Mountain peaks, countless deserts, lush forests, and crimson rock formations are only a few landscapes that make visiting Arizona such an exceptional 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 very best locations to go to in Arizona occur to be a few of the greatest locations to go to in america. 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 variety 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 grow to be bored in superb Arizona.
Quicklook: 5 Finest Locations to Go to in Arizona
- Grand Canyon Nationwide Park: The Grand Canyon is without doubt one of the nation’s greatest nationwide parks, stuffed with countless exploration alternatives.
- Web page: Web page is positioned near Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend, so you’ll be able to cross off three distinctive locations in a single cease.
- Sedona: The crimson rocks surrounding Sedona are beautiful and make for excellent mountaineering alternatives.
- Tucson: The improbable eating places, historical past, and charming really feel of Tucson make it an ideal place to go to.
- Outdated City Scottsdale: If golf, nightlife, distinctive meals, and luxurious are thrilling to you, then a go to to Outdated City Scottsdale is a should.
☞ SEE ALSO: 101 Finest Locations to Go to within the USA in 2023 (Final Bucket Checklist)
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 might be.
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 skills, and I’m humbled by the huge magnificence every time I’m going.
Households, adventurers, informal hikers, and all different kinds 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 stunning locations to see on this 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: The easiest way to get to the Grand Canyon is with your personal car. Because it’s so removed from main cities, public transportation will be onerous to search out.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering 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 very best place to remain to your go to to the Grand Canyon. Positioned proper exterior the South Rim, it supplies easy accessibility to a few of the greatest components of the park.
Entrance Payment: 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 bought engaged there on a phenomenal 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 superb, the luxurious resorts and eating places present added pleasure to town. All totally different sorts of individuals discover one thing to like about Sedona; it’s merely beautiful.
Location: Positioned two hours North of Phoenix, Sedona is a phenomenal city off of Interstate 17.
Getting There: The easiest way to go to Sedona is with your personal car. Throughout the city, there are shuttles to totally different trailheads, however getting there may be best with a private car.
Issues To Do: Just like the Grand Canyon, mountaineering 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 mountaineering trails. Plus, every room gives phenomenal views of the mountains.
3. Web page
Town of Web page is extraordinarily distinctive. At any time when my spouse and I go to, we often hit Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon all in sooner or later. Certainly one of my favourite issues to do on this 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 occasions to go to. You’ll be surprised by the variability 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 greatest with a private car. There are too many choices for issues to do within the space, so that you’ll wish to have your personal car to make getting round simple.
Issues To Do: Visiting Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and touring Antelope Canyon are the very best 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 may 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 charge is $30, and Horseshoe Bend has a $10 parking charge.
4. Outdated City Scottsdale
After dwelling in Phoenix for 3 years, I’ve concluded that Outdated City 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 inquisitive about a bachelor celebration, a golf journey, or only a heat trip within the winter, Outdated City Scottsdale is the proper place to make your own home base.
Location: Outdated City Scottsdale is 20 minutes East of Downtown Phoenix, so it’s effortlessly accessible.
Getting There: Attending to Outdated City Scottsdale is simple with public transportation or ride-share companies. In any other case, a private car offers you the possibility to discover the world 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 Outdated City Scottsdale. Nevertheless, a segway tour by way of town is all the time a good time.
The place to Keep: Cover By Hilton is the best choice for lodging in Outdated City Scottsdale. The fashionable resort is inside strolling distance from all the very best nightlife.
5. Flagstaff
Flagstaff is all the time a key stopping level for us on our journeys North. It’s a quaint school city with nice eating places and improbable adventuring alternatives. Mountain bike trails, mountaineering, and snowboarding/snowboarding are only a few issues guests can take pleasure in right here.
In order for you 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: 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 car. There are numerous issues to do in and round city, so having the liberty of a car 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 Excessive Journey Course can be a blast.
The place to Keep: Positioned on 500 acres of forest, the Little America Resort supplies nice entry to 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 way of 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 town of Mesa.
Getting There: The Superstition Mountains are greatest explored with your personal private car because it’s unfold out throughout Burea of Land Administration land.
Issues To Do: Mountaineering within the Superstition Mountains is a few of 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 Finest 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 go 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 your complete state.
