Mountain peaks, limitless deserts, lush forests, and crimson rock formations are just some landscapes that make visiting Arizona such an outstanding expertise. No matter your pursuits, Arizona may have one thing for you; few states within the US can supply all that this southwestern vacation spot does.
One of the best locations to go to in Arizona occur to be among the best places to visit in the United States. After dwelling right here for 3 years, I’ve explored all avenues of the state and proceed to be awestruck by every new place I go to.
I’ll by no means tire of the range of the state. I’ve been snowboarding within the morning, pushed two hours south, and hung out within the heat sunshine in my pool for the remainder of the day. I’m but to develop into bored in wonderful Arizona.
Quicklook: 5 Finest Locations to Go to in Arizona
- Grand Canyon Nationwide Park: The Grand Canyon is among the nation’s greatest nationwide parks, crammed with limitless exploration alternatives.
- Web page: Web page is situated near Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend, so you possibly can cross off three distinctive locations in a single cease.
- Sedona: The crimson rocks surrounding Sedona are beautiful and make for excellent mountain climbing alternatives.
- Tucson: The improbable eating places, historical past, and charming really feel of Tucson make it an ideal place to go to.
- Previous City Scottsdale: If golf, nightlife, distinctive meals, and luxurious are thrilling to you, then a go to to Previous City Scottsdale is a should.
☞ SEE ALSO: 101 Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2023 (Ultimate Bucket List)
25 Finest Locations to Go to in Arizona
The next 25 locations are a few of my private favorites in all of Arizona. They’re all accessible and are completely price a go to no matter the kind of traveler you’re.
1. Grand Canyon Nationwide Park
Grand Canyon National Park is my favourite place to go in all of Arizona. As an avid hiker, the paths push my talents, and I’m humbled by the huge magnificence every time I’m going.
Households, adventurers, informal hikers, and all different sorts of guests will discover one thing to get pleasure from in regards to the Grand Canyon. Take a tour, stroll the rim, or dive deep into its depths for a real expertise. There are few extra stunning locations to see on the earth.
Location: The Grand Canyon is situated within the Northwest nook of the state. The south entrance is round a four-hour drive from Phoenix, and it’s the doorway that provides probably the most to do.
Getting There: One of the best ways to get to the Grand Canyon is with your personal automobile. Because it’s so removed from main cities, public transportation might be laborious to search out.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering is my favourite factor to do on the Grand Canyon. Nonetheless, helicopter rides or mule rides are additionally nice methods to see the canyon in its full magnificence.
The place to Keep: The Holiday Inn Express in Tusayan is the perfect place to remain on your go to to the Grand Canyon. Positioned proper outdoors the South Rim, it offers easy accessibility to among the greatest elements of the park.
Entrance Price: A 1-7 day entrance charge is $35, and an annual move is $70.
2. Sedona
Sedona holds a particular place in my coronary heart as a result of my spouse and I obtained engaged there on an attractive fall night. The towering crimson rocks paired with pine forests are in contrast to anyplace I’ve ever seen.
Whereas the adventuring prospects within the space are wonderful, the luxurious accommodations and eating places present added pleasure to town. All completely different sorts of individuals discover one thing to like about Sedona; it’s merely beautiful.
Location: Positioned two hours North of Phoenix, Sedona is an attractive city off of Interstate 17.
Getting There: One of the best ways to go to Sedona is with your personal automobile. Inside the city, there are shuttles to completely different trailheads, however getting there’s best with a private automobile.
Issues To Do: Just like the Grand Canyon, mountain climbing is one in every of my favourite issues to do in Sedona. Nonetheless, jeep tours and consuming on the many fabulous eating places are two of my different favourite actions right here.
The place to Keep: The Matterhorn Inn in Sedona is in Uptown Sedona, near eating places and mountain climbing trails. Plus, every room presents phenomenal views of the mountains.
3. Web page
Town of Page is extraordinarily distinctive. Each time my spouse and I go to, we often hit Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon all in in the future. Certainly one of my favourite issues to do on the earth is kayak to Antelope Canyon from one of many Lake Powell Boat ramps.
Whereas it will possibly get scorching in the summertime, fall, and spring make for excellent occasions to go to. You’ll be surprised by the range and sweetness throughout you.
Location: Page is situated in Northern Arizona, East of the Grand Canyon and West of the White Mountains. It’s round 4 hours from Phoenix.
Getting There: Attending to Web page is greatest with a private automobile. There are too many choices for issues to do within the space, so that you’ll wish to have your personal automobile to make getting round straightforward.
