Kayenta, Arizona, is a region full of natural scenic beauty. From the spectacular parks, plateaus, and sand dunes, you will surely have plenty of places to visit while on holiday here. Furthermore, you will have some of the best outdoor experiences as you indulge in activities such as hiking the strenuous mountainous terrain. The place is an ideal destination for a family holiday and adventure tour. Certainly, there is everything for anyone who would love to enjoy the scenic beauty of the landscape. Keep on reading for more information on the best things to do in Kayenta, Arizona, for a holiday with exciting activities.
1. Enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape at Navajo National Monument
If you would love to enjoy the scenic beauty of nature and also learn about the history of the region then come to Navajo National Monument for an exciting time. The monument was built in remembrance of the Pueblo people, who lived in this region many years ago, and also to nurture the ancient culture. Other than that, as you are on a sightseeing tour with your friends or family, you will get a fantastic view of the two cliffs which housed the early inhabitants of this region. You will also relish the spectacular view of canyons, keef seel, wall inscriptions, and Betatakin while strolling, making the adventure a memorable one.
Navajo National Monument
Address: AZ-564, Shonto, AZ 86054, United States
Website: Navajo National Monument
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
2. Visit the magnificent Monument Valley Tribal Park
Enjoy the view of the majestic natural features towering several feet above the ground at Monument Valley Tribal Park. This park offers you unimaginable beauty such as the jaw-dropping views of buttes and mesas from a distance. The region was formed millions of years ago due to continuous erosion by wind and water thus forming the various features you will see around. Other than that, a tour guide can take you down the valley for you to have a closer look at the various landmarks available in the area. Visit this amazing destination for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Monument Valley Tribal Park
Address: Indn Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, United States
Tip from Content Creator
Beatrice
Monument Valley travel tips:
1. Monument Valley is located on the border between Arizona and Utah in the Navajo Nation. Beware of the time: unlike Arizona, which always follows standard time, the Navajo Valley in the spring-summer period applies to daylight saving time. I was coming from Page, and compared to Page it is one hour ahead!
2. Standard admission to Monument Valley costs $8 per person. In fact, it is not included in the park pass.
3. Be sure to check the opening hours. When I went, they were open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. I was a little disappointed because it was not possible for me (staying outside the park) to see a sunset here!
To visit Monument Valley you have 2 options: book one of the many guided tours or drive around independently. The organized tours are quite expensive, but they will allow you to see areas you cannot reach on your own. To visit the Valley independently, you will have to drive along Valley Drive, a very bumpy dirt road.
I chose to visit independently and still managed to see almost everything I wanted to!
What to see (on a self-drive tour):
- Start your visit at The View Hotel. Inside is the Visitor Center, and the view from the terrace is one of the most beautiful.
- You can also see Elephant Butte, Three Sisters Viewpoint, John Ford's Point (here, by paying a few dollars, you can have your picture taken sitting on a horse!), Rain God Mesa, Totem Pole, Artist's Point, North Window, and The Thumb.
Remember to reach, also in the area, Mexican Hat and Forrest Gump Point.
I slept at the Desert Rose Resort and had a great time.
3. Explore Hubbell Trading Post
Come and experience the art, culture, and history of the early inhabitants at Hubbell Trading Post. This place offers you an extensive option of the things you can do and enjoy yourself. Some of the items you will find here include ancient Indian art and artifacts. Also, you will get to learn how trade influenced the interaction between two communities. Furthermore, a tour around Hubbell home will take you across beautiful sights of the garden, horses, and ancient structures. Other than that, you should also buy the handcrafted items on sale to support the local artists and also as a souvenir of your trip.
