The state of Arizona hosts a variety of cities with good tourist attractions.  Lake Havasu City is one of the most popular, and is the largest city in Mohave County.  A former World War II Army Air Corps rest camp, the city was established in 1963 as a planned community, and currently has a population of around 53,000 inhabitants.

Lake Havasu itself was created in 1938 when Parker Dam was built in the Colorado River.  This followed the creation of our significant lakes such as Lake Mohave (at David Dam) and Lake Mead (at Hoover Dam).  Of all of these lakes on the Colorado River, Lake Havasu currently has the highest levels of nitrate and uranium.

The city gain world wide exposure in 1968, when it purchased London Bridge from the City of London for $2.5 million.  Over the course of three years, the bridge was taken apart piece by piece and reassembled on the opposite side of the Atlantic from where it originated.  The whole operation cast a further $7 million and since it’s opening in 1971, has become a major tourist attraction.

But London Bridge isn’t the only attraction in Lake Havasu City.  During the spring months, many university students from across the States descend upon the city during Spring Break.  This has given the city a reputation as a party community, certainly something that is welcomed by many locals.  This has been further exemplified by the cities appearances on MTV’s Spring Break coverage, beaming the party atmosphere across the globe.

The warm climate during the winter months as attracted many tourists from colder states in the north and Canada, especially those in their retirement.  To cater for these, many events take place on McCulloch Boulevard.

Lake Havasu is great for people who love boats; the best times of year to go out on a boat are between March and September.  During these months the city hosts the International World Jet Ski Finals, professional fishing championships and various Triathlons and Half Marathons.  There are certainly lots to keep the most active water sports lover occupied.

Not all the thrills happen on the Lake though.  Havasu 95 Speedway has action almost all year round, while the Skateboard and BMX Park has gained a good reputation and you never know, you may be watching a future Tony Hawks practising some moves.  Lets not forget the major league baseball fixtures, with many heats of the both the winter leagues and regular Southwest leagues having games played in the city.

Shopaholics will love a walk along the lakeside shops, while sea life fanatics will enjoy a day at the Aquatic Centre.  There is much to please all visitors to the city.  So if you’re looking for something a little different to Las Vegas, give Lake Havasu City a try, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.