Issues To Do: Visiting Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and touring Antelope Canyon are the perfect issues to do in Web page.
The place to Keep: The Baymont by Wyndham is situated seven miles from Antelope Canyon within the city of Web page. You’ve nice proximity to the canyon excursions in addition to eating places, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend.
Entrance Price: The Glen Canyon Recreation Space (Lake Powell) entrance charge is $30, and Horseshoe Bend has a $10 parking charge.
4. Previous City Scottsdale
After dwelling in Phoenix for 3 years, I’ve concluded that Old Town Scottsdale has my favourite eating places and bars. The walkability of town and the distinctive restaurant choices all the time make for entertaining date nights with my spouse.
Whether or not you’re all in favour of a bachelor social gathering, a golf journey, or only a heat trip within the winter, Previous City Scottsdale is the proper place to make your property base.
Location: Old Town Scottsdale is 20 minutes East of Downtown Phoenix, so it’s effortlessly accessible.
Getting There: Attending to Previous City Scottsdale is straightforward with public transportation or ride-share companies. In any other case, a private automobile offers you the possibility to discover the world and different elements of the state.
Issues To Do: Consuming at eating places and visiting the native bars are my two favourite issues to do in Previous City Scottsdale. Nonetheless, a segway tour by means of town is all the time a good time.
The place to Keep: Canopy By Hilton is the best choice for lodging in Previous City Scottsdale. The fashionable resort is inside strolling distance from all the perfect nightlife.
5. Flagstaff
Flagstaff is all the time a key stopping level for us on our journeys North. It’s a quaint college city with nice eating places and improbable adventuring alternatives. Mountain bike trails, mountain climbing, and snowboarding/snowboarding are just some issues guests can get pleasure from right here.
If you would like a real mountain-town really feel, Flagstaff is for you. In the summertime, escaping the warmth of the valley and spending time within the cool temperatures of Flagstaff make for a welcomed reduction.
Location: Positioned in Northern Arizona at 7,000 ft elevation, Flagstaff is round two hours from Phoenix.
Getting There: Flagstaff is greatest accessed by a private automobile. There are numerous issues to do in and round city, so having the liberty of a automobile is the best choice.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering Humphries Peak or seeing a present on the Pepsi Amphitheater are two of my favourite issues to do in Flagstaff. The Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course can also be a blast.
The place to Keep: Positioned on 500 acres of forest, the Little America Hotel offers nice entry to town and loads of privateness.
6. Superstition Mountains
The Superstition Mountains are situated in shut proximity to Phoenix and are excellent to discover within the cooler months. From October by means of March, guests can hike miles and miles of desert trails. I completely love exploring the backcountry of the Superstitions each likelihood I get.
There are quick, simpler hikes for households and longer excursions for the extra die-hard adventurers. Plus, there are a ton of mountain biking alternatives all through the mountains.
Location: The Superstition Mountains are round half-hour East of Phoenix close to town of Mesa.
Getting There: The Superstition Mountains are greatest explored with your personal private automobile because it’s unfold out throughout Burea of Land Administration land.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering within the Superstition Mountains is among the greatest you’ll discover round Phoenix. In any other case, I like to recommend this off-roading expertise in addition to exploring the lakes within the space.
The place to Keep: The Best Western Apache Junction Inn is a perfect place to make your base for exploration of the mountains.
7. Payson
I’m all the time excited to move to the luxurious Ponderosa Pine forests of Payson. It’s house to a few of my favourite off-roading, fly fishing, and dispersed tenting in the whole state.
In the event you’re all in favour of seclusion, alpine lakes, and quaint downtown, Payson is the proper place for you. It’s family-friendly however nonetheless has loads of actions for the hardcore adventurer.
Location: Positioned round 1.5 hours Northeast of Phoenix, Payson is situated proper within the coronary heart of Tonto Nationwide Forest.
Getting There: Like many different areas of Arizona, attending to Payson is greatest achieved by way of a private automobile. It’s round two hours from the closest airport, and the nationwide forest land is greatest traversed by way of your personal transport.
Issues To Do: Payson has wonderful off-roading and mountain climbing alternatives, however one in every of my favourite issues to do is get pleasure from all the native lakes and rivers within the space. Guided canyon tours are additionally a should.
The place to Keep: Kohl’s Ranch Lodge is 20 minutes east of Payson inside an attractive Ponderosa Pine Forest. It’s an amazing place to unplug and unwind.
8. Downtown Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix offers the proper mixture of big-city pleasure and laid-back rest. There are phenomenal eating places on each block, and town is pretty walkable. My spouse and I like to move downtown to see concert events, sports activities video games or simply to have an amazing dinner out. Accessibility is straightforward.
