ARIZONA

YEAR VISITED: 1998, 2004, 2015, 2018, 2022, 2023, and 2025.

———- NORTHERN ARIZONA ———-

FAVORITE CITIES AND EXPERIENCES: When I think of Arizona, I think of the Grand Canyon. Jill and I first visited this wonder of the world in 2004. It was then that we went on an adventure of a lifetime by doing nearly everything wrong. When we arrived it was bright, sunny, and fairly warm. Therefore, we made the decision to hike down the Bright Angel Trail along the south rim of the park. While experts routinely warn hikers to 1) not trust the weather, 2) to dress in layers, and 3) pack extra water and snacks, we were young and dumb. In our minds we didn’t need extra water, warm clothes, or any extra food… it was nice out and we were just going to explore. What could go wrong? Sure enough, roughly 45 minutes into the hike, the clouds rolled in, the sky was no longer clear and sunny, and you could feel the temperature begin to drop.

About an hour and 20 minutes into the hike it began to sprinkle, then rain, and then pour as hard as I have ever experienced. While we decided to turn around it wasn’t long before the trail turned into a river of water and we were dredging up hill through a semi flash flood. Many hours later we finally returned safe and sound to our starting point, but were absolutely soaked to the bone. Most importantly we learned a valuable hiking lesson that day. Our next Grand Canyon adventure came in 2018 and thankfully didn’t result in any near death experiences. We stayed in a KOA cabin in the town of Williams, known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon.

Williams is a small touristy town built on Route 66 that was a fun place to explore. We then commuted to, ironically, nearly the same region of the Grand Canyon National Park that we explored back in 2004; although we did not do any hiking.

We did however enjoy walking around the southern rim, taking in the gorgeous panoramic views.

ADVENTURE(S): Jill and I have visited Sedona twice; once in 2004 and the other in 2018. While I had little or no knowledge of what Sedona had to offer prior to 2004, afterwards I would describe it as ‘spiritual’. One of our favorite stops is at the Chapel of the Holy Cross (a church built into the rocky hillside).

We toured the church, took in the unbelievable views of the valley, and purchased a cross from the gift shop that hangs in our home to this day. The feeling that came over me while taking in the magnificent views is nearly indescribable.

Our last visit to Sedona, a road trip with the entire family, came in 2018. We decided to do the Oak Creek hike. It was a relatively flat hike with some incredible views of beautiful southwest landscapes. We started on a sand path, merged to a trail along a river in between multiple canyons, and then the trail became the river still in between the canyons.

While we turned around roughly 2.5 miles into the hike, I believe the hike continued through the river canyon. Things got really interesting as we decided to take a family picture. While posing with the girls in the water, roughly 10 feet away from Jill who was taking the picture, a snake began swimming directly towards us. There was really nowhere to go. So there I was holding the girls out of the water, bracing for the worst, and remembering the multiple warnings to watch for rattle snakes back when the hike started (I was genuinely afraid). The snake ended up passing right by us and to this day Jill and the girls laugh at my scared pale face. While I attest that the snake was “huge and scary” everyone else says “it looked more like a worm and was definitely a garter snake.” Either way we still talk about the snake incident on this beautiful hike.

On our drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, we stopped off in Flagstaff and visited the Lowell Observatory.

This Observatory was built prior to the 20th century, making it one of the oldest in the United States. It was here that the planet Pluto was discovered in 1930. Once in Flagstaff, we stopped on the campus of Northern Arizona University. We drove the campus and parked outside Skydome Stadium. There we discovered the 20 foot tall Lumberjack Muffler Man. According to Atlas Obscura, it used to stand outside a restaurant in downtown Flagstaff. However, when the restaurant changed it’s name the statue was donated to Northern University, whose mascot is the Lumberjacks.

Jill had been researching and telling us about Antelope Canyon and the slot canyons for years. Finally in 2022 we rented a car and drove the four hours north from Phoenix to Page. While Jill had a vision in her head what we would discover, the rest of us had no idea what we were in store for. However, upon arrival we were all incredible glad we made the trek. Touring Antelope Canyon is one of the coolest experiences we have ever had. The canyon is on the Navajo Reservation and you must have reservations for the guided tour.

