Top 5 Vacation Spots in Arizona

Scenic desert drives, water sports, skiing, hiking, site-seeing, professional sports and camping are just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in the great state of Arizona, which offers one of the most diverse landscapes in the United States. Picking the top 10 tourist attractions while on vacation in Arizona is very difficult, to say the least. When traveling through Arizona it’s a must to buy a detailed map of the area you plan on visiting, because Arizona has numerous hidden treasures within the desert.

Outlined below is a list of the biggest attractions that the state of Arizona has to offer. It’s a must that you are prepared when you plan a road trip through this beautiful state. The demands of American life usually only afford us so many annual vacations, you’re going to get short changed anyway during your stay. But if for some reason you have a couple of weeks to work with, there will be no shortage of things to do during your travels through Arizona.

1. Grand Canyon National Park – The Grand Canyon speaks for itself; this is Arizona’s pride and joy. The Grand Canyon is located in the northwest part of the state. Carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years. One of America’s natural wonders and first National Parks, its one thing you must see during your lifetime; it’s also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. River rafting, hiking and the skywalk on the West Rim are good starters…just to name a few. While in the Grand Canyon area, be sure to check out the Reindeer Farm west of Flagstaff.

2. Hoover Dam – A lot more than just a big stack of concrete, the mere size of Hoover Dam is awe-inspiring. Constructed in the 1930’s, Hoover Dam is located in northwest Arizona sharing a border with Nevada. Named after former president Herbert Hoover, Hoover Dam was one of the biggest projects of it’s time. During your visit to Hoover Dam make sure that you visit Lake Mead.

3. Sedona AZ– Located south of Flagstaff, in Red Rock country, is another one of Arizona’s not so best kept secrets. Sedona is home to some of Arizona’s and Hollywood’s elite; Sharon Stone and Al Pacino have homes in Sedona, so does John Travolta. Sedona also has some of the most beautiful sunsets and scenic drives in the country. Numerous hiking and biking trails dominate the colorful red rock sandstone landscape. Must-sees when you travel to Sedona include the Solid Rock church and Slide Rock Park. Kill an entire day sliding down natural rock formations. While in the Sedona area make sure that you check out Jerome and Prescott as well.

4. Monument Valley Park – Located in the northeastern part of the state, Monument Valley is famous for the legendary battles between the Roadrunner and Wiley Coyote (Warner Brothers cartoons), and the popular desert scene in National Lampoon’s ‘Vacation’ movies. Dominated by colorful plateaus and mesas, in some respects Monument valley is the face of the Southwest. The most popular landmarks of Monument Valley are located on the Navaho Tribal Park on the Utah border. While in the area, make sure that you check out the Utah side of Monument Valley.

5. Lake Havasu, AZ – Lake Havasu City is home of the London Bridge. Brought over from England in the 1960’s, the London Bridge put Lake Havasu on the map. The English Village surrounding the bridge, and is just one of the oddities you’ll find in this desert paradise. Water sports, lake tours, off road driving, spring break and enjoying sunsets, to name a few, are very popular in this desert oasis. While in Lake Havasu City make sure that you check out Parker Dam, which is located about 30 miles south.  

To learn more about amazing Arizona vacation spots, including our full top ten list of spots to visit, great links and tons of free information, please visit: http://www.arizonavacationtravel.com.

Top 10 things to do in Lake Havasu AZ

It amazes me how many people that I’ve met that live in Arizona, or the surrounding areas that have never been to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. The deserts of Southern California and throughout Arizona offer numerous outdoor activities like hiking, off road driving, and beautiful scenery. But in my opinion, Lake Havasu City is one of Arizona’s, America’s hidden treasures.

Located off I-40 on Hwy 93, roughly 2 ½ hours south of Las Vegas Nevada, is where this desert playground is located. Lake Havasu was formed when the Parker Dam, located south of Lake Havasu City, was constructed in the 1930’s, creating the lake now known as Lake Havasu. Robert McCullough, the Godfather of Lake Havasu, bought the London Bridge for 2.5 million dollars, and spent another 7 million dollars to dismantle it, and ship it over from England. What used to be just a peninsula is now an island after a channel was dug out for the bridge. And yes, the song “The London Bridge is falling down” is about the Lake Havasu’s London Bridge.