In the event you’re all in favour of quant eating places and enjoyable bars, the Roosevelt Arts District is ideal. Extra fashionable digs might be discovered within the Warehouse District. Each are a blast to discover.
Location: Phoenix is the biggest metropolis in Arizona. Positioned within the central a part of the state, it’s deep inside a valley with mountains surrounding it.
Getting There: Attending to Phoenix is easiest by way of private automobile. Whether or not you’re road-tripping to town or flying, a automobile is your greatest wager. In the event you solely plan on staying in Phoenix, there’s sufficient public transportation and ride-sharing on your wants.
Issues To Do: Phoenix has nice {golfing} alternatives and eating places throughout the metropolis, however one in every of my favourite actions is that this hot air balloon ride.
The place to Keep: The AC Hotel by Marriott is within the coronary heart of town close to all the perfect eating places and bars.
9. Williams
Williams is my favourite small city in Arizona. The Route 66 city is crammed with historic attraction and fashionable facilities. The Polar Specific practice that runs from Williams to the Grand Canyon every winter is a yearly precedence of mine.
Younger households and adventurers alike typically make a cease at Williams earlier than they hit the Grand Canyon. You gained’t discover friendlier individuals within the state than these you discover in Williams.
Location: Williams is a small city in Northeast Arizona, about an hour south of the Grand Canyon.
Getting There: A private automobile is your greatest wager for touring to Williams. It’s removed from many different elements of the state, so that you’ll want a automobile to entry it.
Issues To Do: My favourite factor to do is take the practice from Williams as much as the Grand Canyon and probe for the day. In any other case, off-roading or taking the train as much as the Grand Canyon are nice actions.
The place to Keep: Keep on the La Quina by Wyndham in your journey to Williams. If there isn’t sufficient outdoors so that you can do, this resort options an indoor swimming pool and health heart.
10. Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu City is the proper base camp for my yearly journey to Lake Havasu. The huge Colorado River reservoir is good for lengthy weekends on the water and the handfuls of eating places and off-road trails solely add extra range to this unbelievable location.
Lake Havasu is the proper family-friendly place to go to. Seashores and easy water actions can preserve the youngsters entertained for hours.
Location: Lake Havasu is within the far Northwest nook of Arizona, just a few hours south of Las Vegas.
Getting There: To get to Lake Havasu, you’ll wish to take your personal private automobile or a rental automobile. It’s just a few hours from Phoenix and Vegas, so getting there is usually a problem on public transportation.
Issues To Do: When visiting Lake Havasu, I take our private boat and spend time boating and fishing. In any other case, a private sunset cocktail cruise is one other enjoyable choice.
The place to Keep: Island Suites is an all-suite resort inside just a few miles of downtown and proper close to the lake.
11. Monument Valley
I’ve fond reminiscences of driving by means of Monument Valley yearly I visited Arizona earlier than transferring right here. Now that Arizona is my house, I prefer to make a yearly journey to those stunning crimson rock formations within the midst of the desert. I grew up on previous Western films like Stagecoach, so it’s enjoyable to see the filming places in individual.
Whereas Monument Valley isn’t close to to a lot else, it’s an amazing place to expertise Native American historical past. Take a guided jeep tour or benefit from the 17-mile drive. In the event you’re driving in or out of Arizona from the north, make it a precedence to cease.
Location: Monument Valley is in Northern Arizona, proper on the border of Utah. It’s completely stunning.
Getting There: Guests will want their very own automobile to get to Monument Valley. For most individuals, it’s thought-about to be in the course of nowhere, however in my view, its location solely provides to its magnificence.
Issues To Do: Driving by means of the park is the perfect factor to do. Plus, the customer heart is nicely price trying out. I prefer to take guided backcountry jeep tours with Navajo guides as a result of they’re in a position to entry completely different elements of the valley non-natives in any other case couldn’t.
The place to Keep: The Hampton Inn in Kayenta is a traditional resort that works nicely as a launching level on your exploration of Monument Valley.
Entrance Price: The Monument Valley 17-mile driving loop prices $20 per automobile.
12. Tucson
Tucson is a vibrant, historic metropolis that Arizona vacationers typically overlook. I’ve spent numerous days exploring the nationwide forests and BLM (Bureau of Land Administration) land that surrounds town. Plus, I’m an enormous fan of the Mexican eating places within the space.
Romantic getaways, outside recreation, and a few phenomenal golf programs are all at your fingertips on a go to to Arizona’s second-largest metropolis. Don’t skip it in your subsequent journey to Arizona.