Should you’re inquisitive about 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 positioned 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 car. 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 superb off-roading and mountaineering 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 phenomenal Ponderosa Pine Forest. It’s an amazing place to unplug and unwind.
8. Downtown Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix supplies the proper mixture of big-city pleasure and laid-back leisure. There are phenomenal eating places on each block, and town is pretty walkable. My spouse and I like to go downtown to see live shows, sports activities video games or simply to have an amazing dinner out. Accessibility is simple.
Should you’re inquisitive about quant eating places and enjoyable bars, the Roosevelt Arts District is ideal. Extra fashionable digs will be discovered within the Warehouse District. Each are a blast to discover.
Location: Phoenix is the most important 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 car. Whether or not you’re road-tripping to town or flying, a automotive is your greatest wager. Should you solely plan on staying in Phoenix, there’s sufficient public transportation and ride-sharing to your wants.
Issues To Do: Phoenix has nice {golfing} alternatives and eating places inside the metropolis, however certainly one of my favourite actions is that this sizzling air balloon trip.
The place to Keep: The AC Resort by Marriott is within the coronary heart of town close to all the very best eating places and bars.
9. Williams
Williams is my favourite small city in Arizona. The Route 66 city is stuffed 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 usually 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 car is your greatest wager for touring to Williams. It’s removed from many different components of the state, so that you’ll want a car 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 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 unimaginable location.
Lake Havasu is the proper 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, just a few hours south of Las Vegas.
Getting There: To get to Lake Havasu, you’ll wish to take your personal private car or a rental car. It’s just a few hours from Phoenix and Vegas, so getting there generally is 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 possibility.
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 way of Monument Valley yearly I visited Arizona earlier than shifting right here. Now that Arizona is my residence, I prefer to make a yearly journey to those stunning crimson 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 areas 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. Should 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 car to get to Monument Valley. For most individuals, it’s thought of to be in the course of nowhere, however for my part, its location solely provides to its magnificence.
Issues To Do: Driving by way of the park is the very best factor to do. Plus, the customer heart is properly price trying out. I prefer to take guided backcountry jeep excursions with Navajo guides as a result of they’re in a position to entry totally different components 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 properly as a launching level to your exploration of Monument Valley.
Entrance Payment: The Monument Valley 17-mile driving loop prices $20 per car.
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 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 automotive from there. In any other case, Tucson has a bus and shuttle system that runs all through town.
Issues To Do: At any time when I go to Tucson, I be sure to eat at certainly one of their many eating places and go to the Catalina Foothills for some nice mountaineering. In any other case, a half-day ATV tour by way of Field Canyon is an excellent solution to see town.
The place to Keep: The El Amador Downtown Luxurious Inn supplies excellent entry to all the very best components of Tucson.
13. White Mountains
The White Mountains type my excellent playground. The jagged peaks, backcountry rivers, and countless 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 to your White Mountain adventures. Be sure you observe native reservation tips throughout your exploration.
Location: The White Mountains are positioned 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 automotive 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 car is a should.
Issues To Do: At any time when 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 Present Low-Pinetop in your go to to the pristine White Mountains. It’s a phenomenal 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 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 approach 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 may be best with a private car. You possibly can fly into Phoenix and hire a automotive or highway journey from wherever you’re setting off from.
Issues To Do: Once 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’ll be able to 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 amazing on line casino.
Entrance Payment: $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 simple drive and properly definitely worth the effort. We often spherical off the day with a cease in Mesa on our approach residence for an amazing chew to eat.
Saguaro Lake is a reservoir that breaks up the Salt River. It’s positioned within the stunning 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 car. Fly into Phoenix and hire a automotive 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 Finest Western Gold Canyon supplies friends with easy accessibility to Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake in addition to the Superstition Mountains.
Entrance Payment: A day by day $7 move is required for all automobiles.
16. Sonoita
Wine nation isn’t one thing individuals first think about once they consider Arizona. Nevertheless, Sonoita is about an hour south of Tucson and has a number of superb 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 very best 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 automotive on the Tucson airport or take your personal.
