Mountain peaks, infinite deserts, lush forests, and purple rock formations are only a few landscapes that make visiting Arizona such an outstanding expertise. No matter your pursuits, Arizona could have one thing for you; few states within the US can supply all that this southwestern vacation spot does.
The most effective locations to go to in Arizona occur to be among the finest locations to go to in the USA. 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 frolicked 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 Greatest Locations to Go to in Arizona
- Grand Canyon Nationwide Park: The Grand Canyon is without doubt one of the nation’s finest nationwide parks, crammed with infinite exploration alternatives.
- Web page: Web page is positioned near Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend, so you may cross off three distinctive locations in a single cease.
- Sedona: The purple rocks surrounding Sedona are gorgeous and make for nice mountain climbing alternatives.
- Tucson: The implausible 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 Greatest Locations to Go to within the USA in 2023 (Final Bucket Listing)
25 Greatest 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 value a go to no matter the kind of traveler you’re.
1. Grand Canyon Nationwide Park
Grand Canyon Nationwide 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 forms of guests will discover one thing to take pleasure in 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 lovely locations to see on the planet.
Location: The Grand Canyon is positioned within the Northwest nook of the state. The south entrance is round a four-hour drive from Phoenix, and it’s the doorway that gives essentially 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 onerous to seek out.
Issues To Do: Climbing is my favourite factor to do on the Grand Canyon. Nevertheless, helicopter rides or mule rides are additionally nice methods to see the canyon in its full magnificence.
The place to Keep: The Vacation Inn Specific in Tusayan is the perfect place to remain in your go to to the Grand Canyon. Situated proper exterior the South Rim, it supplies easy accessibility to among the finest components of the park.
Entrance Payment: A 1-7 day entrance payment 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 bought engaged there on a wonderful fall night. The towering purple rocks paired with pine forests are not like anyplace I’ve ever seen.
Whereas the adventuring potentialities within the space are wonderful, the luxurious resorts and eating places present added pleasure to the town. All completely different sorts of individuals discover one thing to like about Sedona; it’s merely gorgeous.
Location: Situated two hours North of Phoenix, Sedona is a wonderful city off of Interstate 17.
Getting There: One of the best ways to go to Sedona is with your personal automobile. Throughout 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 certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Sedona. Nevertheless, jeep excursions 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 provides phenomenal views of the mountains.
3. Web page
The town of Web page is extraordinarily distinctive. Every time my spouse and I go to, we normally hit Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon all in sooner or later. Considered one of my favourite issues to do on the planet is kayak to Antelope Canyon from one of many Lake Powell Boat ramps.
Whereas it may get sizzling in the summertime, fall, and spring make for good instances to go to. You’ll be shocked by the range and wonder throughout you.
Location: Web page is positioned 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 finest 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 simple.
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 positioned seven miles from Antelope Canyon within the city of Web page. You might have nice proximity to the canyon excursions in addition to eating places, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend.
Entrance Payment: The Glen Canyon Recreation Space (Lake Powell) entrance payment is $30, and Horseshoe Bend has a $10 parking payment.
4. Previous City Scottsdale
After dwelling in Phoenix for 3 years, I’ve concluded that Previous City Scottsdale has my favourite eating places and bars. The walkability of the town and the distinctive restaurant choices at all times make for entertaining date nights with my spouse.
Whether or not you’re fascinated by a bachelor get together, a golf journey, or only a heat trip within the winter, Previous City Scottsdale is the right place to make your private home base.
Location: Previous City Scottsdale is 20 minutes East of Downtown Phoenix, so it’s effortlessly accessible.
Getting There: Attending to Previous City Scottsdale is simple with public transportation or ride-share providers. In any other case, a private automobile offers you the prospect to discover the realm and different components 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. Nevertheless, a segway tour by the town is at all times a good time.
The place to Keep: Cover By Hilton is the most suitable choice for lodging in Previous City Scottsdale. The trendy resort is inside strolling distance from all the perfect nightlife.
5. Flagstaff
Flagstaff is at all times a key stopping level for us on our journeys North. It’s a quaint faculty city with nice eating places and implausible adventuring alternatives. Mountain bike trails, mountain climbing, and snowboarding/snowboarding are only a few issues guests can take pleasure in right here.
If you need 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 aid.
Location: Situated in Northern Arizona at 7,000 ft elevation, Flagstaff is round two hours from Phoenix.
Getting There: Flagstaff is finest accessed by a private automobile. There are numerous issues to do in and round city, so having the liberty of a automobile is the most suitable choice.