Location: Tucson is within the south-central a part of the state of Arizona. It’s the second-largest metropolis within the state.
Getting There: Guests can both drive or fly into town and hire a automobile from there. In any other case, Tucson has a bus and shuttle system that runs all through town.
Issues To Do: Each time I go to Tucson, I be sure that to eat at one in every of their many eating places and go to the Catalina Foothills for some nice mountain climbing. In any other case, a half-day ATV tour by means of Field Canyon is an excellent solution to see town.
The place to Keep: The El Amador Downtown Luxury Inn offers splendid entry to all the perfect elements of Tucson.
13. White Mountains
The White Mountains kind my splendid playground. The jagged peaks, backcountry rivers, and limitless nationwide forest land put a smile on my face each time I come right here.
If you wish to get off-grid, out of the Phoenix warmth, and luxuriate in extra rugged nature, the White Mountains are for you. Present Low or Greer make for excellent bases on your White Mountain adventures. Be sure you comply with native reservation pointers throughout your exploration.
Location: The White Mountains are situated within the Northeast part of Arizona. This stunning vary’s highest peak is over 11,000′ in elevation.
Getting There: Guests can attain the White Mountains by renting a automobile from the Phoenix airport and driving for 4 hours. In any other case, Present Low has a regional airport proper within the mountains. A private automobile is a should.
Issues To Do: Each time I go to the White Mountains, I all the time attempt to fly fish. I additionally like to hike or paddle board on one of many native lakes.
The place to Keep: Keep on the Hampton Inn & Suites Show Low-Pinetop in your go to to the pristine White Mountains. It’s an attractive resort with easy accessibility to all main roads.
14. Montezuma Citadel Nationwide Monument
As a historical past fan, Montezuma Castle National Monument was one of many first locations I needed to go to once I first moved right here. These dwellings constructed by the Sinagua individuals between AD 1100 and 1425 are extraordinarily well-preserved and are a must-see for any fan of historical past.
They make for an amazing cease in your means north to Sedona, Flagstaff, or the Grand Canyon. You may simply spend a morning trying round and studying all in regards to the ruins.
Location: Montezuma Castle National Monument is correct close to the city of Camp Verde, an hour and a half North of Phoenix.
Getting There: Getting there’s best with a private automobile. You may fly into Phoenix and hire a automobile or highway journey from wherever you’re setting off from.
Issues To Do: After I go to, I prefer to hike the 1/3 mile loop path and spend time within the customer heart. In any other case, you possibly can mix the journey with a tour of Sedona and Jerome.
The place to Keep: The Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is minutes from the Montezuma Citadel Nationwide Monument and is on the premises of an amazing on line casino.
Entrance Price: $10 for every grownup 16 and older.
15. Saguaro Lake
If I ever desire a break from the summer season warmth, my spouse and I head over to Saguaro Lake for a day of swimming and kayaking. Simply half-hour East of Phoenix, it’s a straightforward drive and nicely definitely worth the effort. We often spherical off the day with a cease in Mesa on our means house for an amazing chew to eat.
Saguaro Lake is a reservoir that breaks up the Salt River. It’s situated within the stunning Superstition Mountains that may be seen on the horizon in East Phoenix.
Location: Saguaro Lake is situated within the Superstition Mountains, about half-hour East of Phoenix.
Getting There: It’s best to get to Saguaro Lake with your personal automobile. Fly into Phoenix and hire a automobile or take your personal.
Issues To Do: After I go to Saguaro Lake, most of my time is spent paddleboarding and boating, however there are additionally guided kayak tours so that you can get pleasure from.
The place to Keep: The Best Western Gold Canyon offers friends with easy accessibility to Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake in addition to the Superstition Mountains.
Entrance Price: A every day $7 move is required for all automobiles.
16. Sonoita
Wine nation isn’t one thing individuals first think about once they consider Arizona. Nonetheless, Sonoita is about an hour south of Tucson and has a number of wonderful wineries. These are true hidden gems and supply an amazing break from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.
Sonoita Vineyards has over 30 acres of vines for guests to see. You get the perfect elements of wine nation with none pretentiousness.
Location: Sonoita is situated about an hour south of Tucson.
Getting There: Getting right here is best from Tucson, whether or not you hire a automobile on the Tucson airport or take your personal.
Issues To Do: Wine tasting is the perfect factor to do whenever you’re in Sonoita, so be sure you e book a wine tour on your go to.
The place to Keep: The Rancho Milagro Bed & Breakfast is a good spot on your go to to wine nation.