There is an upper and lower section and we selected the lower section. How it was described to us is that the walls of the lower section is skinnier at ground level then the top. The upper section is the exact opposite.

In fact, in some sections we barely fit through the narrow passageways. Again, this was one of the coolest experiences we have had on any of our travels.

Also located in Page is Horseshoe Bend. This section of the Colorado River received it’s name as the canyon walls are in the shape of a horseshoe. They say the best time to view this natural wonder is at sunset. Unfortunately when we were there it was overcast and we really didn’t have much of a sunset.

Either way this is an awe inspiring location that is worthy of the four hour drive from Phoenix to Page. The parking lot is off highway 89 and costs a small fee. You then walk 3/4 of a mile from the parking lot to the viewing location.

A word to the wise, always stay on the path when hiking in Arizona. On the east side of the rim we discovered a rattlesnake hiding just under a rock.

Also in Page, is the Glen Canyon Dam. It was built in 1966, stands over 700 feet tall, and dams the Colorado River. Currently there is much controversy surrounding the dam and the effects around potentially removing it as water levels continue to drop. We enjoyed exploring the rocks on the opposite side of the canyon in an attempt to get the best view.

Just under an hours drive north of Phoenix, along I-17, is Rock Springs Cafe. Since 1918 Rock Springs has served travelers with a general store and Cafe. You would be hard pressed to find another Cafe that serves better home style meals.

Pie has evolved into their best seller. There is now an additional store called the ‘Pie Box’ where they sell more pie than any other location in the state of Arizona. We purchased a pecan and a peach pie and enjoyed every bite.

In 2004, Jill and I toured Montezuma Castle National Monument. This is a cliff dwelling that was used by Arizona natives in approximately the year 1100 AD. We merely took the self guided tour and didn’t learn a ton of details. However, it was fascinating to see in person.

———- PHOENIX ———-

We have spent time in Phoenix every time we have been in Arizona. Whether we stayed with my Grandpa or our friends the Gestson’s, we have done our fair share of laying in the sun and exploring the desert sights.

A couple highlights were hiking/exploring Cambelback Mountain and stumbling upon the Maricopa County Courthouse. It was in this court house that Ernesto Miranda was convicted of multiple crimes based upon his own confession. This led to the Supreme Court case Miranda v Arizona which determined that all suspects must be read their constitutional rights which have subsequently become known as your Miranda rights.

In 2022 we spent a week in Arizona for spring break. One of our more entertaining outings was to the Tempe Beach Park. This park is within two miles of Arizona State University and lines the two mile long Tempe Lake. We rented a paddle boat in the shape of a Swan Boat and had a blast pedaling from bridge to bridge.

While it was fairly easy to pedal, we still put the girls in charge of driving Jill and I around the lake. It was a beautiful afternoon and a fun way to experience downtown Tempe.

On that same trip we visited multiple college campuses. In Phoenix we toured Grand Canyon University and Arizona State. While I can’t believe I have daughters old enough to think about college, Jill and I want both our children knowing their options. Plus, I just love exploring college campuses. At GCU we took an official two hour campus tour.

RESTAURANTS: After doing a little research we determined we wanted to eat out at Rustler’s Roost; a steakhouse with a western theme.

We are glad we did as we had a great evening – can’t recommend it enough. To start with, it is located at the top of South Mountain and advertises they have, “Beef and Brews with a View.”

We were there at sunset and took a variety of family photos around the outdoor dining area. The inside offers live country music, has a slide, and is decorated with a unique country flare. The food is excellent. I would highly recommend the brisket. However, their real claim to fame is that they offer rattlesnake as an appetizer. We of course ordered it and are happy to report rattlesnake tastes like chicken!

In February of 2025 we stayed at the Arizona Grand Resort for an extended weekend. The resort is over 160 acres and has a golf course, water park, multiple pools, and tennis courts.

