Top 14 Attractions and Activities in Pima, Arizona

Initially established as a Mormon settlement in 1879, Pima was originally named Smithville, in honor of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church.

With a population of nearly 3,000 residents, Pima is situated in southeastern Arizona’s Graham County, close to the New Mexico border.

Although Pima is generally perceived as a brief stop for many travelers, the town and surrounding region boast intriguing historic and natural attractions, including expansive national and state parks located merely hours away.

Listed below are 14 notable activities to experience in Pima, Arizona.

1. Eastern Arizona Museum

Located on North Main Street, the Eastern Arizona Museum’s exhibits primarily concentrate on the history of Graham County, spanning from the pre-settlement period to contemporary times.

Displayed items encompass historic photographs, mining equipment, Native American artifacts, and archival documents, many of which originate from the 1800s, a time when Arizona was still a territory.

The museum serves as an excellent starting point for your Pima exploration; visiting it first will provide a comprehensive overview of the area’s history and culture.

General admission is affordable, and the museum is conveniently located in the downtown area.

2. Discovery Park

Situated on South 20th Avenue, Discovery Park is an accessible and enjoyable venue that visitors will appreciate while in the Pima vicinity.

The park features numerous displays, many of which cater to younger audiences. One of the most captivating attractions is the space shuttle simulator, offering a unique journey through the solar system.

Addtionally, there is an observatory and a movie room on the premises. For those seeking outdoor activities, the lower part of the park offers a tranquil area by a pond, perfect for feeding ducks and observing various fish species.

3. Pima Air and Space Museum

For aviation and spacecraft enthusiasts, a visit to the Pima Air and Space Museum ranks among the unmissable experiences in Pima.

Located in Tucson, this expansive 127-acre facility showcases an impressive collection of 300 aircraft in various forms and sizes.

The museum is also home to the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame, which highlights Arizona’s significant contributions to the advancement of aviation history.

One of the most striking exhibits features the SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, known for its capabilities to soar over the Soviet Union at speeds nearing 2,500 miles per hour.

4. Roper Lake State Park

Despite being one of the driest states in the United States, Arizona boasts an unexpected number of lakes and reservoirs that attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Roper Lake encompasses over 30 acres of surface area and is conveniently located on U.S. Route 91, near Safford.

This lake is actually a manmade reservoir established by the state in the early 1970s.

Amenities include a boat launch ramp, picnic areas, campsites, and rental cabins.

Entrance fees are very reasonable, and the lake is populated with various game fish for those interested in fishing.

5. City of Safford

While several rustic cowboy towns in Arizona are transforming into monotonous developments of indistinct homes and businesses, Safford has largely preserved its historical charm.

With a population of approximately 10,000, Safford serves as the county seat of Graham County and offers unique experiences for visitors.

The downtown area features a beautifully landscaped park, and the historic city hall, recently renovated, resembles something out of a 1950s film.

Visitors can often observe individuals dressed in cowboy attire, and it’s worthwhile to inquire about local attractions.

6. Indigo Mountain Toy and Gift Shop

Situated on West Main Street in Safford, Indigo Mountain Toy and Gift Shop is an eccentric and charming, locally-owned establishment that has catered to toy enthusiasts of all ages for many years.

The shop features a variety of Arizona-themed novelties and souvenirs, along with health and wellness items, such as supplements, herbs, and natural teas, which are believed to enhance overall physical and mental well-being.

As you will likely be in Safford, it is worth stopping by. You will discover many delightful surprises, making it an excellent destination for gifts for those at home.

7. Greenlee County Historical Museum

Located in the small town of Clifton, Arizona, the Greenlee County Historical Museum occupies a historic building, exemplifying western-American architectural style, dating back to the early 18th century.

Its exhibits consist of documents, photographs, books, and artifacts from the pioneer era of the region, encompassing nearby towns such as Morenci and Metcalf.

