Kay, I did NOT go to the tarantula festival - didn't even know about it! We are working our way over to Bisbee, Arizona, with a stop at Catalina State Park in Tucson, AZ, on the way - a place where I have seen tarantulas more than once. If you are not spider-squeamish, they are quite interesting.

I also have seen a Gila Monster there (and did NOT have my camera with me - can't believe it) and a family of 4 coatimundi, which I was able to capture digitally from afar.
Guess I should check Wikipedia for info on other towns on our route!
Safe travels,
Laurie
Writing this evening from the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds in Lancaster, CA