The below list includes some of the biggest attractions that Lake Havasu has to offer, and that only few insiders know about. So, in order to fully enjoy every minute of your stay, do yourself a favor and make sure that you schedule some time to fit them all in. Lake Havasu can be enjoyed year round, but the best times of the year are during the spring and summer months; especially if you plan on playing in the water. Winter and fall are ideal if you don’t plan on swimming, boating and skiing.

So, don’t let the heat from May through September stop you. Just stock up on 150 SPF plus sunscreen and enjoy yourself.  

London Bridge – Get the bridge out of the way first. This is a no-brainer. If you go to Lake Havasu and don’t see the bridge, then there’s a chance you already have heat stroke. The English Village surrounds the bridge to give you the feel of London, except surrounded by a desert. Don’t get me wrong, it’s pretty cool, but for some reason unknown to me, the English Village doesn’t stack up to its crown jewel, the London Bridge. Some really cool shops and attractions are long gone, but it’s still worth your while to grab an ice cream cone and some souvenirs. Don’t forget to go back at night.

Spring Break – College-aged kids love it, and the locals hate it. In my opinion Lake Havasu is the West Coast’s best kept secret when it comes to spring break spots. If you can pull it off, try to make reservations at the Nautical Inn on the island, or the London Bride Resort located in the channel next to the London Bridge. Not to mention Lake Havasu’s hottest nightclub, Kokomo’s, is also located there.

Water sports – This is Havasu’s bread and butter. Swimming, boating and jet skiing is what Lake Havasu is all about. You should have no problem finding boat rentals under the London Bridge. If you’re traveling in group, consider renting a houseboat for the day. Be sure to check out the sand bars located north of the city. Just ask the locals, they’ll point you in the right direction. Check out the swimming holes in the area as well. Rotary State Park located at the end of Smoketree Ave, and The State Beach located on the island, are great spots for kids and families. There are numerous swimming holes on the island if you like privacy, but make sure that you wear shoes. Lake Havasu doesn’t have the plush, sandy beaches like southern California, and the rocks will tear your feet apart. 

Fishing – If you’re an angler, then you’ll have a blast in Lake Havasu. Striper bass, catfish and blue gill populate the region, just to name a few. Lake Havasu is notorious for its countless coves and inlets that are just begging to be fished in. You don’t have to have a boat either. So if you just want to pull up a lawn chair and relax, the island has plenty of fishing holes. Don’t forget to buy a license. 

The Island at night – Now this is what it is all about. Most of Lake Havasu’s homes can see the lake because of its layout. So when you are down by the lake you can see the entire city. And, at night it’s absolutely beautiful. The clear nights give way to the heavens—you get a clear view of the stars in all of their glory. Make sure to go to the very end of the island near Site Six. Just follow McCullough Blvd over the bridge until you reach the end and pull off anywhere to find a good spot. But be careful, there are a lot of dangerous ravines, and if don’t pay attention it could get ugly. You’ll see what I’m talking about once you are there. You can hear wild donkeys on some nights across the lake in California, or boaters living it up. I can’t even tell you how many nights I spent down there throwing a few cold ones down my throat, and just taking it all in. 

Copper Canyon – Havasu boating residents have always known about this hot spot, but MTV took this little cove to Hollywood. Made famous by MTV’s 1994 Spring Break visit, Copper Canyon is now a must-see if you have a boat and like to party and jump off cliffs. During Spring Break, packed boats make for a floating walkway. This also goes for Labor Day, 4th of July, and Memorial Day weekend. If a lot of people are not your thing, you might want to experience Copper Canyon during another time of the year.

Boat Tours – If you just want to relax and hang out for a couple hours, and take in all of the sites, then maybe a boat tour will interest you. Narrators give you a step-by-step, play-by-play experience that is truly second-to-none. View wildlife, enjoy a dinner or relax; the choice is yours.

Bison Blvd – I’m about to upset the neighbors, but the view from the desert off Bison Blvd via Kiowa are too good not to tell you about. Pavement will only take you so far though, a car will do the trick if you drive very slowly; we advise only using a truck if possible. Bison is located at the base of the mountains behind Lake Havasu. See the city from the other side, and like the island, there are amazing views of the cosmos. During the day, the desert is an off road neophyte’s paradise; this is where the desert really opens up.  