One night we enjoyed walking the beautiful grounds and ended up roughly a half a mile away at a Mexican Restaurant, Aunt Chilada’s. We ate outside where the setting was gorgeous and the food was delicious.

The Stockyards Steakhouse is the oldest steakhouse in Arizona. It was built in 1947 and sits on the original site of the Phoenix Stockyards.

This is a 5-star steakhouse and my rib eye was one of the best meals I have ever eaten.

The only breakfast restaurant we have eaten at was the Snooze AM Eatery. There are multiple locations around Phoenix. We found this breakfast gem in 2025 and enjoyed it so much we returned two days in a row.

When in the Phoenix area, one of our favorite places to go and explore is Old Town Scottsdale. There are a ton of good restaurants as well as an upbeat energy. Two of my favorite restaurants are Rehab Burger Therapy and Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequilla. Rehab Burger offers a massive hamburger in a great sports bar atmosphere.

Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequilla offers a variety of dishes with amazing margarita’s.

We have also eaten at the Hand Cut Chophouse. We enjoyed the ambiance and the food was solid. In 2023 my friend Jerry and I were driving from Phoenix back to Las Vegas. On the trip we stumbled upon the town of Cave Creek, roughly 45 minutes outside of Phoenix. First, this seems like a town I would love to return to and second we ate at the Buffalo Chip Saloon.

The saloon had a real wild west feel to it. There were a ton of beer’s on tap, a mechanical bull, and what appeared to be a mini-rodeo set up behind the establishment. While I missed out on riding the bull, I did not miss out on the smoked pulled pork sandwich!

STADIUMS AND/OR SPORTING EVENTS: As a baseball coach, spring training is difficult to get to. By March the high school and college game schedules are fully up and running, which is the same month for MLB spring training. As a result I have only managed to go to spring training once. My High School friend, Jay, and I flew down to Phoenix for spring training. We stayed with my Grandpa and hung out with our other high school friend, Adam, who played for the Padres.

We saw spring training games in Peoria, Maryvale and Scottsdale. We were also fortunate enough to see practices, batting practice, and bullpen sessions. Spring training is a great atmosphere… baseball, sunshine, and relaxation. Jill and I have also been to multiple Diamondback baseball games. The first was in 2004 when Prairie alum, Richie Sexson, hit a walk off HR in the 11th inning.

The second came in 2015 when we attended a game with our friends the Gestson’s. The game was fine, the food was good, but the company was by far the highlight.

Chase Stadium highlights are the swimming pool in right field, a retractable roof, and air conditioning. A personal highlight was taking pictures with the big head version of Randy Johnson and Eric Gonzalez.

In 2022 we attended opening day and our 3rd overall Diamondback game. They were playing the San Diego Padres and won in exciting fashion with a walk off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning.

We have also seen three Arizona State baseball games. The first was in 2004 at famed Packard Stadium vs the USC Trojans.

While ASU no longer plays at Packard, the history of this diamond is second to none and was one of the finest venues in all of college baseball. Our second and third Sun Devil game was in 2022 and 2025 at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. This stadium has been the home of Sun Devil Baseball since 2015. Prior to that it was the home of the Oakland A’s spring training facility. While it is located in Tempe, it is off campus.

Every time I watch baseball in the desert everything seems to be perfect. The weather is sunny, temperature is just right, and the field is pristine. The game in 2022 was my favorite. The whole family was together and Bailey was keeping score. The Sun Devils defeated their cross-state rival, the Arizona Wildcats.

In 2023 I met up with a buddy and spent the week in Scottsdale watching the Pac-12 Conference Baseball Tournament. Little did we know at the time, we were watching the last Pac-12 conference tournament. A year later the conference basically dissolved. That same week we commuted to Mesa to watch the WAC Baseball Tournament.

The Pac-12 tournament was held at the Scottsdale Stadium (the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants) and the WAC tournament (the spring training home of the Oakland A’s) was held at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa.

