Touropia Logo

Touropia Travel Experts

Tours & Top Tens

33 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Arizona

Last updated on February 4, 2024 by Jamie Gambetta - 9 Comments

A postcard to the Old West, Arizona is a prismatic mix of ethereal landscapes and ancient history. The vast, arid environment brings the two together to the point they are completely intertwined. It only serves to elevate the traveling experience.

The Grand Canyon and Sedona belong in any Arizona itinerary. But between the, often scorching, valleys and the snow-capped San Francisco Peaks, lies a delectable assortment of natural and human fun that should pique the interest of all visitors.

The day begins with the rising sun, bringing a fresh burst of light from the burnt-red landscape. It ends with an unforgettable night sky ablaze with billions of stars. Within lies a playground that is yours to discover, one that will confound as much as it enlightens.

Since its admission to the Union as the 48th state, the world-famous tourist attractions in Arizona like the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and Saguaro National Park have drawn in tourists from all over the world.

33. Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki National Monument

The preserved pueblos of the Wupatki National Monument are some of the country’s best Native American archaeological sites. Lathered in history and culture, the pueblos provide what feels like a firsthand look into the heritage of the Hopi and Zuni communities.

The national monument is incredibly impactful. The area dates back thousands of years into Neolithic times and guides you through the development and expansion through to the last 200 years.

There are seven pueblos within the Wupatki National Monument to explore. Four trails snake throughout the site, bringing you to them all, with the stunning background of prairies and red rocks encompassing the monument.

32. Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory

Unlock your inner astronomer on a visit to Arizona’s Lowell Observatory. Since opening in 1894, the observatory has been a preeminent way to gaze into the galaxies, not just for visitors but the pros as well. Here, researchers were the first to discover Pluto!

Today, you can get your hands on world-class telescopes to spot some of your favorite planets and constellations. You can balance this with lectures that explore, for example, Black Holes.

The history of the observatory is also on full display as you can read through classic scientific books, early instruments and Lowell’s original telescope.

If you can, arrive at night where you can experience the sky at its best.

31. Glen Canyon Dam

Glen Canyon Dam

It took eight years to block up the Colorado River and create the Glen Canyon Dam alongside Lake Powell. Together, they make up the bulk of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It’s one of the country’s largest man-made bodies of water.

From the town of Page, you can explore what is truly a sight to behold. From the dam along the canyon to Lees Ferry are 15 miles of eye-catching landscapes. The deep blues of the water contrast spectacularly with the desert surroundings of buttes and bluffs.

Throughout, you’ll find hiking and biking trails along the water’s edge. While marinas and docks provide access to seemingly endless amounts of space for water sports.

30. Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument

Home to whimsical rock gardens and towering monolithic pillars, the Chiricahua National Monument is a natural wonderland. However, being the home to the Chiricahua Apache, the monument is much more than what meets the eye.

In southeastern Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument is known as the Sky Islands being upwards of 7,300 feet in elevation. Cooler weather befalls the area compared to the searing valley, providing a more diverse range of flora to color the rock sculptures.

Chiricahua National Monument

The classic Arizonan sandstone is balanced by ancient molten debris, rhyolite. They combine to create a mix of hoodoos, balancing rocks, and pinnacles. Hiking trails snake throughout, showcasing the footprints of the Apache that lived here until the mid to late 1800s.

29. Taliesin West, Scottsdale

Taliesin West

The subtle town of Frank Lloyd Wright can be seen throughout Arizona. However, his winter home, Taliesin West, stands above them all. In Scottsdale , Wright’s handcrafted home is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond just being his winter home and workspace, Taliesin West was a longtime campus home to his proteges. Together they expanded the boundaries of architecture that itself would flow into America’s culture.

Today, you can tour the rooms that are a mix of artistic and unusual. The bathroom floor is made of sheets of aluminum. The properties’ exterior also features some beautiful landscapes home to ancient petroglyphs.

28. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park

A great stop to make along your Route 66 road trip, the Petrified Forest National Park, is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The park is a collaboration of amazing natural “architecture”, paleontology and archeology. It’s a treasure trove, waiting to be unlocked.

Near Holbrook, the park is laden with petrified woods. These can be seen up close on long meandering trails, showcasing the changing of the wood into solid quartz, with vibrant manganese and iron colors. At many points, you’ll find overlooks of the eye-catching Painted Desert that rolls through the national park.

Ancient petroglyphs

There are some memorable human landmarks, such as Puerco Pueblo. This 100-room compound was home to the Ancestral Puebloan people over 600 years ago. In addition, you’ll find petroglyphs hundreds of years old.

27. Biosphere 2

Biosphere 2

You may be traveling around Arizona, but at Biosphere 2 you can travel around the world. Providing an up-close experience of the earth’s different rainforests, Biosphere 2 puts the natural world on display.

Great for young and old, visitors can don spacesuits and explore the complex as if they were experiencing a foreign world.

Biosphere 2 Green House

Each sphere showcases a replica of three rainforests but also some arctic and desert environments. Such is its complexity, Biosphere 2 is as much a place for researchers, including NASA, as it is for you and me.

As you explore Biosphere 2, you’ll learn how natural ecosystems can sustain themselves and how we can harness this for the benefit of both wildlife and humanity.

26. Ski in Flagstaff

Ski in Flagstaff

So much of Arizona’s highlights showcase the beauty of the desert climate. But as you explore, you’ll begin to see the towering peaks that rise into the stratosphere. It’s here you’ll discover some snow-capped mountains, some open to skiing.

Near Flagstaff , the Arizona Snowball welcomes skiers and snowboarders from across the United States. Featuring an average of 260 inches of snow per year and over 2,300ft of vertical drop, the mountain is the preeminent ski resort in Arizona. Importantly, it’s as much a place for beginners as experts.

While the season often starts in November and December, it’s the late winter and early spring that provides the best conditions. Not to mention those gorgeous blue sky days that showcase the endless beauty of Arizona.

Other options include the smaller Elk Ridge Ski Area, 45 minutes from Flagstaff. This is a great budget option that also includes tubing.

25. Lake Powell

Lake Powell

Enveloped in red rock cliffs and monolithic formations, the 2,000 miles of Lake Powell shoreline are a desert oasis. The man-made lake is the definition of picturesque, while being a playground for the adventurer.

In the hot summer months, families make their way to the lake’s edge to have a refreshing swim under the desert sun. Various boats roam the lake, some slowly and others at great speed. SUPs and kayaks dot the shoreline, encompassing all the activities that make Lake Powell a wonderful place to be.

Stick around for a memorable night sky while glamping along the lake’s edge. Better yet, spend a night on the water sleeping in a houseboat.

24. Heard Museum, Phoenix

Heard Museum

In a region rich with living and preserved Native American history, we must mention the Heard Museum. In Phoenix , the museum has been around for almost 100 years and features the stories of Native American communities from a first-person perspective.

The exhibits take you on a vibrant journey from recent eras back through the centuries. You’ll explore not just the history but the evolution of culture and art. This is further exemplified through the differences between tribes that showcase the fascinating complexity that lies within.

It all combines for one of America’s best Native American museums and will leave you more educated than when you first walked in.

23. Flintstone’s Bedrock City

Bedrock City

Along the flat, monotonous road that leads travelers through Valle, Arizona stands an eye-catching sign. “Yabba-Dabba-Doo” it remarks, automatically capturing your attention and sending you right back to your childhood living room.

This sign marks the beginning of Flintstone’s Bedrock City, a collection of buildings with that classic prehistoric look. A recreation of the famous TV town, this is your chance to live out the Flintstones’ life. Travelers can make their way to Fred and Wilma’s house, the old school, the town’s courthouse and sit in the classic car.

As a part of Raptor Ranch, you can combine this experience with various encounters with birds of prey, like raptors, hawks and eagles.

Jerome

Once an abandoned mining settlement and the definition of a ghost town, Jerome is on the comeback. At 5,000 feet in elevation, Jerome stands above the gorgeous desert valley where distant snow-capped peaks confound the soaring heat. While the town itself is a vibrant mix of tourist fun and history.

Jerome

Time here starts at Jerome State Historic Park, home to the Douglas Mansion. The beautiful mansion was there through the town’s growth, demise and now, comeback. The town’s surrounding vineyards also offer some tasty wine sampling.

But no Jerome experience is complete without some ghost hunting, each highlighting the breadth of the supernatural that “exists” within the once abandoned town.

21. Walnut Canyon National Monument

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Not far from Flagstaff, the Walnut Canyon National Monument is yet another living tribute to the Sinagua people. The community lived within the canyon’s cliffs for hundreds of years up until the 13th century.

Carved by Walnut Creek, the canyon stands at 600ft tall and can be explored along the Rim Trail. This 30-minute out-and-back trek takes you to memorable overlooks as you watch the water meander through the canyon on its way to the Little Colorado River.

For up-close vistas of the Puebloan dwellings, embark on the 1-mile Island Trail, which also includes informational plaques. However, hikers should know there are some 200 steps along the journey.

20. Mission San Xavier del Bac

Mission San Xavier del Bac

In a sea of burning sandstone and staunch cacti, the Mission San Xavier del Bac rises up out of the valley like the picture of salvation. The bright white mission is known as the White Dove of the Desert and sits on San Xavier Indian Reservation.

Home to the Tohono O’odham Nation, the mission is one of the oldest European buildings in Arizona. You can trace its story back to 1797 and those interested can join a free tour to lap up the resounding history.

The architecture, however, is captivating. Two towers rise out of the mission, gleaming under the neverending sun. While the facade boasts intricate carvings, reliefs and statues.

19. The Wave

The Wave

The highlight of any trip to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is the Wave. Similar to the ethereal, swirling colors of Antelope Canyon, the Wave is an otherworldly sight.

Gaining access to this spot is the tricky part. Visitors need to partake in a lottery that limits access. The lucky ones will then need to hike 7 miles to the famous location. But those that do, will embark on an unforgettable experience where a camera will become your best friend.

Thousands of smooth lines whirl around the red rock, creating the sensation of water paused in time as it breaks off the coast. Just add in some splendid desert colors and you get the picture.

18. Titan Missile Museum, Sahuarita

Titan Missile Museum

In Sahuarita, the Titan Missile Museum was founded in the early 1980s shortly after the deactivation of the missiles themselves. The museum preserves the complex, allowing you behind-the-scenes access to a site that played a big role in the Cold War.

Over 20 years, the Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic missiles were on alert. You can learn all about this era and the creation of these missiles not just at the museum but at the silos themselves.

Titan Missile Museum

Guided tours are highly recommended as limited spots are available for full access. You can venture underground to the launch control center and also see what life was like for those that lived on-site.

17. London Bridge in Lake Havasu

London Bridge

Along the palm-lined shores of Lake Havasu lies one of the more unique tourist attractions in Arizona. Here, you’ll find the London Bridge, first built in 1831. And yes, this bridge was built in the city of London. I bet you didn’t have that on your Arizona bingo card.

In the mid-20th century, the arch-laden bridge began to sink into the River Thames. Along comes entrepreneur Robert McCulloch to bring it new life.

From dreary London to the dusty Mojave Desert, the bridge stands out. However, its history is just as fascinating as its odd location. As you wander along the bridge, you’ll see the scars of German aircraft fire marring sections, and WWII graffiti.

16. Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona

Chapel of the Holy Cross

As you explore the red rocks of Sedona, make some time for a couple of cultural experiences. Alongside some great wineries and quirky towns, add a trip to the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Assimilating masterfully with the surrounding environment, the gorgeous church soars above the Verde Valley.

Built in the 1950s, the sprawling stained glass window reflects the vibrant surrounding nature. The structure’s sandstone colors and design choosing to celebrate the beauty of Sedona , not improve upon it.

A 1.3 mile hike departs from the chapel’s car park, bringing you up above the structure to fantastic views of the surrounding buttes. There is also a short path to the chapel’s observation area.

15. Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater

Some 50,000 years ago, an iron asteroid touched down in northern Arizona, blowing a vast area into smithereens. The Meteor Crater Natural Landmark (also known as the Barringer Meteor Crater) is almost a mile wild and 570ft deep.

It’s hard to wrap your head around the depth of the crater as you stand on its edge. Never mind the sheer force required to move such a massive amount of earth. But that’s a common theme here in Arizona, the remarkable natural world on full display for us.

Meteor Crater

After admiring the crater, be sure to balance your time here with a visit to the Interactive Discovery Center. Here the theater and exhibits expound on the crater’s creation.

14. Tombstone

Tombstone

Southeast of Tucson, Tombstone is a renowned Wild West town and National Historic Landmark. The nostalgia runs through this place like the tumbleweeds, allowing you to step back into the era of the Old West and experience a frontier town.

As one of the best preserved Wild West towns from the late 1800s, Tombstone has plenty of history. It was on these dusty streets in 1881 that one of the legendary O.K. Corral gunfights took place.

Today, you can brush through the double doors of an old saloon, slam your cup down on the bar and live the life of an outlaw. Afterwards, check out the old time shops and watch a classic Wild West duel take place.

13. Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix

Desert Botanical Garden

One of the most popular things to do in Arizona is to explore its deserts. There is beauty to see in the harshness that lies within bare and arid lands. But if you haven’t yet fallen in love with the charm of a lonely, desolate desert, the Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden will do the trick.

Desert Botanical Garden

Home to America’s richest collection of desert plants (over 50,000 unique species), the garden provides unparalleled access to the arid experience. The delightful walking trails take you on a journey through various desert climates, sectioning each region like a hall in a world-class museum.

12. Monument Valley

Monument Valley

As you drive into Monument Valley for the first time, somewhere deep in your conscience, the twang of a guitar rings out. You know the sound, the one that accompanies every 20th century Western. It’s appropriate too, since the stunning landscape of Monument Valley was the go-to backdrop for these cinematic classics.

As you drive along the shimmering black road, the deep orange base of the desert spreads out to the left and right. Hints of sagebrush green flow with the wind. But they are outdone by the towering red rock spires that have showcased incredible strength to withstand millennia of erosion.

For the best scenes, head into the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park to complete the 17-mile one-way gravel drive.

11. Canyon de Chelly

Canyon de Chelly

A national monument, the Canyon de Chelly features pueblo cliff dwellings set within picturesque red rock bluffs. Dating back around 1,000 years, the dwellings on Navajo tribal lands are a remarkable feat of engineering.

The area’s main canyon is home to the White House Ruins. Built around 1050 AD, the cliff is home to over 100 pueblos set just back from the cliff’s edge. It’s not hard to imagine the amazing view they would have had looking out over the landscape.

Canyon de Chelly

Roads through Canyon de Chelly National Monument provide great views. But to get up close, hike to the White House Overlook.

Other ancient ruins include the Mummy Cave in Canyon del Muerto, where legitimate mummies have been uncovered.

10. Drive Down Route 66

Route 66

The Main Street of America, Route 66, has been capturing the minds of dreamers and drivers alike for almost 100 years. From Chicago to LA, the Mother Road represented the completion of westward expansion. While for you, the route’s largest section lies here in Arizona.

Much has changed along Route 66 since its heyday. In fact, large interstates have all but removed it as an efficient way to traveling. But quirky towns and an overdose of neon lights still await those that do.

Kingman

As each town appears on the horizon, you can sense the nostalgia, the colorful motels, kitschy shops and street corner bars. All before being swallowed again by the desert prairies and tumbleweeds.

Those looking to do the journey justice should pick up a Route 66 Passport.

9. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam

In 1935, the final touches were put on one of the world’s great engineering marvels. Damming the Colorado River sure did have some implications. But the sight of the Hoover Dam, standing at 726ft high and 1,244ft long, is captivating.

Out of the sheer red rock-laden landscape rises the cream dam wall, holding back the deep blue of Lake Mead. Visitors can first drive across the enormous canyon bridge. After putting the car in park, head along the path that guides you along the top of the dam wall.

With two years’ worth of Colorado River water on one side and a 90-degree drop on the other, the experience is a mix of marveling at the creation and trying to keep your heart rate stable.

8. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park

Despite being just a hop, skip and jump from one of America’s largest metro areas, the Saguaro National Park is an unheralded gem. As you can already tell, there’s no shortage of adventures in Arizona. But before you venture too far, come explore the land of saguaro cacti.

The protected flora encapsulates much of the desert experience. They rise like hands out of the reddened floor, ready to embrace the harsh experience that the desert brings. But as prickly as the cacti may be, they’re beautiful.

Trails in the park’s eastern and western sections take you up close, with some Saguaro over 200 years old and standing at 50 feet.

7. Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle

You can experience the historic dwellings of the Sinagua people at Arizona’s Montezuma Castle. The fascinating marvel is carved into the ancient rock walls, preserving an incredible way of life in the otherwise harsh desert conditions.

Constructed in the mid-12th century, Montezuma Castle reached its zenith 200 years later. Large chambers and state rooms housed up to 50 people, with the wider community spread throughout the base.

While we can no longer explore within the castle, the national monument allows you to learn about the region’s history, the construction of the castle and the link between the Sinagua and pre-Columbian indigenous peoples.

6. Pima Air and Space Museum, Tucson

Pima Air and Space Museum

With over 400 air and spacecraft on display, the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson is a chance to indulge our inner kid. In Tucson, it’s one of the largest private aerospace museums on earth.

Space vehicles and missiles are set between old and new school aircraft to create an experience that will have you wanting to don the wings and take flight. Some of the highlights of Pima Air and Space are modern commercial planes that showcase the changes to the way we move. You’ll also find retired presidential planes, the historic Wright Flyer and military aircraft, like the SR-71 Blackbird.

5. Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls

The paradisiacal valley of Havasu awaits those who make the trek down to Havasu Falls. Within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, these 100-foot falls tumble into turquoise water surrounded by walls of sandstone red.

Although close to the Grand Canyon, the falls are not a part of the national park. But those up to the challenge, which includes a 20-mile return hike and 2,500ft of elevation change, are well rewarded.

Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls has created rock terraces and pools of blue that slowly flow into Havasu Creek and, eventually, the Colorado River. All visitors must make a prior reservation and stay overnight, which forces even the most gung-ho traveler to kick back, relax and enjoy the spellbinding scenery.

4. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Featuring a jaw-dropping slot canyon straight out of an ethereal dream, there’s nothing quite like Antelope Canyon. In a state packed with remarkable landscapes, Antelope Canyon stands out with her soft bed of sand that meanders through the swirling sandstone.

As you wander through, light beams shoot through the canyon’s ceiling, providing a kaleidoscopic effect on the rock’s iron. The lines of the rock, like the aftermath of a brush, provide a contrast dance of shade and light. Of course, this is ever-changing depending on where you stand.

You’ll find Antelope Canyon within the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park. It’s worth signing up for a guided tour to help you snag the best photos.

3. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend

So you’ve come to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. You can’t leave until you’ve wandered down the trail to gaze upon Horseshoe Bend. With the glistening Colorado River turning essentially 360 degrees along the canyon floor, it makes for arguably Arizona’s best photo.

An ADA-accessible trail takes you from the trailhead a half-mile to the canyon’s edge. From there you’ll be amazed by the 1,000ft drop and the mix of blues and greens among the vast red.

The most popular time to see the Bend is at sunset, when the west-facing horseshoe captures the last of the day’s light. Arrive early to snag the best spot.

Better yet, avoid the crowds and come at sunrise when you can see Horseshoe Bend wake up from morning slumber.

2. Red Rocks of Sedona

Red Rocks of Sedona

Around two hours north of Phoenix, the Red Rocks of Sedona wake up before most. While you’re pouring the morning coffee, the rocks are ablaze, glimmering in the early morning sunlight.

The collection of monoliths, bluffs and buttes is remarkable. With the addition of Native American history, a touch of the Wild West and some tourist fun, Sedona is unmissable.

It’s worth having a vehicle to explore this region on your own schedule. The roadside views are exceptional, and the trails that linger off the tarmac are so tempting, you’ll be glad you can set your own itinerary.

To escape the summer crowds, come in the winter as the red rocks start to feature snow-capped peaks.

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park may be the United States’ most popular. But none are arguably as famous as Arizona’s Grand Canyon . A product of tectonic uplift and the carving paintbrush of the Colorado River, the canyon is a natural masterpiece, millions of years in the making.

The Grand Canyon is over 270 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. At its deepest, the canyon walls dive over 5000 feet towards the river below. The national park is itself divided into two main areas : the remote North Rim and the more accessible South Rim.

Grand Canyon

Spanning 13 miles, the Rim Trail guides along the canyon’s edge with spectacular views. There is also a shuttle along the rim to some of the best viewpoints.

Yes, you can take the Bright Angel Trail 9.9 miles to the canyon floor. But while going down is optional, hiking back up is mandatory.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Arizona

Map of Tourist Attractions in Arizona

Share this post:

national parks in Arizona

12 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona

top tourist attractions arizona

22 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

top tourist attractions arizona

12 Most Charming Small Towns in Arizona

top tourist attractions arizona

10 Best Cities to Visit in Arizona

best places to visit in the USA

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

Best Things to do in Prescott, AZ

12 Best Things to do in Prescott, AZ

Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ

12 Best Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ

Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona

12 Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona

Best Things to Do in Lake Havasu City

12 Best Things to Do in Lake Havasu City

Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

16 Best Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

Reader interactions.

' src=

March 13, 2019 at 4:17 pm

I live in Arizona and have lived her all my life so trust me when I say it is always hot!!! We have more than 300 sunny days every year so when you are visiting any of these places remember to bring lots of water, sun tan lotion, and a hat. And you most definitely will want to go somewhere where you can go swimming like Havasu Falls or Lake Mead. And there are lots of placses to go tubing and skiing.

' src=

November 29, 2016 at 10:00 am

My husband and I are Canadians who spend 6 months of the year in Yuma Az. We love it here. My husband loves to ATV and there are so many places here that are just unbelievable to ride. The climate in winter is perfect and it rarely ever rains. You are only 3 hours from Phoenix, San Diego or Tucson. If you haven’t thought of Yuma you might want to check it out.

' src=

June 28, 2016 at 10:21 am

I lived in Sedona, Az for nearly a year several years ago, I am planning on returning there as soon as I can. It has been an area that has touched my very core with its beauty.

' src=

December 12, 2014 at 9:11 pm

We spent our last vacation in Arizona, trust me the terrain, desert landscape and specially the mighty grand canyon is such a delight for any outdoor enthusiast. Even though it’s difficult to reach the north rim, but if you do get a chance to go there, you’re up for some stunning views.

' src=

July 12, 2014 at 12:29 pm

I recently found out I have the opportunity to visit Arizona of Eureka Springs ! Eureka Springs Historic District is a historic district that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. It includes most of Eureka Springs, which dates from 1880.I have been viewing many great places I want to live.