17. Havasu/Havasupai Falls
Havasupai Falls is among the most stunning sights I’ve ever seen. The 18 miles of mountain climbing had been nicely definitely worth the effort to see the jaw-dropping blue waterfalls. Earlier than you go, it’s essential to be sure you get a allow from the Havasupai Reservation. Permits are launched every February for the yr, so be ready to choose the dates you plan to go to.
This hike requires an in depth quantity of planning because it’s so removed from any main metropolis, however the waterfalls make me wish to return yearly. So long as you arrange forward of time, you’ll be okay.
Location: Havasu Falls is situated throughout the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so it’s not part of the nationwide park.
Getting There: The one solution to get to the falls is by way of a nine-mile one-way backpacking journey with a secured allow, so make sure you’re registered earlier than making the journey.
Issues To Do: My spouse and I had been lucky sufficient to safe a permit and full the hike. We hiked on the primary day, loved the waterfalls, stayed one other full day, after which hiked out on the third day. It was an absolute deal with.
The place to Keep: The Cabins at Grand Canyon West in Peach Springs supply the perfect entry to Havasu Falls.
18. Tombstone
In the event you’re a fan of Wild West historical past, you gained’t discover a higher city to discover than Tombstone. Positioned in Southeastern Arizona, Tombstone is house to quite a few museums and reveals devoted to America within the 1800s. Mock gun fights, ghost excursions, and historic buildings are all obtainable to get pleasure from.
My first go to to Tombstone was this previous yr, and I liked it. The mock gun present was a lot enjoyable to look at. Plus, Tombstone has some nice native eating places making it splendid for foodies.
Location: Tombstone is within the southern a part of Arizona, not removed from the border of Mexico and round an hour from Tucson.
Getting There: One of the best ways to get to Tucson is in your personal automobile. Fly into Tucson and hire a automobile or take your personal.
Issues To Do: When visiting Tombstone, I like to cease by the previous museums and see a traditional gunfight present on the O.Ok. Corral. In any other case, the Dead Men’s Tales Walking Tour presents an interesting look into the city’s wealthy historical past.
The place to Keep: Keep on the Tombstone Miners Cabins whenever you make your go to to the historic metropolis of Tombstone and luxuriate in a non-public balcony in excellent environment.
19. Prescott
Prescott is the proper place to go to if you wish to escape the summer season warmth in Arizona. It’s solely an hour or so north of Phoenix and sits at round 5,000 ft elevation. It’s a historic city with nice strolling entry and charming eating places.
I’m going each summer season to play golf and kayak on Watson Lake. It’s a straightforward day journey and presents a welcome tease of cooler temperatures to come back.
Location: Prescott is a bit over an hour North of Phoenix at round 5,000 ft elevation, so it’s a pleasant break from the warmth of the valley.
Getting There: Attending to Prescott is important by way of a private automobile, as public transport isn’t an choice. Whether or not you’re flying into Phoenix and renting a automobile or taking your personal.
Issues To Do: After I go to Prescott, I prefer to kayak Waston Lake, go downtown, or take a guided horseback ride.
The place to Keep: Hotel Vendome is a good historic resort within the coronary heart of Downtown Prescott.
20. Saguaro Nationwide Park
Saguaro National Park in Tucson is a really stunning, untouched desert paradise. The hovering cacti, desert wildlife, and lovely mountains inside this park are a must-see. Guests are all the time pleasantly stunned on their go to.
I’ve visited the park a number of occasions and love the laid-back really feel of it. I like how a lot mountain climbing I can get in right here while having fun with the wonderful wildlife and plants.
Location: Saguaro Nationwide Park is situated on the Northeast aspect of Tucson, not removed from downtown.
Getting There: Attending to Saguaro Nationwide Park is best with a private automobile. Fly into Tucson and hire a automobile or take your personal.
Issues To Do: I love to do the Bajada Loop Drive and hike the Valley View Overlook Path. In any other case, a guided e-bike tour on the East aspect of the park is an thrilling but enjoyable solution to see the picturesque landscapes.
The place to Keep: The Hampton Inn Suites Tucson Marana is on the North aspect of Tucson, not removed from the park entrance.
Entrance Price: $20 per automobile for a 1-7 day move.
21. Bisbee
No city in Arizona has stunned me as a lot as Bisbee. This small city near the Mexico border is in contrast to any I’ve seen. It’s an previous copper mining city that’s was a captivating vacationer vacation spot. The various nice eating places and mine excursions are my favourite issues about Bisbee.
Whereas it’s a three-hour journey from Phoenix, it’s develop into an annual tour of mine to cease right here. There are nice factors of curiosity alongside the best way that make the go to much more price it.