Hubbell Trading Post
Address: ½ Mile W, US-191, Ganado, AZ 86505, United States
Website: Hubbell Trading Post
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
4. Learn about local history at Navajo Shadehouse Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Get a glimpse of the ancient way of life at the Navajo Shadehouse Museum and experience a wonderful time as you witness the ancient items on display. While here, you will get to learn that the shade houses were made to protect sheepherders from the harsh hot climate of the desert. The museum outside gives you a totally new experience as you relish a delightful time with your loved ones. You will also notice that the shade houses vary in shape and size depending on the capacity it was to hold at a time. Come and have the moment of your life at this amazing attraction.
Navajo Shadehouse Museum
Address: US-160, Kayenta, AZ 86033, United States
5. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes at Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant
After a long day of visiting new places, make sure you stop by at Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant for some delicious cuisines. The place is well arranged with comfortable dining sets where you can relax and savor your favorite dish. Furthermore, the marvelous aura contributed by air conditioning and great lighting from the large windows makes you easily relax as you enjoy your meal. Moreover, the chefs here prepare for you exquisite dishes such as corn beef hash with eggs, Navajo taco, pork chops, roast beef sandwich, and many more for you to choose from. Stop by and try out the dishes for an overall excellent customer experience.
Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant
Address: US-160, Kayenta, AZ 86033, United States
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 8pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
6. Discover traditions of the native inhabitants at Navajo Culture Center
Get insights into Navajo way life as you take on an exciting tour around Navajo Culture Center. The cultural museum displays various artifacts used by the Navajo people during ancient times. Furthermore, you will view several mud structures that represent the traditional homes of the Navajo people. The outdoor museum has various items that are kept on display for you to learn about the culture and traditions of the early inhabitants of the region. This place is an ideal spot for a family outing or a group excursion since it’s far from the noisy city streets thus giving you a good environment to enjoy your holiday.
Navajo Culture Center
Address: Hwy 160, Kayenta, AZ 86033
7. Check out the Navajo Code Talkers Display
Take a glance at the World War II codes kept on display at Navajo Code Talkers Display. The codes were used when soldiers wanted to communicate without a second party understanding the information being passed through. On the display, you will be able to see various pictures of soldiers who fought during the Second World War. Additionally, you will also get to learn more about the people who fought to make the world a better place. This is a fun way to enjoy your sightseeing adventure.
Navajo Code Talkers Display
Address: US-160 Kayenta, AZ 86033
8. Catch a movie at Black Mesa Twin Cinema
Catch a blockbuster movie at Black Mesa Twin Cinema for an amazing movie outing. Since the place is the only cinema theater in town, you will get the best of everything at an affordable price. You will be able to clearly listen to your favorite character speak even if seated at the furthest corner of the room due to the eloquent surround system. Also, you have a nice time eating popcorns and watching your favorite scenes on the big screen. Come and watch your best movies with friends or family.
Black Mesa Twin Cinema
Address: US-160 & 163, Kayenta, AZ 86033, United States
Website: Black Mess Twin Cinema
9. Enjoy jaw-dropping views of Agathla Peak
Sitting on a beautiful region on the way to Monument Valley is Agathla Peak. The peak was formed many centuries ago due to volcanic eruptions that you will see the evidence of in the molten rocks that have solidified over time. This natural monument towering several meters above sea level offers you a perfect spot for taking pictures with family or friends for fascinating bonding time. Take time and visit this magnificent destination for a memorable outdoor experience.
Agathla Peak
Address: Arizona 86033, USA
10. Tour the beautiful Monument Valley
Jump on horseback or a four-wheel vehicle and go for an awesome excursion around Monument Valley. The region offers you spectacular views of the natural landscape and it’s also a good spot for taking photographs. With a tour guide, you will be able to visit native sites and learn about the culture of the early people. The region has a prairie ecosystem that you will cherish viewing as you take on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Monument Valley
Address: Indn Route 42, Oljato-Monument Valley, AZ 84536, United States
Explore nature's best in Kayenta
Kayenta is home to fascinating sights of the natural scenic landscape. The region is an amazing destination for a sightseeing adventure. To plan your upcoming trip, use our recommendations above and gear up for an amazing vacation in Kayenta.
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