Issues To Do: Climbing Humphries Peak or seeing a present on the Pepsi Amphitheater are two of my favourite issues to do in Flagstaff. The Flagstaff Excessive Journey Course can be a blast.
The place to Keep: Situated on 500 acres of forest, the Little America Resort supplies nice entry to the town and loads of privateness.
6. Superstition Mountains
The Superstition Mountains are positioned in shut proximity to Phoenix and are good to discover within the cooler months. From October by March, guests can hike miles and miles of desert trails. I completely love exploring the backcountry of the Superstitions each probability I get.
There are brief, 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 the town of Mesa.
Getting There: The Superstition Mountains are finest explored with your personal private automobile because it’s unfold out throughout Burea of Land Administration land.
Issues To Do: Climbing within the Superstition Mountains is among the finest 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 Greatest Western Apache Junction Inn is a perfect place to make your base for exploration of the mountains.
7. Payson
I’m at all times excited to move to the plush Ponderosa Pine forests of Payson. It’s residence to a few of my favourite off-roading, fly fishing, and dispersed tenting in all the state.
If you happen to’re fascinated by seclusion, alpine lakes, and quaint downtown, Payson is the right place for you. It’s family-friendly however nonetheless has loads of actions for the hardcore adventurer.
Location: Situated round 1.5 hours Northeast of Phoenix, Payson is positioned proper within the coronary heart of Tonto Nationwide Forest.
Getting There: Like many different areas of Arizona, attending to Payson is finest achieved through a private automobile. It’s round two hours from the closest airport, and the nationwide forest land is finest traversed through your personal transport.
Issues To Do: Payson has wonderful off-roading and mountain climbing alternatives, however certainly one of my favourite issues to do is take pleasure in all the native lakes and rivers within the space. Guided canyon excursions are additionally a should.
The place to Keep: Kohl’s Ranch Lodge is 20 minutes east of Payson inside a wonderful Ponderosa Pine Forest. It’s an important place to unplug and unwind.
8. Downtown Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix supplies the right mixture of big-city pleasure and laid-back rest. There are phenomenal eating places on each block, and the town is pretty walkable. My spouse and I really like to move downtown to see live shows, sports activities video games or simply to have an important dinner out. Accessibility is simple.
If you happen to’re fascinated by quant eating places and enjoyable bars, the Roosevelt Arts District is ideal. Extra trendy digs might be discovered within the Warehouse District. Each are a blast to discover.
Location: Phoenix is the biggest metropolis in Arizona. Situated 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 through private automobile. Whether or not you’re road-tripping to the town or flying, a automobile is your finest guess. If you happen to solely plan on staying in Phoenix, there’s sufficient public transportation and ride-sharing in your wants.
Issues To Do: Phoenix has nice {golfing} alternatives and eating places throughout the metropolis, however certainly one of my favourite actions is that this sizzling air balloon journey.
The place to Keep: The AC Resort by Marriott is within the coronary heart of the 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 trendy 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 usually make a cease at Williams earlier than they hit the Grand Canyon. You received’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 finest guess for touring to Williams. It’s removed from many different components 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 practice 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 exterior so that you can do, this resort options an indoor swimming pool and health heart.
10. Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu Metropolis is the right base camp for my yearly journey to Lake Havasu. The large Colorado River reservoir is right for lengthy weekends on the water and the handfuls of eating places and off-road trails solely add extra range to this unimaginable location.
Lake Havasu is the right family-friendly place to go to. Seashores and easy water actions can maintain the children entertained for hours.
Location: Lake Havasu is within the far Northwest nook of Arizona, a couple of 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 a couple of 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 personal sundown cocktail cruise is one other enjoyable choice.
The place to Keep: Island Suites is an all-suite resort inside a couple of miles of downtown and proper close to the lake.
11. Monument Valley
I’ve fond reminiscences of driving by Monument Valley yearly I visited Arizona earlier than shifting right here. Now that Arizona is my residence, I wish to make a yearly journey to those lovely purple rock formations within the midst of the desert. I grew up on outdated Western films like Stagecoach, so it’s enjoyable to see the filming places in particular person.
Whereas Monument Valley isn’t close to to a lot else, it’s an important place to expertise Native American historical past. Take a guided jeep tour or benefit from the 17-mile drive. If you happen to’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 lovely.
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 midst of nowhere, however for my part, its location solely provides to its magnificence.
Issues To Do: Driving by the park is the perfect factor to do. Plus, the customer heart is effectively value testing. I wish to take guided backcountry jeep excursions with Navajo guides as a result of they’re in a position to entry completely different components of the valley non-natives in any other case couldn’t.