Location: Bisbee is discovered within the mountains of southeast Arizona, round three hours south of Phoenix and inside just a few miles of the Mexican border.
Getting There: You’ll want your personal automobile for a tour of Bisbee, as public transportation may be very difficult to search out.
Issues To Do: I like to stroll round Bisbee and discover the distinctive metropolis on foot, go to historic buildings, and benefit from the native breweries. In any other case, I like to recommend this tour by way of a private golf cart – it’s glorious.
The place to Keep: A keep on the Jonquil Motel offers an amazing really feel for all that Bisbee has to supply.
22. Jerome
Positioned in central Arizona, Jerome is one other charming copper-mining city. Plus, with its proximity to Phoenix, it makes for a straightforward day journey. There are nice museums, and Jerome State Historic Park is nice. Households are certain to like Jerome.
In the event you’re all in favour of ghosts and a few extra eclectic historical past, Jerome is for you. For people who prefer to expertise a brand new place by means of style, there are wineries and great eating places so that you can go to.
Location: Positioned two hours North of Phoenix, Jerome is a small and intensely distinctive city.
Getting There: Guests can greatest entry Jerome by way of a non-public automobile. Whether or not it’s a rental or your personal, entry is best in your personal automobile.
Issues To Do: Each time I go to Jerome, I make a journey by means of Jerome State Historic Park and go to the mining museum. In any other case, the Jerome Ghost Walk offers you a glimpse into the spooky aspect of the city.
The place to Keep: The Clinksdale is one in every of my favourite accommodations (ever). It’s proper downtown and has superior decor.
23. Petrified Forest Nationwide Park
Petrified Forest National Park isn’t one thing that essentially wants a whole journey devoted to it. In the event you’re touring I-40 into Arizona, it’s proper off the freeway and makes for a straightforward stop-off. Households and adventurers will discover straightforward trails and nice views of the encircling desert.
The park might be visited in a day with out feeling pushed for time. Plus, you possibly can keep in close by Holbrook for a straightforward cease after you’re completed.
Location: Petrified Forest National Park is in Northern Arizona, off Route 66 close to the city of Holbrook.
Getting There: You’ll need your personal automobile whenever you go to Petrified Forest Nationwide Park. It’s a great distance from any main metropolis, and public transportation isn’t an choice.
Issues To Do: Visiting Petrified Forest Nationwide Park doesn’t require any longer than in the future. My spouse and I prefer to drive by means of the park and hike Devils Playground.
The place to Keep: The La Quinta Inn & Suites in Holbrook offers friends the perfect entry to the nationwide park.
Entrance Price: $20 per automobile for a 1-7 day move.
24. Wickenburg
Wickenburg is a enjoyable historic city west of Phoenix. Plus, it’s house to my favourite golf course – Wickenburg Ranch. The Hotshots Hike north of the city is a must-visit whenever you’re within the space. It’s a 7-mile hike devoted to the 19 members of a hearth crew that died preventing a fireplace.
Households will benefit from the enjoyable downtown outlets, and adventurers will recognize the 1000’s of acres of BLM land to discover whereas within the space.
Location: Wickenburg is round an hour west of Phoenix, off State Freeway 60.
Getting There: A non-public automobile is a should whenever you’re making a visit to Wickenburg. Public transportation may be very restricted within the metropolis.
Issues To Do: I like {golfing} at Wickenburg Ranch Golf Membership, finishing the Scorching Pictures Hike, or renting a UTV to discover the encircling areas.
The place to Keep: Keep at Stagecoach Suites whenever you go to Wickenburg. It’s a historic 4-star resort with nice views and clear lodging.
25. Canyon de Chelly Nationwide Monument
Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a reasonably large park in Northeast Arizona. It’s situated on Navajo tribal lands, and the canyon is surrounded by a rock spire in addition to stunning sandstone cliffs. It’s considerably of a secret spot within the far East aspect of the state.
I often visited with my household for a number of years on our solution to Arizona for trip. It blew my thoughts once I first noticed it. I couldn’t consider this canyon was out in the course of what I assumed was such a desolate place.
Location: Canyon de Chelly National Monument is situated on a Navajo Reservation on the far Northeast aspect of Arizona.
Getting There: It’s best to entry the monument from your personal private automobile because it’s a great distance from bigger cities.
Issues To Do: Each time I’m going, I like to finish the drives on the North Rim and South Rim. These take just a few hours in whole. In any other case, my spouse and I stroll out to Spider Rock Viewpoint to stretch our legs.