' src=

March 7, 2014 at 8:06 am

I currently reside in St Louis Missouri, I’m looking forward to relocating to Arizona. I have been viewing many great places I want to live.

' src=

January 19, 2014 at 9:39 pm

I recently found out I have the opportunity to visit Arizona! I’m a nature person and very spiritual.

' src=

September 9, 2013 at 7:42 am

I shall hopefully visit this state in the future (in shallah)

' src=

February 8, 2013 at 9:44 am

I love AZ. My mother grew up there and I intend to move there as soon as possible.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Full Suitcase Travel Blog

26 Amazing Places to See in Arizona (+ Map & How to Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2023

26 Amazing Places to See in Arizona (+ Map & How to Visit)

Best known as the Grand Canyon State , Arizona is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the USA. But there is so much more to see and do in Arizona beyond its world-famous landmark!

If you are planning a trip and want to visit the best places in Arizona, but also explore a bit deeper , this article is for you! In this guide, we share all the must-see landmarks and sights of Arizona, but also some other cool places that will make your trip so much more special.

In addition to our own tips and recommendations, we also asked our fellow travel writers for suggestions, their personal favorite places in Arizona that they recommend the most. This guide includes a good mix of the most beautiful nature destinations and stunning sceneries, historic landmarks, best cities and towns, Route 66 attractions, quirky places where you can still find the ‘Old West’ feel, and so much more.

While this is in no way a complete guide to all the best places to visit in Arizona (you’d need a few long trips for that!), it covers all the musts and places that are worth visiting the most . In addition, we also include some lesser-known places for those who are looking to escape the crowds, explore deeper, or get just a bit off the beaten path. Find out!

TIP: To give you a better idea of where all these landmarks and attractions are located and to help you plan your trip, we created a MAP indicating all the best places in Arizona mentioned in this guide. You can find it at the end of this article.

Most beautiful places to visit in Arizona USA

Good to know: We tried to sort this list from the most popular, nicest places in Arizona to the somewhat lesser-known ones further below. But the reality is that there are just too many amazing destinations and points of interest to be able to differentiate (and everyone has different interests and expectations anyway).

So while we start with the ‘musts’, I highly recommend that you scroll down through the entire list before you decide where to go in Arizona and what interests you the most.

Keep in mind that some of these places require more time while others can easily be seen as a short stop when passing by. So by reading beyond the main Arizona attractions, you might find some amazing gems that will make your trip so much more special.

Our map at the end of this article will also help you ‘group’ the places together so that you can make the most of your time when sightseeing in Arizona. Take a look!

Without further ado, here are some of the very best places to visit in Arizona:

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona’s most famous landmark, Grand Canyon needs no introduction. This impressive natural wonder is not just #1 among the must-see places in Arizona, but also one of the most popular national parks in the United States attracting millions of visitors every year. I really couldn’t start this list with any other place…

Grand Canyon National Park is huge and you can spend several days and even weeks exploring everything it has to offer. But you can see some of the magnificent scenery even if you only have a couple of hours, which explains Grand Canyon’s popularity as one of the top day trips from Las Vegas .

Depending on your travel itinerary, the season when you visit, and how much time you have, there are three main areas you can visit at the Grand Canyon – South Rim, North Rim, or Grand Canyon West.

South Rim is the best-known and the most popular place attracting the biggest majority of Grand Canyon visitors. Here, you’ll find some of the most impressive viewpoints, stunning hikes, and also great facilities including the best Grand Canyon hotels , restaurants, various visitor centers, popular attractions like the Grand Canyon IMAX movie experience , and bucket-list activities such as helicopter flights over the Grand Canyon .

If there’s one area you visit at the Grand Canyon, South Rim is the place to be! This is also the best place to visit if you are planning a winter trip to Grand Canyon .

LEARN MORE: How to see the best of the Grand Canyon in one day & How to avoid long queues at Grand Canyon south entrance

Grand Canyon West is best known for the glass-bottomed Skywalk touring high above the canyon. The panoramic views are amazing and it’s a very special experience to be able to walk above the canyon. This part of the Grand Canyon is also home to the Hualapai Indian tribe, so you can also learn more about their culture or pick up some Native American souvenirs.

Grand Canyon North Rim also offers great views and is well worth a visit, but the road to get there is usually only open from around mid-May to October-early November. If you are visiting Arizona during the summer season and have some time to explore the Grand Canyon deeper, you may want to include this side of the canyon in your itinerary as well. In that case, don’t miss the Kaibab National Forest as well.

Arizona best places - Grand Canyon

Sedona also deserves a top spot on this list of the very best places to see in Arizona! This area is best known for its stunning scenery and impressive red rocks that will take your breath away. The landscapes here are phenomenal! The area around Sedona is also famous for its energy vortex sites.

Some of the must-see places in Sedona include Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock . Also, Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa are not to be missed. If you hike, don’t miss the popular Devil’s Bridge Trail , and if you’re visiting with kids in the warm season, be sure to go for a swim at the natural pools of the nearby Slide Rock State Park .

In the town itself, don’t miss the Chapel of the Holy Cross , with its modernistic architecture and even more unique location perched between the red rocks overlooking the area. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a nice place for local art, shops, and restaurants.

TIP: One of the most popular ways to explore the scenery around Sedona is by joining jeep tours . These 4×4 tours bring you to some amazing locations that you’d never be able to see otherwise.

How much time to spend. It’s possible to see the most popular sights of Sedona in just one day. Therefore, many first-time visitors simply visit Sedona as a day trip from Phoenix, Grand Canyon, or from Flagstaff. However, there’s plenty to see and do, so you can easily fill 3-5 days here as well. Here you can find a suggested 1-day itinerary for Sedona .

LEARN MORE: Best things to do in Sedona

Top places to visit in Arizona - Sedona

3. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon with its ‘flowing’ colorful sandstone walls is an impressive natural wonder and one of the most picturesque places in Arizona! There is not one, but several slot canyons here that all have been carved by fast-flowing flash flood waters and sandstone erosion. At the moment, you can easily visit three of them: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X.

The most famous slot canyons are the Upper Antelope Canyon and the Lower Antelope Canyon . Both parts of the canyon are equally beautiful, but the Upper Antelope canyon is more popular because it’s easy to visit for everyone, whereas the Lower Antelope canyon involves some stairs and ladders (but is also quieter and it’s much cheaper too).

Located on the Navajo ground, a visit to any of the slot canyons is only possible with a local tour guide. If you want to be sure that you can go inside, you really should reserve a tour in advance . In high season, it’s a must and tours sell out long upfront, but also in the lower season, you never know if there will be any walk-in spots left when you arrive. Here you can reserve Lower Antelope Canyon tickets and here – tickets for the Upper Antelope Canyon .

Good to know: Antelope Canyon photography tours have been suspended a few years ago. You can still bring your camera or a smartphone, but tripods aren’t allowed anymore. Also, selfie sticks or bags (of any size) are not allowed inside the canyon.

Because the Antelope canyons are so well-known and have become so popular, some people now opt to visit private and secluded Antelope Canyon X instead (also here, you have to reserve in advance !).

Alternatively, check out the beautiful Buckskin Gulch , the longest slot canyon in the world. This canyon is located in Utah, just at the border of Arizona, and requires quite a strenuous hike. Here, you can find more info and a tour that visits Buckskin Gulch , and here is a popular private tour that can bring you to this beautiful place as well.

TIP: If you drive all the way to Page, AZ, in order to visit these slot canyons, be sure not to miss the famous Horseshoe Bend as well. More info below. You can also find more details in our suggested 2-day itinerary for Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend .

Antelope Canyon is a must see in Arizona

4. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is another extremely popular place to visit in Arizona. This U-shaped turn in the Colorado River with 1,000-foot sheer rock drops has become extremely popular in the last decade, mostly due to the jaw-dropping images that probably everyone has seen on social media at one time or another.

A visit to Horseshoe Bend is easy and doesn’t require much preparation and that’s also one of the reasons for its popularity. The hike from the car parking to the viewing area is just 0.6 miles (less than 1 km) and takes about 15 minutes one way. In addition, you can walk a bit further to the right along the rim – the views are nice and it tends to be quieter than at the main viewpoint.

Good to know: There’s a small entrance fee – at the moment of writing, $10 per car, and your National Park Pass isn’t valid here. Also, bring water, wear comfy shoes, and be careful around the edge!

You can visit Horseshoe Bend in about one hour, but to really get the most out of your visit, plan on spending two hours. The earlier mentioned Antelope Canyon is also just nearby, so most people visit these two places together.

TIP: For a different perspective, you can also opt for a helicopter tour over the Horseshoe Bend and the surrounding area. In addition, you also fly over Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam – the views are amazing! If you are looking for an even more special experience and a longer flight, take a look at this helicopter tour that also includes a landing on Tower Butte .

Best places in Arizona - Horseshoe Bend

No list of the best things to do in Arizona would be complete without mentioning its capital city, Phoenix . The “Valley of the Sun,” as Phoenix is affectionately known, gets over 300 days of sun a year. It’s rare to see a cloudy or rainy day outside of the summer monsoons. During that time, temperatures can hit 110°F (43°C) and above, so you’ll want to enjoy your fun indoors.

For the rest of the year, Phoenix is known for its gorgeous weather and outdoor activities. Hike the many trails in and around the city. Camelback Mountain , Piestewa Peak Park , and South Mountain are favorites.

Learn how beautiful the desert can be at the Desert Botanical Garden . The colors may be muted, but you’ll find a beautiful tapestry in the desert that’s different from most of the country. If you need a break from the desert, check out the Japanese Friendship Garden or the Farm at South Mountain .

Phoenix is a foodie’s paradise and there are lots of restaurants offering all kinds of food. Many have outdoor seating or large patio windows that open wide so you can enjoy the gorgeous weather for much of the year.

If you visit during the hottest summer months, there are plenty of fun indoor activities that you can enjoy in Phoenix. Check out the city’s world-class museums such as the exceptional Musical Instrument Museum and the Heard Museum , which showcases southeastern Native American art.

Good to know: Phoenix is a resort town and hosts thousands of conferences annually. So if you visit in the summer, you can get some amazing hotel and spa deals . The locals love it for staycations and tourists can enjoy the best of Phoenix spa life at a markedly reduced cost.

There’s a lot to do in Phoenix no matter what time of year you visit. Plan to spend a few days so that you can see all of the top sights in and around the city.

TIP: If you are looking for something special to do in Arizona, check out hot-air balloon tours . It’s one of the most unique experiences in Phoenix and an amazing way to see some of the stunning scenery.

Recommended by a Phoenix local, Sam from My Flying Leap .

LEARN MORE: Phoenix itinerary recommendations for any trip

Places to visit in Arizona - Phoenix city

6. Havasu Falls

Located in a remote desert canyon in Northern Arizona, Havasu Falls cascades 80-feet over a red sandstone cliff into a beautiful turquoise blue swimming hole. It’s a truly magical oasis in the middle of the desert. And when you see pictures of this stunning waterfall, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Arizona.

But to reach this paradise requires preparation and fitness. Havasu Falls is located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation and it’s a 10-mile trek from the nearest road. You’ll need to hike through a dusty canyon in the hot Arizona sun carrying all of your food and camping supplies. You’ll also need to plan well in advance. Only a limited number of camping permits (or lodge stays) are available for each day and most are purchased the moment they become available on February 1st of each year.

The Havasu Falls trailhead is located 67.5 miles Northeast of Peach Springs, AZ. From the parking lot, it’s a 1.5-mile descent to the bottom of the canyon via several switchbacks. Continuing on, the trail is mostly flat with a gradual descent, but you’ll need to watch out for loose rocks and gravel. It’s best to start your hike in the early morning to avoid walking in the heat of the day. It’s a total of 10 miles each way to reach Havasu Falls: 8 miles to the Havasupai Village and an additional 2 miles to the base of the falls. Here you can find more practical information for visiting Havasu Falls .

It’s quite a challenging hike, but once you reach Havasu Falls, you’ll know that the reward was worth the effort. The waterfall and canyon are both absolutely breathtaking. Plus Havasu Falls is not the only beautiful waterfall in the canyon. If you continue your trek downstream, you’ll find Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls . And if you’re up for an even longer hike you can follow Havasu Canyon all the way down to the confluence with the Colorado River at the edge of the Grand Canyon.

Good to know: You need at least two days to visit Havasu Falls and all visits require a reservation . If you stay at the lodge, you can reserve for one night/ two days, whereas if you camp, you can only book three nights/ four days.

Recommended by Nick from Wandering Wheatleys.

Havasu Falls is one of the best places to see in Arizona

7. Monument Valley

The iconic Monument Valley is another must-see in Arizona! You probably have seen images of this red-sand desert with towering sandstone buttes in various movies and commercials, but it’s even more impressive in reality!

Located in the northeastern corner of Arizona, along the Utah border, Monument Valley is quite far from most other landmarks in Arizona, but it’s definitely worth a trip in its own right. It’s also about halfway between the Grand Canyon and Moab area in Utah where you’ll find the famous Arches National Park and also Canyonlands National Park . So whether you are only visiting the best places in Arizona, or are making a bigger trip in the Southwest, it’s well worth coming here.

You can see some great views of Monument Valley while simply driving on Interstate 163. However, if you want to explore deeper and get closer to the rock formations, you should visit the Monument Valley Tribal Park . An entrance here requires a permit and you can only visit during daytime hours (and need to pay for a pass).

The main activity here is driving the 15-mile Scenic Drive that takes you through the area and close to the majestic buttes. Some of them are as high as 1,000 ft above the ground – a very impressive sight and plenty of great photo opportunities.

However, the roads here are in a really bad state and many people opt for one of the many 4×4 tours or horseback riding tours instead . Not only do you learn quite a bit about the area by going with a local guide, but many of these tours also bring you to some nice places beyond the scenic loop which you wouldn’t get to see on your own.

Monument Valley USA

TIP: This tour is one of the best price-quality Monument Valley tours that include backcountry access. It also visits a local Navajo Hogan where you can watch a Navajo Rug Weaving demonstration and traditional musical performance by your local guide. You can also find this same tour on Viator , but it’s usually a bit more expensive. You can also opt for a very similar tour in the evening and enjoy the amazing colors of Monument Valley at sunset.

Good to know: Most of the tours do not include an entrance fee to the Monument Valley Tribal Park, so you need to pay for that separately.

How much time to spend. If you are simply passing by on the highway, Monument Valley can be just a quick photo stop. If you opt to visit the Monument Valley Tribal Park and drive the scenic loop, count at least 1.5-2 hours. If you go on a tour, most of them take about 2-4 hours. For a truly unique visit, you can opt for this 2-day overnight tour . It’s an amazing experience, as long as you know what to expect.

Where to stay. Most people visit Monument Valley for a day from Flagstaff, Page, or other bigger towns in Arizona or en route to/from Utah or Colorado. There’s a hotel at the visitor center itself. Nearby, you can also find Goulding’s Lodge , which also has a pool. Alternatively, there are several hotels in Kayenta , about 25 miles/ 30 minutes southwest of Monument Valley.

TIP: The beautiful Church Rock Valley (featured photo at the top of this article) can be found along Hwy 160, 10 min drive east of Kayenta.

LEARN MORE: Monument Valley Scenic Drive

Monument Valley as seen from the main road

8. Scottsdale

If you look at Arizona on a map, you might wonder why Scottsdale is getting called out on its own in this list. Isn’t it just a suburb of Phoenix, you ask? Well no, Scottsdale is actually a separate city of over 250,000 people that is distinctly unique in the state.

Scottsdale has long been a desert getaway for the rich and famous. Today, it offers a delightful mix of art galleries, great restaurants, historic mid-century hotels, dreamy spas, and all the desert landscapes you expect to find in Arizona.

On your first trip to Scottsdale, the must-dos include exploring the shops, galleries, and public art in Old Town Scottsdale, drinking wine along the city’s Urban Wine Trail, visiting a museum like the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SmoCA) or Wonderspaces, and touring Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home of Taliesin West. Also Scottsdale’s classy spas and golf courses are not to be missed.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll also want to be sure to visit the McDowell Sonoran Preserve , a 30,500-acre nature preserve where you can see impressive saguaro cacti up close.

How much time to spend. You can see all the highlights in Scottsdale in about three days (here’s an itinerary for 3 days in Scottsdale ), though a longer trip would be even better if you want to spend extra time relaxing poolside or at the spa.

Since Scottsdale is just next to Phoenix, Tempe, and many other nice places mentioned in this article, we recommend that you take a look at this Phoenix – Scottsdale travel guide and itinerary for more information on how to plan your trip.

Good to know: Scottsdale Old Town is easy to get around on foot, but rideshares are plentiful and affordable, too. Furthermore, parking is free almost everywhere.

Recommended by Amanda of A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale Arizona

Tucson should be at the top of any list of places to visit in Arizona! The city is one of the most culturally rich in the state, the food is great, and there are lots of fun things to do in town and nearby. What you have the opportunity to visit nowadays, has been molded by native groups, Spanish missionaries, Mexican ranchers, California gold rushers, and many others.

Start your visit downtown and walk through the historic and modern areas of Tucson , or join this popular historic bike tour . Check out the Historic Pima County Courthouse, Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, Museum of Art, and Arizona Historical Society. Congress Street and 4th Avenue are booming with restaurants, breweries, murals, public works of art, and artisan studios. Tucson’s cuisine shines like a bright beacon.

In 2017, the city was declared a “ City of Gastronomy ” by UNESCO. You can spend days eating Sonoran hot dogs, chimichangas, tamales, and steak fingers.

Colorful street in Tucson Arizona

A visit to the San Xavier del Bac Mission (located about 10 miles from downtown) is also a must! Besides, the city is surrounded by national parks, mountain parks, natural areas, and other spaces ideal for outdoor activities.

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will be spoiled with choice. A list of places to check out includes the Tucscon Botanical Gardens, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Saguaro National Park (see further below), Tucson Mountain Park, Sabino Canyon, and Santa Catalina Natural Area.

In addition to the city itself, there are several interesting day trip options from the city. These include Tubac, Tumacacori, Sonoita, Kartchner Caverns, Sonora Desert, Bisbee, and Tombstone.

How much time to spend. It is recommended to spend at least 3 full days in Tucson: one day dedicated to the city, one day to take advantage of the outdoor opportunities, and another day for a day trip to places like Tombstone (see further below). If you do not want to rush through the attractions, you can easily allocate 5 to 7 days to the area. Depending on your travel style, you can either stay in Tucson and make it your base for the area or you can just stop here for a day or two as part of a road trip visiting some of the best places in Arizona.

Good to know: Remember Tucson has dry desert weather and the best time to visit is from October to May. Also, keep in mind temperatures in the area can vary greatly, so wear layers.

Recommended by Ruth from Tanama Tales .

San Xavier del Bac Mission near Tucson Arizona

10. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: The Wave, White Pocket & More

If you just can’t get enough of the unique landscapes of Arizona, consider visiting Vermillion Cliffs National Monument as well! This is a huge nature reserve in Northern Arizona, at the border with Utah, and it’s jam-packed with many incredible natural features.

You can see some of the area by driving Highway 89A. However, the majority of the most beautiful scenery requires a high clearance 4×4 vehicle, is not simple to reach or find, and is not something most travelers will easily be able to visit. This is one of those remote places where you won’t find any tourism infrastructure, only unspoiled wilderness with the most amazing landscapes of slot canyons, mesas, and buttes…

The most famous natural landmark of Vermillion Cliffs National Monument is The Wave , located in Coyote Buttes. This is one of the places that you can only visit if you get extremely lucky with their lottery-based permit system . Only 12 groups (max. 48 people) are allowed to visit here per day, so you can imagine that the chances are very slim (and you have to try 4 months in advance).

The Wave is one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona

However, don’t despair if you don’t have a 4×4 or can’t get to see The Wave. There are several other amazing places at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument that you can easily visit with organized tours.

One such place is White Pocket – a unique rock formation in a stunning, remote area. You can visit here with this highly-rated private day tour .

Another area that can be visited with a tour is Buckskin Gulch (already mentioned as an alternative to Antelope Canyon higher above). There are several tours that visit this slot canyon .

If you have a very good 4×4, you might be able to get to the White Pocket, Buckskin Gulch, and other places in Vermillion Cliffs National Monument on your own. But you really have to travel well prepared! Also, this is probably not the best place to explore on your own in summer because it gets terribly hot. No matter how you visit – on your own or with a guide – be sure to carry plenty of drinking water with you!

White Pocket at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona

11. Lake Powell & Page

Lake Powell is a huge man-made reservoir on the Colorado River in Northern Arizona and southern Utah. Located just near Page, AZ (where you can also visit previously mentioned landmarks like Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend), the lake is also a major vacation spot in the area, attracting a couple of million tourists a year.

There is a lot to see and do in Page and around Lake Powell. If you are here on vacation, you can rent boats , go jet-skiing , try flyboarding , or join various tours on the lake. If you are mostly interested in sightseeing, in addition to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend , you can easily see Glen Canyon Dam and Wahweap Overlook . There are also some nice scenic trails in this area – check out the Hanging Gardens , a 1-mile hike north of Page.

As already mentioned in the Horseshoe Bend section above, there are also amazing air tours in this area. One of the best price-quality options is this highly-rated tour by a small airplane . You can enjoy spectacular aerial views of Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Glen Canyon.

How much time to spend. This highly depends on what you are planning to see and do in this area. You can see all the ‘musts’ in just half a day to a day, but you can also spend a week here and never get bored.

Lake Powell aerial view from an airplane

12. Hoover Dam

Located at the Arizona – Nevada state border, Hoover Dam is one of the top landmarks of Arizona (and yes, that of Nevada too)! There’s even a sign at the dam showing where the two states split. It’s a unique chance to stand in Nevada and Arizona at the same time and also a great photo opportunity. So this list (and your trip to the area) wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Hoover Dam as one of the best places to see in Arizona.

Hoover Dam is a man-made wonder and once you see how huge it is, it will take your breath away. Built almost a hundred years ago, in the 1930s, it was the tallest dam in the world at that time. At the Visitor Center, you can learn more about its history, see models and exhibits, and you can also take a tour inside .

However, most people don’t visit inside and simply enjoy the views of the dam and the surroundings from various viewpoints. It all really depends on how much time you have and what other places you are planning to see nearby.

TIP: On a short visit, don’t miss a view from the Mike O’Callaghan Memorial Bridge. This is the best place to take in the immense size of the dam. Also check out the views from the Hoover Dam itself (there’s a pedestrian footpath next to the road)!

Hoover Dam at the border of Arizona and Nevada

13. Saguaro National Park

There’s no more iconic symbol of the state of Arizona than the towering Saguaro cactus, and there’s no better place to see them than in Saguaro National Park near Tucson. There are nearly two million Saguaro cacti in the park!