Issues To Do: Wine tasting is the very best factor to do while you’re in Sonoita, so be sure to guide a wine tour to your go to.
The place to Keep: The Rancho Milagro Mattress & Breakfast is a good spot to your go to to wine nation.
17. Havasu/Havasupai Falls
Havasupai Falls is without doubt one of the most stunning sights I’ve ever seen. The 18 miles of mountaineering have been properly definitely worth the effort to see the jaw-dropping blue waterfalls. Earlier than you go, it’s essential to be sure to get a allow from the Havasupai Reservation. Permits are launched every February for the yr, so be ready to select the dates you propose 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 set up forward of time, you’ll be okay.
Location: Havasu Falls is positioned inside 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 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 very best entry to Havasu Falls.
18. Tombstone
Should 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 residence to quite a few museums and reveals devoted to America within the 1800s. Mock gun fights, ghost excursions, and historic buildings are all out there to take pleasure in.
My first go to to Tombstone was this previous yr, and I cherished it. The mock gun present was a lot enjoyable to observe. Plus, Tombstone has some nice native eating places making it excellent 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: The easiest way to get to Tucson is in your personal car. Fly into Tucson and hire a automotive or take your personal.
Issues To Do: When visiting Tombstone, I like to cease by the outdated museums and see a traditional gunfight present on the O.Okay. Corral. In any other case, the Lifeless Males’s Tales Strolling Tour gives an interesting look into the city’s wealthy historical past.
The place to Keep: Keep on the Tombstone Miners Cabins while 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 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 simple day journey and gives 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 by way of a private car, as public transport isn’t an possibility. Whether or not you’re flying into Phoenix and renting a automotive or taking your personal.
Issues To Do: Once I go to Prescott, I prefer to kayak Waston Lake, go downtown, or take a guided horseback trip.
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 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 mountaineering I can get in right here while having fun with the superb wildlife and flora.
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 car. Fly into Tucson and hire a automotive 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 stress-free solution 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 car 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 outdated copper mining city that’s become 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 grow to be 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 car for a tour of Bisbee, as public transportation could 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 personal 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 simple day journey. There are nice museums, and Jerome State Historic Park is nice. Households are positive to like Jerome.
Should you’re inquisitive about ghosts and a few extra eclectic historical past, Jerome is for you. For people who prefer to expertise a brand new place by way 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 very distinctive city.
Getting There: Guests can greatest entry Jerome by way of a personal car. Whether or not it’s a rental or your personal, entry is best in your personal automotive.
Issues To Do: At any time when I go to Jerome, I make a journey by way of 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 whole journey devoted to it. Should you’re touring I-40 into Arizona, it’s proper off the freeway and makes for a simple stop-off. Households and adventurers will discover simple trails and nice views of the encompassing desert.
The park will be visited in a day with out feeling pushed for time. Plus, you’ll be able to keep in close by Holbrook for a simple cease after you’re executed.
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 car while you go to Petrified Forest Nationwide Park. It’s a great distance from any main metropolis, and public transportation isn’t an possibility.
Issues To Do: Visiting Petrified Forest Nationwide Park doesn’t require any longer than sooner or later. My spouse and I prefer to drive by way of the park and hike Devils Playground.
The place to Keep: The La Quinta Inn & Suites in Holbrook offers friends the very best entry to the nationwide park.
Entrance Payment: $20 per car 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 while you’re within the space. It’s a 7-mile hike devoted to the 19 members of a fireplace crew that died combating a fireplace.
Households will benefit from the enjoyable downtown retailers, and adventurers will recognize the hundreds 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 personal car is a should while you’re making a visit to Wickenburg. Public transportation could be very restricted within the metropolis.
Issues To Do: I like {golfing} at Wickenburg Ranch Golf Membership, finishing the Sizzling Photographs Hike, or renting a UTV to discover the encompassing areas.
The place to Keep: Keep at Stagecoach Suites while 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 pretty big park in Northeast Arizona. It’s positioned 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 facet 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 imagine this canyon was out in the course 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 car because it’s a great distance from bigger cities.
Issues To Do: At any time when I’m going, I like to finish the drives on the North Rim and South Rim. These take just a few hours in complete. 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 very best place to remain for many who want to be in shut proximity.
