Arizona’s Cochise County is home to the city of Sierra Vista. The city has 45,308 residents. It was Arizona’s 27th most populous city as of the 2020 Census.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy this town’s natural scenery. Hummingbird population is thriving in Sierra Vista, AZ, which is why it is referred to as the hummingbird capital of the United States.
This city has the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and equestrian riding, as rivers, mountains, and canyons surround it.
Before you head out to this city, it would be best to call the restaurants and attractions to confirm the most recent opening hours.
Let’s explore the best and fun things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ.
Things to Do in Sierra Vista, AZ
1. Explore Carr Canyon
Carr Canyon
Because Carr Canyon is home to various highland and forest birds, bird watching is a well-liked outdoor activity here.
Carr Canyon provides spectacular views of Sierra Vista and the San Pedro Valley. Carr Canyon is ideal for biking, driving, hiking, driving, and wildlife viewing.
Visitors also mentioned spotting reptiles and mammals all along the canyon. Visitors to the canyon may also observe the refurbished Carr House, now a visitors’ hub.
Visiting Carr Canyon is among the top things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ, for an adventurous outdoor experience with friends and family.
You are welcome to camp at Carr Canyon if you wish to stay longer. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and barbeque pits at the campground.
Address: Carr Canyon Road, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650, USA
2. Coronado National Forest
Coronado National Forest
The Coronado National Forest is home to unique animals, plants, and environs. The area has enough things to entertain even those who get bored quickly.
There’s an unmatched panoramic view waiting to be taken in, but you get to see it only if you have the stamina to climb to Coronado Peak.
A terrific area to go down on all four and explore in woodland is the network of unknown caves also found within the woods.
Some fun activities you can engage in at this attraction include camping, horseback riding, hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching.
Be sure to dress appropriately to protect yourself from bites and stings from bats, snakes, scorpions, and bats.
Address: 300 W. Congress St. Tucson, AZ 85701, USA
3. Our Lady of the Sierras Shrine
Our Lady of the Sierras Shrine
Did you think Arizona’s dry landscape and the enormous Celtic Crosses have nothing in common? If yes, you thought wrong.
The chapel and shrine, which can be found in Hereford, a town on the outskirts of Sierra Vista, provide a peaceful setting for worship.
The attraction is also the go-to place for people who wish to have some quiet to reflect on essential things or read in their leisure time.
The 30-ft figurine of the Virgin Mary and the roughly 80-foot-tall Our Lady of the Sierras Shrine are surrounded by a magnificent church building.
As mentioned earlier, those are ideally situated to offer sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Address: 10310 S Twin Oaks Rd, Hereford, AZ 85615, United States
4. The Mall at Sierra Vista
The Mall at Sierra Vista
The Mall at Sierra Vista boasts nearly 400,000 square feet of land area. It has a mix of restaurants, stores, and entertainment venues that service southeast Arizona and sections of Mexico.
This Mall houses a nail salon, medical facility, retail outlets, and a food court where you can shop and eat.
Additionally, the Mall at Sierra Vista is the venue for auto displays and other worthwhile Annual gatherings.
The Mall is surrounded by several other establishments like banks, hardware stores, motels, and eateries, giving visitors easy access to other activities.
Address: 2200 El Mercado Loop, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
5. Fort Huachuca Base and Museum
Fort Huachuca Base and Museum
Fort Huachuca is an operational military base and a significant historic landmark situated on Grierson Avenue, Sierra Vista.
The Museum is home to a gift store and an exhibition game with fantastic exhibits dating back to the late 19th century.
The life story of valiant troops who operated in the Arizona Territory before the government made it into a state is the Museum’s main subject.
Among the courageous troops mentioned above, the black soldiers known as “Buffalo Soldiers” enlisted to combat Native Americans in the middle and late 1800s is the Museum’s primary focus.
Address: 41401 Grierson Ave, Sierra Vista, AZ 85613, USA
6. The Presidio of Santa Cruz de Terrenate
Pack some food or snacks before heading out to explore The Presidio of Santa Cruz de Terrenate because it is void of any food and water facilities.
This storied landmark offers insight into Sierra Vista’s past, even if all that is left are the ruins. It is a deserted Spanish military stronghold.
Visitors can take a quick stroll through the area’s stunning natural scenery to this remote castle.