Saguaro National Park is spread across two divisions, one to the east of downtown Tucson and the other to the west. You can spend anywhere between a half-day and two full days exploring Saguaro NP.

For those who are truly in a rush through their trip to Arizona, it’s possible to explore the west side of Saguaro National Park (formally known as the Tucson Mountain Division) on a day trip from Phoenix, as the drive is just over 90 minutes. But if you want to explore both sides of the park to the fullest, it’s best to stay in Tucson and combine a visit here with several other best places and landmarks in Arizona mentioned in this guide.

Both sides of Saguaro National Park are excellent for families visiting with young children or visitors with limited mobility. There are loop drives through some of the Park’s most scenic areas. The Valley View Overlook trail (west) and Cactus Forest Trail (east) offer short, relatively flat walks that put visitors up close with many different species and shapes of cacti and also offer great wildlife viewing opportunities. Here you can find more info for visiting Saguaro National Park .

TIP: For a stunning desert sunset, visit the west side late in the day – the return half of the loop drive faces west as the sun sets through the dense cactus groves. The park has no formal closing time so there’s no need to rush (though the entire mountain range is extremely dark).

Recommended by Melissa from The Family Voyage.

Saguaro National Park is one of the nicest places to see in Arizona

14. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Located next to the main road between Phoenix and Flagstaff, just south of Sedona, Montezuma Castle National Monument is one of the easy-to-visit places in Arizona. If you find yourself in this area, don’t just pass by!

Montezuma Castle is a large 12th-century cliff dwelling that was built and used by the Sinagua people. The main structure of the cliff dwelling is a 5-story building that has twenty rooms. In all honesty, it looks more like a huge apartment building rather than a castle. Nevertheless, it’s very impressive and well worth a visit.

Access inside isn’t allowed, but you can easily admire this unique structure by walking the short paved trail around it. This is a very enjoyable attraction for the whole family and it only takes 15-30 minutes to visit. So Montezuma Castle National Monument isn’t really a destination in itself, but a very nice stop if you are passing by.

If you have more time, you can also visit Montezuma Well . This is an archeological site about 10 miles from Montezuma Castle, a 20-minute drive a bit off the main road. But since you can reconnect to the main highway from there, it’s actually not such a big detour.

Good to know: The Visitor Center is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, except for Christmas and New Year’s Day. The entrance fee is somewhat steep at 10 USD per adult, but kids 15 and under are free, and the pass includes both places. If you have the annual National Parks pass ( America the Beautiful Pass ), it’s also valid here.

Montezuma Castle National Monument in Arizona

15. Tombstone

When you visit the “Old West”, you have so many historical sites, ghost towns, and other attractions to choose from that it can be hard to know which ones are truly worth the time and money. A visit to Tombstone in southern Arizona, however, is sure to be a universal favorite. If you are looking for a fun and exciting taste of the Wild West, you’ll definitely find it in Tombstone, AZ . For us, this is one of the must-see places in Arizona!

The whole town has committed to recreating the history and feel of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the nostalgia of the American Old West .

Walking down E. Allen Street, a dusty dirt road in the town center, is quite an experience in and of itself. Gunslingers tip their hats as they walk quietly by in the glaring sun while the horsedrawn coach rattles off from the old Wells Fargo Stagecoach depot. Suddenly, the locals are scrambling to hide behind barrels and peeking over saloon doors. A gunfighter is making his way down the middle of the road, guns in hand, looking for a fight… Everyone knows what comes next. It’s cheesy, yes, but it’s great fun and perfectly recreated.

Of course, there’s more to see and do in Tombstone! Once the sheriff has taken down the outlaw, it’s time to go underground at the silver mine or discover the real story at the infamous shootout at the O.K. Corral. You can also learn more about the history of the area at the Tombstone Courthouse History Museum . And be sure to take a Tombstone Historical Trolley Tour – it’s a great way to get the current scoop on life in town. Another must-see is the gunfight show at the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park .

How much time to spend. Most people will spend 4-5 hours in Tombstone, more than enough to make it a solid day trip from the nearby Tucson or even from Phoenix . However, if you decide to stay here for a night, you can opt for even more fun activities in the evening. For instance, you can join a spooky ghost and murders tour through town or the family-friendly dead men’s tales ghost tour . There are several nice hotels in Tombstone , and staying here will surely add to the ultimate Old West experience.

Recommended by Jim Vail at Roving Vails .

Tombstone is one of the nicest historic towns to visit in Arizona

16. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

The Grand Canyon may be the most popular canyon in the state of Arizona, and there’s definitely a good reason for that. But if you want to get off the tourist path in Arizona, Canyon de Chelly is incredibly stunning and equally worth seeing. If you are looking to experience the best of Arizona, don’t miss this lesser-known gem!

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is located in a remote area of northeastern Arizona on Native American lands. You can drive around the rim for easy access to the stunning views inside the canyon. Take advantage of the many pullouts and take your time to enjoy the scenery. Canyon de Chelly is painted in an exquisite palate of reds, golds, and browns but with a lush green canyon floor.

Good to know: While you can visit some places on your own, you are required to hire a local guide to enter most of the canyon. But it’s worth doing to get to learn about life in the area and in the tribe. Your guide will take you for a drive into the canyon and you can hike the many trails. Stop at the visitor center for a list of guides and recommendations for your visit or check out the official website for more information.

There are also a couple of trails you can hike on your own. One leads you to the White House ruin , which is incredible to see. Or, you can hike the Sliding House Overlook trail to see a cliff dwelling high up on the canyon wall. It’s so interesting to see these different types of dwellings.

One of the most spectacular views in Canyon de Chelly is looking out on the Spider Rock spire . Its brilliant red is striking against the green patchwork of color and will remain etched in your mind long after your visit.

TIP: While you can enjoy some of the best that Canyon de Chelly has to offer in just a day, plan for at least a couple of days in this peaceful area. It’s a real gem – you won’t be disappointed! There are a couple of hotels in Chinle , just at the entrance of the park.

Recommended by Arizona local Sam from My Flying Leap .

Best places in Arizona - Canyon de Chelly National Monument

17. Flagstaff

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Arizona, Flagstaff should be high on your list! Often overlooked for nearby Sedona and the Grand Canyon, there are actually many great things to do in Flagstaff that make it worthy of a stop on your Arizona trip.

Flagstaff is best known for being along Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 . The famous “Mother Road” goes right through the heart of downtown! If you’ve never been on Route 66 before, you’ll enjoy the chance to see the famous sign and snap a photo with this iconic piece of Americana.

Flagstaff has a very different landscape than a lot of Arizona because it’s at a high altitude. The town sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, and you can even go skiing in the winter just outside of town! No matter when you visit, be sure to take the Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift up to the Arizona Snowbowl atop Agassiz Peak, the second-highest mountain in Arizona at 12,356 feet. Another unique landscape spot is nearby Sunset Crater Volcanic National Monument , with its lava tubes and volcanic landscape.

Flagstaff also holds the distinction of being the world’s first “International Dark Sky City” – an honor normally only bestowed on smaller towns and national parks. It has its own observatory, the Lowell Observatory , which is where Pluto was discovered! It is a National Historic Landmark and you can take tours of the observatory if you book in advance.

Another fun thing to do in Flagstaff is checking out the thriving brewery culture. There are a number of great breweries which are brewing up creative new craft beer and serving them up with some delicious pub food! Mother Road Brewing Company (named for Route 66) is one of the best of the bunch. They specialize in ales (IPAs, double IPAs, tripels, brown ales, pale ales, etc.) and everything is fantastic.

Recommended by Allison from Eternal Arrival .

Flagstaff Arizona

18. Williams & Bearizona Wildlife Park

Williams, Arizona may not be on your radar as a great travel destination in Arizona because it is foreshadowed by bigger cities and so many amazing National and State Parks in the state. But you will be wrong to dismiss it from your travel plans because it has many interesting attractions!

Just as many towns in this area, Williams is located right on the famous Route 66 . So also here, you can visit various Route 66 attractions: old buildings, gift shops, and Route 66 Gas Station Museum.

One of the main attractions not to miss in Williams is a scenic train ride to Grand Canyon on the Grand Canyon Railway . You board the train in town in the morning and travel about 2 hours to the South Rim at the Grand Canyon National Park.

You can ride in glass dome cars and enjoy the amazing scenery, and you have a few hours of free time to explore the South Rim. It’s possible to stay in the park longer, but most people just do this as a day trip and return back to Williams by train in the afternoon.

Grand Canyon Railway in Williams Arizona

One of the absolute must-sees in Williams is Bearizona Wildlife Park , a drive-thru wildlife and safari park dedicated to the wildlife of Arizona. The uniqueness of Bearizona is in its layout: animals are not kept in small enclosures but allowed to roam free and tourists can drive around their habitats in their vehicles.

This gives you an opportunity for close encounters with such magnificent animals as bison, bear, and wolf. It is an amazing experience when a wolf just walks by your car or two bears fight an arm’s length from you, with only a car window in between!

There are also ‘walk-through’ exhibits where you can observe smaller animals such a beaver, porcupine, red fox, and many others. In addition to its exhibits, Bearizona also organizes live animal presentations, the most popular of which is the birds of prey show. This is such a great place to visit in Arizona for everyone, and an absolute must for families!

Good to know: Bearizona is open daily, all year round. It’s cheaper to visit on weekdays than on the weekends. For more info, please see their website .

Recommended by Tatiana from Family Road Trip Guru .

Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams Arizona

19. Sunset Crater Volcano & Wupatki National Monuments

There are two more interesting places to check out in Arizona – Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument. They are both located just near Flagstaff and don’t require much time, so you can easily add them to your Arizona road trip itinerary if you have a couple of hours to spare in this area.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is centered around a cinder cone dormant volcano that has erupted about 1,000 years ago (1025 AD). Needless to say, a volcano is a surprising sight to see in Arizona!

The Lava Flow Trail is one of the best trails to hike as it takes you through the Bonito Lava Flow and numerous volcanic features while walking at the base of Sunset Crater Volcano. The trail is an easy 1 mi (1.6 km) round-trip hike. Hikers can view a lava tube and other lava features. A stop at the Visitor Center provides additional information as well as the Junior Rangers program.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument in Arizona

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument connects to Wupatki National Monument by loop road about 10 miles away.

Less than 800 years ago, Wupatiki was the tallest, largest, and most influential pueblo around. Between 85-100 people lived here, and several thousand more lived within a day’s walk.

There are several short hikes around the pueblo sites. There is also a Visitor Center offering a Junior Rangers program and other information about the site and its history.

TIP: Visit these parks early or late afternoon as there is no shade. If you arrive early enough, you may spot pronghorns in the fields near the Wupatki National Monument entrance.

Recommended by Nicole from AffordableFamilyTravel .

Wupatki National Monument in Arizona

20. Petrified Forest National Park

The Petrified Forest National Park located between two major roads – Hwy 40 and Hwy 180 – in eastern Arizona is an incredible place to visit if you enjoy the great outdoors and some adventure. This park is unlike any other place in Arizona, with unique colorful landscapes, 200 million-year-old petrified tree trunks, fossils, and petroglyphs.

Be sure to visit the Rainbow Forest Museum which is easily accessible via Highway 180. The museum is small but very informative and will tell you all you need to know about the natural history of the area. The Petrified Forest National Park is also a fantastic place to go hiking and exploring. The Blue Mesa Trail is highly recommended as it’s one of the most scenic trails in the park and the loop is only 1 mile (1.6 km). Painted Desert Rim Trail is another really nice and short hike of similar length.

It’s definitely possible to see the park in one day and you can drive to many places of interest or enjoy one or two short hikes. Since accommodation nearby is limited, most tourists only visit here for a couple of hours or a day. However, if you want to truly enjoy the beauty of this park, you can also stay here for two or three nights and you’ll find plenty to see and do.

Good to know: Campsites are only accessible on foot and there is no RV camping permitted. To camp, you need to obtain a free permit from the Rainbow Forest Museum. This is definitely an adventure and only suitable for experienced campers and hikers. Alternatively, the best town to stay nearby is Holbrook, AZ , where you’ll find several hotels, shops, and restaurants. It’s about 20 miles/25 minutes drive from either entrance to the park. The entrance fee is 25$ per vehicle, or you can also use your annual national parks pass.

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel .

Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona

21. Navajo National Monument

Navajo National Monument has three of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in Arizona. You can spend an hour, a morning, or even two or three days here depending on what you want to see. But no matter how much time you have, it’s well worth a visit!

The most popular (and easiest) way to experience the monument is to hike the self-guided Sandal Trail . The 1.3-mile out-and-back paved trail passes through areas of pine and junipers to an overlook where there is a great view of the Betatakin cliff dwelling 0.25 miles away across the canyon. To do this hike, you will need about an hour or two, including the time to enjoy seeing the dwelling.

If you have more time, it’s also possible to take a backcountry hike to see the dwellings up close. Guided hikes/ tours to see Betatakin typically take 3-5 hours. They include either a 3-mile or 5-mile steep, strenuous hike, plus time at the dwelling. They are normally offered twice a day mid-May to mid-September. You can sign up for these at the Visitor Center on the same day. For more information, see the official site of the National Park Service .

For the more adventurous (and fitter), there is also a very strenuous 17-mile roundtrip backcountry self-guided hike to the Keet Siel dwelling . This can be done in one day or with an overnight camping stop. If you plan to hike Keet Siel, you need to make a reservation and then attend a mandatory orientation in the afternoon on the day before your hike.

TIP: You can do the Betatakin hike in the morning, then attend the Keet Siel orientation when you return and then hike to Keet Siel the next day. That way, you get to see both cliff dwellings in two days (or three if you opt for overnight camping). There is also a campground near the Visitor Center and a few hotels in Kayenta , about 30 minutes drive.

Recommended by James Ian from Parks Collecting .

Betatakin Cliff Dwelling Navajo National Monument in Arizona

22. Lower Salt River & Wild Horses

Winding through the arid Tonto National Forest, the Lower Salt River is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The best way to explore this scenic Sonoran Desert oasis is by boat. You paddle between jagged, red cliffs, and also have great scenic views of the landscapes dotted by cacti.

You don’t have to be an experienced kayaker or paddler to enjoy this calm river, either. But if you know how to steer your watercraft, you’ll be able to get yourself a better view of the big draw in the area – the wild mustangs. Small herds of wild horses can be spotted as they come to the water for a drink. If you’re lucky, you may spy a line of horses crossing the river.

The entire Salt River is 200 miles long, but the most popular section for kayaking or beginner-friendly floating trips is the Lower Salt River. Due to its proximity to Phoenix, it’s an easy day trip for visitors to the metro area, and most of these tours start in Mesa, AZ.

It’s best to go on a guided tour . Local outfitters provide the equipment (including a wet bag to keep your belongings dry), instructions, and knowledgeable guides will add to the experience, pointing out native wildlife and sharing entertaining stories. You can rent equipment and paddle unguided, too, but you’ll need to arrange transportation and you also need a Tonto National Forest Recreational Pass. If you book a tour, they normally take care of all of this.

Good to know: Dress in layers since it’s cooler in the morning and heats up quickly. And plan on getting wet. It’s common to take breaks in shallow areas of the river to cool in the water.

TIP: If you are looking for more action and adventure, there are also rafting trips on the other part of the Salt River. Most of them start in Whiteriver, AZ. Here you can book a 3-hr rafting tour on Salt River and here’s a longer 6-hr rafting tour . Most of these tours are still very beginner-friendly, and even kids (usually age 8+) can partake.

Recommended by Kim from Oh My! Omaha

Kayaking and Wild Horses of Salt River in Arizona

23. Apache Trail

If you are visiting the Phoenix area, one of the cool places that really gives you a sense of Arizona and the wild, wild, west is the Apache Trail located just about 20 miles outside of the city.

A real taste of old Phoenix and the western days, the Apache Trail holds most of the water reservoirs that feed a large part of the population. But it’s also interspersed with arid desert filled with local cactus and flora, ghost towns, and little spit communities with cool dive bars and memorabilia stuck to the walls and ceilings. It really is a special area to visit in Arizona that remains unchanged and so Old Western in appeal.

The Apache Trail is about 40 miles, with lots of scenic lookouts and great photo opportunities. It’s totally unique and fun to explore. Most of the trail drive is on dirt and gravel roads, winding trails that curve the water edges, and into hilly areas with stunning scenic views of this magnificent countryside.

A popular place to visit along the route through the Apache Trail is Goldfield ghost town , an old miner town that is more tourist-focused but not so tacky and still authentic. Superstition Mountain and the Lost Dutchman State Park are beautiful mountain and outcrop formations with fantastic hikes to enjoy.

Canyon Lake is also a nice stop. It has nice facilities to enjoy a picnic, water fun, and even some water sports. Tortilla Flat is another must-see en route. It’s an old western settlement with a funky old general store, a bar, and some interesting outbuildings to explore. It is fun and what you would typically expect from an outpost in this area.

The forty miles of varied terrain on the Apache Trail is not a fast journey. Count at least 3-4 hours, but you can easily fill an entire day for this route. If you are in Phoenix, make sure to take some time to visit the Apache Trail for a taste of the Wild West of Arizona.

Recommended by Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery .

Apache Trail in Arizona

24. Lake Havasu

Although you may never have heard of Lake Havasu before, it is actually home to the second most visited attraction in Arizona, the world-famous London Bridge ! Yes, the London Bridge from England, UK, featured in the popular nursery rhyme “London Bridge is Falling Down.” After being purchased from England in 1968, the bridge was meticulously relocated brick by brick from its former home on the river Themes to Lake Havasu, linking the city with an island in the Colorado River.

Rumor has it that the founder of Lake Havasu City actually thought he was purchasing the much more decedent Tower Bridge rather than the plain brick London Bridge they received.

Other than spotting a somewhat out-of-place historic monument, there are plenty more reasons why you should visit Lake Havasu. From hiking and mountain biking through SARA Park to fishing , boating , and paddleboarding on the lake itself or simply relaxing on its sandy beaches , this lakeside city in the Sonoran Desert indeed does have something to satisfy everyone’s preferred vacation.

An amazing event to see is the Lake Havasu Hot Air balloon festival, which sees more than 80 hot air balloons take the sky in an incredibly picturesque setting over the lake for a weekend in mid-January. Take your family to enjoy the music, food, entertainment, and carnival rides that truly make this the most magical time to visit Lake Havasu.

TIP: While you can visit Lake Havasu for a day, it’s a real vacation destination that is best enjoyed on a longer visit! Allow at least three days to relax and see the sites of Lake Havasu. The best way to embrace the summer vacation spirit here is to rent a lakefront Airbnb with your family or friends for a group getaway.

Recommended by Kate from Miss Tourist.

Lake Havasu in Arizona

If you are looking for nice places to visit along the iconic Route 66 in Arizona , check out the tiny village of Oatman , between Needles and Kingman. Oatman was founded in 1915 when two people found gold in this area that was worth over 10 million dollars. Within a year, the town’s population grew to 3,500 inhabitants. However, after the mines closed and Interstate 40 was built, Oatman turned into a ghost town.

Nowadays, the town is a popular stop for people road-tripping through the Southwest USA and Oatman has about 40-50 inhabitants. Besides historic Route 66 (the section between Oatman and Kingman is breathtakingly beautiful), there are many other interesting things to see in Oatman.

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive is the large number of wild burros that wander through town. They are descendants of the pack mules that were used by the prospectors back in the day. The burros are protected by the government and roam around freely. In the shops, you can buy food to feed them.

Also the Oatman Hotel is worth checking out. Clark Gable and Carole Lombard (the famous couple from Gone with the Wind) stayed here during their honeymoon in 1939. Besides that, the hotel is known to be haunted. But don’t worry, “Oatie the Ghost” seems to be a friendly ghost.

If you are passing nearby, be sure to take a detour off the main highway, drive part of the original Route 66, and visit Oatman. It’s just a short stop that doesn’t require more than an hour or two, but it will definitely make your Arizona road trip more special.

Recommended by Jacoba from Op Reis Met Co .

Wild burros in Oatman Arizona

26. Seligman, Route 66

Seligman is one more place that we feel deserves a separate mention on this list of the best places to visit in Arizona. Considered the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66” , Seligman is a small town along the original line of this historic route and a great place to get a taste of what Route 66 used to be like.

Seligman is a colorful town that has preserved a lot of its buildings and culture, and it’s full of fun photo opportunities.

One of the best places to start is the Copper Cart , an old gas station that now functions as a gift shop. Often, a real-life cowboy fully equipped with a couple of horses, cowboy hats, and 1870s Winchester rifles hangs out here and you can take some great pictures with all the ‘props’. Don’t forget to tip as the proceeds go toward hay for the horses. Historic Seligman Sundries is another nice place for souvenirs and photos.

There are dozens of great photo opportunities in Seligman (don’t miss the colorful  Seligman sign  too), so you can spend an hour or two wandering around and taking pictures. There are also a couple of nice old-school places for lunch or a snack (check out Delgadillo’s Snow Cap or Westside Lilo’s Cafe).

Just like most Route 66 attractions, Seligman isn’t really a destination in itself, but a great photo/lunch stop when passing by. If you find yourself near Williams, AZ, or if you are driving between Las Vegas and Grand Canyon, be sure to check it out! If you have more time, you can also drive a section of the historic Route 66 here.

Seligman on Route 66 in Arizona

Map of the Best Places in Arizona

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the main landmarks and attractions mentioned in this article (see below). This will help you decide which places can be visited together so that you can plan a perfect Arizona itinerary covering all the sights that interest you the most.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to some of the best places in the Grand Canyon state. I hope that it gave you plenty of ideas of where to go and what to see in Arizona!

For more travel inspiration for this area, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

Visiting Arizona? Check out these guides as well:

More travel tips for Arizona & Utah:

  • One day in Grand Canyon
  • Where to stay in Grand Canyon
  • Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon – Horseshoe Bend itinerary
  • Best things to do in Sedona
  • Sedona day trip
  • Zion to Bryce Canyon – travel info and itinerary suggestions
  • Best hikes in Zion National Park
  • Where to stay in and near Zion National Park
  • Best things to do in Arches National Park
  • Best things to do in Canyonlands National Park
  • Best things to do in Moab
  • Where to stay in Moab
  • Best Moab Tours

Travel tips for Las Vegas:

  • Best things to do in Las Vegas
  • First-timer’s guide and tips for visiting Las Vegas
  • 1-day Las Vegas Itinerary
  • Best day trips from Las Vegas

Southern California:

  • Los Angeles Itinerary for 3 Days
  • Universal Studios Hollywood: Tips for First Visit
  • Universal Studios vs. Warner Bros Studios Hollywood
  • San Diego Itinerary
  • Best Places to See in Death Valley National Park

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Where to go and what to see in Arizona - top places and attractions

Additional image credits: Depositphotos.com

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

korosh solhi

Wednesday 29th of November 2023

hi this is great

Thursday 30th of November 2023

Glad to help. Happy travels!