Cliffs – I you like jumping off cliffs, then this is the spot for you. Located north of Lake Havasu City off I-93 in the desert hills are the cliffs ranging from 15-150 feet tall. This is not a park and parking is limited, unless you access this area using an off road vehicle or boat. The water is deep enough, but you should use extreme caution if you plan on jumping off the big boys. Again, just ask the younger locals for exact directions.  

Off Road – The desert is wide open to the north, south and west for Lake Havasu. There are numerous dune buggy rentals in the area to choose from. But like I said, be prepared by having water, a GPS device, cell phone and a spare tire. Rent a dune buggy and hit the open desert trails. Just be careful, because if you get into trouble out there during the summer months, the Arizona heat is not very forgiving.

To learn more about this awesome lakeside city, please visit: http://www. Lake-havasu-az-guide.com

Casinos Continue to be Big Source of Revenue for Home States

Many hotel casinos enjoy the benefit of the myriad of legal changes that gambling statutes have undergone. Through the benefit of state gambling laws, the past decade has seen an increase in the legalization of gaming and an explosion not only in the number of lotteries and casino style games but also the increase in the number of online betting and, possibly again in the future, online gambling enterprises. Gambling is now legal in the majority of the 50 states; however, there are certain laws that pertain to each state that the gaming industry must follow in order to operate. This has led to the increase in regional gambling avenues. Some states have gambling laws that are much more relaxed than others.

Arizona’s sunny valleys are the perfect hot spot for vacationers. The climate is wonderful and the scenery magnificent; however, there are several businesspersons who travel throughout these areas as well. The casinos in Arizona profit from both and so does the state from their tax revenues. These casino hotels provide comfortable dining and accommodation amenities, which in turn provide a great form of revenue for the state’s funded programs.

Phoenix, which is the largest city in Arizona, boasts of many Indian casinos which basically operate under the Native American and Indian reservations laws which were instituted in the early 1990s. For professional gamblers, some casinos offer the classic Vegas style entertainment and non-stop gambling.

Oklahoma has some very interesting casino vacations and road trips. A casino in Oklahoma is usually accompanied with horse tracts but there are a few racinos as well. At the very least, Oklahoma is home to more than 400 high class hotels. For a visitor to the state, both the checking and the booking can be completed directly from the online edition of the World Casino directory.

Ever since gambling was legalized in this state, the numbers of casinos have been on the increase; making gambling one of the major revenue providers for the state. However, these casinos do not offer roulette and craps tables but instead Poker, Bingo, Off-Track Betting, Pai Gow Poker and Let it Ride are the popular games that attract visitors worldwide.

The operation of casino in California is no different from other states that legalize gambling. With a variety of comfortable hotels, these casino hotels provide excellent accommodations and sumptuous dining options to guests. For parents on a vacation with their children, there are the manicured golf courses to tee while the children get entertained on merry go rounds and other amusement rides. Compared to Las Vegas hotels, accommodations in California can be much cheaper.

Blue Water Casino Resort is Fun for Everyone!

The Blue Water Casino includes everything for the entire family to have lots of fun. Situated on the beautiful Colorado River, the Blue Water Resort and Casino has breathtaking views. Each of their two-hundred lavish rooms feature a view of the river, so no one gets stuck staring at a wall. Not only that, if you are searching for the best place to hold a meeting and have some fun, the Blue Water Casino Parker has eight large conference rooms decorated in a tasteful manner.

Take the kids along and play at the eighteen-hole miniature golf course. There is nothing like making that spectacular hole in one in Parker, Arizona. You and the children can also play in one of the four indoor swimming pools. These pools all feature waterslides as well. Even a jogging track is available for those that like to exercise on vacation. A full exercise facility is provided for visitor use as well.

The Blue Water Casino features some of the best slots and table games around. With a wide open space, gamers will never feel trapped or cramped. Just get up, take a walk around the gaming room, and sit back down for more fun.

Suites are also available at the resort for those looking for the high-class vacation experience. Not only that, it is not just suites that feature balconies or patios because each and every room does! All rooms are also equipped with a coffee maker, voicemail, and even cable television. The suites include features like a separate sitting area, wet bar, and a refrigerator.