The Bureau of Land Management has identified and preserved the remnants of structures such as the chapel and barracks, which you can see when you visit this attraction.
Address: N. Kellar Road, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650, USA
7. Sierra Vista Farmers Market
The well-known Sierra Vista Farmers Market is the primary Market in Sierra Vista. It serves natives and visitors/ tourists throughout the year.
The Market is the perfect place for visitors and locals who wish to shop for goods, explore or grab a meal at concession stands or food vendors.
Loaves of bread, artisan snacks, pastries, and nuts are also available. You can also purchase farm produce, like meat, eggs, fish, and dairy products, at this Market.
In addition, you can find crafted items at the Sierra Vista Farmers Market, such as bath products, soaps, and handcrafted wooden and clay items.
Asides from edible and utility items, the Market is also the venue for live music performances and particular functions aimed at passing information to the public.
Address: Veterans’ Memorial Park, 3105 E Fry Blvd., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
8. Huachuca Art Association
If you plan a fun yet educational vacation trip for your kids, adding a visit to Huachuca Art Association to your list of top things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ, is a great idea.
You can find art instruction, studio space, and exhibitions at the Huachuca Arts Association Studio and Gallery, which also offers special kid-focused art workshops.
The Huachuca Art Association (HAA) is a well-known body aiming to encourage Sierra Vista’s artists.
Many art-loving tourists have testified to enjoying the yearly Art in the Park festival. The Gallery has a gift shop that features the creations of regional artisans.
Visitors can look around the booths, cheer for artists from their locality, and eat snacks from mobile restaurants.
This event, held in the Sierra Vista Veterans Memorial Park, showcases the multidisciplinary works of regional artists, such as pottery, photos, carpentry, and jewelry.
Address: 1835 Paseo San Luis, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
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9. Garden Canyon
Garden Canyon
You can pick from various historical and ecological attractions in Garden Canyon, which is close to the Huachuca Mountains.
By exploring one of the numerous nearby ghost towns, visitors can travel through time as they hold many stories.
You may come across Pearce ghost towns of Fairbank and Gleeson, all of which still have some of their former structures standing in Garden Canyon. Visitors can view deserted mines as well.
Another significant sight in the Garden Canyon in Fort Huachuca is the 1877 military outpost, spanning 70,000 acres and featuring a learning museum.
You may also unwind at the park, which has picnic spaces, trees, and waterfalls attractive to birdwatchers and other wildlife. Garden Canyon is one of the best places to visit in Sierra Vista, AZ.
Address: Fort Huachuca, Squier Ave. 2, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650, USA
10. San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
Breathtaking scenery, recreational options, and ancient treasures are available at the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.
The Area has abundant reptiles, mammals, fish, and birds. As a result, visitors to the preserve take pleasure in fishing, hunting, and bird watching, which are among the fun things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ.
Unguided and guided hikes are available. Visitor attractions include an old mining hamlet and the remains of an old Spanish fort.
The Murray Springs Clovis Site, which is part of the conservation area, is where tourists may view the relics that Native American cultures left behind.
You can shop for goods at the San Pedro Gift Shop and Bookstore and also have lunch at the park’s picnic sites.
Address: 4070 South Avenida Saracino, Sierra Vista, AZ 85615, USA
11. Brown’s Canyon Trail
An ideal spot for outdoor recreational activities in Sierra Vista is the 5.3-mile Brown’s Canyon Trail which ascends to 5,600 feet of elevation.
The Trail is situated adjacent to the Brown’s Canyon Ranch, allowing tourists and visitors to view the storied site while hiking or biking.
This Trail offers a combination of gravel paths and a paved and shaded path. It is a favorite cycling, biking, and hiking path for locals and visitors alike. The Trail is open all year.
The Trail is pet friendly. You can make a stop to get a drink of clean water while treading the paths to rejuvenate your body before continuing your hiking or biking in the spring season.
Treading this Trail is one of the fun things to do in Sierra Vista, AZ; for nature lovers. It offers the best backdrops for memorable photographs.
Address: Buffalo Soldier Trail and Hwy. 92, Sierra Vista, AZ 85650, USA
12. Veteran’s Memorial Park
The Veteran’s Memorial Park, located in the heart of Sierra Vista, is where the farmers market is held on Thursdays.