The place to Keep: The Hampton Inn in Kayenta is a basic resort that works effectively as a launching level in your exploration of Monument Valley.
Entrance Payment: The Monument Valley 17-mile driving loop prices $20 per automobile.
12. Tucson
Tucson is a vibrant, historic metropolis that Arizona vacationers usually overlook. I’ve spent numerous days exploring the nationwide forests and BLM (Bureau of Land Administration) land that surrounds the 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 the town and hire a automobile from there. In any other case, Tucson has a bus and shuttle system that runs all through the town.
Issues To Do: Every time I go to Tucson, I ensure that to eat at certainly one 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 Field Canyon is a superb technique to see the town.
The place to Keep: The El Amador Downtown Luxurious Inn supplies ideally suited entry to all the perfect components of Tucson.
13. White Mountains
The White Mountains type my ideally suited playground. The jagged peaks, backcountry rivers, and infinite 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 nice bases in your White Mountain adventures. Ensure you observe native reservation tips throughout your exploration.
Location: The White Mountains are positioned within the Northeast part of Arizona. This lovely 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: Every time I go to the White Mountains, I at all times 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 Present Low-Pinetop in your go to to the pristine White Mountains. It’s a wonderful resort with easy accessibility to all main roads.
14. Montezuma Fort Nationwide Monument
As a historical past fan, Montezuma Fort Nationwide Monument was one of many first locations I wished 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 important cease in your manner north to Sedona, Flagstaff, or the Grand Canyon. You possibly can simply spend a morning trying round and studying all in regards to the ruins.
Location: Montezuma Fort Nationwide 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 possibly can fly into Phoenix and hire a automobile or highway journey from wherever you’re setting off from.
Issues To Do: Once I go to, I wish to hike the 1/3 mile loop path and spend time within the customer heart. In any other case, you may mix the journey with a tour of Sedona and Jerome.
The place to Keep: The Cliff Fort On line casino Resort is minutes from the Montezuma Fort Nationwide Monument and is on the premises of an important on line casino.
Entrance Payment: $10 for every grownup 16 and older.
15. Saguaro Lake
If I ever desire a break from the summer time 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 effectively well worth the effort. We normally spherical off the day with a cease in Mesa on our manner residence for an important chunk to eat.
Saguaro Lake is a reservoir that breaks up the Salt River. It’s positioned within the lovely Superstition Mountains that may be seen on the horizon in East Phoenix.
Location: Saguaro Lake is positioned 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: Once I go to Saguaro Lake, most of my time is spent paddleboarding and boating, however there are additionally guided kayak excursions so that you can take pleasure in.
The place to Keep: The Greatest Western Gold Canyon supplies company with easy accessibility to Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake in addition to the Superstition Mountains.
Entrance Payment: A every day $7 move is required for all autos.
16. Sonoita
Wine nation isn’t one thing individuals first think about after they consider Arizona. Nevertheless, Sonoita is about an hour south of Tucson and has a number of wonderful wineries. These are true hidden gems and supply an important 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 components of wine nation with none pretentiousness.
Location: Sonoita is positioned 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 ensure you guide a wine tour in your go to.
The place to Keep: The Rancho Milagro Mattress & Breakfast is a good spot in your go to to wine nation.
17. Havasu/Havasupai Falls
Havasupai Falls is without doubt one of the most lovely sights I’ve ever seen. The 18 miles of mountain climbing have been effectively well worth the effort to see the jaw-dropping blue waterfalls. Earlier than you go, it’s essential to ensure you get a allow from the Havasupai Reservation. Permits are launched every February for the 12 months, so be ready to select the dates you propose to go to.
This hike requires an intensive 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 manage forward of time, you’ll be okay.
Location: Havasu Falls is positioned throughout the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so it’s not part of the nationwide park.
Getting There: The one technique to get to the falls is through 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 have been lucky sufficient to safe a allow 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
If you happen to’re a fan of Wild West historical past, you received’t discover a higher city to discover than Tombstone. Situated in Southeastern Arizona, Tombstone is residence to quite a few museums and displays devoted to America within the 1800s. Mock gun fights, ghost excursions, and historic buildings are all accessible to take pleasure in.
My first go to to Tombstone was this previous 12 months, 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 ideally suited 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 outdated museums and see a basic gunfight present on the O.Okay. Corral. In any other case, the Lifeless Males’s Tales Strolling Tour provides an enchanting 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 personal balcony in good environment.
