Sacramento Travel Guru

The Ys of Yuma Arizona - Will Haunt You In More Ways Than One by Barbara L. Steinberg©

When I first began planning my trip to the California desert, I had no idea where the adventure was leading. Surprisingly, and quite happily, it led me to Yuma, Arizona. More than one person asked, their tone clearly mocking, “Why Yuma?”

I hadn’t planned on Yuma, but turns out it was the best place to stay while exploring the Imperial Valley and a visit to Felicity, California – the “center of the world.” Upon further examination, I discovered that Yuma has more than its share of attractions and an unexpected bonus on this desert trek. In response to, “Why Yuma?” I would tell the inquisitive, “I’ll know soon enough…and so will you.”

Yuma is the land of snowbirds. From October to the end of March (more or less) the population of this desert community swells with seasonal visitors escaping colder climates. From Canada to Maine, they come to soak up the warmth of Yuma’s winter sun and near perfect temperatures. Most come hauling their personal belongings in RVs and 5th-wheels, or have second homes in the Yuma foothills. The winter population is more than three times that of the year-round residents. Although it may add to the congestion of life in this small-town community bordering California and Mexico, it also brings much needed economics. With soaring summer temperatures, the snowbirds head home and the locals are left to enjoy the peace, quiet, and heat of Yuma.

I love the historic heart of any small town and so it was easy to embrace Old Yuma. The downtown district is not unlike many others in that it has seen some decline. But an economic infusion is having an influence and the historic district is coming into its own. Attractive new streetscape and fountains have clearly had the desired effect. Small shops and cafes down the colorful 221-B Shops alley draw a crowd, especially on the weekends. And though there are still a number of empty storefronts, change is definitely in the wind.