Best Places to Live in Sierra Vista, Arizona - Christine Coplen

Birthplace of the First McDonald's Drive-Thru

In 1975, Sierra Vista became home to the very first McDonald’s drive-thru. This innovation was introduced to cater to soldiers from nearby Fort Huachuca, who were not permitted to leave their vehicles while in uniform. The drive-thru allowed them to grab meals without violating military regulations.

Hummingbird Capital of the United States

Sierra Vista is renowned as the “Hummingbird Capital of the U.S.” The nearby Ramsey Canyon Preserve attracts birdwatchers from around the world, offering sightings of up to 15 different hummingbird species during migration seasons.

A Name Chosen Through a Bit of Mischief

The city’s name, “Sierra Vista,” which means “Mountain View” in Spanish, was selected in an unconventional manner. During the city’s incorporation in 1956, a naming contest was held. However, Nola Walker, a friend of the city clerk, claimed her personal suggestion, “Sierra Vista,” had won, despite not tallying the votes. The name stuck and has been embraced ever since.

Record-Breaking Bird Counts

Sierra Vista frequently tops the charts in the annual Christmas Bird Count, a census of bird populations across the Western Hemisphere. Its diverse habitats and strategic location along migratory paths make it a hotspot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Gateway to the Arizona National Scenic Trail

The city serves as a starting point for the Arizona National Scenic Trail, an 800-mile trek that stretches from the U.S.-Mexico border to Utah. Hikers can access the trail via the nearby Coronado National Memorial, experiencing diverse terrains from deserts to mountain forests.