Getting Round Arizona
Undoubtedly, the easiest way to get round Arizona is with a automotive. It’s an enormous state with quite a bit to see, and the general public transportation choices are restricted.
You’ll discover some public transportation all through the cities, however there are giant distances between the very best locations to go to, so a automotive offers you essentially the most freedom and entry.
Rental automotive 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 observe when visiting Arizona:
3 Days in Arizona
For a three-day journey to Arizona, I’d suggest flying into Phoenix and renting a automotive. 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 subsequent morning, drive one other two hours to the Grand Canyon and spend the day exploring. Hike down Brilliant 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 Brilliant Angel Lodge.
Day 3: The subsequent day, drive again to Phoenix earlier than heading residence.
One Week in Arizona
Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, hire a automotive, and make your approach as much as Sedona. Seize a chew to eat on the Hudson in Sedona whereas making 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 subsequent day, get up and get out onto the Mount Wilson trailhead early. This hike will take all morning, nevertheless it supplies superb 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 calming night earlier than heading to dinner on the Hideaway Home.
Day 4: The subsequent morning, pack up the automotive 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 verify into your room at Brilliant Angel Lodge. Get pleasure from a scrumptious meal on the on-site lodge restaurant.
Day 5: The subsequent day, begin your morning off with a hike into the Grand Canyon down Brilliant Angel Path. It will take till round midday, relying on while 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 subsequent morning, make the four-hour drive again right 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: Should you’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 chew 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 encompassing areas. Should you’re feeling as much as it, you’ll be able to 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 Outdated City Scottsdale and luxuriate in one of many well-known eating places, and when you’re up for it, seize a drink at an area bar.
Day 4: In your fourth day, drive North from Outdated 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 night time out in Outdated City, strolling round and exploring the numerous eateries.
Day 5: On day 5, you’ll make your approach 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. Should you’d like, take a jeep tour within the afternoon to expertise all the superb 4×4 trails.
Day 7: The subsequent day, pack your baggage and make your approach as much as the Grand Canyon. This two-hour drive will be damaged up with a cease in Flagstaff for breakfast or lunch. Plus, it’s price visiting the downtown. Keep at Brilliant Angel Lodge inside the park and luxuriate in a meal on the restaurant.
Day 8: Get up the subsequent morning and spend the day mountaineering the Brilliant Angel Path. This path could be very difficult, so be life like about your bodily capabilities earlier than you go. Seize dinner at El Tavar to reward your self after the lengthy day.
Day 9: The subsequent morning, head the 4 hours again right down to Phoenix and seize a room on the Phoenician. Spend your final full night time stress-free and reflecting in your journey to Arizona.
Day 10: Drop your rental automotive off in Phoenix and have a protected flight residence.
Should-Strive Meals in Arizona
Arizona is a melting pot for all types 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 just a few choices it’s essential to attempt while 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 inside the native communities in Arizona. Go to The Stand in Scottsdale for the very best Navajo Tacos within the valley.
Sonoran Sizzling Canines
Sonoran Sizzling Canines are a real staple in Arizona. The buns are stuffed with pinto beans, onions, mustard, jalapeno salsa, mayo, and tomato. Oh, and the recent canine itself is wrapped in bacon. It’s a scrumptious, Southwestern twist on a staple. Strive Sonora Querida in Phoenix for the very best 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 akin 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 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 a few of the most stunning surroundings in your complete nation.
Guests can snowboard or ski in the course of the day and be again within the pool at night time. It’s a various state with one thing for everybody. The numerous actions out there 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, mountaineering, climbing, tenting, or biking, there’s one thing for you. I’m an increasing number of 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 at the least 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 approach up from the valley.
The autumn or spring is the very best 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, are usually not but coated in snow.
The spring can 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 very best 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, sizzling summer season climate, phenomenal golf programs, and countless outside actions. Relying in your pursuits, Arizona can stand out to you for a lot of totally 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 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 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 may have nearly every thing 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 up to now.
Guests are all the time welcome, and it’s simple to create an itinerary that matches precisely what you want to do. There’s a purpose Arizona is without doubt one of the fastest-growing states in america. A brand new journey is all the time across the nook.