The Park is an affordable and convenient place to mingle with the residents and take in some seriously extraordinary experiences, thanks to the fairs, performances, festivals, and concerts held there all year.
Past occasions held at the site include live performances and culinary festivals. To find out what is happening when you are there, check the establishments’ page.
This park is a beautiful location to unwind and show respect to the soldiers who are commemorated here.
If you wish to converse and socialize with the locals to learn about the city, visit this Park.
Address: 3105 E Fry Blvd. Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
13. Hoppin’ Grapes Wine and Beer Tasting Shop
While in Sierra Vista, AZ, a terrific idea is to drop by Hoppin’s Grapes Wine and Beer Tasting Shop for a sweet treat.
Wine samples and changing specialties like port and sake are available to guests. This establishment also has a range of rose, red, and white wines in addition to a range of craft beers in bottles and on draft,
Aside from drinks, visitors to the store are welcome to try some of Hoppin’ Grape’s snacks and food which they call Hoppin’ Bites.
What makes this eatery unique is that buying drinks from the facility makes you eligible to bring your meals.
Hoppin’ Grapes offers a variety of sweets, meat, cheese platters, and cheese spreads in addition to its drinks.
Address: 409B West Fry Blvd., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
14. Indochine
Indochine
For a maximum fun experience, you’ll have to replenish your lost energy, so among your list of what to do in Sierra Vista, AZ, should be to dine in Indochine.
Local eatery Indochine Restaurant serves Vietnamese cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients, like the chef’s homegrown vegetables.
Indochine serves appetizers and dishes that combine authentic recipes and American ingredients in the afternoon and evening.
Visitors can also choose from the restaurant’s vegan and vegetarian options on the menu or enjoy the chicken, beef, hog, and seafood options.
Guests with unique dietary needs or sensitivities, such as those following gluten-free, low-carb, or ketogenic diets, can also be accommodated at Indochine.
In addition to providing delivery service to Huachuca, Hereford, and Sierra Vista, Indochine also provides a catering service guaranteed to champion any event regardless of size.
Address: 1299 E. Fry Blvd., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
15. The Cove Aquatic Center
The Cove Aquatic Center is an enclosed and shaded water park with 36,500 Sq ft of entertaining space that provides various activities that support group or family fun time.
This kid-friendly water park offers water slides and a kids’ lagoon, while grown-ups can use the facility’s eight-lane pool. Cove Aquatic Center also has heated water and tube slides.
The facility has three locker rooms from which you can choose. You may also purchase light meals at the park’s concession stand.
Under-fives are welcome to enjoy Splash Time, which gives kids unrestricted access to the facility, provided an adult can watch them.
To cool off on a sunny day, one of the best places to visit in Sierra Vista, AZ, is The Cove Aquatic Center.
Address: 2900 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
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16. Murray Spring Clovis Site
Murray Spring Clovis Site
It has been approximately 11,000 years since a tribe of hunter-gatherers lived at the Murray Spring Clovis Site in southern Arizona, close to Sierra Vista.
These people left behind stone tools, weapons, and the bones of the enormous animals they hunted for meat.
This attraction is among the sites of Sierra Vista that deserve a spot in your list of places that offer exciting and adventurous activities.
Until now, the first site of humans to be discovered in the United States is the subject of intense discussion in archaeology.
Murray Spring Clovis Site is a part of the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area, which also boasts several other attractions.
This attraction offers an aspect of education you will probably not get within the four walls of a classroom.
Address: N Moson Rd, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
17. Miller Canyon
Miller Canyon
People come to this trail all year long to bike, hike, and enjoy a picnic. The Miller Canyon Trail offers outdoor enjoyment in a breathtaking natural setting.
The route passes by the ruins of mine excavations and the deserted village of Palmerlee. This way provides possibilities to investigate the local history as well.
Views of the Mule Mountains and San Pedro Valley may be seen from the trail. You may easily hike the 3.5-mile trail because it contains both open and shaded spots.
It would be best if you go along with your water purification equipment or water, as the area is considered arid.
Address: Miller Canyon Road, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
18. Henry F. Hauser Museum and Gift Shop
Henry F. Hauser was a local politician, soldier, and athlete commemorated by the Henry F. Hauser Museum and Gift Shop.
