This Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Town in Arizona Is so Worth Exploring

Arizona is a massive state, so needless to say, there are many small towns and communities we may miss while traveling around. But some of these towns should not be missed, as they offer hidden gems just waiting for you to discover. One such place is Tuba City, a tiny town in Arizona that's worth a day trip, especially if you love history and exploring the great outdoors.

Tuba City is an unincorporated town in the Painted Desert and badlands of the Navajo Nation. It's remote, to say the least. However, it's absolutely worth a stop. The population of Tuba City is estimated to be just over 8,300 people, and here you will find colorful layers of the Painted Desert, prehistoric fossils, mesas, hills, a trading post, and a museum.

To give you an idea, Tuba City is over 200 miles from Phoenix, 350 miles from Tucson, and just over 70 miles from both Page and Flagstaff. Depending on what part of the state you're coming from could determine if a day trip or overnight getaway to this small Arizona community.

One place you must visit when in town is the Tuba City Trading Post, which was established in 1906 and is a working trading post to this day. Here you will find a large selection of Native American art, pottery, Kachina dolls, silver jewelry, clothing, rugs, and more. Exploring the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum is another must when in the tiny town of Tuba City. Located on the same property as the trading post, it is super easy to visit. Exhibits and artifacts fill the 7,000-square-foot museum. You'll see a traditional Navajo hogan, art, pottery, and cultural information throughout.

Another incredible place to visit in Tuba City is the Navajo Moenave Dinosaur Tracks, considered the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in North America. The tracks were left behind by dinosaurs from the Jurassic period over 200 million years ago. However, it is unclear what species of these prehistoric creatures made them. Regardless, this is a great spot for kids, and adults may feel like kids when they visit!

Have you been to this tiny town in Arizona yet? If you have, let us know about your experience in the comments. To learn more, visit the Visit Arizona website. Tuba City is part of the Navajo Nation, so please respect its rules, regulations, laws, and the land and its people.

If you plan on taking a road trip to Tuba City, make sure you take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need before you go. While you can always take a day trip, if you prefer an overnight getaway to Tuba City instead, there are a few accommodation options to consider, but your best option may be the Navajoland Hotel of Tuba City, which offers clean, comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast

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