Whether you want a quick vacation or an extended stay, the Blue Water Casino Parker is the best bet for your money. With great packaged deals that include things like shows and room rate reductions, each and every family will find something to fit their needs. The casino is only for visitors twenty-one and older, but several other places are available for the children to take up their time. Some of the packaged deals include things like airfare, hotel stay, and a rental car, while others will feature shows, casino chips, or spa treatments. Not only that, the casino is open all twenty-four hours of the day. So, even in the middle of the night, adults can have a great time at the Blue Water Resort and Casino.

California Casinos Boast Extravagant Events

The regional areas of Arizona and California offer many undiscovered casinos as well as many well loved casinos. California contains more than 25 renowned casinos to try your hand at and 167 total casinos. Arizona offers over 18 casinos in more populous areas as well as numerous others in more regional locations. 

Casinos Scottsdale Arizona offers are among the most relaxing and enjoyable Arizona can provide. In addition to the spacious accommodations, art museums, exquisite dining areas and gorgeous views, when the sun goes down, Scottsdale comes alive with the buzz of casino nightlife. However, this is not uncommon for casinos in Arizona or casinos in California. Both of these great states offer casino nightlife in regional areas that rivals even great places such as Las Vegas. Golf tournaments, perfect dining and leisure areas and scenic adventures await those eager to embark on a vacation to the great casinos of Arizona and California. Jackpots as high as 1.8 million dollars can be seen at many of these casino and various other jackpots that would make any person joyous are won daily.

If you are looking to make a trip out of your casino experience, many casinos provide accommodations or are located near gorgeous hotels for your convenience. Bar and other dining areas are often located near or in casinos and their adjoining hotels so you do not have to fuss or worry about going hungry. You might even enjoy being involved in some casino events or tournaments. These include a range of different styles of card playing to suit your specific talents and enjoyment needs. 

In case you are looking to throw a casino party, some casinos offer Vegas like experiences and special offers. Bartenders and waiters will cater especially to your party needs and you are allowed over 1000 guests or as few as two. Southern California casinos have bragged of such parties as The Emmys, Tiffany and Co., and Sony Picture Awards to be held at certain elite casinos. The possibilities are endless as you plan the party you desire with the professional feel the aforementioned parties attained. 

So, whether you are looking to win it big or just have a little bit of fun on your vacation, casinos in regional California and Arizona are always an excellent choice. Enjoying your vacation time is of utmost importance when you are looking for relaxation and a time away from stress.

Tucson Area Casino Players Long for Jackpot

How much do you love table games, slot machines, and the opportunity to cash out with thousands in one trip? Casino Del Sol places winners in a winning circle by its close, intimate Vegas scene that pushes vets to play harder. Professional players grab their ‘A’ game and join high rollers playing for $32,000 in its Monster Stack V events. Poker players enjoy the variations such as Texas Hold em in daily morning tournaments, $1,225 Free Roll, and more. These games extend the normal breakthrough of gaming casinos in Tuscon, AZ. Cash prizes are available for all players while an exciting getaway lies in the laid-back arena of poker, bingo, slots, and more.

New players can jump into the blackjack, Super Fun 21, Perfect Pairs, Fortune Pai Gow, and Texas Hold ‘Em Bonus Poker to get your skin crawling. After a long night on the tables and slots, many visitors take a moment to experience the fresh, Casino Del Sol Tuscon foods in their restaurants. Players with a taste for hot foods love to visit the Slice, Moby’s gives a 1960s feel to older players and Bellissimo for an elegant, quiet atmosphere with signature dishes. Players have the luxury of winning games then winning fame within the ultimate dining experience as each of Casino Del Sol eateries within distance of the tables.

Like most players, the night can never end without making a high roll on the tables. You can find yourself staying up for hours winning, looking for more thrills, and unexpected jackpots at any moment. Casino Del Sol Tucson has caught the attention of veteran players by the ease of first-time player winning up to $37,000 their first night in the casinos. Can you imagine the odds waiting for the next winner? Each slot is a guaranteed payout before hitting the $40,000 limit. 

With this going on, you can never find a distraction while focused on your games. Gaming has never been this attractive until now. More players are finding their way to the slot machines for guaranteed payouts then to the tables to test their hands with competition. Either way you go you have an opportunity to walk away with hundreds or thousands of dollars from playing the right game at the right time. Everyone is anxious to see who’s next to hit Casino Del Sol’s jackpot! The next winner just might be you.