Here are 10 Quirky Facts about Arizona You Probably Never Knew

Hello fellow Arizonans, think you know everything about our unique state? Get ready to be surprised by these 10 quirky facts that showcase just how special Arizona truly is. From the London Bridge being rebuilt in Lake Havasu City to having the most species of rattlesnakes and hummingbirds in the country, Arizona is full of fascinating tidbits that even many locals may not know. So sit back and enjoy learning some new trivia about the place we’re lucky to call home – the one and only Grand Canyon State!

Here are 10 quirky facts about Arizona:

1. The London Bridge is in Lake Havasu

Credit: https://www.instagram.com/saw.lens/

Yes, that’s right! The London Bridge was dismantled in the 1960s and transported to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where it was reconstructed. It now spans the Bridgewater Channel canal.

2. It is unlawful in Arizona to refuse a person a glass of water.

3. Arizona has 13 species of rattlesnakes, more than any other state. On average, 150 people are bitten by rattlesnakes in Arizona each year.

4. Saguaro Cactus Protection

In Arizona, it is illegal to harm a saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American West. Offenders can face serious fines and even jail time for damaging or cutting down these iconic cacti.

5. Arizona is the “sunniest state” in the US.

Arizona is the sunniest state in the U.S., even sunnier than Florida the “Sunshine State”. Yuma, Arizona is considered the sunniest place on Earth.

6. The chimichanga was invented in Arizona.

In 1946, Woody Johnson, the visionary behind the Macayo’s Mexican Kitchen chain, asserted that he originated the chimichanga. His inventive moment occurred at his inaugural restaurant, Woody’s El Nido, situated in Phoenix, Arizona, where he playfully plunged burritos into a deep fryer as part of an experimental culinary venture.

7. Grand Canyon State

Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Grand Canyon is approximately 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep.

8. Arizona doesn’t observe Daylight Saving Time

Along with Hawaii, Arizona is the only state that has left the agrarian custom behind. The only exception is the Navajo Nation, which does “spring forward” and “fall back.”

9. Arizona is home to the world’s first McDonald’s drive-thru

The world’s first McDonald’s drive-thru was opened in 1975 in Sierra Vista, Arizona to serve soldiers from nearby Fort Huachuca who were not permitted to get out of their cars while wearing fatigues.

10. Hummingbirds Love Arizona

More hummingbird species have been recorded in Arizona than any other state. Arizona is tied with Texas for the most hummingbird diversity.