Capturing Memories on the Verde Canyon Railroad

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and Walmart Family Mobile. All opinions are mine alone. #MobileMemories #CollectiveBias

I have written about collecting memories previously.  I have been saving money in my budget so we can really get out and live life.  Going on adventures is definitely much more fun than sitting on the couch or buying shoes (okay... that may be going in a biiiiittt far).  However, it's definitely much more fun to get out of the house and really enjoying what life has to offer.

I have lived in Arizona for 18 years and have never REALLY explored the state.  Nope, I haven't even been to the Grand Canyon.  Crazy, right? 

The state has so many amazing things to offer.  From Tombstone, to the Grand Canyon, to amazing natural wonders, to Ghost Towns (that are rather lively for being dead...), Pre-Columbian era Indian Ruins and many, many more.


Since a three day weekend was upon us, it was time to get on the road.  Mountains are just a short drive from Phoenix.  The high desert is absolutely stunning and being about a two hour drive away, it's a great way to escape the brutal heat and appreciate the jaw dropping beauty.

I am a firm believer in doing touristy things from time to time.  Listening to a tour guide who is well-versed in local history, the local eateries and activities are well worth it.  Especially when they have a  great personality.  

Another fun part of exploring locally? Eating.

Rock Springs Cafe is just 30 minutes north of Phoenix and makes the BEST biscuits and gravy.  Yes. I love country cooking.  It's the Midwestern girl in me.  

They're famous for their pies.

After breakfast we kept driving north to the Verde Canyon so we can ride the  Verde Canyon Railroad.

The train ride is approximately four hours round trip.  It takes riders deep into the Verde river area. The area was a huge mining area but then went completely bust after the mining operations ended and the smelters shut down.  The train takes riders on a historical tour of the area.  

The train is a paradise for nature, history and photography lovers alike.  

The train offers an indoor car which allows access to open air seating.  Ahhhhmazing.

There is nothing in this world like seeing the bald eagle soar, passing the Sinagua ruins (a pre-Columbia native American people), and hearing the history of the area.  

I am still in awe.  Despite looking bored in this photo, she was having a great time (just anxious to get going). 

A really cool part? A couple got married on one of the cars.  

Lastly, our trip ended with us 5,000 feet above elevation in the liveliest Ghost Town in America (which also has the reputation for being the most vertical town and the most wicked... but that's a tale for another day), Jerome. 

Yes, those are doll arms... 

The town pretty much hasn't changed since the day it died but die hard residents worked hard to revive it and it's the ultimate mecca for motorcyclists, city lovers, heat escapers, history lovers, photography fanatics and those who just want to have a great time.  Oh and... paranormal lovers. 

Like I said... that's a post for another day. 

Honestly, if I hadn't cut the cord on my expensive cell phone carrier and gone with Walmart Family Mobile , I wouldn't be able to save up as fast as I am now to go on fun day trips like this.  Saving $70+ dollars per month is NOT chump change.  I would much rather spend my hard earned money on capturing memories.  

I *still* get 4G LTE coverage and I am happy with my coverage.

Walmart Family Mobile service is $29.88/month* (for the first line) Unlimited Talk, Text & Data service plan which includes up to 1G of 4G LTE data. It's a smoking deal.  


They also offer phones at a great price*!

• ZTE Zinger - $29.88 starting 4/15
• Galaxy Avant - $149.00 (was $199.99)
• ZTE ZMAX - $179.00 (was $199.88)
• Alcatel Fierce 2 - $119.00 (was $129.99)
• Alcatel Evolve 2 - $39.83 (was $59.88)
• LG L90- $99.82 (was $179.88)
• NewPhones:
• LG 450: Launch Price $29.88
• Alcatel One Touch Pop Astro: Launch Price $64.88
• LG Leon LTE- Coming soon

I have shared with you how I capture special memories with my family using Walmart Family Mobile! 

How will you capture those memories with your family this summer? 

Leave a comment and let me know!

*Disclaimer: All prices for phones and plans included in this post are accurate as of the date of posting; however, these prices are subject to change. Please refer to this or your local Walmart for current pricing.