The place to Keep: Positioned 12 miles from the monument, Thunderbird Lodge is the perfect place to remain for individuals who want to be in shut proximity.
Getting Round Arizona
Certainly, one of the simplest ways to get round Arizona is with a automobile. It’s an enormous state with loads to see, and the general public transportation choices are restricted.
You’ll discover some public transportation all through the cities, however there are massive distances between the perfect locations to go to, so a automobile offers you probably the most freedom and entry.
Rental automobile choices are plentiful all through Arizona, so that you gained’t battle to search out one which fits your wants.
Fast Itineraries for Arizona
Listed below are just a few easy itineraries to comply with when visiting Arizona:
3 Days in Arizona
For a three-day journey to Arizona, I’d advocate flying into Phoenix and renting a automobile. From Phoenix, drive two hours north to Sedona and keep the night time.
Day 1: Get up in Sedona, hike Mount Wilson, discover Downtown Sedona, and seize dinner at The Hudson.
Day 2: The following morning, drive one other two hours to the Grand Canyon and spend the day exploring. Hike down Vibrant Angel Path for just a few miles, seize a chew to eat at El Tovar, and watch the sundown over the canyon earlier than you head into your room on the Vibrant Angel Lodge.
Day 3: The following day, drive again to Phoenix earlier than heading house.
One Week in Arizona
Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, hire a automobile, and make your means as much as Sedona. Seize a chew to eat on the Hudson in Sedona whereas getting ready for a day on the paths.
Day 2: In your first full day in Sedona, hike Cathedral Rock or Satan’s Bridge within the morning. Within the afternoon and night, take a guided jeep tour on the miles and miles of backcountry trails within the space. For dinner, seize a chew on the Casa Sedona Restaurant.
Day 3: The following day, get up and get out onto the Mount Wilson trailhead early. This hike will take all morning, but it surely offers wonderful views of the crimson rocks. After you end, seize lunch at one of many many eateries and luxuriate in downtown Sedona.
Head again to your resort for a soothing night earlier than heading to dinner on the Hideaway Home.
Day 4: The following morning, pack up the automobile and drive two hours to the Grand Canyon. On the best way, cease in Flagstaff and spend time trying round downtown and having fun with the native companies.
Get to the Grand Canyon within the afternoon and test into your room at Vibrant Angel Lodge. Get pleasure from a scrumptious meal on the on-site lodge restaurant.
Day 5: The following day, begin your morning off with a hike into the Grand Canyon down Vibrant Angel Path. This may take till round midday, relying on whenever you set off. Within the afternoon, drive alongside Rim Highway and luxuriate in all the stunning vistas. Seize a chew to eat at El Tovar.
Day 6: The following morning, make the four-hour drive again all the way down to Phoenix and test in on the Arizona Biltmore close to the airport. Benefit from the resort facilities earlier than you fly out the following day.
Day 7: In the event you’re feeling as much as it, hike Camelback earlier than you fly again house.
10+ Days in Arizona
Day 1: Fly or drive into Tucson and test in to the Hilton Marana in North Tucson. From right here, seize a chew at one of many many native eating places.
Day 2: Begin your second day with a go to to Saguaro Nationwide Park. You may spend a day exploring the park and the encircling areas. In the event you’re feeling as much as it, you possibly can head towards the highest of Mount Lemon in Tucson for some contemporary mountain air.
Day 3: On day three, make the two-hour drive as much as Scottsdale. Keep in Previous City Scottsdale and luxuriate in one of many well-known eating places, and when you’re up for it, seize a drink at a neighborhood bar.
Day 4: In your fourth day, drive North from Previous City and hike Pinnacle Peak within the morning. Within the afternoon, be happy to golf at Troon North Golf Membership and luxuriate in one other night time out in Previous City, strolling round and exploring the numerous eateries.
Day 5: On day 5, you’ll make your means North to Sedona. Keep on the Enchantment Resort for a real five-star expertise. If in case you have time within the night, scramble up Cathedral Rock for phenomenal sundown views. For dinner, eat on the Hudson – get their Mushroom & Swiss burger.
Day 6: On day six, discover Sedona. Hike Mount Wilson or Satan’s Bridge for an genuine crimson rocks expertise. In the event you’d like, take a jeep tour within the afternoon to expertise all the wonderful 4×4 trails.
Day 7: The following day, pack your baggage and make your means as much as the Grand Canyon. This two-hour drive might be damaged up with a cease in Flagstaff for breakfast or lunch. Plus, it’s price visiting the downtown. Keep at Vibrant Angel Lodge throughout the park and luxuriate in a meal on the restaurant.
