Fun Facts About the Southwest
Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S. and still won’t shut up about it—everything really is bigger in Texas, including the egos.
Arizona’s Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep—proof that erosion has an excellent work ethic.
New Mexico is called the “Land of Enchantment,” produces more chile peppers than any other state, and has an official state question: “Red or green?”
Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state—over 200—because when nature doesn’t give you enough water, you just make your own.
The Four Corners Monument is the only place in the U.S. where you can stand in four states at once: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah—perfect for indecisive people.
The Southwest is where America gets wonderfully weird under the blazing sun. From alien-themed diners to massive roadside dinosaurs baking in the desert since the 1960s, this region serves up natural wonder and human quirkiness. The vast open spaces inspire the most creative (and sometimes crazy) roadside attractions—world’s largest pistachio, trading posts selling alien jerky, and giant jackrabbit statues that are always worth the detour.
Southwest Roadside Attractions by State
Arizona
Grand Canyon, giant jackrabbit statues, Meteor Crater, London Bridge in Lake Havasu, and quirky Route 66 nostalgia.
New Mexico
Roswell UFO museum, White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, world’s largest roadrunner, and red-or-green chile obsession.
Oklahoma
Route 66 museums, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Pops soda ranch (700+ flavors), and quirky Tulsa stops.
Texas
Cadillac Ranch, world’s largest cowboy boots, Prada Marfa art installation, Big Tex at State Fair, and BBQ everything.
Want more regional weird? Check out our complete roadside attractions guide covering all the quirky stops across America, get tips for traveling with pets, or browse our Homepage for road trip resources.
Have a little out-of-the-ordinary Southwest spot you’d like to share? Feel free to comment or message us!