Things to do in Yuma, Arizona

Yuma, Arizona, is a vibrant mosaic of historical, cultural, and natural splendors waiting to be explored. Here, history comes alive at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, where tales of frontier justice linger in the desert air.

Nearby, Martha’s Gardens Date Farm offers a sweet retreat, showcasing the lush bounty of organic Medjool dates. Delve into the past at the Colorado River State Historic Park, a crucial node in the supply chain of frontier army posts.

Discover the transformative charm of West Wetlands Park, a shining example of community-driven ecological revival.

As the day winds down, the warm ambiance and delectable flavors of Curries Indian Cuisine and Bar beckon, promising a memorable dining experience.

Yuma’s diverse attractions paint a compelling picture, inviting ATV tour visitors to experience a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Adventure awaits in every corner of Yuma, each step a foray into a story just waiting to be discovered.

Things to do in Yuma, AZ

Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

The Yuma Territorial Prison, steeped in history, is a former prison located in Yuma, Arizona, and serves as a captivating testament to the region’s past. Opened on July 1, 1876, during Arizona’s territorial days, the prison housed 3,069 inmates, including 29 women, until its closure on September 15, 1909.

Today, the site operates as the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, offering visitors an immersive journey into the life of the prison’s inhabitants. As the third historic park in Arizona, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases the harsh realities of frontier justice.

Beyond its prison history, the site served as Yuma Union High School from 1910 to 1914, fostering a unique connection with the nickname “Criminals,” adopted after a victorious football match against Phoenix.

The state historic park also houses a graveyard containing the resting places of 104 former prisoners, adding a poignant dimension to this captivating piece of Arizona’s past.

Martha’s Gardens

Martha’s Gardens Date Farm, founded in 1990 by Nels T. Rogers and Martha in Yuma, Arizona, has blossomed from its humble beginnings with 300 Medjool date palms to an impressive expanse of over 8,000 palms across 130 acres of desert. As a family-run and operated business, Martha’s Gardens takes pride in overseeing the entire process—from cultivation to packaging and sales.

The mission of Martha’s Gardens is clear: to produce the best Medjool dates, adhering to the highest standards and practices to offer customers only the finest produce. Setting themselves apart, the entire farm is certified Organic, ensuring that each Medjool date from their palm trees meets stringent organic standards.

Not just a treat for the taste buds, Medjool dates from Martha’s Gardens offer a healthy option, boasting natural sugars with a low/medium glycemic index score. The farm’s commitment to quality and organic practices makes Martha’s Gardens a go-to destination for premium Medjool dates.

Colorado River State Historic Park

Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park (also known as the Colorado River State Historic Park), nestled in Yuma, Arizona, is a testament to the region’s rich history. Formerly known as Yuma Crossing State Historic Park, it is now part of the Yuma Crossing and Associated Sites on the National Register of Historic Places in the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area.

Established in 1864 by the U.S. Army, the Yuma Quartermaster Depot was a vital storage and distribution center for supplies bound for frontier army posts in the Southwestern United States territories. The park preserves the depot’s legacy, showcasing five remaining buildings from its storied past, dating back to the 1870s.

Once crucial for ensuring a steady supply of goods to the frontier, the depot’s importance diminished with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1877 and its subsequent closure in 1880.

Today, Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park offers visitors a glimpse into this historical hub, with its preservation efforts dating back to the early 1960s, culminating in its establishment as a state historic park in 1997 under the stewardship of the Yuma Crossing Foundation.

West Wetlands Park

The West Wetlands Park, situated at the northwest edge of Yuma, Arizona, is a remarkable public city park along the Colorado River within the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area.

Opening its gates in December 2002, the park encompasses 110 acres of city-owned land, with a history dating back to its transformation from a former landfill site, active from 1910 to 1970, into a thriving riverfront oasis.

Once a deserted area prone to fires and invasive species, the community-driven effort to convert it into a park gained momentum in the 1980s. Constructed in part by volunteers, the West Wetlands Park has earned the title of Yuma’s best park and is currently managed by the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area Corporation, a non-profit organization, while the City of Yuma Parks and Recreation Department oversees its maintenance.

This transformation from a landfill to an acclaimed public space highlights the community’s dedication to creating a vibrant and accessible natural haven along the river.

Curries Indian Cuisine and Bar

Curries Indian Cuisine and Bar stands as a beloved gathering spot in Yuma, drawing in locals and travelers alike. Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant has become a go-to destination for those seeking a comfortable and convenient place to socialize or conduct business.

Whether you’re a regular guest or just passing through Yuma, Curries is a well-known establishment cherished by many. With its inviting ambiance and delectable food, it has secured its place as a staple in the community, creating a space that people repeatedly return to for a delightful and memorable experience.

Things to do in Yuma, AZ

Yuma, Arizona, boasts a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions that offer something for everyone. The Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park immerses visitors in the frontier justice of the late 19th century, while Martha’s Gardens Date Farm provides a taste of locally grown organic Medjool dates. The Colorado River State Historic Park takes you back to the days of frontier army supply depots, and the West Wetlands Park showcases the community’s dedication to transforming a former landfill into a vibrant public space. Finally, Curries Indian Cuisine and Bar provides a warm and inviting dining experience that has become a cherished gathering spot in the local community. Yuma’s diverse attractions offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and culinary delights for visitors to explore and enjoy.

For more things to do in Arizona, check out these great places.

• Things to do in Tucson, AZ
• Things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ
• Things to do in Quartzsite, AZ
• Things to do in Bisbee, AZ