some energy and play in the shallows. Easy access spots include Gateway Park’s beach in the East Wetlands, or in the West Wetlands, Centennial Beach, or Playa Linda. Tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are all easy options in these locations. To go a little deeper for fishing or power sports, head north of Yuma to Martinez Lake, Senators Wash, Squaw Lake, or Fisher’s Landing for public access boat launches or places to put in for canoeing or kayaking. Jet-ski, pontoon, and powerboat rentals are available and outfitters can get you set for a day on the water. For additional information, please visit https://www.visityuma.com/things-to-do/colorado-river/