Frances Williams

Monday 30th of January 2023

Hello Jurga, I am going to Italy this September and using all your suggestions- love your blogs! Please can you suggest an organized tour for 3 Seniors in May to visit Sedona and the GC, south rim. We won’t drive. We would like to stay a couple of nights in Sedona and do day trips but how do we get to Sedona from Phoenix? Would love your guidance. Thanks

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Hello Frances, I did some research and found this company that seems to arrange transportation between Phoenix (airport) and various places in the area including Sedona. Once in Sedona, you can take tours to any of the places you want to visit in that area. For recommendations, take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Sedona. Have a great trip!

35 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Arizona

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 22, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Places To Visit In Arizona

Arizona, one of the best vacation spots in the world , is packed with must see places and tourist spots, all with their own unique points of interest, and features.

It can be hard to figure out all the things to do in Arizona this weekend or during your next visit due to the sheer wealth of options – but we have you covered.

Here are the 35 best things to do and places to visit in Arizona.

Table of Contents

1. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

jejim / Shutterstock

Need some really cool Arizona vacation ideas?

How about a majestic Native American heritage site?

After all, there are few things more fascinating than that!

Head inside the boundaries of the Navajo Nation and look up Canyon de Chelly National Monument – a location that has seen almost 5,000 years of uninterrupted human occupation by the Anasazi and Navajo people.

These days, it’s all ruins – but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth visiting.

If you take a private tour or a free ranger-led hike you can see the spectacular sight that is all these cliff dwellings high up and carved into the side of the canyon walls.

Most of the ruins are inaccessible to visitors these days, but there are still some places you can go wander through yourself and at least one self-guided hike available.

So if you’re in the area, why not give yourself a chance to check out some incredible history in person?

It’s among the top things to do in Arizona!

Address: Highway 191, Chinle, AZ 86503, United States

2. Walnut Canyon

Walnut Canyon

Looking for fun things to do in Arizona?

Why not dive deep into some pre-Colombian history, and take a moment to appreciate the culture and beauty of a land and its native citizens?

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the state is the historical cliff dwellings that are hewn into the side of canyon walls.

Walnut Canyon specifically was home to the Sinagua people, before it was suddenly abandoned.

Considering that the Sinagua not only thrived in such an environment but even had a trading empire, their vanishment comes as a mystery.

To this day, historians and archeologists haven’t been able to unravel this puzzle.

And since the site is open to visitors, tackling this mystery by yourself is now fair game! (Within reasonable limits, of course.)

So if and you’re interested in around playing as archeological detectives, why not add visiting this incredible location to your list of to-dos?

Address:  3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States

3. Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon

Erik Harrison / Shutterstock

The internationally renowned jewel of the Colorado Plateau Province, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in America , is the Grand Canyon .

Large enough to be seen from space, this location sits among the top 10 best Arizona travel destinations lists for a good reason.

With breathtaking views, incredible biodiversity, and challenging activities for you to do, there is never a dull moment in this Canyon.

Consider white-water rafting along the Colorado River, or marveling at how the Earth’s history on full display on the walls of the canyon.

And if you would rather not walk, there are even mule rides available!

All in all, the Grand Canyon is a must-see destination if you’re an outdoorsy person or someone with an amateur interest in geology.

There’s just something that strikes awe into the human soul about this geological marvel, and it is really worth coming here for an experience you’ll never forget!

This is one of the things to see in Arizona to add to your must do list.

Address:  Arizona, United States

4. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Andrea Izzotti / Shutterstock

Need a sprinkling of danger to heighten those senses for maximum enjoyment?

Antelope Canyon may just be what you’re looking for.

A location infamous for its frequent flash floods, this particular canyon requires that visitors be led on guided tours for their own safety.

That said, there’s a reason it is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Arizona.

The banded sandstone here has been worn smooth into gorgeous shapes that are reminiscent of the water that rushes through them.

This incredible view alone should put this place on your list of things to see in Arizona!

Named after the pronghorn antelopes that used to be common here, the canyons themselves are divided into two parts – the upper and lower canyon.

While both are equally beautiful, you might want to pick the upper canyon if you are a casual tourist that just wants some fun!

Address: Navajo Tribal Park, Page, AZ 86040, United States

5. Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki National Monument

smartyunknown / Shutterstock

What is the point of visiting the state if you don’t at least check out the view?

Some of the top things to do in Arizona include siteseeing – an activity that makes complete sense if you drop by the Wupatki National Monument to take a look.

Located in the middle of the state’s scenic desert vistas, the Wupatki National Monument is home to some of the best-preserved pueblo ruins in the country.

Despite excavations beginning as early as the 1800s, studies and further archeological work is still ongoing due to the rarity of finding such a well-preserved pueblo.

Despite having been abandoned for centuries, the pueblos still feel haunting.

Drop around sunset, and it’s as if the houses and buildings are still waiting for the inhabitants that will never come home.

Maybe you can fill in the space for a bit, and explore its centuries’ worth of history.

Address:  25137 N Wupatki Ln, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States

Don’t forget to check out some more fun things to do in Flagstaff !

Sedona

Abbie Warnock-Matthews / Shutterstock

Despite what most people think, some of the best things to do in Arizona include staring at the scenery.

The desert landscape here amidst the canyons and valleys is a breathtaking view and carries with it a raw kind of earthy energy that can attract sensitive types.

If you are any kind of spiritual practitioner, you ought to put visiting Sedona on your must-visit list today.

Located in Verde Valley, the desert town is a cultural arts enclave surrounded by incredible rock formations.

While the red bands of iron oxide and manganese are often enough to attract visitors, Sedona is famous for something else.

Within the masses of rock formations lies four vortexes of energy, sites that have made visitors burst into tears just by walking into it.

There’s a reason for all the metaphysical shops in that town, after all!

Don’t worry if you’re not the metaphysical type – Sedona is one of those vacation spots that has something for everyone.

Why not check out Cathedral’s Rock, an elevated summit that presents itself as a challenge?

Here’s a list of some of the most amazing things to do in Sedona !

7. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park

Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

Scenic places usually don’t function as a main draw for a lot of people, but there’s a reason Arizona attractions are all about the view.

Just where else would you find a completely fossilized forest?

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind spot!

The Petrified Forest National Park spans across northeastern Arizona, covering both Navajo and Apache counties in an area of approximately 146 square miles.

Made into a national monument in 1906, the park has some incredible terrain you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world.

Just think about it – where else are you going to find an entire fossilized forest in such incredible condition?

It would be an adventure just to walk among the petrified trees alone.

If the incredible views alone aren’t enough to wow you, however, the history buffs among you might prefer looking at the remnants of prehistoric people’s homes instead.

Address: Petrified Forest, Holbrook, AZ 86028, United States

8. Musical Instrument Museum

Musical Instrument Museum

Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock

If you’re a culture and history buff, then it only makes sense that your list of top things to do in Arizona include checking out the litany of culturally rich museums the state has to offer.

Alas, you have so many places to go and so little time.

How are you supposed to make the best of your visit in Arizona?

How about a museum dedicated almost entirely to instruments?

A pretty recent institution by museum standards, the Musical Instrument Museum first opened its Arizona doors in early 2010 and differentiates itself by one key feature – its main exhibits is about musical instruments.

Boasting over 15,000 instruments from every single country in the world in its galleries, this is an exhibit that music lovers should not miss.

And the best part?

You’re allowed to play and handle most of them too!

What’s the point of enjoying music if you can’t have hands-on experience, after all?

Address:  4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

Planning a trip to Phoenix soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Phoenix !

9. Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain

Tim Roberts Photography / Shutterstock

Some of us may be familiar with the story of how the camel got its hump.

Have you ever tried asking how the mountain got its head?

The answer is pretty interesting!

Named after its distinctive shape, Camelback Mountain sits pretty high on the list of tourist places you must visit if you’re a hiker making your way through Arizona.

It historically was home to pre-colonial Native Americans, so budding historians might be interested in checking out this mountain’s historical areas too!

But the real fun here is for the geologists.

The head of the “camel” gets its unique shape from the red sandstone eroding faster than the harder granite sitting on top of it.

There’s just one question – how did the old granite end up on top of the younger, newer sandstone for this particular part of the mountain?

Drop by this scenic location yourself and see if you can solve the mystery!

Address: Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

10. Lake Powell

Lake Powell

worldswildlifewonders / Shutterstock

Still need to bulk up your list of places to visit in Arizona?

Why not check out Lake Powell ?

A man-made reservoir situated on the Colorado River, it was created in 1972 when the Glen Canyon was flooded by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam.

Aside from supplying water to multiple different states, these days it serves as one of the best places in the state for all sorts of recreational water activities in an otherwise arid landscape.

If you’re struggling to beat the heat while visiting Arizona in the summer, why not pop this lake for fishing, boating, or water skiing?

Even better, why not grab a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge?

It’s a jaw-dropping rock arch accessible best by boat.

Sure, you can find other similarly beautiful formations elsewhere, but how many of them are suspended above a sparkling expanse of water?

Address: Utah and Arizona, United States

11. Superstition Mountain Museum

Superstition Mountain Museum

Gregory E. Clifford / Shutterstock

If you’re in Arizona for a weekend trip, why not tick visiting this museum off your Arizona bucket list?

East of Phoenix is a mountain range known as the Superstition Mountains.

Tall and forbidding, the mountains themselves are a sight to behold – and are crammed full of incredible hiking trails.

Perhaps if you’re lucky, you might even finally find the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Goldmine!

But if you’re a movie buff, it’s more likely that you’re interested in the movie sets – and this happens to also be the perfect place to indulge that hobby.

Nestled in the foot of the mountain range is a museum named after the mountains itself – and it’s a locale you may recognize.

The Superstition Mountain Museum has been featured in all sorts of Western kitschy movies and commercials.

Feel free to wander around the Western-style sets, or even have yourself an Elvis wedding!

Address:  4087 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

12. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Tom Willard / Shutterstock

On a road trip and need some fun things to do in Arizona?

Why not do yourself a favor and visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in the state?

History fans and budding archeologists will be particularly excited about this one.

Just 50 miles away from Flagstaff, Arizona is a resilient testament to the resilience of the Sinagua people – Montezuma Castle .

Named after an Aztec ruler by white colonists who had mistaken it for an Aztec ruin, Montezuma Castle is a dwelling carved into the sides of Beaver Creek Canyon.

Five-stories tall and located a good hundred feet above the canyon floor, the dwelling is partitioned into twenty rooms that you can explore in person.

By the way, if you’re bringing along a dog, it’s time to rejoice!

This particular ancient pueblo allows visitors to bring along their dogs – so long as they’re kept on leashes, of course.

Address:  Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, United States

13. Tombstone

Tombstone, Arizona

Nick Fox / Shutterstock

In need of fun places to visit?

Say no more, and put this locale on your list of Arizona vacation spots.

Harkening back to the Victorian heyday where pioneers were still pushing westward in search of gold and land, Tombstone is a town especially for you.

Unlike all the other attractions listed so far, Tombstone is a town that is explicitly designed to cater to tourists.

Step in here and let yourself be transported back to the days of the Old West, with its period-accurate buildings and staged recreations of famous historical gunfights.

Indulge your love for Western B-movies, and have fun with the activities available here!

For those who are craving for more authentic stuff, there’s still hints of the town’s mining history that can be discovered.

Why not head on down to the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, visit the museum there, and see if that hits the spot?

14. Route 66

route 66

Francesco Ferrarini / Shutterstock

Made famous by Pixar’s Cars, Route 66 is a location that’s sure high on your child’s list of places to see in Arizona.

Back in the days before interstates were routes like this one, which still hold a lot of their old-world charm.

If you’re heading down to the place where this road will take you anyway, then isn’t it great to take a moment to use this route?

The scenery is what American road trips are made off, and you’ll be reminded that it is always the journey that makes it worthwhile, not the final destinations!

You may still be asking where to go to find this route.

From Interstate 40, just take a bypass and drive for another 75 miles.

You’ll find it in no time – just keep driving along and enjoying the stuff to see along the way.

While you’re there, why not stop for lunch at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In?

On trips like these, it’s the memories you make along the way that really makes it worthwhile.

15. Havasupai Falls

Havasupai Falls

Anton Foltin / Shutterstock

If you’re already set on going sightseeing, why not visit some of the most beautiful places in Arizona – like the Havasupai Falls?

Tucked away deep in the heart of the Grand Canyon on Havasupai reservation is the Havasu Cavern – home to a series of gorgeous aquamarine waterfalls from which the Havasupai people derive their name.

Despite its beauty, this location is still a relatively unknown secret in Arizona!

The most famous of these waterfalls is known as the Havasu Falls – a waterfall with turquoise cascades so intensely colored, it’s hard to believe that the water flowing through it isn’t transparent.

Unfortunately, trying to get there is pretty difficult.

Not only do you require a permit to enter the reservation, it’s a tough journey to make.

Still, if you can make it, it’s one that will be definitely worth your while.

Address: Hualapai Hilltop, Supai, AZ 86435, United States

16. Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room

Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room

ephst / Shutterstock

If you are an art junkie, then one of the top things to do in Arizona is to see Yayoi Kusama’s work in person for yourself.

The darling of the New York avant-garde art scene in the 1960s, Kusama faded largely into obscurity when she voluntarily moved back home to Japan and stayed in a hospital for the mentally ill in 1973.

Now, at the age of 89, Kusama is once again steadily regaining her well-deserved reputation as an incredible artist.

And now you too can personally experience the fun and joy of her mindbending artwork yourself!

Just head on over to the Phoenix Art Museum in Arizona to see the permanent exhibit installed there.

The title “You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Butterflies” may seem like an odd name to the casual onlooker, but the appropriateness of the name quickly becomes apparent once you are standing there to experience the exhibit in person yourself.

All in all, it is certainly a piece of art you should personally check out at least once in your life while you’re in Arizona!

Address:  1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

17. Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway

Mt Lemmon Scenic byway

Tristan Brynildsen / Shutterstock

Despite being largely a desert, Arizona doesn’t fall short of pretty places.

In fact, some of the best Arizona attractions can be accessible just by turning out of the nearest freeway exit.

In this particular case, the route itself is the actual tourist attraction!

Boasting one of the most scenic views in the state, Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is no short journey with its round-trip length of almost 60 miles.

But it is definitely a road well-worth traveling.

Over the course of these 60-odd miles, drivers making their way through this byway will see some incredible views found nowhere else.

Not only does the temperature change as you make your way up and down, you will also be privy to a wide variety of landscapes – from the arid vista of the Mexican desert to the forested slopes of the Canadian mountains.

Just where else are you going to find an experience like that?

Address: Tucson, AZ, United States

Planning a road trip around Arizona? Here are some incredible things to do in Tucson  & things to do in Scottsdale !

18. Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Gioele Mottarlini / Shutterstock

Still in need of fun places to go to while you’re in Arizona?

Would visiting a crater be cool enough a destination for you?

Yes, you heard us correctly – we did say “crater”!

One of the top things to do in Arizona is to check out the incredible desert vista and marvel at the history it holds – like the Barringer Crater.

Better known as simply the Meteor Crater , this is a massive scar on the Earth caused by a meteor impact over 50,000 years ago.

These days, it is an incredible sight to behold – though a dangerous one.

In 1964, two curious pilots in their Cessna 150 had flown too low over this unique mar in the Earth’s crust.

Luckily, they survived and managed to walk away with their lives.

If you are lucky, you may even spot the wreckage they left behind as a warning to other daredevil pilots.

While flying over the crater is ill-advised, you can still visit the place on foot.

Maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll find some of the unique minerals that are only made when a meteorite crashes into the Earth!

Address:  Interstate 40, Winslow, AZ 86047, United States

19. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend

LucasHeplerPhotography / Shutterstock

For all of you outdoor enthusiasts and amateur geologists, the Glen Canyon Recreational Area is home to some of the most awesome places in Arizona.

Think about it – just where else will you find sites like the Horseshoe Bend ?

Flowing 1,000 ft above sea level is the Colorado River, carving its way through the rocky plateau as it makes its way Southwest.

Thanks to the geological makeup of this unique desert landscape, the river is forced to flow in all sorts of weird shapes.

At one point, the river makes a perfect U-shaped bend that looks like a horseshoe!

For the best view, head on down to Route 89.

From there, it’s just a quick hike before you’re faced with one of the most stunning views American nature has to offer.

Address:  Page, AZ 86040, United States

20. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

If you were already going to see the most jaw-dropping points of interest Arizona has to offer, then why not make a fun detour to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument ?

Nature lovers, in particular, take note – this certainly should be on your list of places to visit in Arizona if you want to make your trip truly worthwhile.

Established in 1937, the Monument was intended to preserve some of the unique biodiversity and geology that can only be found in the Sonoran Desert and to share that love with the general public.

Crammed full of rare and incredible plants (including the titular Organ Pipe Cactus), this is a destination you won’t want to miss!

517 square miles isn’t enough for how many things this park is packing, but it manages it all anyway.

As long as you’re an outdoorsy person, there’s something for you here – whether it’s a place to enjoy camping under starlit skies or scenic paths where you can meander through the local plant life, this park has got you covered.

Address:  10 Organ Pipe Dr, Ajo, AZ 85321, United States

21. Kartchner Caverns

Kartchner Caverns

Robert Shea / flickr

If you don’t already have an Arizona bucket list of some sort, then it’s time to start one just to add this destination to your list.

Discovered in 1974, the incredible sights of Kartchner Caverns were kept a secret from even the landowners themselves in an effort to protect it from any activities that may damage or destroy it.

And it’s easy to see why this decision was made – the cavern is home to some of the longest stalactite formations in the world and is a sight to behold like no other.

After the government of Arizona purchased the land from the family in 1988, the caverns were carefully opened up for public viewing.

Consider making a weekend trip to view these caverns for yourself – it’s well worth your time.

A fun bonus: if you decide to take a tour of the caverns, the guide may point out to you footprints that were left behind by the discoverers when they first explored the caverns!

Address:  2980 AZ-90, Benson, AZ 85602, United States

22. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park

Galyna Andrushko / Shutterstock

The Giant Saguaro is an undeniable symbol of the American West – but for something so ubiquitous in movies and TV, it’s actually a very rare plant that grows in a few select locations.

One of these locations is in a park at the heart of the Sonoran Desert, a cool 2,400 feet above sea level.

Located in Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro National Park is high on the list of tourist attractions thanks to its namesake plant.

Aside from checking out the cacti, there are plenty of other experiences to be had in the park.

For starters, there’s a myriad of hiking trails for both beginners and experienced hikers alike, and there are biking trails if you want to put your new mountain bike to the test!

Alternatively, maybe you would prefer to go camping instead and stare at the moonlit night sky.

Whatever the case may be, it’s undeniable that there’s plenty of fun things to do in Arizona with a park like this!

23. Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting

Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Daniel Greene / flickr

Firefighting is already a dangerous profession as it is – and in highly flammable, arid desert regions, the task becomes even more important.

After seeing how many lives were lost to fires, citizens thought it best to honor these brave people by creating a memorial for them

If you’re still asking about what to do in Arizona, then visiting the Hall of Flame Museum to pay tribute to these brave professionals is a must-do.

These days, the memorial doubles as a museum, with an exhibit dedicated to displaying old firefighting equipment.

Tracing the history of firefighting to 1725, the museum shows just how firefighting has changed over the centuries as technology evolved and training becomes more extensive.

You’ll definitely walk away with a greater appreciation for our heroes after a visit to this place!

Address:  6101 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

24. Arizona Copper Art Museum

Arizona Copper Art Museum

Autumn Sky Photography / Shutterstock

Thanks to its rich deposits of minerals, Arizona has a mining history that can still be seen now!

One of the minerals that was hunted down by pioneers in the state’s heyday was copper.

An incredibly useful mineral, the desire for it gave way to some incredible mining operations – many of which are still in operation today!

While modern copper mines are nothing to sniff at, it’s the historical mines that form some of the coolest places to see in Arizona.

If you’re not keen on running around all over the state to check out the actual locations themselves, then the Arizona Copper Art Museum is the place for you.

Here you can trace the history of copper and its uses throughout 500 years of human history.

From the reminder that Venus’s astrological symbol is also the alchemical symbol for copper, to its uses in artillery in World War I and II, you must visit this museum to enjoy its fun celebration of all things copper.

Address:  849 Main St, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, United States

25. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam

superjoseph / Shutterstock

An engineering marvel, visiting the Hoover Dam sits on the list of top things to do in Arizona.

Completed in 1935, it stands as a testament to what the best minds in humanity are capable of when their efforts are focused.

These days, the dam is a hot location for sightseeing, thanks to its incredible scale and size.

It also doubles as a link between Arizona and Nevada, if you plan to drive to either state.

Ideally, however, you would take the time to stop and enjoy the view.

It’s not every day you get to see the largest artificial lake in the nation, after all!

While you’re here, consider taking a tour of the Hoover Dam or its attached Powerplant.

If that’s not quite your speed, then why not walk around the Hoover Dam instead?

It’s hard to beat that low entry price of free!

Address:  Nevada 89005, United States

Jerome Arizona

weltreisendertj / Shutterstock

If you’re an amateur ghost-hunter, then high on your list of cool things to do in Arizona will definitely be visiting abandoned mining towns like Jerome .

While the town is still largely a ghost town, today it has plenty of attractions and activities catered towards visitors looking to get some thrills.

Built in 1928, this town was originally constructed around some vertigo-inducing cliffside operations.

Many of the ruined buildings still stand on steep hillsides – a haunting reminder of the town’s citizens and history.

Some standout views include The Sliding Jail, which was built unawares on clay slick.

Thanks to its hillside location and gravity, the entire jail has slid about 2,500 feet over the years, and will likely continue moving further and further away from its original point of construction.

It’s a good idea to visit it while you still can before it slides right off the cliff!

27. Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area

Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area

Martina Badini / Shutterstock

Some of the best Arizona attractions harken back to the state’s history, pulling forward its past for us to enjoy and experience in the present.

And in Yuma , this history is still alive and breathing.

Founded in the 1500s by Spanish explorers, Yuma is not only just as old as Arizona itself but played a crucial role in founding the state.

The modern city of Yuma is still spectacular, but budding visitors will want to head down to Yuma Crossing – a patchwork of wetlands and parks that connects the modern to the old, historic downtown.

That isn’t to say the park itself has no places of interest in and of itself.

When you’re done with revisiting history, why not drop by for some scenic riverside trails?

