Popularly known as the Desert Southwest, this region of the United States is certainly full of desert, but not just the barren empty lands that you might expect!

The Southwest has many top photography spots, mainly in locations where rivers and the elements have acted together to create some of the world’s most famous landscapes. This is, after all, the home of the Grand Canyon. The Desert Southwest is also a region that’s full of history and culture, containing some of the country’s oldest towns and cities in addition to ancient Native American Pueblos. All this combines to make a road trip in the Southwest an interesting and uncommon experience.

Visit Utah to enjoy its five national parks – you’ll see the canyons of Bryce, Zion, and Canyonlands National Parks, and the natural arches of Arches and Capitol Reef National Parks. The famous landscapes of Monument Valley have been the setting for many movies. As if all that isn’t enough, travel into Arizona and experience the world’s most famous canyon, the Grand Canyon. Grand it certainly is, and though the views from up top are amazing, a hike or mule ride down into the canyon is unforgettable!

For a break from your Southwest road trip and all that natural scenery, spend some time in the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas. Nevada’s largest city has to be seen to be believed and despite the adult image it has a surprising number of attractions that will appeal to families with children. Nearby you can visit the impressive man-made Hoover Dam and learn about the construction that led to the creation of the largest reservoir in the United States.