The week was a college baseball fan’s paradise. We were able to see all nine Pac12 teams that qualified for the tournament. The highlight was having the grand slam baseball, hit by Arizona’s Chase Davis, land in our lap in left field.

In 2025 I was able to get away for a long weekend in February to watch multiple college games. First I saw the opening day matchup between Grand Canyon and Vanderbilt. This was my first time to Brazell Field at GCU Ballpark and was not disappointed. The stadium was sold out, the band and cheerleaders were on the field for pre game festivities, and the energy of the crowd was as good as it gets. It was a great night!

The second game I saw that same weekend in 2025, was Oregon State vs the UNLV Rebels. The game was at Surprise Stadium, the spring training home of the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers. The Beavers more than 10-runned the Rebels and the game quickly became a yawner. However, the stadium was beautiful and (as always in the spring) the weather was perfect.

ADVENTURES: I am not sure two climates are as polar opposite from one another as the the Pacific Northwest and the desert of Arizona. One is consistently dark, wet, and damp, while the other dry, sunny, and hot. Consequently, I have always enjoyed hiking in the desert and exploring vegetation that is completely different from what I experience at home. Specifically I am intrigued with Saguaro Cacti. A great place to see cactus and other desert vegetation is the Gateway Loop Trail. It is located just outside of Scottsdale and is roughly 4.5 miles in length.

Another hike in the Phoenix area is the Hole in the Rock. It is less than a half mile hike, but very unique and a fun place to explore. The trailhead is located in Tempe at Papago Park. Also at Papago Park is the Phoenix Zoo, a botanical garden, and even a small lake.

———- SOUTHERN ARIZONA ———-

One of my fondest Arizona adventures, because it was with my Grandpa Ray who has since passed away, was traveling to Tombstone. This is the site of the infamous OK Corral shoot out.

The bad blood between the Earp’s and Clanton’s finally spilled over into the streets of Tombstone. This is considered by many to be the most famous gun fight in the Wild West and has since been made famous by the movie “Tombstone”. Today Tombstone is a fun tourist stop that is filled with novelty shops, infamous landmarks, and Boothill Cemetary.

Actors portraying Wyatt Earp and his brothers, as well as Billy Clanton and his gang of outlaws, regularly reenact this Wild West gun battle.

NOTABLE DESTINATIONS & STOPS: Movies such as National Lampoon’s Summer Vacation, Back to the Future III, Forrest Gump, The Lone Ranger, and countless Western’s have used Monument Valley as a back drop to scenes in their movie.

Therefore, growing up I always thought it would be fun to experience this unusual and stunning desert landscape. Team Castro made this a reality in 2018 when we made Monument Valley a stop on our 28-day road trip. While located on the Arizona-Utah border, it is officially owned by the Navajo Nation and is an equivalent to a US National Park.

Upon entering you pay a fee and then your options are to 1) drive through the park, 2) hike to various parts of the park, or 3) enjoy the visitor center. We elected to hike and explore the visitor center. We did the Wildcat Trail, which is just over 3-miles roundtrip, and the only self guided hiking trail in the park.

While there is a sign at the beginning of the trail stating no one should attempt to hike during the middle of the day due to excessive heat, we pressed on at approximately 11:30. Yes we pushed the limits of dehydration and no we evidently did not learn our lesson following the Grand Canyon. However, we lived to tell the story and experienced various canyons, buttes, reptiles, and some of the finest desert landscapes in the southwest. At times it felt like we were in a western movie.

In Tucson, at the University of Arizona, we merely explored the campus ourselves. The campus is beautiful, and while U of A is a major University it didn’t feel overwhelming. It seems like it would be an excellent place to go to school.

Four Corners was actually Bailey and Maddie’s idea as they had seen this location on a Disney show growing up. Therefore, we made the trek to this middle of nowhere destination in 2015 and once again in 2018.

This is the spot where the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet. You pay a fee to enter, park, and are then free to explore the area as you wish. We got a kick out of posing for pictures in four states at once.