On the eastern shore of Lake Havasu, a reservoir nestled in Arizona, sits Lake Havasu City. Sunny nearly year-round, this town tucked between desert, lake and mountains is a playground in every sense. Discover in this guide its top tourist attractions.

History

Until the 1930s, there was nothing here but desert. Lake Havasu emerged during the construction of Parker Dam on the Colorado River between 1934 and 1938. When World War II broke out, the US Air Force established a base on the peninsula situated in the center of the basin.

After the war, American billionaire Robert McCulloch acquired the surrounding lands and created Havasu Lake City. He later purchased the famous London Bridge and reconstructed it, stone by stone, within the town to make it a tourist attraction. Visitors came, and over the years, the region became one of Arizona's most popular travel destinations.

Visiting Lake Havasu City

Mention Lake Havasu City, and outdoor activities spring to mind. Here, attractions and leisure pursuits span every direction, backed by well-developed tourist services. Quality experiences await.

London Bridge, Arizona's second most sought-after attraction

Lake Havasu City takes immense pride in its historic bridge. Originally, the London Bridge spanned the Thames River in England's capital. It was dismantled and replaced in 1967, before being relocated to Lake Havasu City. Feel the nostalgia permeating the old London structure, showcase your photography talents, attend intimate acoustic concerts beneath the arches, and more. The London Bridge is a meeting place for boaters, athletes, artists and enthusiasts from around the world.

An outdoor enthusiast's paradise

Unless you prefer to join a luxury cruise, rent a kayak and seek out the lake's hidden coves. Stop at Bridgewater Channel to lounge on pristine white sand beaches. Next, head to the skateboard/BMX/scooter complex, Arizona's largest, to watch athletes in action. Between your escapes, take time to discover the lighthouse replicas lining the waterway. In the evening, savor Arizona's star-filled skies, or perhaps join the vibrant parties at Kokomo Beach Club.

Outside the city, the crimson mountains beckon with adventure. Don the explorer's outfit and traverse the desert on foot, by bike or in a 4x4. The region boasts several state parks, each with their own charm: Lake Havasu State Park, Cattail Cove State Park, Buckskin Mountain State Park, and more.

Lake Havasu City, a town for everyone

Lake Havasu City appeals to all types of travelers. In winter, retirees flock here. In other seasons, you'll mostly see younger crowds, especially during Spring Break, when beaches and boats transform into open-air nightclubs. Speaking of events, Lake Havasu City maintains a packed calendar throughout the year. Among the must-attend gatherings are:

• jet ski championship races,
• Havasu Balloon Festival & Fair,
• Light Festival,
• Lake Havasu Bluegrass Festival,
• London Bridge Day, Winterfest, and more.

When to visit Lake Havasu City?

Lake Havasu City basks in sunshine at least 300 days per year. Spring, fall and winter are particularly favored by travelers wanting to explore the surrounding nature. Days are warm and nights generally cool during these seasons. Winter rains remain sporadic, just enough to nurture wildflowers that blossom come spring. Thunderstorms arrive during monsoon season. The region peaks in summer with the influx of college-age visitors on break.

Lake Havasu City has an airport, but most travelers choose to land either in Las Vegas (2 hours) or Phoenix (3.5 hours), then continue by road. For an unforgettable Arizona road trip departing Las Vegas, take US 93 / US 95 South to Interstate 40. Then drive along AZ-95 South. From Phoenix, follow Interstate 10 West toward Vicksburg. Turn right at Vicksburg Rd and then left onto AZ-72. Continue right along Riverside Drive/AZ-95 until you reach Lake Havasu City.

You have a wide choice of transportation to explore Lake Havasu and its surroundings. Whether on foot, by car, mountain bike, bus or taxi, savor every journey and stop during your Lake Havasu City vacation.

What to do at Lake Havasu City?

• Stroll across the London Bridge
• Participate in a boat excursion on Lake Havasu
• Visit Lake Havasu State Park
• Relax at Kokomo Beach Club
• Attend the Havasu Balloon Festival & Fair, and more.