It will surely be worth your time!

Address:  180 W 1st St, Yuma, AZ 85364, United States

28. Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument

Paul B. Moore / Shutterstock

Ever asked what to do in search of fun while on a trip to Arizona?

Perhaps this particular attraction may grab your fancy!

Called the “Land of Standing-Up Rocks” by the native Apache people, Chiricahua National Monument is 12,000 acres of wonder.

Initially formed by a volcano eruption, this area spent the next 27 million years being shaped and chiseled out by the elements.

After so many years, nature’s magnum opus is complete. The Monument is crammed full of all sorts of ancient rock spires and caves.

Go hiking alongside ancient lava flows, or stare at the strange rock garden that nature had so proudly carved out of stone hundreds of feet high.

If this alone isn’t enough to land visiting this locale on your list of top things to do in Arizona, then the 17 miles of hiking trail would be of greater interest to you.

You can also opt for a scenic 8-mile tour if you would rather stay in the comfort of your car!

Address:  E Bonita Canyon Rd, Willcox, AZ 85643, United States

29. London Bridge

london bridge

Peter Kunasz / Shutterstock

Some of the top things to do in Arizona is to go and explore the attractions it offers.

And as it turns out, you can see some of London right here in the state!

No, there’s no teleport to London just yet.

Instead, what you have is the titular bridge of the famous nursery rhyme “London Bridge Is Falling Down” being one of the biggest roadside attractions in Arizona.

Built in the 1830s, London Bridge used to span the River Thames until it began sinking.

Eventually, the bridge was purchased by Lake Havasu City founder Robert P. McCullough and deconstructed in 1967, where it was brought over to the city itself and reconstructed in 1971.

These days, you can get a walking tour of a piece of London’s history – right here in the United States!

Address:  1340 McCulloch Blvd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403, United States

30. Apache Death Cave

Apache Death Cave

J Jakobson / flickr

For those of us who respect local legends and myths, some points of interest are wisely avoided.

For others who are thrill-seekers in search of exploring and examining such local stories, the Apache Death Cave may be on your list of places to visit in Arizona.

It was common for the Native American nations to loot and pillage each other’s settlements in search of valuables and goods.

The attack on a Navajo encampment in 1878 was no different.

Apache raiders came in and slaughtered the entire encampment’s population save for three girls before taking their leave.

Navajo leaders were enraged and sent out teams to hunt down these raiders – to no avail.

It wasn’t until after a second similar raid did scouts finally discover a cave the Apache raiders were hiding in.

Revenge was swift, absolute, and merciless, and it seems the act had left a permanent mark.

Drop by this cave to explore the curse it supposedly left behind – if you dare.

Address:  2 Guns, Winslow, AZ 86047, United States

31. Hubbell Trading Post

Hubbell Trading Post

Jeffrey M. Frank / Shutterstock

During the heyday of Western pioneering, trading hubs were set up so that both pioneers and natives could sell, exchange, and trade goods.

For a fun trip to tick off your Arizona bucket list, why not travel up to the Hubbell Trading Post in the north?

Founded in 1878 by John Lorenzo Hubbell, the trading post ended up supplying the exiled Navajo people when they finally began returning home to their homes – and it hasn’t stopped since.

These days, the trading post is home to all sorts of handmade items like rugs and jewelry.

So if you’re in northern Arizona in search of some interesting activities to do, why not drop by this trading post and support the local craftsmen with your purchase of a one-of-a-kind item?

Address:  1/2 Mile W, S U.S. Hwy 191, Ganado, AZ 86505, United States

32. Coconino Lava River Cave

Lava River Cave

Michael Landrum / Shutterstock

Thanks to Arizona’s history of being a geological hotspot, some of the best things to do in Arizona is to check out the ancient landscape.

Shaped and carved over millennia of erosion, it is now full of must-see places that harken back to a pre-historic era, a time where dinosaurs still roamed the Earth and the world was still in its infancy.

These days, Arizona is a pretty stable area in terms of volcanic activity – but all that shifting and flowing has left its mark.

There are certain caverns and tunnels like Coconino Lava River Cave , where lava flowed through these underground passages and permanently reshaped the ground it flowed on.

In this particular case, this cave was the result of a giant lava flow that had run through the earth like an underground river.

It now is a smooth, near-perfect circle that you can swear is a man-made passage.

And that’s just scratching the surface of the beauty this subterranean marvel holds!

Address:  171B Forest Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, United States

33. Tumacacori National Historical Park

Tumacacori National Historical Park

Hoxel / Shutterstock

No matter what your Arizona vacation ideas are, checking out the state’s history is always a must do.

After all, nothing quite beats learning about transpired events than by being able to see, touch, and feel the weight of history carried by all that have lived through it.

After centuries of war, raids, and cultural clashes, it is a miracle that the ruins of these three 17th-century missions still stand tall.

These days, the ruins are protected by the establishment of Tumacacori National Historical Park , which serves to care for the surviving ruins as much as possible.

If you’re visiting Arizona, consider walking through the ruins to check out the picturesque Mission of San Jose de Tumacacori, or learning more about the area via the Tumacacori Museum!

Informative guided tours are also available, though the Museum and the Mission remnants provide plenty of information if you’re short on time.

Address:  1891 I-19 Frontage Rd, Tumacacori, AZ 85640, United States

34. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden

Daniel Gratton / Shutterstock

Cartoons, movies, and television all tell us that the desert is just nothing but miles and miles of sandy dunes, broken up by the occasional cactus.

If we’re lucky, there may be an oasis with palm trees!

But this is far from the actual reality of this type of land.

In reality, desert regions like Arizona are bursting at the brim with all sorts of incredible plant life – and Desert Botanical Garden is a crucial example.

With over 4,000 species, this garden is overflowing with all the floral beauty a desert can ever hope to muster.

So if you’re still asking about what to see in Arizona, then why not add this garden to your to-do list?

It will certainly be a fun and happy trip that’s designed to bust your expectations of what a desert should be like!

Address:  1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

Bisbee, AZ

Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

Founded in 1880, Bisbee is one of the many mining camps that sprung up in the Old West as pioneers hoped to strike fame and fortune.

Despite the riches it accrued, it, unfortunately, fell to the same fate that other mining towns did, and was quickly abandoned when the mines closed down in the mid-1970s.

These days, its name is the answer to would-be visitors asking where to visit in Arizona – and for good reason.

If the history and incredible surroundings alone aren’t good enough a reason for you, then perhaps the activities it has may spark your interest instead!

What kind of activities, you may ask?

Consider checking out the many museums and galleries this little town holds, or hop along on a guided tour to learn more about Bisbee’s colorful history.

There’s never a dull moment in a historical town such as this one!

Start Planning Your Trip To Arizona

There’s no shortage of Arizona attractions to enjoy, each filled with stuff to do.

With all the great places to travel, there’s no shortage of tourist spots to enjoy so plan a vacation today!

Hopefully, our list of the best things to do in Arizona will help you see all the sights and get to all the destinations that Arizona has to offer!

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes
  • Arizona Travel Guide Overview: Arizona Travel Guide
  • This Southwestern State Has World-famous Landscapes, Luxury Spas, and Award-winning Food and Wine

21 Beautiful Places to Visit in Arizona — From Stunning National Parks to an Underground Restaurant

  • This Arizona City Has Some of the Best Sonoran Mexican Food in the U.S. — Here's Where to Eat
  • The Largest Urban Preserve in the U.S. Is Hiding in Arizona
  • Arizona’s Wine Scene Is Booming — Here’s Where to Go and What to Sip
  • Destinations
  • Arizona Travel Guide This Southwestern State Has World-famous Landscapes, Luxury Spas, and Award-winning Food and Wine 21 Beautiful Places to Visit in Arizona — From Stunning National Parks to an Underground Restaurant This Arizona City Has Some of the Best Sonoran Mexican Food in the U.S. — Here's Where to Eat The Largest Urban Preserve in the U.S. Is Hiding in Arizona Arizona’s Wine Scene Is Booming — Here’s Where to Go and What to Sip CLOSE Part of Arizona Travel Guide

From must-visit Grand Canyon National Park to lesser-known sights around the state, these are the best places to visit in Arizona.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

top tourist attractions arizona

Massimo Pizzotti/Getty Images

Arizona’s landscapes are nothing short of stunning. Towering buttes meet hills covered with saguaro cacti, and red rock canyons hide towering waterfalls. The otherworldly landscape — that often feels better suited for Mars than our planet — is grounded by what has become Arizona’s other great draw: the proof of human history found in the sites and settlements of Ancestral Puebloans. These archaeological sites, which include cliff dwellings, sandstone homes, and petroglyphs, dot the state, offering a reminder of the people who came before.

With both a deep human history and a stunning natural landscape, there is plenty to explore in the state of Arizona , including several national parks and monuments and a couple of rock features that are so incredible, they deserve their own entries on this list. Here are 21 of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Havasu Falls

zysman/Getty Images

The spectacular blue-green water of Havasu Falls has captivated visitors for years. The falls, which sit on Havasupai lands near Grand Canyon National Park, are near the isolated Havasupai community of Supai Village. Accessing the village, the falls, and the spectacular — and carefully protected — scenery requires plenty of advance planning and a permit.

Grand Canyon National Park

ipanacea/Getty Images

It would be impossible to leave the Grand Canyon off this list — especially when it’s recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders alongside sites like the Great Barrier Reef and Mount Everest. The canyon, which is a must-see destination for many, is around a mile deep and an average of 10 miles wide, cutting through the state of Arizona for almost 300 miles.

Yayoi Kusama’s Fireflies Infinity Mirror Room

Courtesy of Phoenix Museum of Art

The Fireflies Infinity Mirror Room in the Phoenix Art Museum was envisioned by renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Her work, which is titled “You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies,” is what it sounds like — a mixed-media installation that uses LED lights and mirrors to create the effect of being surrounded by fireflies in the dead of night. It’s magic.

Wupatki National Monument

JeffGoulden/Getty Images

Wupatki National Monument is a must for travelers who are fascinated with the ways ancient people survived and thrived in the hot Arizona desert. The monument sits within a beautiful landscape, but the remains of pueblos are what truly catch the eye. Three structures from the early 1100s still stand. The sandstone and limestone buildings pay homage to the thriving Pueblo communities that lived and traded there. 

Grand Canyon Caverns and Grotto

The Caverns Grotto offers one of the most unique dining experiences around: a meal served 210 feet below the Earth’s surface in a 345-million-year-old cave network. The menu is simple, but the scenery is out of this world. Underground diners get 360-degree views of the ancient cave, which stretches 60 miles from Peach Springs, Arizona to the Grand Canyon. 

Biosphere 2

Frogman1484/Getty Images

Billed as “The World's Largest Earth Science Experiment,” Biosphere 2 is a controlled environment that was created to understand Earth’s living systems and the impacts of climate change. The research facility, which is basically a 3.14-acre laboratory in Oracle, Arizona, holds several environments, including oceanic and desert landscapes.  

lmel9000/Getty Images

The Wave, technically called Coyote Buttes North , is just one feature within the expansive 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness — yet it has drawn thousands of travelers over the years. The Wave resembles a wave made of sandstone and is so stunning and photogenic that it has long drawn travelers and photographers willing to go through the competitive permit process and make the strenuous 6.4-mile round-trip hike to get there.

Petrified Forest National Park

zrfphoto/Getty Images

There are just three national parks in Arizona, and while the Grand Canyon soaks up all the attention, the Petrified Forest National Park slips under the radar. The visually stunning park is best known for its Rainbow Forest, which showcases colorful petrified wood that is over 200 million years old. There are also petroglyphs and paleontology exhibits.

Horseshoe Bend

Like The Wave, Horseshoe Bend has become one of the most photographed sites in Arizona. It is a perfectly horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River that sits within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The bend is located near the town of Page, Arizona close to the sprawling Lake Powell.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Eduardo Cabanas/Getty Images

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is vast and has been inhabited by several Native groups for millennia. Inside the stunning monument are 800-foot-tall spires, prehistoric rock art, towering sandstone cliffs, and a surprisingly lush desert canyon. The park sits on Navajo lands in the northeastern part of the state.

Antelope Canyon

Frank Bevill/Getty Images

The slot canyons found in this corner of the state are on land that belongs to the Navajo Nation and require a tour guide to access. The advance planning is well worth the experience of hiking through a narrow slot canyon and watching the light play on the red rock. There are two sites, the Upper Antelope Canyon and the Lower Antelope Canyon; the former claims to be the most photographed slot canyon in the world.

Meteor Crater National Landmark

Charles Davies/Getty Images

If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like if a meteor struck the Earth, make your way to the Meteor Crater National Landmark near Winslow, Arizona. The crater, which is about a mile wide and 550 feet deep, shows what happens when a 150-foot-wide meteor hits the Earth. Visitors can walk along the crater rim or view the devastation from the visitor center on the edge of the crater.

Saguaro National Park

Martha Brodeur/Getty Images

This national park, which is split by the city of Tucson, has the important job of protecting the cactus-filled Sonoran Desert landscape. But beyond providing a place for the nation's largest cacti to flourish, Saguaro National Park also has trails leading to petroglyphs and drives that provide a stunning view of the Arizona desert. 

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Paola Giannoni/Getty Images

Imagine it: An expansive valley dotted with towering sandstone pinnacles that seem to shoot out of the Earth, reaching heights of up to 1,000 feet. This is Monument Valley , a park within the Navajo Nation that offers some of the most stunning desert views in the world. When you’re done taking in the sights, visit the artisans selling handcrafted jewelry and other Navajo goods. 

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Dreamframer/Getty Images

This monument in Camp Verde, Arizona protects a set of dwellings built into a rock wall by the Sinagua people between approximately 1100 and 1425. The dwelling , which is a 20-room wonder, is beautifully preserved and showcases how ancient people survived in the unforgiving desert.

Desert Botanical Garden

CampPhoto/Getty Images

The dry, desert landscape of Arizona supports a surprising number of plant and tree species, a fact that is celebrated at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. And while local flora is the focus of the 55-acre botanical garden, they also have thousands of species of flowers, trees, and cacti from all around the world.

Chiricahua National Monument

Vince Barnes/Getty Images

Utah isn’t the only state with bizarre-looking hoodoos and precariously balanced rocks. The Chiricahua National Monument in southeastern Arizona has been nicknamed the "Wonderland of Rocks" for its surreal rock structures, and it also protects the long human history of the area. 

Coconino Lava River Cave

Within Coconino National Forest is a mile-long lava tube cave that was created almost 700,000 years ago by molten rock from a volcanic vent. The tube, which is the longest cave of its kind known to exist in Arizona, has icicles made of stone hanging off the ceiling and wave-like marks on the floor from the molten rock that once flowed from the cave.

Mystery Castle

Mystery Castle in Phoenix is more than a giant castle with 18 rooms and 13 fireplaces. It is an ode to the love between a father and daughter. The builder, Boyce Gully, built the castle for his daughter, Mary Lou, who went on to live in the space and offer tours of it until her death in 2010. The tours continue today and feature an impressive collection of Southwestern antiques perched in the castle’s many rooms and nooks.

Walnut Canyon National Monument

Walnut Canyon National Monument showcases one of the state’s geological wonders. The canyon, which dips 350 feet below the rim, is set southeast of downtown Flagstaff, Arizona. And while Walnut Canyon is a stunning site, the monument also protects the remains of ancient cliff dwellings, which were built into the rock. 

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is built among the vibrant red rock on the outskirts of Sedona, Arizona in the Coconino National Forest. The church draws pilgrims and tourists who come to worship in the space that was built on top of a natural rock formation and features stunning views over the desert landscape.

Arizona Travel Guide

The 10 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

State 48, as it's known locally, is more than the tumbleweeds and cacti depicted in classic Western movies. In major cities like Phoenix and Tucson, you’ll find world-class museums and luxury resorts. At the Grand Canyon, you’ll be inspired as you view the only one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World located in North America. The state has world-class spas, Native American arts and crafts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

On the same day, you can kick off your morning walking the still-dusty streets of Tombstone and end the day sipping wine at a winery. Or, pose with the world’s largest cacti at Saguaro National Park near Tucson, then Instagram a photo of yourself standing in the world’s largest stand of Ponderosa Pine trees in Coconino National Forest. The possibilities are endless. 

 Matt Mawson / Getty Images

Chances are, if you fly to Arizona, you’ll most likely land at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. The fifth-largest city in the United States boasts some of the state’s best museums, including the internationally acclaimed Musical Instrument Museum and the Heard Museum with its impressive collection of Native American art. Taliesin West , the winter home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and open for tours in Scottsdale.

Even though the greater Phoenix metropolitan area is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, its unique landscape is worth exploring in the cooler months. Get a primer on the area’s flora with a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden and its fauna at the Phoenix Zoo before heading out. You can explore the Sonoran Desert on your own on a hike at South Mountain Park , one of the largest city parks in the world, or take a 4x4 tour into the Four Peaks Wilderness.

Phoenix also has some of the state’s best restaurants, including its only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star award-winning restaurant, Kai; nearly 200 golf courses; and some of the nation’s best spas. 

Grand Canyon National Park

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must for any visitor to Arizona. You can see the canyon from viewpoints at the South Rim, the national park’s main entrance; the North Rim; and Grand Canyon West, the Hualapai tribal lands where the glass Skywalk curves over the rim’s edge. First-time visitors will want to experience the canyon at the South Rim, which is the easiest access and has jaw-dropping views.

After gazing across the expanse of the South Rim, you can hike or bike the mostly-paved Rim Trail, trek a short way into the canyon (or all the way to the bottom if you plan to overnight there), or ride a mule with reservations on the rim or below. Rafting trips, which generally leave from Page, and helicopter tours, which take off at Grand Canyon National Park Airport, are other ways to explore the canyon. 

 Nikolas_jkd / Getty Images

Surrounded by rocks tinged red with rusting iron, Sedona is one of the most beautiful cities in the state. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or mountain bike the trails in Red Rock State Park, cool off at Slide Rock State Park, or take a yoga class on the red rocks, but you don’t need to work out to indulge at one of Sedona’s luxury spas. Pamper yourself even further with an aura reading or by meditating in a vortex, a swirling pocket of energy that promotes healing and self-exploration.

A trip to Sedona wouldn’t be complete without a Pink Jeep tour. Book the two-hour Broken Arrow tour to see the red rocks up close while tackling rugged terrain in an open-air Jeep Wrangler. After, shop for souvenirs on the main route through the city, State Route 89A, or at the boutiques and galleries at the Spanish-style shopping center, Tlaquepaque. 

ChrisBoswell / Getty Images 

This city makes a good base for exploring the Grand Canyon, but it’s a destination in its own right. Start in the historic downtown, where you can shop Flagstaff’s boutiques, specialty stores, and art galleries. Between retailers, break with a pint from one of several downtown breweries on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail or grab a bite to eat at Proper Meats + Provisions or Pizzicletta . Or, discover the downtown area on a self-guided walking tour. The city’s “Walk This Talk” tour retraces the Route 66 alignment through Flagstaff. Drop by the Visitor Center in the historic train depot at 1 E. Route 66 for more information.

Beyond downtown, the Museum of Northern Arizona features exhibits on geology and Native American culture while Lowell Observatory introduces visitors to the universe and tells the story of how Pluto was discovered onsite in 1930. 

Jim Vallee / Getty Images 

Jerome—dubbed the Wickedest City in the West in the early 1900s—nearly became a ghost town after its mines played out. Thankfully, in the 1960s, artists moved in and breathed new life into the community. Today, Jerome is known for its art galleries, specialty shops like Nellie Bly Kaleidoscopes, winery tasting rooms, and great food. Before heading into town, make a stop at Jerome State Historic Park to learn about the community’s mining past.

A day trip to Jerome can easily be combined with a visit to Cottonwood , which has even more galleries, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Serious wine lovers may want to overnight either in Jerome or Cottonwood and spend the following day visiting the actual wineries on the Verde Valley Wine Trail near Cornville. 

 Esdelval / Getty Images

The second-largest city in Arizona, Tucson is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States, thanks to its rich agricultural history and efforts to preserve heirloom crops. You can visit the nation’s oldest continuously farmed land at San Agustin Mission Farm and drop by Native Seeds/Search to learn more.

But Tucson is much more than its farming past. It’s home to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a highly-acclaimed botanical garden, zoo, and small aquarium, as well as the Pima Air & Space Museum. In addition to a tram tour of its outdoor aircraft, the museum also offers guided tours of the AMARG “Boneyard” across the street at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Round out your visit with stops at Mission San Xavier del Bac, Sabino Canyon, and Saguaro National Park.

Want to experience life as a cowpoke? Tucson has two dude ranches: White Stallion Ranch and Tanque Verde Ranch . 

vuk8691 / Getty Images

Immortalized in movies and books, this legendary silver boom town in Southern Arizona lives on today. You can stand in the same spot where the Earp brothers—Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan—along with Doc Holliday stared down rivals Ike Clanton, Billy Clanton, Tom McLaury, and Frank McLaury before the infamous shootout at the O.K. Corral. Actors reenact the scene at the O.K. Corral Historic Complex daily for ticketholders, but you can dive even deeper into the gunfight at the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park. Tour the Bird Cage Theater Museum , and get a drink at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon before you go.

A visit to Tombstone can easily be combined with time in Bisbee , a mining-town-turned-arts-community less than a half hour’s drive south. Browse the galleries there, discover the excellent, Smithsonian-affiliated Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum , or go underground on a Copper Queen Mine tour. 

Sonoita/Elgin Wine Region

Chiyacat / Getty Images

Believe it or not, Arizona produces wines so impressive they’ve been served at the White House. While the Willcox area is the largest growing region in the state, some of the best vintages come from the Sonoita/Elgin wine region , the state’s first American Viticulture Area (AVA). Download a map here to visit some of the wineries on your own, or leave the driving to someone else with Arizona Winery Tours . Top wineries include Dox Cabezas WineWorks, Kief-Joshua Vineyards, and Sonoita Vineyards.

If you want to discover even more Arizona wines, detour to Willcox , where several Willcox AVA wineries, such as Keeling Schaefer Vineyards, have tasting rooms.  

Antelope Canyon

 Buena Vista Images / Getty Images

You’ve likely been awed by pictures of Antelope Canyon , the sandstone slot canyon in northern Arizona formed over millions of years by water and wind. Its wavy, orange walls, and shafts of light give it an otherworldly appearance. Located near Page, it is an extremely popular destination.

Book your tour before you go, especially if you will be visiting during the fall or spring when temperatures are more moderate. Most tours spend about an hour in the actual canyon and involve some hiking. (Due to COVID-19, visitors are not permitted to walk back through the canyon to the 4x4 that brought them. Instead, they have to hike out over a low section of wall.)

