Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from California and Arizona

Have you ever taken a road trip through two of the most scenic states in the US? A drive from California to Arizona is always full of natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree National Park, and Antelope Canyon. But what about the unexpected stops? The places you've never heard of that give a unique glimpse into local culture, food, and history. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through "Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from California and Arizona." The route is about 400 miles and takes approximately eight hours, but we promise the detours are worth it.

The Halfway Point: Christopher Columbus Transcontinental Hwy, Indio, CA 92201, USA

Before we talk about the unexpected stops, let's talk about the halfway point. It's none other than the Christopher Columbus Transcontinental Highway in Indio, California. It's a symbolic halfway point of the cross-country interstate highway, stretching from New York to California. If you've never heard of this highway, it's because it's not an actual interstate. It's just a symbolic marker that's worth a photo-op. The marker reads "Christopher Columbus Highway, First Road Across the USA and Traditional Initial Point of America's Main Street."

1. Date Shakes at Shields Date Garden, Indio, CA

Our first unexpected stop is just a few miles from the halfway point. Have you tried a date shake? They're a popular treat in the area, made with vanilla ice cream and locally grown dates. The best place to try it is at Shields Date Garden in Indio. The garden has been around since the 1920s, and it's known for its lush greenery and iconic sign. The date shake is a must-try, but so are the other date-infused products such as candies, syrups, and baked goods.

Favorite Food to Try: Date Shake

2. Desert View Tower, Jacumba, CA

This next stop takes us to the outskirts of Jacumba, California. The most striking feature in this area is the Desert View Tower, perched on a hilltop overlooking the desert landscape. The tower has been around since the 1920s, and it's full of history and folklore. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a stunning view or wander around the surrounding gardens and labyrinth. Don't miss the chance to visit the quirky gift shops or see the glass bottle house.

Favorite Food to Try: Sonoran-style Hot Dogs

3. Pioneer Living History Museum, Phoenix, AZ

As we enter Arizona, our next stop is just north of Phoenix. The Pioneer Living History Museum is an open-air museum that takes visitors back in time to the 1800s. The museum has over 30 historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and a saloon. Visitors can interact with costumed interpreters, watch live demonstrations, and even try their hand at gold panning. The museum is a fun way to learn about the pioneer lifestyle and Arizona's mining history.

Favorite Food to Try: Fry Bread Tacos

4. Biosphere 2, Oracle, AZ

Our next stop takes us to the town of Oracle, Arizona. Biosphere 2 is a unique attraction that's hard to miss. It's a giant glass structure that houses multiple ecosystems, including a rainforest, a desert, and an ocean. The structure was built in the 1980s as an experiment in sustainable living and has since been used for research and education. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the challenges of building a self-sustaining environment.

Favorite Food to Try: Cactus Smoothie

5. Wickenburg, AZ

Our final stop takes us to the charming town of Wickenburg, Arizona. It's a small town with a rich history of cowboys, gold mining, and tourism. Visitors can wander down the charming main street and explore the various shops, galleries, and restaurants. Don't miss the Desert Caballeros Western Museum, which features art and artifacts from the Wild West era. The town is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching.

Favorite Food to Try: Sonoran-style Tamales

Conclusion

Road trips are all about the unexpected detours and discoveries. Our list of "Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from California and Arizona" promises to give you a unique perspective on the journey. From date shakes to glass structures, pioneer history to cowboys, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and don't forget to take the turnoffs. Who knows what unexpected delights you'll find?