Parker, Arizona

Parker is a fun recreational town on Arizona's West Coast. It is a town that grew because of its location, along the Colorado River. Boaters' affectionately refer to it as the "Parker Strip," quite possibly the finest 16-mile stretch of water for recreational boating on the face of the earth. Visitors can also go camping in nearby Buckskin Mountain State Park or explore the rugged terrain of the nearby Buckskin Mountains. Because of its ideal sunbelt climate, Parker boating and outdoor recreation begins at the first hint of spring, often as early as mid-March, extending all the way to November's Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

The town itself dates back to 1888 when it was founded by William E. Parker as a trading post near the Colorado River. The area is also rich in tribal history, with the Colorado River Indian Tribes occupying the region since the late 1800s. The town of Parker still pays homage to its roots with a number of cultural events and museums that celebrate the tribe's heritage.

Modern amenities abound in Parker, such as restaurants, shops, and galleries. The town's location just two hours outside of Phoenix makes it a great spot for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.