Upper Antelope Canyon is more commonly toured since it’s easier to navigate, but some companies also offer tours of Lower Antelope Canyon and nearby Waterhole Canyon and other slot canyons. 

Monument Valley Tribal Park

 Don White / Getty Images

Straddling the Arizona-Utah border, the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley Tribal Park are well over a five-hour drive from Phoenix but not to be missed if you have the time. You can drive the unpaved 17-mile road on your own into the park’s interior or, better yet, have a Navajo guide take you off-road. Often these tours include weaving demonstrations, sunset dinners, and Native American singing and dancing. Plan to spend the night at The View Hotel , the only hotel in the park, to watch the sunrise over the Mittens rock formations the next morning. 

The Best National Parks Near Las Vegas

Visiting the Grand Canyon From Phoenix

Sedona and Grand Canyon One and Two Day Tours

Must-See Destinations in Northern Arizona

12 Top Things to Do in Page, Arizona

Things to Do for the Best Southwest Experience

Grand Canyon National Park: The Complete Guide

Phoenix Guide: Planning Your Trip

Best of the West: Top Tourist Destinations

The 12 Best Day Trips from Sedona

How to Travel From Las Vegas to Mesa Verde National Park by Car and Bus

Arizona With Kids

The 10 Best Small Towns in Arizona

The 6 Most Romantic Places in the Southwest

Best Day and Road Trips From Phoenix

The Best Staycation in Every State

The top 10 places to visit in Arizona, from ghost towns to the Grand Canyon

Janet  Gyenes

Sep 12, 2023 • 9 min read

A man giving a woman a piggyback as they both laugh in Arizona

Arizona has some of the most incredible hikes available in the US © PeopleImages / Getty Images

Travelers are drawn to Arizona by the blinding desert sunshine, but the Grand Canyon state has so much more to offer. Under these flawless blue skies, everything you can imagine to entice, entertain and enthrall is up for grabs.

There are outdoor thrills and indoor indulgences, encounters with history and hip modern quarters, wilderness escapes and tourist-packed ski resorts. Arizona's diversity spans everything from big city living to empty spaces that are perfect for quiet contemplation.

Along with desert cities that exude a hint of the Old West, Arizona has atmospheric ghost towns and natural wonders aplenty, including the Grand Canyon and the world’s largest pine forest (where you can also ski). Here's our pick of the ten best places to visit in Arizona.

1. The Grand Canyon

Best place for jaw-dropping views

Unsurprisingly, the Grand Canyon is Arizona’s most famous sight. It’s colossal and spectacular and draws huge crowds in summer , which might dissuade first-timers or those seeking a quiet escape. However, it's somewhere that lives up to the hype. People think of this massive canyon system carved by the Colorado River as a single park, but there are actually four separate areas you can visit. 

Grand Canyon National Park is divided into the South Rim (open year-round) and the North Rim (closed from mid-October to mid-May), and these two zones are 210 miles apart. Along with mesmerizing views and hiking trails, the busier South Rim has a free shuttle service, a geology museum and some good on-site accommodations. Reaching 8000ft in elevation, the North Rim delivers more outsize panoramas and has milder weather and fewer people on the trails, contributing to a more relaxing atmosphere.

The Grand Canyon’s West and East rims are also worth exploring, but these areas fall outside the national park. The Grand Canyon West tourism area on the Hualapai Indian Reservation is famed for its glass-bottomed Skywalk, looming 70ft out over the canyon rim, while the East Rim is quieter and ideal for peaceful hiking.

Planning tip: To see the best of the East Rim, check out the Little Colorado River Gorge in Navajo Tribal Park , about 11 miles from Cameron. There’s a $5 fee to access two stunning overlooks and you’ll need a $12 backcountry permit to hike the trails but solitude is practically guaranteed. 

Jerome, Arizona ghost town mine windmill wild western

2. Verde Valley

Best place for wine trails and historic towns

Central Arizona’s Verde Valley is an underrated spot, characterized by prehistoric ruins, outpost towns, abundant wildlife and a wine trail that snakes around rivers and mountains. To get a sense of its rugged beauty, follow the 30-mile road that winds through the valley, starting in atmospheric Jerome, once hailed as the "wickedest town in the West." Built by a mining magnate in the 19th century, this once-notorious outpost is today considered a ghost town although it still has around 500 residents. 

Jerome's Cleopatra Hill once delivered payloads of gold, silver and copper for eager miners, but the town today is a mix of eclectic restaurants, artists' studios and offbeat boutiques, all set inside Victorian buildings that look poised to tumble into the valley below. In the fertile land below Jerome are the similarly historic towns of Clarkdale, Cornville and Cottonwood – home to Dead Horse Ranch State Park , a peaceful spot for outdoor recreation. 

Planning tip: On a trip to the Verde Valley, you can also swing by Tuzigoot National Monument and Montezuma Castle National Monument , where you can see the remains of pueblos (villages) built by the Sinagua people in around 1050 CE.

3. Horseshoe Bend

Best place for photo opportunities

What marks out this 270-degree bend in the Colorado River from all the other twists and turns along this mighty watercourse? Maybe it’s the way the dark blue waters of Horseshoe Bend reflect the towering sandstone walls that surround it, leaving you humbled by the thought of the massive forces of nature that shaped this region near Page, Arizona.

The overlook in Glen Canyon Recreation Area is the best place to snap a classic Horseshoe Bend photo, but a more enriching way to experience the canyon’s immensity is on a raft. Guided rafting tours head downriver to Horseshoe Bend and stop at a swimming beach with ancient Puebloan petroglyphs.

4. Monument Valley

Best place to learn about Indigenous culture

To explore Arizona’s Indigenous culture amid 1000ft sandstone towers, make a beeline for Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park . You’ll immediately recognize the landscape’s monoliths; they've been starring in movies and TV Westerns since the 1930s.

The outcrops are called se’Bii’Ndzisgaii in the Navajo language, and the best way to fully appreciate this sacred land is to travel with a local guide who will add context to the experience as you walk in the shadow of buttes such as East Mitten and West Mitten. 

Planning tip: Sunrise and sunset are the best times to photograph the towering buttes of Monument Valley. For sublime sunset photos, stake out a spot by the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park visitor center or the View Hotel .

A mural in the Roosevelt Arts District promoting Phoenix, Arizona

Best place for art and architecture

As Arizona’s capital, Phoenix is arguably the best place to fuel your appetite for art and architecture in Arizona. Frank Lloyd Wright, the father of modern American architecture, left his fingerprints all over the city. Start the tour at Taliesin West , Wright’s desert laboratory and a National Historic Landmark. In 2019, the house was inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage site list (along with seven of his other major works) for its cultural significance. To delve deeper into Wright’s oeuvre, visit the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa ; the building was designed by Albert Chase McArthur, with Wright acting as a consultant for four months in 1928.

The Phoenix Art Museum is another top venue featuring work by both big-name and emerging artists. In its permanent collection is one of Yayoi Kusama’s wildly popular infinity mirror rooms, entitled, You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies . From the art museum, it’s just three blocks to Roosevelt Row , where you can admire the murals that made Phoenix’s street art scene rightly famous. 

Best place for historic sites and hipster vibes

Home to half a million people, Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city, and it beautifully blends urban comforts with outdoor endeavors. Although it’s smack in the middle of the Sonoran Desert – fringing Saguaro National Park with its ancient, eight-ton cactuses – Tucson defies the desert city tropes. A short drive from downtown along the Sky Island Scenic Byway, 9000ft Mount Lemmon is the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains, and the southernmost spot in the continental US where you can go skiing. 

Downtown Tucson is a mix of historic sights and hipster vibes. The Turquoise Trail is a self-guided walking route linking 22 historic landmarks. Nearby, Fourth Avenue celebrates Tucson's heritage with youthful energy; its murals, tattoo shops and vintage boutiques are frequented by students from The University of Arizona.

Planning tip: Tucson scores bonus points for sustainability thanks to the Sun Link Streetcar and The Loop , a 131-mile car-free pathway for cyclists, runners and walkers. You can rent a bike from Tucson Bike Rentals on The Loop.

A man standing on the Devil's Bridge rock formation near Sedona

Best place for spirituality and wellness

Although it's technically a city, Sedona feels more like a glamorous village and it's surrounded by natural splendor. Wherever you wander, you’ll be greeted by imposing red-rock formations and 5000ft monoliths such as Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock – said to be focal points for natural energy fields known as vortexes.

Modern-day Sedona has evolved from an outpost of ranches and apple orchards to a popular hub for spirituality, wellness and – reputedly – UFO sightings, and this land is also sacred to a number of Indigenous groups. It’s also a great stop for art buffs and outdoor enthusiasts , with more than 80 galleries and 400 miles of trails zigzagging along Oak Creek through stands of prickly pear cactuses and ponderosa pines. 

8. Flagstaff

Best place for stargazing

Perched at 7000ft, Flagstaff offers the best of the city and the mountains. Situated in the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, “Flag” is home to Northern Arizona University, which contributes to the city's youthful vibe. The streets are awash with coffee houses and craft beer establishments, which you can explore on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail . 

To connect with the great outdoors, head to the Arizona Snowbowl , a four-season playground in Flagstaff’s backyard with 40 ski runs and three terrain parks. Chairlifts go up to 11,500ft, offering dizzying views of Sedona’s red rocks, the rim of the Grand Canyon and fields of cinder cones as you ride up the western slope of 12,637ft Mount Humphreys. 

Flagstaff is also a leading destination for astrotourism. In 1930, astronomers at Lowell Observatory discovered Pluto, and all the American astronauts who walked on the moon were trained in Flagstaff. Decades later, Flagstaff became the word’s first international dark sky city , and many visitors are drawn here specifically by the start-gazing opportunities.

Planning tip: Flagstaff is a great base for exploring Arizona. Meteor Crater is just 42 miles away, and you can also easily access Grand Canyon National Park, Walnut Canyon National Monument , Sunset Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument by car.

Meteor Crater against clear blue sky in Arizona

9. Meteor Crater

Best place for ancient history

Arizona has more than its share of superlative sites, and Meteor Crater near Winslow is one for the ages. This massive depression, almost a mile wide and 550ft deep, is considered the best-preserved meteorite impact site in the world. The site has a fascinating backstory; it was created some 50,000 years ago when a monstrous iron-nickel meteorite smashed into the ground at 26,000 mph, leaving a perfect impact crater. You can learn more about the site at the visitor center and 4D theater. 

10. Grand Canyon Caverns 

Best place for a quirky Route 66 stop

There are many stretches of Route 66 that visitors can explore in Arizona, but we recommend making a stop at the wild and sometimes weird Grand Canyon Caverns . Located in Peach Springs, this idiosyncratic site is composed of an inn, a four-table restaurant and the largest dry cavern in the US, situated 210ft down in the underbelly of the Grand Canyon.

Fitting this outpost's oddball history, local woodcutter Walter Peck accidentally discovered the caves in 1927 after falling off his horse while heading to a poker game. Today, you can explore them yourself on a series of tours, including a ghost walk.

Planning tip: Arizona lays claim to 401 miles of Route 66, making this a great base for short road trips on this historic route. Essential stops include Holbrook (home to the Wigwam Motel ), Winslow (immortalized by The Eagles in the song Take it Easy ) and Williams, starting point for the Grand Canyon Railway .

This article was first published September 2021 and updated September 2023

Explore related stories

top tourist attractions arizona

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Need fresh ideas for your big spring trip? Read on for out-of-the-box destinations for a fun spring break 2024.

top tourist attractions arizona

Nov 16, 2023 • 6 min read

top tourist attractions arizona

Sep 23, 2023 • 11 min read

Hot Air Balloons over the London Bridge; Shutterstock ID 173708021; your: Alex Howard; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: 65050/Online Editorial/Alex Howard/Best beaches in Arizona

Sep 16, 2023 • 5 min read

A man sitting on the bonnet of his car looking at the scenery in Arizona

Sep 14, 2023 • 6 min read

Sunset at San Diego Waterfront Public Park.

May 10, 2023 • 11 min read

Stock photograph of a family with one child looking at view in Grand Canyon National Park, South Rim, USA on a sunny day.

Mar 24, 2023 • 6 min read

top tourist attractions arizona

Mar 14, 2023 • 5 min read

A woman looking out towards the Grand Canyon

Jan 11, 2023 • 3 min read

September 2, 2016: Flames shooting from a mutant vehicle at Burning Man in the evening.

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Arizona (AZ) » 25 Best Things to Do in Arizona

25 Best Things to Do in Arizona

Spotting a tourist in Arizona may be more difficult than you would first imagine as even the locals wear shorts and t-shirts and take a high number photographs of the stunning natural landscapes.

Arizona has some of the most incredible and unique terrain in the United States with its rocky canyons and towering mountains.

The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national attractions in the world and it is easy to appreciate why whilst taking in the natural phenomenon.

The climate could also be described a natural wonder in its own right with its hot and dry weather attracting tourists in the winter who want a late taste of summer.

There are also man made wonders in the state including the Hoover Dam which defies belief with its structural strength and size.

The cities in Arizona also have plenty to offer with a mix of historic buildings and pioneering museums and art galleries.

When constructing this list of things to do in Arizona it was impossible to avoid missing off several prominent attractions as there is simply so much worth doing in the state.

However, the list has been refined and makes for a truly memorable itinerary. Here are the best things to do in Arizona :

1. The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon

Possibly the most popular natural attraction in the United States, and definitively the most popular in Arizona, is the Grand Canyon.

This natural wonder was shaped by the Colorado River many years ago. The Grand Canyon is mostly visited at the South Rim, which has a number of lookout spots.

Hiking into the canyon itself is possible as is a truly memorable helicopter flight over the landscape, providing spectacular views.

There are several tours available.

2. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

The Glen Canyon National Recreational Area is home to Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Dam.

Lake Powell is manmade and the largest artificial lake in the USA, it was formed by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam in 1964.

Hiking is one of the main reasons to visit the area and a great place to do so is the Antelope slot canyons where the light and rocks create some interesting sights and photo opportunities.

3. Monument Valley

Monument Valley

When soaking in the views within Monument Valley Tribal Park it would be easy to believe that you are on a different planet.

The terrain here is hostile but beautiful with its sharp rock formations and huge sand dunes.

There are a number of ways to see the valley including a photography tour for those looking to take some great photos of the landscape.

Many visitors simply take in the valley from the comfort of their vehicles as they drive by on the nearby highway.

Suggested tour : 2.5-Hour Tour with Backcountry Access

Jerome Arizona Ghost Town

This former mining town is now a ghost town, which is a great stop off while in Arizona.

There are great views from the town and the main street has plenty of shops and places to eat.

Jerome is a mix of restored buildings and ruins.

There are hotels for those wishing to stay overnight in this unique location and also a museum, the Gold King Museum, detailing the history of the area.

Another point of interest is the Sliding Jail, which, as the name suggests, has slid away from its current location since construction and is now situated about 2,500 feet away from the spot where it was first built.

Suggested tour : Jerome and Tuzigoot National Monument Day Trip

Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona, Arizona

The town of Sedona is surrounded by stunning red mountains and sharp rocky precipices and makes for a great day trip from Phoenix, situated around an hour and a half away by car.

The views here are brilliant and can be taken in by hiking or mountain biking or, for those who want to relax slightly, off road jeep tours are also available.

Explore it by Jeep : Small-Group Vortex Jeep Tour

6. Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam

It is hard not to be impressed by the Hoover Dam, it is one of the engineering wonders of the world. Constructed in 1935, the dam controls the Colorado River and bridges Arizona and Nevada.

The Hoover Dam is over 700 feet high and over 1,200 feet long.

The lake created by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, is 110 miles in length.

7. Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls, Arizona

The Havasu Falls are 100 feet high and during times of heavy water flow, it appears to be two falls as the water forks and cascades in two directions.

The pools at the bottom of the falls are a beautiful turquoise.

In the nearby Havasu Creek canyon, the Havasupai Indians live. In the past they survived a secluded life based on their agricultural skills but now they largely rely on the tourist trade in the area.

8. Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Canyon De Chelly National Monument

The National Monument of Canyon de Chelly is home to unusual houses built into the steep cliff sides including a dwelling called the White House, which is thought to have been constructed in 1050AD.

Most of the houses, which are believed to have been lived in from as early as 350AD, are unreachable but the museum and visitor center nearby offer insightful guided tours of the area.

Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee is a former mining town situated near the Mexican border.

Its position in the mountains allows for spectacular views, which extend over the border and into Mexico.

When the mines closed Bisbee and its houses fell into disrepair but it is now home to an interesting mix of residents and shops.

Many people visit the town from Tucson as a day trip.

10. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreational Area, Arizona

Although the National Recreation Area takes its name from Lake Mead, it also includes some of the Colorado River and Lake Mohave within its impressive 1.5 million acres.

Lake Mohave, like Lake Mead, is an artificial lake restrained by the Davis Dam.

Many outdoor pursuits are available at the Recreational Area including, of course, water sports, fishing and camping.

11. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon offers some very unique sights due to its narrow canyon walls and the natural light that cascades from above.

It is these features that make Antelope Canyon a popular spot for photographers and photos of the canyon are often found on postcards, tourism leaflets and art galleries.

Visitors to the canyon must have a guide and, as such, there are a variety of tours available.

Book online : Canyon X, Upper, or Lower Antelope Entry

12. Tumacacori National Historical Park

Tumacacori National Historical Park

The National Historical Park of Tumacacori is located to the south of Tucson and preserves the remains of the three Spanish colonial missions that were situated here in the past.

The missions of Los Santos Angeles and San Jose de Tumacacori are the oldest in the state of Arizona and were formed in 1691.

The final mission in the park is San Cayetano de Calabazas, which was formed in 1756.

In the year of 1848 the missions were abandoned due to a particularly harsh winter and increasing raids from Apache.

13. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

The Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument occupies an area to the south of Arizona and near the border with Mexico.

The National Monument is home to a wide range of cactus species and is particularly well known for the organ pipe cactus, which can grow to heights of well over 20 feet.

Hiking and driving are equally good ways to see the area.

14. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park

If you want to experience the Arizona desert, and its saguaro cacti, then the Saguaro National Park near Tucson is the place to visit.

The park is split into an east and a west section, which are split by Tuscon itself.

Hiking in the area is a great way to see the unique flora and wildlife that calls the harsh environment its home.

The 8000 feet high mountains in the area provide a challenge for even the most dedicated hikers.

15. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park

This interesting and unique national park has been the site of discovery for a large amount of plant and fish fossils as well as petrified wood.

Driving through the park provides a glimpse of the park’s key sights whereas the trails allow for closer investigation.

The Visitor’s Centre is a useful resource and provides information on how and why the site is home to so many fossils.

16. London Bridge

London Bridge, Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is home to this impressive structure which was built in 1831 but purchased for around $2.5 million before be re-constructed in the city.

Robert McCulloch was the city’s founder and also responsible for the purchase and relocation of the bridge.

The bridge had to be shortened slightly upon being moved in order to neatly fit its new location.

Tubac, Arizona

Arguably the home of art in the state of Arizona, Tubac was founded in 1752 and is now a popular spot for tourists but also home to many artist studios, shops and art galleries.

The town may be fairly small but a lot of money changes hands here and it is seen as a great place to shop by visitors and locals alike.

18. Mount Lemmon

Mount Lemmon, Arizona

Mount Lemmon is the tallest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountain range. It is an impressive 9,150 feet high and is a very popular location for skiing.

Despite the mountains intimidating height, there are runs for all levels of skiing experience as well as spectacular views.

The mountain in summer is a great place to see birds and wildlife.

Available tour : 4-Hour Guided Tour of Mount Lemmon

19. The Heard Museum

The Heard Museum, Phoenix

The Heard Museum can be found in Phoenix and portrays, through various exhibits and collections, the culture of the Native American people who lived in the area in the past.

The items on show in the museum include jewellery, pottery, textiles and dolls.

The outdoor area at the museum displays contemporary Native American artwork.

20. Taliesin West

Taliesin West, Scottsdale

Taliesin West is the former home and architectural school of the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

The building can be found in Scottsdale and is now known as the home of the FLW School of Architecture.

The building was constructed in 1959 by Wright and his understudies using materials local to area.

21. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park

The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is home to a varied collection of plants and cacti from all around the world.

The garden occupies an impressive 40 acres of space and contains ten thousand plants.

A small army of staff attends the garden, most of which are volunteers.

Spring is a great time to visit the gardens but expect to spend a large portion of the day walking as you explore the large area.

22. Heritage Square

Rosson House, Heritage Square

Heritage Square is home to a number of restored historical homes dating from the late 19th and early 20th Centuries.

Many of the buildings were part of the original Phoenix town site but now contain shops or places to eat.

The main point of interest in the area is the Rosson House, which was constructed in 1895 in Victorian style.

23. Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Art Museum

The collection in this museum is varied and impressive, ranging from the Renaissance period in Europe to art from the American West.

Modern art can also be found at the museum with regularly changing contemporary exhibits.

The museum and its collection has responded rapidly since its opening in 1959 and it now has a reputation as being one of the Southwest’s leading institutes.

24. Hall of Flame Fire Fighting Museum

Hall of Flame Fire Fighting Museum

The Hall of Flame Museum examines the history of fire fighting whilst also acting as a memorial for the many fire fighters who have been killed due to their profession.

The exhibits in the museum include old fire fighting objects, mainly from America but also including objects from around the world.

25. The Arizona Science Centre

The Arizona Science Centre

The Arizona Science Centre has a wide variety of hands-on exhibits and galleries, each with a different scientific theme.

Also at the museum is an Imax cinema and a large planetarium.

The Science Centre is also a prominent institution in raising awareness for issues such as global warming.

25 Best Things to Do in Arizona:

  • The Grand Canyon
  • Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
  • Monument Valley
  • Havasu Falls
  • Canyon De Chelly National Monument
  • Lake Mead National Recreation Area
  • Antelope Canyon
  • Tumacacori National Historical Park
  • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
  • Saguaro National Park
  • Petrified Forest National Park
  • London Bridge
  • Mount Lemmon
  • The Heard Museum
  • Taliesin West
  • Desert Botanical Garden
  • Heritage Square
  • Phoenix Art Museum
  • Hall of Flame Fire Fighting Museum
  • The Arizona Science Centre

Discover Walks Blog

  • Virginia Beach
  • History & facts
  • Famous people
  • Famous landmarks
  • AI interviews
  • Science & Nature
  • Tech & Business

English

Discover something new everyday

  • Famous places
  • Food & Drinks
  • Tech & Business

The Top 30 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Arizona

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Barth Bailey on Unsplash

Read Next →

top tourist attractions arizona

Los 10 mejores almuerzos en París

Greenhouse in Lisbon

Lisbon – Activities and Things to do

Visit Lisbon’s Beautiful Greenhouse

top tourist attractions arizona

The History of Lisbon’s Tagus River

1. grand canyon national park.

top tourist attractions arizona

2. Antelope Canyon

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Zetong Li on Unsplash

3. Sedona and Red Rock Country

top tourist attractions arizona

Red Rocks of Sedona.AZ. (51521938363).jpg Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand , PDM-owner, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Sneha Chandrashekar on Unsplash

5. Horseshoe Bend

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Des Récits on Unsplash

6. Saguaro National Park

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Christoph von Gellhorn on Unsplash

7. Petrified Forest National Park

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Ben Soyka on Unsplash

8. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Benjamin Esteves on Unsplash

9. Hoover Dam

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Emily-Jo Sutcliffe on Unsplash

10. Havasu Falls

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Ameer Basheer on Unsplash

12. Oak Creek Canyon

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Jimmy Conover on Unsplash

13. Tonto National Monument

14. biosphere 2.