19. Prescott
Prescott is the right place to go to if you wish to escape the summer time 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 time to play golf and kayak on Watson Lake. It’s a straightforward day journey and provides a welcome tease of cooler temperatures to come back.
Location: Prescott is a bit of 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 through 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: Once I go to Prescott, I wish to kayak Waston Lake, go downtown, or take a guided horseback journey.
The place to Keep: Resort Vendome is a good historic resort within the coronary heart of Downtown Prescott.
20. Saguaro Nationwide Park
Saguaro Nationwide Park in Tucson is a very lovely, untouched desert paradise. The hovering cacti, desert wildlife, and beautiful mountains inside this park are a must-see. Guests are at all times pleasantly stunned on their go to.
I’ve visited the park a number of instances and love the laid-back really feel of it. I really 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 positioned on the Northeast facet 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 facet of the park is an thrilling but enjoyable technique to see the picturesque landscapes.
The place to Keep: The Hampton Inn Suites Tucson Marana is on the North facet of Tucson, not removed from the park entrance.
Entrance Payment: $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 not like any I’ve seen. It’s an outdated copper mining city that’s became an enthralling vacationer vacation spot. The numerous 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 way in which that make the go to much more value it.
Location: Bisbee is discovered within the mountains of southeast Arizona, round three hours south of Phoenix and inside a couple of miles of the Mexican border.
Getting There: You’ll want your personal automobile for a tour of Bisbee, as public transportation could be very difficult to seek 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 through a personal golf cart – it’s glorious.
The place to Keep: A keep on the Jonquil Motel offers an important really feel for all that Bisbee has to supply.
22. Jerome
Situated 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.
If you happen to’re fascinated by ghosts and a few extra eclectic historical past, Jerome is for you. For people who wish to expertise a brand new place by style, there are wineries and fantastic eating places so that you can go to.
Location: Situated two hours North of Phoenix, Jerome is a small and very distinctive city.
Getting There: Guests can finest entry Jerome through a personal automobile. Whether or not it’s a rental or your personal, entry is best in your personal automobile.
Issues To Do: Every time I go to Jerome, I make a journey by Jerome State Historic Park and go to the mining museum. In any other case, the Jerome Ghost Stroll offers you a glimpse into the spooky facet of the city.
The place to Keep: The Clinksdale is certainly one of my favourite resorts (ever). It’s proper downtown and has superior decor.
23. Petrified Forest Nationwide Park
Petrified Forest Nationwide Park isn’t one thing that essentially wants a complete journey devoted to it. If you happen to’re touring I-40 into Arizona, it’s proper off the freeway and makes for a straightforward stop-off. Households and adventurers will discover simple trails and nice views of the encircling desert.
The park might be visited in a day with out feeling pushed for time. Plus, you may keep in close by Holbrook for a straightforward cease after you’re finished.
Location: Petrified Forest Nationwide 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 sooner or later. My spouse and I wish to drive by the park and hike Devils Playground.
The place to Keep: The La Quinta Inn & Suites in Holbrook offers company the perfect entry to the nationwide park.
Entrance Payment: $20 per automobile for a 1-7 day move.
24. Wickenburg
Wickenburg is a enjoyable historic city west of Phoenix. Plus, it’s residence 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 hearth.
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 could be very restricted within the metropolis.
Issues To Do: I really like {golfing} at Wickenburg Ranch Golf Membership, finishing the Scorching Photographs 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 Nationwide Monument is a reasonably large park in Northeast Arizona. It’s positioned on Navajo tribal lands, and the canyon is surrounded by a rock spire in addition to lovely sandstone cliffs. It’s considerably of a secret spot within the far East facet of the state.
I often visited with my household for a number of years on our technique to Arizona for trip. It blew my thoughts once I first noticed it. I couldn’t imagine this canyon was out in the midst of what I assumed was such a desolate place.
Location: Canyon de Chelly Nationwide Monument is positioned on a Navajo Reservation on the far Northeast facet 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: Every time I’m going, I like to finish the drives on the North Rim and South Rim. These take a couple of 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: Situated 12 miles from the monument, Thunderbird Lodge is the perfect place to remain for many who want to be in shut proximity.
Getting Round Arizona
Certainly, one of the best 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 essentially the most freedom and entry.
Rental automobile choices are plentiful all through Arizona, so that you received’t wrestle to seek out one which fits your wants.
Fast Itineraries for Arizona
Listed here are a couple of easy itineraries to observe 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 evening.
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 Shiny Angel Path for a couple of miles, seize a chunk to eat at El Tovar, and watch the sundown over the canyon earlier than you head into your room on the Shiny Angel Lodge.