The Museum’s gift shop sells souvenirs, literature, and home goods. Youngsters can play the role of a Junior History Detective or make use of a small interactive shop where they can learn about antiquated technology.
This museum documents Sierra Vista people’s careers, lives, and old times throughout the years. It has been the hub for decades of the city’s history.
The Arizona Hall of Fame Quilt Documentation Project, rotating exhibits, and displays from the city’s library are all featured at the Henry F. Hauser Museum.
Address: 2950 E Tacoma St, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
19. Lehners Mammoth Kill Site
Lehners Mammoth Kill Site
Tourists can quickly stop at Lehners Mammoth Kill Site for a lesson on prehistoric wildlife and outdoor leisure because it is close to the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area.
Lehners Mammoth Kill site is a paleontological landmark that honors the slaughter of mammoths in 9000 BCE by prehistoric civilizations.
You can take a guided tour or learn about the area on placards. Archaeologists have discovered many prehistoric tools and bones of various species in the region.
It would be best to plan appropriately as the Lehners Mammoth Kill Site lacks essential facilities like bathrooms and food options.
If you are archaeologically inclined, visiting Lehners Mammoth Kill Site will make a great inclusion in your list of what to do in Sierra Vista, AZ.
Address: E. Lehner Rd., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
20. The San Pedro House
San Pedro House
The San Pedro House, managed by a group of volunteers, is nestled in The Riparian Valley Conservation Area. A livestock company constructed it to house its ranch manager in the 1930s.
The volunteers raise money for the upkeep of the home and its grounds with the help of a gift and bookshop established for that sole purpose.
The famous cottonwood tree known as the “The Great Tree of Arizona,” owing to the diameter of its trunk that measures up to 30 feet, can be found on the grounds of San Pedro House.
In preparation to visit this attraction, bring some food along to explore the area for a few hours. Picnic spots, parking, and restrooms are available.
Address: 9800 AZ-90, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
21. La Casita Restaurant and Cantina
La Casita Restaurant and Cantina
La Casita Restaurant and Cantina is a well-known Mexican eatery in Sierra Vista, AZ, serving patrons Mexican food.
Visitors with allergies or unique dietary needs are catered to at the restaurant. Along with their meals, patrons can sip on additional drinks like blended margaritas.
La Casita Restaurant focuses on afternoon and evening meals, such as soups, taco platters, gourmet dishes, and soups.
There are live music performances at Weekends at La Casita. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available on the menu at La Casita.
You can order takeout if you do not like to eat in public places. If you wish to hold a significant event, you can also rent the facility’s private banquet space.
Address: 465 E Fry Blvd, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635, USA
22. Brown’s Canyon Ranch
Brown’s Canyon Ranch
The Barchas Ranch home is one of several smaller buildings on the ranch that ranch residents utilize.
You can also see the ranch’s pond, which is the habitat of a frog species currently on the verge of extinction for wildlife watching.
Guided tours, gun shows, and live music are just a few of the annual activities that Brown’s Canyon Ranch hosts.
The Brown’s Canyon Cemetery and the deserted Pomono Mine are nearby attractions for ranch visitors. On the grounds, there are also places to have picnics.
Address: Ramsey Canyon Road (past Calle Metate), Sierra Vista, AZ 85650, USA
23. Ramsey Canyon Preserve
Ramsey Canyon Preserve
Ramsey Canyon Preserve offers an adventure you shouldn’t pass up.
The sun is so hot that it can cause sunburn to sensitive skin even during winter, so It would be best if you dressed in protective clothing whenever you choose to visit.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who wish to thread the unbowed path guarded by lush green foliage will enjoy exploring this preserve.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve is regarded among the country’s best hummingbird habitats. Its 300 acres are the ideal place for bird watchers.
The climatic condition of the preserve is so extreme that it is considered a miracle that the wildlife can endure such a hostile atmosphere.
Address: 27 E Ramsey Canyon Rd, Hereford, AZ 85615, USA
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Plan Your Trip to Sierra Vista
Sierra Vista, AZ, has so much history waiting to be learned and discovered. Its canyons are a spectacular sight. In addition, it has numerous attractions that offer a unique adventure.
The city is brimming with entertainment and charming restaurants that offer unique cuisines. Plan your visit with the help of this article to make the most of your stay in Sierra Vista, AZ.