Temperatures were falling across Colorado, and we wanted to hold onto summer as long as possible. We boarded the easy, direct flight to Tucson, and took the scenic route to Sierra Vista, Arizona. We were greeted with milder temperatures than we might have found in Phoenix, and upon settling into the pool with a beer nearby we truly felt like we were on a vacation. Seasoned travelers ourselves, we are new to traveling with our one-year-old daughter, and Sierra Vista was a low-key, easy place to travel with her. In and around Sierra Vista, we enjoyed the balance between history and fun in southeastern Arizona. Between adventures, we indulged in the delicious and diverse culinary scene. 
This story was created in partnership with the City of Sierra Vista. Photos by Emily Sierra Photography.
Fun in Sierra Vista
There is so much to do in Sierra Vista, and we quickly learned that our time there was going to be too short. I’d love to share a couple of our highlights, knowing that we will be back for more!
Rock Climbing
All levels of rock climbers flock to Sierra Vista for year-round access and highly regarded climbing. Just within the city limits, CIBA Climbing Gym is the area’s first full-service bouldering gym that also offers guided trips into the nearby mountains. In a time of “first’s”, we were delighted that our daughter’s first climbing experience was in such a controlled, safe, and fun environment. With more time, we would have loved to set out on real rock, but this was the perfect introduction for us!
Swimming
Since becoming parents, our travel priorities have certainly shifted. Now, we seek more opportunities for active fun while traveling. We loved that Sierra Vista had an extraordinary aquatic center that was very toddler friendly: The Cove. Additionally, our hotel had a pool which meant we could find ample opportunities to cool off and splash around. 
Star Gazing
We found our way through the University of Arizona Sierra Vista campus to the Patterson Observatory. Ted, a member of the Huachuca Astronomy Club, greeted us at the door and led us to a massive telescope upstairs. Even for a somewhat cloudy evening, we were still able to enjoy the moon, multiple deep sky objects, and even look at Saturn! We enjoyed soaking in all of Ted’s knowledge on the night sky, and he didn’t even laugh when we asked about aliens. Before we departed, he pulled out a secure suitcase and let us hold fragments of meteorites. That whole evening was such a treat! 
History in Sierra Vista
The area around Sierra Vista is historically important and fascinating.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve
Hungry for some time outside, we found a very mellow walk through Ramsey Canyon Preserve. Nestled in the Huachaca Mountains, the Preserve is notably cooler than surrounding areas. There’s a wide variety of plant and animal life around every corner. In fact, it didn’t take much time at all to fill up a bingo sheet with all of the animals we saw! Beyond the importance of this area as an ecological crossroads, the Preserve has several culturally historic remnants as well. The main trail that passes through the preserve follows a road that was built to reach the Hamburg mine area. Evidence of early American settlers from the east is scattered throughout the Preserve, from old cabins and a fireplace to the introduction of non-native plants and fruit trees. There is little trace of ancient, Indigenous peoples in the canyon. 
The Old West: Fairbank
