Southern Arizona Tour – Part 5: Cruising, Community, and a Joyful Farewell
- Michelle Laudermilk
- Jun 12
- 4 min read
As our unforgettable Southern Arizona tour came to a close, the final day offered one last, beautifully curated mix of scenic wonder, community engagement, and feel-good fun. From a tranquil morning cruise through canyon country to a rousing organ concert over slices of pizza, Day 5 captured everything we’d come to love about this journey: connection, discovery, and joy.
🛳️ Morning Magic on the Dolly Steamboat
We kicked off our final day with a peaceful drive through the rugged terrain of the Superstition Mountains, arriving at the edge of Canyon Lake. There, the Dolly Steamboat awaited—a classic vessel that felt plucked from another era, gently gliding us across the glistening waters of the canyon.
As we floated between the dramatic cliffs, we spotted bighorn sheep, soaring hawks, and even a few wild burros among the rocky outcrops. The captain shared fascinating insights about the lake’s geology and wildlife, creating a deeper appreciation for this desert oasis.
The group fell quiet, taking in the stillness of the water and the soft reflection of morning light off the cliffs—a perfect moment of pause before our full day ahead.
“It felt like a hidden world out there. So peaceful and stunning—it really grounded me in the moment.” – Tour Participant
🌿 Lunch at the Hidden House
After our lake adventure, we headed to The Hidden House, a charming eatery nestled inside a lovingly restored 1930s home in downtown Chandler. The patio, shaded by sprawling trees and dotted with garden lights, was a dream setting for our midday meal.
Fresh, locally sourced dishes stole the show—think juicy burgers, vibrant salads, and refreshing iced teas. This meal felt like a treat: good food, easy conversation, and the comfort of a shady courtyard after a morning in the sun.
Hidden gem, indeed. The name suits it perfectly.
🏙️ A Stroll Through Downtown Chandler
Next, we took a short walking tour of Historic Downtown Chandler, where history and public art come alive. Our guide introduced us to murals that told stories of Chandler’s early ranching days, charming storefronts with preserved architecture, and community spaces that gave the district its warm, welcoming character.
Even in this brief walk, there was a sense of Chandler as more than a stop—it’s a proud community that honors its roots while continuing to evolve.
💛 Packing Meals, Making a Difference: Feed My Starving Children
In the afternoon, our group shifted focus to something deeply meaningful: a service project at Feed My Starving Children, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger across the globe.
Aprons on and gloves secured, we joined volunteers in an energetic packing session. Laughter and teamwork filled the air as we scooped ingredients, sealed meal packs, and cheered each other on. Within just a few hours, we had helped pack hundreds of meals that would soon travel across the world to children in need.
“It was the perfect way to end the trip—with heart, with impact, and together.”
For many of us, this was a highlight—not just for the good we contributed, but for the shared sense of purpose it brought to our group.
🎹 Pizza, Pipes, and Play at Organ Stop Pizza
To wrap up our final evening, we made our way to one of Arizona’s most delightfully eccentric spots: Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa. Sure, the pizza is delicious—but it’s the Wurlitzer organ that truly steals the show.
As the lights began to flash and the organ slowly rose from the floor, I was suddenly hit with an odd sense of déjà vu. The music, the lights, the sheer theatricality of it all—it felt strangely familiar. And then, from somewhere in the mists of my memory, it clicked: I had been here before! Years ago, on a spontaneous road trip from Los Angeles with friends who were diehard Cubs fans. We had driven over for a weekend of spring training games, and this quirky pizza palace was one of our stops.
To return now, surrounded by fellow travelers and new connections, made the experience even more meaningful—a full-circle moment I never expected.
That night, we feasted on cheesy slices and crisp salads as the organist filled the room with everything from classical favorites to movie themes and Broadway showstoppers. With dazzling lights, joyful music, and a spirit of pure, whimsical fun, Organ Stop Pizza delivered the perfect send-off to our unforgettable journey.
Final Reflections: Full Circle in Southern Arizona
As the tour came to a close, so did our circle—formed over three days of discovery, shared experiences, and meaningful connection. From Tucson’s cultural depth to Canyon Lake’s tranquil beauty, from hands-on service to a final night of music and laughter, this tour brought together the very best of Southern Arizona.
It’s clear this region holds endless possibilities for meaningful small group travel, and I left with renewed inspiration—and a few ideas already brewing for future women’s cultural tours. Stay tuned!
📸 Photo Highlights from Day 5
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And we’d love to hear from you in the comments:
Which stop on our final day would YOU have enjoyed the most?
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