Day 3: The following day, drive again to Phoenix earlier than heading residence.
One Week in Arizona
Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, hire a automobile, and make your manner as much as Sedona. Seize a chunk 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 chunk 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, however it supplies wonderful views of the purple rocks. After you end, seize lunch at one of many many eateries and luxuriate in downtown Sedona.
Head again to your resort for a calming 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 way in which, 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 verify into your room at Shiny 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 Shiny Angel Path. This may take till round midday, relying on whenever you set off. Within the afternoon, drive alongside Rim Street and luxuriate in all the lovely vistas. Seize a chunk to eat at El Tovar.
Day 6: The following morning, make the four-hour drive again all the way down to Phoenix and verify in on the Arizona Biltmore close to the airport. Benefit from the resort facilities earlier than you fly out the subsequent day.
Day 7: If you happen to’re feeling as much as it, hike Camelback earlier than you fly again residence.
10+ Days in Arizona
Day 1: Fly or drive into Tucson and verify in to the Hilton Marana in North Tucson. From right here, seize a chunk at one of many many native eating places.
Day 2: Begin your second day with a go to to Saguaro Nationwide Park. You possibly can spend a day exploring the park and the encircling areas. If you happen to’re feeling as much as it, you may head towards the highest of Mount Lemon in Tucson for some recent 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 in case you’re up for it, seize a drink at an area bar.
Day 4: In your fourth day, drive North from Previous City and hike Pinnacle Peak within the morning. Within the afternoon, be at liberty to golf at Troon North Golf Membership and luxuriate in one other evening out in Previous City, strolling round and exploring the various eateries.
Day 5: On day 5, you’ll make your manner North to Sedona. Keep on the Enchantment Resort for a real five-star expertise. You probably 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 purple rocks expertise. If you happen to’d like, take a jeep tour within the afternoon to expertise all the wonderful 4×4 trails.
Day 7: The following day, pack your luggage and make your manner 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 value visiting the downtown. Keep at Shiny Angel Lodge throughout the park and luxuriate in a meal on the restaurant.
Day 8: Get up the subsequent morning and spend the day mountain climbing the Shiny Angel Path. This path could 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 evening enjoyable and reflecting in your journey to Arizona.
Day 10: Drop your rental automobile off in Phoenix and have a protected flight residence.
Should-Attempt Meals in Arizona
Arizona is a melting pot for all kinds of various individuals teams and cultures. Because of this, the state is filled with distinctive meals that many natives and vacationers have come to like. Whether or not it’s Mexican meals or Native American delicacies, there are a couple of choices it’s essential to attempt 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 Canine
Sonoran Scorching Canine 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. Attempt Sonora Querida in Phoenix for the perfect Sonoran Canine within the metropolis.
Cheese Crisps
Cheese crips are a basic bar snack. Flour tortillas and shredded cheese are griddled till the tortilla has a pleasant crunch. Be at liberty to make them extra thrilling with toppings akin to rooster, chiles, onions, or the rest you fancy. El Minuto Cafe in Tucson does a very good job of this dish.
Greatest Locations to See in Arizona: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting lovely locations in Arizona:
Arizona is positioned 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 positioned proper within the coronary heart of among the most lovely surroundings in all the nation.
Guests can snowboard or ski throughout the day and be again within the pool at evening. It’s a various state with one thing for everybody. The numerous actions accessible have 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 instances, and I carry everybody who visits me alongside to it – everybody ought to go to a minimum of as soon as!
Whereas it’s 4 hours from Phoenix, it’s well worth the drive. I normally make it a 2-day journey and go to Sedona and Flagstaff on my manner 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 points of interest, just like the Grand Canyon, should not but lined in snow.
The spring can be lovely with the cool Phoenix temperatures and snow sports activities within the northern a part of the state.
For my part, the Sedona and Flagstaff space is the prettiest a part of Arizona. You get the attractive purple rocks, towering peaks, and plush 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 known for lovely views, the Grand Canyon, sizzling summer time climate, phenomenal golf programs, and infinite 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 among the best states within the nation to do it.
Sure, Arizona is protected to go to. Vacationers are widespread always of the 12 months, 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 possibly can encompass your self with individuals or discover alone, relying on what you like.
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 might have nearly every little thing you’ll need; mountains, water, purple rocks, deserts, and extra. My three years dwelling right here have led to a few of my favourite adventures to date.
Guests are at all times welcome, and it’s simple to create an itinerary that matches precisely what you wish to do. There’s a motive Arizona is without doubt one of the fastest-growing states in the USA. A brand new journey is at all times across the nook.
