The North Pole Experience in Flagstaff, AZ

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This could possibly be the greatest Christmas event in all of Arizona. 

Do you want to provide a truly magical holiday experience for some little people in your life? 

You have got to check The North Pole Experience:

Take a drive to Flagstaff's Little America Hotel where you will board the trolley that will drive you and your family straight through a portal to the North Pole! From there, families are led on an interactive visit through Santa's incredible 12,000 square-foot workshop. 

Rock Springs Cafe, Arizona

Words and Images by Kathryn

For years I've driven past the signs located in what seems the middle of nowhere, "World Famous Pies!"  For years my mouth waters, but yet we keep on going, intent to get home or intent to get to our destination.  However, Monday I was determined to finally check out this place for myself. 

Exploring Arizona: Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater

Writing and Photos by Kathryn.

Arizona is full of history and places to explore.  Today I want to introduce you to Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater.  These are places that I remember going to as a little girl and now I get to take my little girls there as well.  If you are headed to Flagstaff, these national parks are just a short distance away and worth the 30 mile drive.  Entrance to the two parks is available for one fee.  Individuals 15 years and younger are FREE.  Those 16 years and older are $5.

Arizona Rodeos: A List of Events, Carnivals, and Parades

Written by Marily 

September is the month of the rodeo, folks--just look at this list. If you live in Arizona and you have never been to a rodeo, then it is high time you tap into the Western heritage of this place and get to one of these events. 

There are a ton of rodeos that happen in our state.  Many of them include so many other activities in conjunction with the rodeo that you really don't even need to see the main event in order to have a good time. Think parades, carnivals, Native American pow-wows, live music, and tons of fun for the whole family. 

Here is the list, separated by the month in which it is generally hosted annually:

January
Tohono O'odham Nation Rodeo and Fair (Located 3 miles west of Sells, AZ)
Held at the end of January/beginning of Febrauary yearly. This is an all-Indian rodeo that includes a parade, traditional Native-American games, pow-wow, free carnival rides, live music, and much more.

Exploring Arizona: Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive

Recently we took a day trip to Show Low and drove through the Salt River Canyon. If you enjoy scenic drives, this is a must see and definitely a highlight of my summer. 

My husband Mark talks about driving through the Salt River Canyon numerous times growing up on the way to and from Show Low to see family.  Many people describe it as a mini Grand Canyon. The cool part though is that you get to drive through the canyon.  I am not sure how I missed seeing this place, having lived in Arizona nearly all my life. 

The rode takes you through the the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations so you may get a chance to stop and buy items from Native Americans if you'd like.  We would have stopped for that and to take some pictures too, but we had two kids sleeping in the back seat who needed a good nap before we stopped for dinner in Miami.  We drove straight through this time so  this is the only photo I got:

Written by Marily, photos are credited to their original sources

Fortunately, there are some much better photographers out there. Check these out: 

15 Pictures that Prove Arizona is More Than Just Cactus

Have you ever had that conversation - you know the one in which the person you are conversing with thinks that Arizona is just cactus and tumbleweeds?  Well, we are here to rescue you.  Proof that Arizona is one beautiful state!

(All images taken personally by my husband Ryan)

Okay - this is a cactus picture, but, don't forget about the summer monsoons!  Very few states get to claim these beautiful (sometimes a little destructive) summer storms.  

Exploring Arizona: The Grand Canyon

Text and images by Kathryn

Welcome to I Heart AZ! We write all about things to do in Arizona. We are the Grand Canyon State, so I am here to give you some tips for exploring this incredible natural wonder of the world.

There are three ways to view the Grand Canyon:  North Rim, South Rim and from inside the Canyon.  Most people view the Grand Canyon from the South Rim because it is the closest travel time to the Phoenix area.  

When choosing which rim to explore, below are some things to consider:

Exploring Arizona: A Summer in Flagstaff

Text and images by Marily

One thing I love about Arizona is that almost any day of the year there is nice weather somewhere only a few hours away. If it's getting too hot for you right now, maybe you need to head up north. 

Today we are highlighting the city of Flagstaff. With highs that average in the low 80's during the hottest months, it is a great respite from the heat for Valley dwellers during the summer. There are lots of things to do for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and culture hounds alike. 

What to Do

Here is a little inspiration for what to do when you get to Flagstaff:

• Take a walk downtown to check out the shops and nightlife. 
• Watch one of the outdoor movies shown every Saturday night.
• Check out the Flagstaff Arts Council for information about their First Fridays Artwalk, Summer Concert Series at the Arboretum, concerts, and more.
• Visit the Lowell Observatory.
• Stroll The Arboretum at Flagstaff.
• Take a scenic walk at Buffalo Park, hike, bike, or float down the Colorado River.