Drenched in over 300 days of sunshine a year, Yuma is one of America's sunniest cities. It sits in south-west Arizona and is set on the shimmering Colorado River. The town is a hotspot for history buffs, with plenty of opportunities to discover the state's "Wild West" past.

Things to do

Nicknamed the “Hellhole of the West”, Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park was once used as a holding ground for America's most notorious criminals. Today you can wander around the "Wild West" jail, peer into its cramped cells and learn more about its infamous inmates.

The 19th-century Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park once served as one of Arizona's most important military warehouses. The grounds now house a string of historical and cultural exhibitions. Don't miss the Yuma Siphon display, which offers a fascinating glimpse at the enormous irrigation tunnel that spans below the Colorado River.

Train enthusiasts can admire the vintage 1907 steam locomotive on Pivot Point Plaza. It serves as a testament to the mighty Southern Pacific Railroad, which once cut through the heart of the city.

From family picnics to early morning runs, Gateway Park is Yuma's signature green space. The riverside park is fringed with a sandy beach and a grassy foreshore. It's also dotted with fishing piers, picnic shelters and playgrounds. It's a short stroll from the downtown core, where you'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants and independent studios and art galleries.

Getting around

The easiest way to explore Yuma is by car, but the city is also well-serviced by a network of local buses. You can also jump aboard the historic Yuma Valley Railway or enjoy a boat cruise along the Colorado River. From Phoenix, the drive to Yuma takes around three hours.