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Matthieu Joannon on Unsplash

15. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by John Ward on Unsplash

16. Montezuma Castle National Monument

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by James A. Molnar on Unsplash

17. Desert Botanical Garden

top tourist attractions arizona

18. Taliesin West

top tourist attractions arizona

TaliesinWest2010.JPG AndrewHorne , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

19. Walnut Canyon National Monument

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Jan Dommerholt on Unsplash

20. London Bridge (Lake Havasu City)

21. meteor crater.

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Marjolijn van Raaij on Unsplash

22. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Andrew Ling on Unsplash

23. Phoenix Art Museum

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Daniel Bynum on Unsplash

24. Heard Museum

25. tombstone, 26. lowell observatory, 27. papago park.

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Diego Lozano on Unsplash

28. Lake Powell

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by E Merk on Unsplash

29. Arizona Capitol Museum

top tourist attractions arizona

Photo by Thomas Duncan on Unsplash

30. Tumacácori National Historical Park

Planning a trip to Paris ? Get ready !

These are  Amazon’s best-selling  travel products that you may need for coming to Paris.

  • The best travel book : Rick Steves – Paris 2023 –  Learn more here
  • Fodor’s Paris 2024 –  Learn more here

Travel Gear

  • Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack –  Learn more here
  • Samsonite Winfield 2 28″ Luggage –  Learn more here
  • Swig Savvy’s Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle –  Learn more here

Check Amazon’s best-seller list for the most popular travel accessories. We sometimes read this list just to find out what new travel products people are buying.

Brian is a passionate nursing student at Kenyatta University. His heart beats for discovering Kenya's riches and beyond. Brian enjoys reading literature about the human anatomy and recounting his exploits. The Great Dixter House serves as the backdrop for his first article, a masterwork that brings to life locations he can only dream of seeing. Brian's writing is a trip through the delights of people, food, culture, history, and architecture.

Paris-soccer

How to book tickets for a Paris soccer game

Paris-metro

Paris - What you need to know before coming to Paris

How to use the metro in Paris

top5streetstoseeinlisbon

Top 9 streets to see in Lisbon

Hello & welcome.

Brian

Popular Articles

top tourist attractions arizona

Top 20 Streets to See in Paris

walking tuileries path

Paris in two days

around-the-Eiffel-Tower

Top 15 Things to do Around the Eiffel Tower

Paris-museums

The Best Way to Visit Paris Museums

fashion-shops-Paris

Top 15 Fashion Stores in Le Marais

Visit europe with discover walks.

  • Paris walking tours
  • Montmartre walking tour
  • Lisbon walking tours
  • Prague walking tours
  • Barcelona walking tours
  • Private tours in Europe
  • Privacy policy

© 2024 Charing Cross Corporation

top tourist attractions arizona

Enjoy FREE shipping for the first week!

No thanks, I’m not interested!

top tourist attractions arizona

26 Stunning Places to Visit in Arizona That We Love

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 9, 2024

There are a lot of beautiful places to visit in Arizona. Arizona offers a unique mix of striking landscapes, bustling cities, hidden ghost towns, and unique formations, making it a great destination any time of year. This guide will help you plan your Arizona getaway now and discover what this diverse state has to offer. Whether planning an Arizona road trip or popping over from Vegas, you’ll surely find something to suit your needs.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Arizona

This guide is split into specific sections, as Arizona has many different types of places to visit. The best way to get around Arizona is by car. Compare prices from the airport you are flying into here at RentalCars.com (This is what we use). So, let’s get started.

1. Coyote Buttes

Do you love unique landscapes? The landscape of Coyote Buttes is beautiful and fascinating. It’s is a bit like walking through a maze of natural skatepark ramps.

The Buttes are located in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. A little like Antelope Canyon, the landscape features wave-like rock patterns. But instead of being in a canyon, you can experience the waves out in the open, amongst towering buttes.

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is one of the best places to visit in Arizona in its own right. Paria has over 100,000 acres of protected lands, but add Coyote Buttes and it is out of this world.

2. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a national treasure. The wave-like sandstone walls of the slot canyon were made famous on social media, but to see it in person is magical. Photographers flock to Antelope Canyon to capture the dramatic scenery and walk along the canyon floor.

If you want to visit Antelope Canyon, you’ll have a choice of which part to visit – Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon, or maybe both as you can book tours and see both.

Upper Antelope Canyon is the easiest to hike but is darker, while Lower Antelope Canyon is narrower but much lighter. You can book online or pay a visit to Antelope Canyon Visitor Center. Antelope Canyon is easily one of the best natural tourist attractions in Arizona. This canyon is a must-visit if you want to visit bucket list outdoor attractions. Check out Antelope Canyon Photo Tours – How to Make the most of it

3. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is located along the Arizona- Utah border. If you want to visit easily, you must base yourself in a northern city like Flagstaff. The valley is one of the most famous landscapes in the US and easily one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

The valley is over 90,000 acres and full of hiking trails and spectacular rock formations. It is most known for its towering sandstone buttes, which you can experience on scenic drives or on hiking trails. Don’t miss Forest Gump Point, the iconic viewpoint used in famous movies and is an important filming location in cinematic history.

The valley is a great place to cut through if you are planning an Arizona road trip . There are many things to see while driving through the valley, and the scenery is perfect for memorable road tripping.

4. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Fascinated by ancient culture and archaeological sites of inhabitation? Montezuma Castle National Monument is the place to visit. The site is home to several cliffside dwellings, built and lived in by Indigenous People around 1100 to 1425 AD.

Sadly, access inside the dwellings has now been prohibited in an understandable attempt to protect the site from excessive damage. However, visitors can take a virtual tour inside the houses. They look incredible from the outside, and you can enjoy numerous hiking trails for different views.

5. Saguaro National Park

We’ve briefly mentioned Saguaro National Park already. The park is located just outside Tucson. It is a great place to visit for stunning scenery and hiking trails while visiting Southern Arizona.

The park is most known for its cacti. Indeed, in this national park, you’ll find some of the largest saguaro cacti in the US. Some of the cacti live up to 200 years old and grow at a very slow rate. The national park feels like an old American West movie scene and has over 90,000 acres for you to explore.

Whether you choose a scenic drive or hike, booking a rental car to visit Saguaro National Park is the easiest option. Valley View Overlook Trail is a nice short walk that should take you around 20 minutes to complete, while hiking to Signal Hill Petroglyphs is a must for anyone interested in ancient art and civilizations.

6. Petrified Forest National Park

If the Petrified Forest National Park sounds fantastic, it’s because it is. However, if you arrive expecting a lush forest full of beautiful, interesting trees, you’ll be shocked. The national park is a barren landscape, full of fossils and petrified, sliced tree trunks.

The petrified wood is scattered across the national park, and you can drive the length of the park in around an hour – stopping at whatever spot catches your eye. Some not to miss places include Rainbow Forest Museum, the Crystal Forest hike, and the Blue Mesa hike.

Wondering how this natural phenomenon occurs? Petrification of trees takes place when trees have been buried underground without oxygen for thousands of years. Over time, the decaying wood becomes mineralized and turns into fossilized stone, creating an exact replica of the original form, just in a different material.

For a unique natural experience, Petrified Forest National Park is one of the best places to visit in Arizona. We recommend choosing this national park for anyone intrigued by natural ‘mysteries’ and wanting a memorable experience in Arizona.

7. Grand Canyon National Park

What can we say? The park is one of the best places to visit in the US , never mind Arizona. Visiting the Grand Canyon is up there on most people’s US bucket lists. From hiking to whitewater rafting, and camping to taking a trail ride, this destination is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire world.

South Rim and North Rim are the most popular areas to explore while the North Rim is the lesser seen side of the Grand Canyon and is best for those who want a quieter place to experience.

A popular hiking route in the Grand Canyon is the Bright Angel Trail. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy. But there are plenty of other hiking trails in the Grand Canyon that you can explore. Read The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon for more information.

Of course, you can always splurge on a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Many tourists opt to view the canyon from above, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Arizona. Whichever way you decide to see the Grand Canyon, it will leave you breathless. It truly lives up to the hype. Read more: Where to Stay At The Grand Canyon: Best Hotels And Areas For Every Budget

8. Havasu Falls

While visiting the  Grand Canyon , you must plan a hike to Havasu Falls. This trek needs to be planned in advance, as permits to the falls are hard to get, but it is worth the time..

Havasu Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the U.S. The water is a striking pastel blue from the high calcium carbonate and magnesium levels. The falls drop over 100 feet in a single drop to fill a considerable plunge pool at the bottom.

Getting to the falls is an adventure in itself, one you can read more about here. It is recommended that you stay overnight at the Lodge or campground. But for all the effort of getting there, the turquoise water of the Havasu Falls will soothe your weary body, providing yet another dream-like experience.

Better yet, you can swim – rare amongst the prettiest waterfalls since tourism usually damages their natural beauty. Havasu Falls is still enough under the radar to avoid this strict rule brought on by over-tourism. So grab a bikini and towel and enjoy.

9. Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon de Chelly National Monument covers over 80,000 acres and is home to the Spider Rock spire. The spire is a 700-foot-high sandstone rock. Spider Rock spire gained its shape by gradual erosion over time, and experts believe it was once connected to a ridge. Nowadays, it makes an unusual natural attraction and a great photograph.

You can drop by the Canyon de Chelly Visitor Center for expert local guidance on things to see and do. However, you should definitely make sure to try a hiking trail or scenic drive. You can also explore the canyon on horseback if you want a more exciting experience.

After exploring the best national parks and cities, let’s look at Arizona’s largest category – its outdoor attractions.

Arizona is perfect if you love being outdoors and experiencing natural attractions. The state is full of things to see and do outdoors, including visiting the National Monument, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley. Ready to be inspired? Let’s take a look.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument is a national park in Northeastern Arizona. It is located in the Navajo Nation and is exceptionally close to the Arizona-New Mexico border. For those who want to experience nature, it is easily one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

10. Lake Powell

If you are heading up to the Arizona-Utah border, it is well worth detouring to Lake Powell. The lake is a stunning artificial body of water situated between Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Park. It is a beautiful place to visit in Arizona. The lake’s bright blue water and orange sandstone surroundings cut a picture-perfect scene.

The lake is fed by the Colorado River and covers over 2,000 miles of shoreline. The Rainbow Bridge National Monument is a significant tourist attraction on the lake, and the vast stone arc is the largest natural bridge in the world. It is an excellent attraction to combine with enjoying the lake itself.

Many people spend a day or two staying along the shores of the lake. You may wish to visit as a day trip or look for a cabin , hotel, or campsite so that you can stay overnight.

11. Lake Mead

Lake Mead is another impressive artificial attraction. The lake has the highest water capacity of any US reservoir and sits on the Nevada-Arizona border. If you love water activities and lakeside living, Lake Mead is one of the best places to visit in Arizona to unwind and relax.

We recommend allowing time to take a Lake Mead cruise, as the contrast between desert and an oasis-like body of water is striking and best experienced from the water itself. You can also fish and boat on the lake. The desert mountains are the perfect places for scenic drives and biking; however, it will be hard to draw yourself away from the refreshing lake that surrounds them.

If you are planning a road trip, Lake Mead is ideally located en route to Las Vegas . It is worth a detour to enjoy the lake and you may want to consider combining it with a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam.

12. Horseshoe Bend

You can’t visit Arizona without visiting the Colorado River. Of course, you can choose to see many sections of the river, however, we highly recommend visiting Horseshoe Bend.

Horseshoe Bend is the postcard image of the Colorado River. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Arizona. As you may have guessed, the curve is shaped like a horseshoe, and you’ll find a fantastic viewpoint where you can appreciate the unique scenery up close. Make sure to pack a camera if you’ve got one, as Horseshoe Bend is one of the most popular sights in the US.

Reaching the viewpoint is relatively easy and is just a 1.3-mile round hike. Horseshoe Bend is best visited during the early morning or late afternoon, though, as there is very little shade and Arizona gets dangerously hot in summer.

13. Hoover Dam

Once the tallest dam in the world, the Hoover Dam has a nostalgic kind of power. While it no longer holds that grand title, it is still one of Arizona’s best places to visit. It is said that the dam could withstand the force of Niagara Falls – which gives you an excellent perspective on how strong it is.

You can view the Hoover Dam from afar or drop by the Hoover Dam Visitors Center to book a guided tour. Tours typically include access to the Hoover Dam tunnels, an elevator ride to the top, and special access to functional rooms throughout the building.

If you are interested in architecture or just want to see a national historic landmark up close, the dam is excellent to visit. It can also be combined with a trip to Las Vegas , as the dam sits on the Nevada -Arizona border.

14. Glen Canyon Dam

Planning a trip to Glen Canyon National Recreation Park to visit Lake Powell? We recommend taking a detour to visit the Glen Canyon Dam.

Glen Canyon Dam is situated in Glen Canyon National Recreation Park, a one million-acre reserve encompassing biking trails, hiking trails, and Lake Powell. The dam is a hydroelectric power plant and has become an iconic attraction along the Colorado River.

Visitors can take boat tours to view Glen Canyon Dam up close or even fly over the dam with a flight experience. The 710-foot infrastructure is incredible from a distance and even more impressive up close. Of course, to save a bit of money, you can always walk across Glen Canyon Dam Bridge, where you’ll still have great views over the dam.

15. Jerome State Historic Park

Fancy indulging in a bit of history? Jerome State Historic Park is a fantastic place to visit in Arizona. The state park has a couple of acres surrounding Douglas Mansion, which has been transformed into a quirky mining museum.

Visitors can wander through two floors of informative exhibits plus outdoor gardens. The museum balances general mining stories and the local town’s history. You can learn about region-specific minerals and mining processes through various mediums, including cinematic videos.

The park can be combined with a visit to Montezuma Castle or it is a great day trip if you are staying in nearby Flagstaff. It is undoubtedly an activity to note down for your Arizona itinerary.

16. the Superstition Mountains

The Superstition Mountains cover 160,000 and are full of gorgeous mountainous and desert scenes. That is not what makes this place famous, though; it is the lost gold mines.

Legends of gold have kept mining companies and independent hunters searching the mountains for years. Many hunters have hit the jackpot and found lots of riches. You can join the crowds or find your own non-gold-related entertainment in the mountains.

You can visit the Superstition Mountains Museum, explore the surrounding Tonto National Forest, or hike along one of the various trails. These mountains are one of the best places to visit in Arizona for adventure.

You can explore the hiking trails, biking trails, take off-roading tours, or book a scenic helicopter flight – it is up to you. These are the best national parks to visit in Arizona.

17. Phoenix

Phoenix is the sunny state capital of Arizona. Located in central Arizona, Phoenix is surrounded by mountains and desert landscapes. Its location seems unlikely for a city, with skyscrapers and luxury hotels shooting up from what (before 1881) was once sand and dust.

Phoenix is the best place to visit in Arizona for a big-city experience. The city is bursting with art, nightlife and attractions, including more art galleries than you could see in a whole week.

Phoenix is home to the Musical Instrument Museum, Natural History Museum, Phoenix Bat Cave, and Desert Botanical Garden. Read more: 34 Best Things To Do In Phoenix (By A Local)

18. Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is located in Papago Park, in the center of Arizona’s capital city. However, the Desert Botanical Garden is worthy of a spot on our list in its own right. We highly recommend visiting even if you fly into Phoenix and head straight out of the city after (but seriously, at least give the city a day or two).

Why is the Desert Botanical Garden so spectacular? The 150-acre garden has over 50,000 desert plants and is the ideal place to visit for a convenient desert experience. The botanical garden is an easy and fun alternative for those who don’t have time to visit major desert locations like Saguaro National Park.

Phoenix’s botanical garden is a fantastic place to visit in Arizona. The garden is a great compromise option if you still want to experience the desert landscape and characteristic cacti and flora.

19. Lake Havasu City

If Phoenix is best for a big-city feel, Lake Havasu City is best for the opposite. The tiny city sits next to Lake Havasu, which is fed by the Colorado River and is a hot spot for watersports and relaxation. But it was the Little London Village that made us take a detour to visit Lake Havasu.

Nature lovers and those looking for a quiet base in Arizona will love Lake Havasu. The city has a slow pace, and its lakeside location is a pleasant change from Arizona’s dry desert landscape. There are plenty of outdoor activities and attractions including Lake Havasu State Park and London Bridge. London Bridge is an architectural wonder transported from London in the 1970s and there is a distinct English feel in the London Village.

You can spend your days fishing, enjoying the footpaths and green space around the city, or swimming and boating on the lake. Don’t forget to check out the Lake Havasu Lighthouses that span the shoreline..

Tucson is Arizona’s second-largest city and is full of cultural diversity and things to do. If you want a  different  Arizona experience, we recommend visiting Tucson.

Tucson sits just above the US-Mexican border in Southern Arizona. Thanks to its location, the city has a lot of Mexican influence. One of the top places to visit San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Catholic Mission. This national historic landmark was founded in 1692 and welcomes more than 200,000 visitors per year. The church is considered the finest Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States.

You’ll find many new experiences and immersion opportunities, from the city’s cuisine to its cultures. You must try some Mexican cuisine while visiting.

Tucson is also home to the University of Arizona. As a university city, visitors can enjoy an extra sociable, friendly atmosphere – especially in the city center.

While just outside the city center, you’ll find attractions like Saguaro National Park and Arizona Sonora Desert Museum (more on them later). Tucson is a fun, fresh city to visit in Arizona. For an introduction to Southern Arizona, don’t look no further.

21. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum is located just on the outskirts of Tucson. However, the museum deserves a place on this list in its own right.

The museum is a bit of everything – from natural history museum to a botanical garden. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum covers 98 acres. There is also an art gallery for visitors to enjoy.

You could easily spend a whole day at the museum. The museum is a chance to experience multiple tourist attractions at once. It is perfect for a family day out.

22. Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a small city in Northern Arizona known as the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks and the Grand Canyon. Flagstaff is one of the best places to visit in Arizona if you want to be centrally located amongst most of the state’s natural attractions.

You can spend your days excitedly exploring all the nearby attractions. Make sure to stay in Flagstaff for the day and head to the city’s historic downtown. You’ll find a brewery trail, excellent restaurants, and the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Remember to bring a camera, as you’ll stumble across plenty of street art and great photo spots.

Both desert and forest surround Flagstaff. Coconino National Forest envelops the city and is the largest Ponderosa Pine Forest in the world. For a city where you can easily take a day trip into nature, Flagstaff is an ideal place to visit in Northern Arizona. Check out our guide on the best cabins in Flagstaff for accommodation inspiration.

23. Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park

If you are driving from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, or Monument Valley, make sure to stop at Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park. The gorge outlook is perfectly positioned to slot into even the busiest day trips.

Little Colorado River Navajo Tribal Park is another of the best places to visit in Arizona to add to your list. The park is located just north of Flagstaff. If you are looking for to make a day out of it, combine this with a trip to Lake Powell or Monument Valley.

The park’s main highlight is the gorge overlook, where you’ll get to admire the sheer drop of a lesser-visited canyon. Be wary of where you are stepping as there is little to no barrier protection, and the park isn’t as commercialized as others in Arizona. Many find it a peaceful alternative to busier canyons – like the Grand and Antelope Canyons.

24. Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona, and there’s no way we couldn’t add this unique Catholic church to our list. We’re not religious people, but this is one of the most unique structures in Arizona. So it’s worth seeing.

The church is wedged between two sandstone buttes and has large, plain glass windows that give it a modern, chic design. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is not your typical church.

You can enter the church to look around or join a service if that’s your thing. The church is near Sedona and plenty of other attractions , so it isn’t too much of a detour to make.

25. Gold King Mine Museum and Ghost Town

Gold King Mine Museum and Ghost Town are by far the quirkiest place on our list. The property is set up as an Old West mining camp and is designed to give you an insight into what the life of a miner was like.

You’ll be fully immersed with old vintage vehicles and mining equipment on display. Car enthusiasts will especially love this museum, and we recommend visiting if you are interested in old cars and vehicles. The variety is impressive, even if you know nothing about cars.

It isn’t just all old relics, though; there are working areas like a sawmill and blacksmith’s shop to visit as well. Gold King is designed to be a step back in time – fully immersing visitors in the old mining lifestyle.

You can expect to spend at least a couple of hours learning, laughing, and admiring your way around the museum and ghost town. It is like its own little world and a fun yet historically informative thing to do in Arizona.

26. Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway

Are you looking for a scenic drive? Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is an incredible, relatively short scenic drive from Tucson that you can enjoy. Short enough to comfortably squeeze into a day yet long enough to provide diverse scenes and attractions, this scenic byway is a great place to drive.

You won’t find the byway marked on a map. However, it is the only paved road leading to Mount Lemmon’s top. The road is called Mt Lemmon Highway and starts from the outskirts of Tucson. Altogether, the route is approximately 60 miles long and takes three to four hours to complete – plus extra time to allow for stops.

Speaking of stops, we recommend stopping at Babad Do’ag Scenic Overlook, Molino Canyon Vista, Thimble Peak Vista, Windy Point Vista, and Geology Vista Point. There are quite literally dozens of hiking trails and trailheads along the highway as well. You can easily park up and take a detour on foot.

Allow extra time again once you reach Mount Lemmon’s peak. There is Mt Lemmon Ski Valley, Mt Lemmon Sky Observatory, and a Fire Lookout Station to visit. Mount Lemmon has a small town at the mountain top too, where you can grab refreshments and do some light shopping.

The ‘Grand Canyon State’ is packed with wonderful activities and tourist destinations. Visiting Arizona is guaranteed to be memorable with breathtaking sights that will make your jaw drop throughout your stay. The state has so much to offer, whether you want a typical desert experience, a quirky tourist attraction, or a cultural immersion.

