What’s the best way to explore an unfamiliar city?

I realize that wasn’t what you asked—my apologies. The thought simply crossed my mind. After centuries of growth, most cities have become well-established, and many have rightfully earned their status as historic destinations.

That said, your question brought to mind a brief time I spent in Yuma. The city itself is quite charming, though I wouldn’t suggest visiting during summer. During my several-week winter stay, I found it genuinely pleasant for that season.

During my time in the Marines, duty took me there. Having already seen other desert cities, I wasn’t particularly eager about the assignment. Summer would have driven me to volunteer for kitchen duty just to escape. But January was surprisingly manageable. In fact, I could genuinely see myself enjoying a winter getaway there.

The surrounding areas offer plenty of worthwhile destinations and attractions worth exploring.

One fine day when I had some time off, I decided to take in a movie. I found one in the paper. Not being at all familiar, I made the mistake of assuming that since it was on Second Street, it had to be close to downtown. And it was Yuma. How far would I need to walk, given the size of the city? Well, I found out.

I don’t know how long the street is, but I must have walked many miles looking for that theater. There was not one theater. In fact, after a few blocks, there was hardly anything.

I was about to give up and catch the next bus back to the base when I looked up at a street sign and realized where I might have gone wrong. I was looking at the markings of Second and 3rd. 

After walking one block, I was at the corner of Second and 2nd Avenue. I checked and, yes, there was a First and 1st as well. Strangely, the pattern more or less held up throughout the downtown area.

And so it was I explored an old city that was new to me. And, I’m pleased to report, I also saw the complete movie. Though I can’t remember what it was for the life of me. But I will never forget the way the streets are laid out in the little city of Yuma, Arizona.