Day 8: Get up the following morning and spend the day mountain climbing the Vibrant Angel Path. This path may be very difficult, so be sensible about your bodily capabilities earlier than you go. Seize dinner at El Tavar to reward your self after the lengthy day.
Day 9: The following morning, head the 4 hours again all the way down to Phoenix and seize a room on the Phoenician. Spend your final full night time enjoyable and reflecting in your journey to Arizona.
Day 10: Drop your rental automobile off in Phoenix and have a protected flight house.
Should-Strive Meals in Arizona
Arizona is a melting pot for all types of various individuals teams and cultures. In consequence, the state is stuffed with distinctive meals that many natives and vacationers have come to like. Whether or not it’s Mexican food or Native American delicacies, there are just a few choices it’s essential to strive whenever you go to:
Navajo Tacos
Fry bread, beans, floor beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese make up the well-known Navajo Tacos. These are well-known throughout the native communities in Arizona. Go to The Stand in Scottsdale for the perfect Navajo Tacos within the valley.
Sonoran Scorching Canines
Sonoran Scorching Canines are a real staple in Arizona. The buns are crammed with pinto beans, onions, mustard, jalapeno salsa, mayo, and tomato. Oh, and the new canine itself is wrapped in bacon. It’s a scrumptious, Southwestern twist on a staple. Strive Sonora Querida in Phoenix for the perfect Sonoran Canines within the metropolis.
Cheese Crisps
Cheese crips are a traditional bar snack. Flour tortillas and shredded cheese are griddled till the tortilla has a pleasant crunch. Be happy to make them extra thrilling with toppings comparable to hen, chiles, onions, or anything you fancy. El Minuto Cafe in Tucson does a very good job of this dish.
Finest Locations to See in Arizona: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting stunning locations in Arizona:
Arizona is situated within the Southwest United States. California borders it on the East, Mexico on the South, New Mexico on the West, and Utah and Colorado to the North. It’s situated proper within the coronary heart of among the most stunning surroundings in the whole nation.
Guests can snowboard or ski throughout the day and be again within the pool at night time. It’s a various state with one thing for everybody. The numerous actions obtainable had been what first drew me to Arizona.
Completely. After dwelling right here for 3 years, I’ve by no means run out of issues to do. Whether or not you want nightlife, meals, mountain climbing, climbing, tenting, or biking, there’s one thing for you. I’m increasingly impressed with Arizona with every journey I participate in.
The most well-liked place to go to in Arizona is the Grand Canyon. I’ve hiked the canyon quite a few occasions, and I convey everybody who visits me alongside to it – everybody ought to go to not less than as soon as!
Whereas it’s 4 hours from Phoenix, it’s definitely worth the drive. I often make it a 2-day journey and go to Sedona and Flagstaff on my means up from the valley.
The autumn or spring is the perfect time to go to Arizona. Within the fall, temperatures are cooling in Tucson and Phoenix, and all the northern sights, just like the Grand Canyon, aren’t but lined in snow.
The spring can also be stunning with the cool Phoenix temperatures and snow sports activities within the northern a part of the state.
In my view, the Sedona and Flagstaff space is the prettiest a part of Arizona. You get the attractive crimson rocks, towering peaks, and luxurious forests multi functional. Breathtaking views are round each single nook.
Flagstaff or Sedona are the perfect locations to base your self in Arizona. You’ll be round two hours from Phoenix and rather less than two hours from the Grand Canyon. Plus, you’ll have all the locations in Sedona and Flagstaff to discover.
Arizona is legendary for stunning views, the Grand Canyon, scorching summer season climate, phenomenal golf programs, and limitless outside actions. Relying in your pursuits, Arizona can stand out to you for a lot of completely different causes.
I like to hike, and camp, and I’ve discovered that it’s the most effective states within the nation to do it.
Sure, Arizona is safe to go to. Vacationers are frequent always of the yr, so you’ll hardly ever go to an space that feels uncomfortable. I’ve explored the state for years and have by no means as soon as felt unsafe.
You may encompass your self with individuals or discover alone, relying on what you favor.
In Conclusion
If you wish to expertise one thing new and distinctive each single day of your trip, Arizona is the place to go to. You’ve nearly every part you’ll need; mountains, water, crimson rocks, deserts, and extra. My three years dwelling right here have led to a few of my favourite adventures to this point.
Guests are all the time welcome, and it’s straightforward to create an itinerary that matches precisely what you wish to do. There’s a purpose Arizona is among the fastest-growing states in the USA. A brand new journey is all the time across the nook.