Don’t forget to visit the gift shop before departing; it features compelling literature that provides in-depth insights into the local history.

Additionally, there are sections dedicated to notable contemporary Arizonans, including Sandra Day O’Connor.

8. Morenci Pool and Aquatic Center

Given Arizona’s intense sun and oppressive heat, it is unsurprising that the state features a multitude of pools and aquatic centers.

Found in the nearby town of Morenci, the Morenci Pool and Aquatic Center serves as an excellent venue for physical activity, social interaction, and educational opportunities.

Swimming lessons along with various classes are available, and a dedicated area for young children, known as the “Splash Zone,” offers hours of enjoyment.

The facility also includes family cabanas, a towering water slide, and a wave pool designed in a vortex style.

9. Colossal Cave Mountain Park

For an unforgettable experience, visit Colossal Cave Mountain Park in Vail, Arizona, situated in an area surrounded by majestic mountains and expansive desert vistas.

The park spans nearly 2,500 acres and offers a multitude of activities, including guided cave tours, horseback riding, a petting zoo, and even a butterfly garden.

There are picnic areas available for those wishing to bring their own meals, or you can dine at a charming café on site for a relaxing break.

The park remains open throughout the year, excluding significant holidays. While admission fees are reasonable, the vast amenities justify the cost.

10. Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area is located near the Gila River, spanning across the southern Arizona counties of Greenlee and Graham.

This conservation area encompasses nearly 25,000 acres of protected land, established to safeguard the rare desert-river environment critical to the region’s ecology.

Camping sites are available for those wishing to immerse themselves in nature for a day or two, and numerous well-marked trails facilitate exploration of the scenic views.

The Gila River section within the conservation area is also popular among tubers, kayakers, and those seeking a refreshing swim.

11. Titan Missile Museum

Located on West Duval Mine Road in Sahuarita, the Titan Missile Museum serves as a poignant reminder of the men and machines that operated tirelessly to guard the nation against nuclear threats.

The Titan missiles comprised America’s Cold War defense, representing the most significant land-based missile system in the country.

From the early 1960s to the late 1980s, these over-100-foot-long missiles remained stationed in the Arizona desert, poised for orders that thankfully never materialized.

Guided tours, often led by former military personnel, are available for visitors interested in learning about this chapter of history.

12. Mount Graham Wilderness Study Area

Situated within the Coronado National Forest, the Mount Graham Wilderness area encompasses the impressive Mount Graham, which rises nearly 11,000 feet above the surrounding desert landscape.

Hiking is a favored activity, with the Arcadia Trail #328 being one of the most popular routes.

Though this lengthy trail may take one or two hours to complete, it features significant changes in elevation and leads to Eagle Rock, which stands just below 10,000 feet.

The trails are well-marked, and restroom facilities are available. For those interested in camping, sites can be found at the Shannon Campground for an overnight experience under the stars.

13. Visit Kartchner Caverns State Park

Located near Benson, Kartchner Caverns presents an extraordinary glimpse into a subterranean world, making it an essential visit during your time in Pima and southern Arizona.

The visitor center features a museum housing fascinating exhibits and geological insights that offer an engaging educational experience.

Guided tours must be reserved in advance; during peak seasons, they tend to fill quickly, so planning ahead is advisable.

The caves were discovered in the 1970s by local spelunkers exploring the Whetstone Mountains, who stumbled upon this natural wonder.

14. The Thing

If you have ever pondered the nature of “The Thing” and the multitude of highway signs promoting it in southern Arizona, a visit to Benson may be warranted.

While potentially spoiling the entire experience, it is worth noting that “The Thing” is rumored to be the ancient mummified remains of a mother and child, although some believe it to be a deceptive scheme for financial gain.

At a mere cost of $1, it’s a worthwhile stop. Additionally, intriguing legends and historical documentation suggest that, early in the 20th century, remains and artifacts similar to those discovered in ancient Egypt were found in the Grand Canyon.