Introduction to Calexico, California
Calexico, California, in Imperial county, is 51 miles W of Yuma, Arizona (center to center) and 96 miles E of San Diego, California. It's a major crossing location for vehicles and pedestrians along the United States/Mexico border. Calexico provides easy access to the region's major transportation centers. It's regarded as one of the major connections for the interior of Mexico to the primary United States West Coast markets as well as Canada.
The Calexico International Airport is utilized as a U.S. Customs and Border Protection check-point for air-cargo flights and private planes arriving from Mexico. Calexico has one of the highest percentages of Mexican residents for a city in the United States. The municipality includes industrial areas and features a sunny year-round climate.
Calexico History
The first settlers came from Mexico. The city was incorporated in 1908. A vast number of Mexicans arrived in the Imperial Valley after the Mexican Revolution was over. The Imperial Land Company created a thriving agricultural business out of the dry desert landscape. In the early days, Calexico had a tawdry reputation.
Calexico Attractions
- Mariachi Festival
- Perspective of the Latino Race art exhibition
- Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
- Imperial Valley Mall
Calexico Activities
The region offers opportunities for golfing, hiking, water sports, fishing and other outdoor activities. The Heber Dunes State Vehicular Recreational Area is a popular off-road destination and also includes areas for camping and picnicking. The picturesque Imperial Sand Dunes Recreational Area is an extensive dune system and one of the biggest in the nation. The Salton Sea is a notable destination. The Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is a salt marsh and also includes a close by freshwater marsh and a pasture area and is a good location for observing wildlife.
Table Mountain features a high desert landscape and is enjoyed by hikers. The Valley of the Moon Trail, in nearby Jacumba is popular with nature enthusiasts. The Elliot Mine Area is located in the Jacumba Mountains and is known for its impressive huge granite boulders. The excellent beaches in San Diego and Baja California are available for day trips. Mexicali, a border town located in Mexico is a popular destination for tourists and residents.
Calexico Higher Education
San Diego State University Imperial Valley Campus and Imperial Valley College are close by.