This trip was an opportunity for many of us to see favorite Arizona sites visited previously and visit new attractions. We had a busy three days, but it resulted in making new friends, sharing laughter and visiting great sights. 

The first day consisted of an early morning pickup at the Tempe Public Library. Robert Brabson (fearless guide/calm driver from Detours Travel) did a wonderful job of sharing history, interesting facts and general information: even those of us who have lived in Arizona for decades learned a great deal. Our first stop was the San Xavier del Bac Mission – just south of Tucson. From there, we headed to the Sonoita region to sample wines and mead (a new beverage for many of us). We then headed to Bisbee for the fascinating Copper Queen Mine Tour. Speaking as someone who has been there before, the tour was more thorough, professional and informative than previous visits. 

Our overnight accommodations were at the Gadsden Hotel in Douglas. The opulence of this historic (1907) hotel can be seen in the incredible lobby, complete with marble staircase, stained glass windows and sun lights. One tale has it that Pancho Villa rode up the staircase on his horse, chipping the seventh step (I took a picture of the chipped step!). Lucky for us, the (supposed) haunted hotel room is on a floor that they no longer use!

Day two had us driving to the Chiricahua National Monument. If you have never been there, it is well worth a visit. The incredible rhyolite rock pinnacles and formations are breathtaking; I would not want to guess at the number of photographs we took! After a wonderful lunch in the unincorporated town of Sunsites (thanks to our guide for finding this restaurant), we headed to the Amerind Museum – just north of Dragoon. This private museum, art gallery and research center is devoted to promoting knowledge and understanding of the native peoples of the Americas. We spend the evening in Benson (thanks be to Tara Roesler for finding a fantastic Mexican restaurant for dinner!).

The next morning saw us making the short drive to Kartchner Caverns. We were fortunate to have booked a guided tour of “The Big Room” as it is only open part of the year, due to it being the spring/summer home of approximately 1,500 cave bats. Our next – and last – stop was the Titan Missile Museum in Sahuarita. We learned not only the history of these cold war weapons but the steps taken by the crews to ensure safety, global security and launch readiness. From there, we took the short ride back to Tempe to complete our whirlwind trip of southern Arizona.

Every day was filled with highlights and “wow” moments – too many to share in a short review. We crammed a great deal into three days, but it was an experience that I will always cherish, both for the incredible visits and the friendships. Thanks to my other 11 fellow explorers for making this such a special adventure.

Story by Jeff Bush

Photos by Jeff Bush and Tara and Al Roesler