Photo Credit: Chapel of the Holy Cross

  • 17 Beautiful Cabins in Arizona
  • 15 Interesting and Fun Facts About Arizona
  • 16 Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona
  • 16 Cozy Cabins in Flagstaff, Arizona for Your Next Getaway
  • 20 Best Things to do in Sedona, Arizona
  • The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona
  • Arizona Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

New York At Night: Best Evening Things To Do in NYC in 2024

20 Best Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas in 2024

25 Best Things To Do in Jacksonville, Florida in 2024

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “26 Stunning Places to Visit in Arizona That We Love”

Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is an incredible. Best tourist destinations . post these kind of blogs everyday.and thankyou..

Home

Cooler weather has arrived across Arizona — and with that comes endless opportunities for outdoor adventures throughout the entire state. Whether you’re into snow sports like skiing and snowboarding or enjoy soaking up nature with fishing, hiking and camping in brisker temperatures, you’ll find it all in Arizona. Start planning your getaway now!

Here You Are

Visit a new state of mind in AZ

Here You Are

Travel is about more than sticking a pin in a map. It's about making connections — to places, people and a purpose.

Media Gallery

Arizona office of Tourism

Media Gallery

View the latest and greatest Arizona Office Of Tourism featured videos and media.

Journey to Tribal Lands

Heritage & Culture

Journey to Tribal Lands

American Indian guides offer authentic cultural experiences and adventures in some of the state’s most spectacular places.

Only in Arizona

Couple hiking at the Grand Canyon

GRAND CANYON

Vast, magnificent and inarguably beautiful, the Grand Canyon is easily Arizona's most distinguishable landmark — a natural wonder you must see to believe.

top tourist attractions arizona

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Snowy Southwestern Adventures: Winter Fun in Arizona

For snow enthusiasts, there’s plenty of cold-weather fun to be had in the winter wonderlands of Northern Arizona, Eastern Arizona, Sedona and Southern Arizona.

top tourist attractions arizona

Itineraries

5 Ways To Experience The 5 C's Of Arizona

The Five C's of Arizona — Cotton, Cattle, Citrus, Copper and Climate — were once the main economic drivers of the state. Learn how you can experience them for yourself with a modern twist.

Explore More

9 Amazing Landmarks You Didn't Know Were in Arizona

9 Amazing Landmarks You Didn't Know Were in Arizona

You know about the Grand Canyon, no doubt. Now discover what else geology, ambition, and technology have produced as you explore some of...

Outdoor Adventure

OPT OUTSIDE

Outdoor Adventure

Vast, magnificent and inarguably beautiful, the Grand Canyon is easily Arizona's most distinguishable landmark— a natural wonder you must see to...

Final Four 2024

Come for the games & stay for the fun

Final Four 2024

The Road to the Final Four heads to the Valley of the Sun The 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four® events, playoffs and championship game at State Farm...

3 Day Trips for Spring Training Fans

Road Trips & Tours

3 Day Trips for Spring Training Fans

From late February through March, nearly 2 million baseball fans converge on metro Phoenix to watch their favorite pro teams during Cactus...

Play Where The Golf Pros Play

Play Where The Golf Pros Play

It’s always cool to play the same course where the world’s best golfers ply their craft. Fortunately, Arizona has plenty of places where you can...

Events & Festivals in Arizona

Find out what's happening.

Through the Eyes of the Beholders: Three Families Collect Arizona Art

Mar 1st – Mar 6th

Through the Eyes of the Beholders: Three Families Collect Arizona Art

1700 W. Washington St. Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Celebration of Fine Art

Mar 1st – Mar 24th

Celebration of Fine Art

7900 E. Greenway Rd, Suite 101 Scottsdale, Arizona 85260

John Loves Mary

Mar 1st – Mar 2nd

John Loves Mary

8989 E Via Linda Scottsdale, Arizona 85258

Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts

Mar 1st – Jun 28th

Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts

  • Link to site translated for China
  • Link to site translated for Japan
  • Link to site translated for France
  • Link to site translated for Germany
  • Link to site translated for Mexico
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official Facebook page Facebook
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official Instagram Instagram
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official Twitter Twitter
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official Pinterest Pinterest
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official YouTube channel YouTube
  • Link to Arizona Office of Tourism's official TikTok TikTok

homepage default image

Most Searched Stories

Travel Guide

Request Your Copy

Official State Travel Guide

Events

Top Annual Events

Appreciate AZ

Sustainability

Appreciate AZ

Plan Your Trip

Travel Inspiration

Plan Your Trip

Cities & regions.

From the abundance of Saguaro cactuses and unique wildlife in the Sonoran Desert to the high country and forests of the White Mountains to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s regions are full of experiences that don’t disappoint.

PlanetWare.com

22 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sedona

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Set amid beautiful red rock mountains, buttes, and canyons, Sedona is one of Arizona's most beautiful destinations . The scenery here is nothing less than stunning, with unbelievable views from every street corner and hiking trail.

Also known as a spiritual center, particularly for its energy vortexes, the city has a unique vibe and attracts visitors with a diverse set of interests. Attractions range from the spectacular natural areas and scenic drives to Native American ruins, architecture, galleries, and sacred sites. Many of the best things to do in Sedona are free, including hiking, mountain biking, or stargazing. The city is a designated Dark Sky Community.

Visitors often come to Sedona on a day trip from Phoenix , but for those with more time, a longer stay is definitely worthwhile. If you decide to use Sedona as a base, you can easily take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or nearby Flagstaff .

Find your way around and plan out your stay with our list of the top tourist attractions in Sedona.

See also: Where to Stay in Sedona

1. Cathedral Rock

2. uptown sedona, 3. red rock scenic byway, 4. oak creek canyon scenic drive, 5. hiking trails, 6. jeep tours, 7. chapel of the holy cross, 8. mountain biking trails, 9. vortexes, 10. bell rock, 11. boynton canyon, 12. day trip to the grand canyon, 13. slide rock state park, 14. palatki ruins, 15. airport mesa, 16. red rock crossing and crescent moon picnic site, 17. tlaquepaque arts and crafts village, 18. amitabha stupa and peace park, 19. red rock state park, 20. 1st friday in the art galleries, 21. take a drive to montezuma castle national monument, 22. sedona heritage museum, where to stay in sedona for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in sedona, sedona, az - climate chart.

Cathedral Rock seen from Secret Slickrock Trail

Cathedral Rock is the most photographed attraction in Sedona and one of the city's most impressive sites. You can see the rock from Highway 179 as you drive from Oak Creek Village into Sedona, or from the backside at several locations.

The most classic view of Cathedral Rock is from Red Rock Crossing Park , at the Crescent Moon Picnic Site.

If you feel an urge to climb this amazing rock formation, a hiking trail leads up to the saddle , where you're treated to incredible views to the east and west. It's also the location of an energy vortex.

Uptown Sedona

Uptown Sedona is the old town, where you'll find boutiques, tourist shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. This area runs along Highway 89A , beginning where Highway 179 ends. If you are heading up Oak Creek Canyon towards Flagstaff, you will pass right through Uptown Sedona.

Establishments here include everything from jewelry and craft stores to crystal sellers and casual cafeteria-style restaurants to fine dining. This is also where Jeep tours start from.

Parking can be at a premium along here, especially on weekends, but there is a parking garage where you can usually find a spot.

This is a convenient location if you plan on staying in Sedona. If you base yourself at a hotel in Uptown, you can walk to dinner, stroll down to Tlaquepaque to browse through galleries, shops, and more restaurants, or sign up for various tours that start from the main street.

Two of the best hotels in this area are the posh hillside L'Auberge de Sedona and the more mid-range Arabella Hotel Sedona .

A stop along the Red Rock Scenic Byway

The Red Rock Scenic Byway is a stunning drive along Highway 179 , running from south of the Village of Oak Creek to Sedona. Along here are numerous natural attractions; hiking and biking trails; and pullouts with parking lots, which allow you to stop and appreciate the sights. Near the north end is the Tlaquepaque arts and crafts village.

Some of the most popular sights long this route are Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and, just a short distance off the road, Chapel of the Holy Cross.

If you are coming from Phoenix, take exit 298 off Interstate 17 to access the Red Rock Scenic Byway.

Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

Stunning Oak Creek Canyon is just upstream from Sedona, on the way to Flagstaff. Rock formations, cliff walls, and forests line the scenic road, Highway 89A , which follows Oak Creek before climbing up the canyon along a dramatic stretch of twisting road with switchbacks.

The sharp corners and steep hills make this a road you will want to drive during the day and try to avoid after dark.

One of the main attractions along this route, particularly from spring until fall, is Slide Rock State Park . You'll also find hiking trails off this drive. One of the most spectacular hikes here is the West Fork Trail .

Hiking trail on Airport Mesa

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty around Sedona is to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Many of the hikes are less than three miles and can easily be done in just a couple of hours, but they offer access to some of the most amazing views in the area. Longer and more challenging hikes can also be found around Sedona, leading to mountain tops and up canyons.

Canyon hikes offer easy hikes, with spectacular scenery and the huge orange cliff walls surrounding you. Alternatively, you can hike to the top of a mountain or butte for fantastic views out over the landscape.

Some of the most popular hikes are to Devil's Bridge , Cathedral Rock , and Bell Rock . These are a few of the usual recommendations from the tourist information office, but if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some of the local favorites, see our article on the best hikes in Sedona .

Jeep Tours

Jeep tours are one of the most popular things to do in Sedona. These trips allow you to see areas you wouldn't be able to reach without an off-road vehicle and take you through some areas you wouldn't think possible in a Jeep.

The Sedona Outback Trail Jeep Adventure is a two-hour off-roading adventure through rugged terrain and past some of the landmark rock formations in the area. These tours are in open-air Jeeps , which are themselves an iconic sight in Sedona. Be prepared for a bumpy ride. The drivers are knowledgeable and keen to share the local history and geology of the area.

Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross sits perched on a small red rock plateau below a multi-hued sandstone ridge, creating one of the most impressive architectural sites in Sedona.

It was built in 1956 by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a pupil of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

This breathtaking landmark building incorporates a 90-foot cross that dominates the structure, and the front face of the chapel is all windows. The modern appearance, with sharp lines and angles, contrasts with the rounded red rocks but fits in beautifully with the surroundings.

The turn for the road to the chapel is signposted off Highway 179.

Address: 780 Chapel Road, Sedona, Arizona

Official site: http://www.chapeloftheholycross.com/

Mountain biking on Hiline Trail

Sedona is one of the best mountain biking destinations in the country. The trails are outstanding and offer a bit of something for all level of abilities, perfect for everyone from families to advanced riders.

Apart from a few snowy days here and there in winter, you can pretty well mountain bike in Sedona year-round.

Trails wind their way through the spectacular mountain scenery, across dirt, and along areas of slickrock. Some of these trails lead past interesting attractions like Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Doe Mesa. The level of difficulty ranges from easy to extreme but there are really trails here for everyone.

Local bike shops offer repairs, bike rentals, information, and maps. One of the best places is Thunder Mountain Bikes in West Sedona. The trails are well marked and rated on maps according to difficulty. The Sedona Mountain Biking Trails map is a must-have item before you head out.

Be sure to bring your camera – these trails feature some of the best photo locations in the entire area. For a closer look at the trails, see our list of the best mountain biking trails in Sedona .

Energy vortex area on Airport Mesa

One of the more unique attractions in Sedona are the vortexes, found in natural locations around the area. What is a vortex? These are said to be centers of energy in the earth that can inspire healing, self-awareness, and spirituality.

Vortexes have different properties. Some are masculine vortexes, feminine vortexes, or balanced vortexes, and some of these go by different names, such as electrical, magnetic, or combination vortexes.

Some of the most common and accessible energy vortexes are found in Boynton Canyon , near the start of the Boynton Canyon hike and Enchantment Resort; on Airport Mesa , near an overlook at the side of the road; and on Cathedral Rock .

Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa are the two easiest locations to reach, both of which are just a short distance from the parking lot. Cathedral Rock requires a short but intense hike. However, if you are up for it, the Cathedral Rock hike is one of the best in Sedona.

If you want to learn more about vortexes and be taken to some of the sites, you can sign up for a Sedona Vortex Tour by Jeep . On these 2.5-hour tours, a guide will point out natural features and explain the history and significance of vortexes.

Mountain biker in front of Bell Rock.

One of the key natural sites around Sedona is the aptly named, Bell Rock. This bell-shaped formation is just south of Sedona in the Village of Oak Creek , along the Red Rock Scenic Byway, and is one of the first sites you will come to as you approach Sedona from the south.

Easily accessible just off the road, this is a popular stop for tourists. You can park and have a quick look, walk up to it, do a short and easy hike along the side of the bell, or if you brought your mountain bike, you can do an easy ride here.

While the trail will take you around the skirt of the rock, you can also scramble up the rock a short distance.

Behind Bell Rock is Courthouse Butte , another famous sight and hike.

Boynton Canyon Hiking Trail

Boynton Canyon, about eight miles west of central Sedona, is another one of those special places with multiple reasons to visit.

The number one reason people come to Boynton Canyon is to do the Boynton Canyon hiking trail . This is a 6.1-mile in-and-out trail below the spectacular canyon walls, through a mix of vegetation, including large pine trees near the far end.

Another reason people visit this area is for the vortex found near the start of the Boynton Canyon hiking trail, on a short side spur. This is one of the more accessible vortexes, and it doesn't require climbing or walking along the edge of a cliff to reach. The vortex, known as a balanced vortex, rests in the saddle between two rock spires.

If you aren't interested in hiking or vortexes, you can simply come to enjoy some of the best views in Sedona. The luxury Enchantment Resort is a great place to come for a meal, or even spend a couple of nights.

The resort has a gated entrance but they are happy to welcome guests who are not staying here and simply want to have a meal at one of the excellent restaurants. Tii Gavo and View 180 restaurants offer outstanding dining for either a casual or upscale experience. You can sit inside and appreciate the views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, or outside, where you can enjoy the warmth of the sun and stare out at the red rocks.

South Rim of the Grand Canyon

From Sedona, it's just a 2.5-hour drive to one of the most famous and awe-inspiring sights in America .

The drive from Sedona takes you up through the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff. From here, you can do a loop, driving through Williams or up Highway 180 past the often snowcapped Humphreys Peak, to the Grand Canyon. Several options are available for getting from Sedona to the Grand Canyon .

Spend the day seeing the sights along the rim of the canyon or take a scenic flight over and into the canyon. To complete the loop, follow the Rim Road east along Highway 64 to Cameron and return via Highway 89. This will give you the best overall routing and allow you to see some of the fantastic scenery just east of the canyon, including views over the Little Colorado River.

If you would prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery rather than watching the road while you drive, the Ultimate Grand Canyon Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff offers a great way to see this amazing site. As well as a fabulous drive along the rim of the Grand Canyon, this tour also stops at Wupatki Ruins, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, and a trading post on a Navajo Reservation.

Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park is located along Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon , north of Sedona. The park is both a historic site and natural attraction, although most people enjoy coming here on warm days to play in the river.

At this point, Oak Creek flows over a series of small waterfalls on the smooth rock, creating a natural slide and water park. On hot days, the park is packed with people sliding along the rock and swimming in the natural pools . As fun as this looks, the rock is hard, and you can come away a little bumped and bruised if you aren't careful.

The park site was once a large apple farm owned by Frank L. Pendley. He was able to devise an interesting and successful irrigation system that allowed for the growing of apples. The original homestead can still be seen.

Address: 6871 North Highway 89A, Sedona, Arizona

Official site: https://azstateparks.com/slide-rock/

Palatki Ruins

The Palatki Heritage Site is a well-preserved ruin and one of the largest Sinagua villages in the area. Palatki was inhabited by the Sinagua about 800 years ago, but the rock art indicates cultures used this site 3,000 to 5,000 years earlier.

There are two trails at the Palatki Heritage Site: one trail takes visitors to the Sinagua cliff dwellings , and a second trail leads to the rock art alcoves .

It's best to call and make a reservation before showing up. A volunteer guide will show you around the site and explain the history and significance.

A short drive away from here, but in the same vicinity, are the Honanki Cliff Dwellings . This site was occupied from AD 1130-1280, and originally contained about 60 rooms and an unknown number of pictographs. These cliff dwellings are an excellent example of Sinagua architecture and rock art. This sacred site has been well-preserved, and a trail has been added for better viewing.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/ohv/recarea/?recid=55368&actid=119

Airport Mesa

Airport Mesa is a table top mountain in Sedona looking out over the entire area. The airport is located on a flat field on top of the mesa, thus the name, and many people come up here to go for a hike; look out from the viewpoint, which is also the location of an energy vortex; or enjoy a meal at the Mesa Grill , where you can watch the planes take off and land.

Off the winding road leading to the top is the lookout point , on the left side of the road. You'll need to walk about a quarter-mile loop up about 60 feet to the top of a rock, where you can see out over Highway 179 to the colorful face of the Mogollon Rim. Views here are fantastic.

If you are looking for something romantic to do in Sedona, head up to the airport lookout for sunset. A spur leads off this path to the left as you are looking out to the rim, to an unmarked area, which is the masculine or negative energy vortex .

Additional beautiful views can be had from another lookout farther up Airport Road on the right side. Views here extend out over Uptown Sedona towards Coffee Pot Rock and Soldier Pass.

For something a little more adventurous, you can also do the Airport Mesa Loop Trail, a 3.5-mile hiking trail that runs along the edge and around the mesa.

Cathedral Rock from Red Rock Crossing

If you are familiar with the classic site of Cathedral Rock reflecting in the calm waters of Oak Creek, this scene is the view from the Crescent Moon Picnic Site at Red Rock Crossing.

This is a fee area but it's a nice place to come and enjoy the creek on a hot day. You can wade in the creek, enjoy a picnic, or just relax and appreciate the scenery.

This is an incredibly popular location with photographers who come here in the late afternoon, when the sun is lighting up Cathedral Rock, and line up on the bank waiting for the right moment to take their shot. This is one of the best places to visit in Sedona if you are looking for the classic view of Cathedral Rock.

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Tlaquepaque is a recreated Mexican-style village with art galleries, craft shops, clothing stores, and restaurants. The original idea behind the village, in the 1970s, was to create an artists community.

Shoppers can still see artists at work, although most of what you will find is simply interesting retail establishments, many of which showcase glass, ceramics, sculptures, weavings, paintings, decorative arts, photography, jewelry, and decor, among others items.

The setting is reminiscent of an older time period, with cobbled streets, courtyard fountains, balconies, majestic archways, and vine-covered buildings. With the addition of Tlaquepaque North , the complex now spans both sides of Highway 179.

Address: 336 State Route 179, Sedona, Arizona

Official site: http://www.tlaq.com/

Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a place of serenity and tranquility that is often overlooked by tourists. It's a spiritual place that attracts people of all faiths and fits in beautifully in Sedona. Prayer flags flow off the 36-foot stupa and blow in the wind.

Surrounding the area are juniper trees and prickly pear cactus backed by the distant mountains, glowing an orange color, almost the same hue as the stupa itself.

People come here for prayer and meditation. The custom is to walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction three times.

Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is located in West Sedona in a residential area.

Address: 2650 Pueblo Drive, Sedona, Arizona

Red Rock State Park

This park, located approximately 10 minutes outside of Sedona towards Cottonwood, is an easy outing for those looking to experience some nature and local history. Located on more than 286 acres, the park encompasses a section of Oak Creek, several hills, and the former site of the Smoke Trail Ranch owned by the famous Jack and Helen Frye.

The visitor center provides an in-depth overview of the flora and fauna found around Sedona, with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. The fascinating history of the Frye's and their Smoke Trail Ranch, along with the development of the park, is also chronicled.

One of the park's more interesting sites is the abandoned House of Apache Fire , built in 1947, situated on a hilltop commanding beautiful views.

Easy hiking trails provide views out to the red rock countryside and allow for a close-up look at the House of Apache Fire. One of the more impressive views is the Seven Warriors formation, seen from the Bunkhouse Trail.

The park is also a favorite haunt of bird-watchers . On the lower side of the visitors center, a bird feeding station has been set up and attracts a diverse set of avian visitors ranging from hummingbirds to woodpeckers.

Address: 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona, Arizona

Official site: https://azstateparks.com/red-rock/

Tlaquepaque, part of the 1st Friday in the Art Galleries

The first Friday of every month, the galleries of Sedona open their doors in fun fashion, offering snacks and beverages and opportunities to meet some of the artists or chat with other tourists.

Rather than the usual quiet gallery settings, the establishments are full of people socializing as they contemplate the art and talk with artists about their pieces and concepts. This is a great introduction to Sedona's art scene.

The 1st Friday in the Galleries runs from 5pm to 8pm and is free. Much of the excitement is focused around the galleries at Tlaquepaque, Uptown Sedona, and Hillside Sedona.

Montezuma Castle National Monument

One of Arizona's most impressive cliff dwelling sites is just a short and scenic 30-minute drive from Sedona in Verde Valley . Reached via a short level pathway, the cliff dwellings are located high up in the sheer rock face, underneath a large rock overhang.

Research suggests that the Sinagua people inhabited this site nearly 900 years ago, approximately 1050 CE. Their ingenuity is reflected in the sheer size of the 20-story dwellings they somehow managed to build high up on the cliff walls.

While visiting the cliff dwellings, be sure to also stop by Montezuma Well. This huge desert sinkhole, 386 feet across, is continually filled by 10,000-year-old water from deep within the earth. A pleasant and easy 0.7-mile-loop trail takes you to an overlook and then past a burbling brook that drains the well.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/moca/index.htm

Path at the Sedona Heritage Museum

Most people come to Sedona and are instantly captivated by the stunning red rocks and beautiful scenery, but never give a thought to how the city was founded and functioned for many years before it became the place it is today.

Well that deficiency can be easily rectified by a visit and self-guided tour of the Sedona Heritage Museum. Most of the structures from the Jordan Homestead, dating from 1931, have been restored and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places . Inside these structures, you'll find interesting exhibits on the history of Sedona beginning in 1876, it's first residents, Sedona's movie history, and the Jordan family.

The museum is located near uptown Sedona on Jordan Road in the Jordan Historical Park.

Address: 735 Jordan Road, Sedona, Arizona

Official site: https://sedonamuseum.org/

The best place to stay is near Uptown Sedona , close to shops, restaurants, and galleries, but the luxury resorts outside of town make attractive bases for hikers and nature lovers. The nearby Village of Oak Creek , a six-mile scenic drive to the south, is smaller but is also surrounded by mesas and mountains, and offers a range of budget hotels. West Sedona is a five-minute drive from Uptown and also offers some good hotel choices.

Luxury Hotels:

  • The Adobe Grand Villas , in a quiet area in West Sedona, is a boutique hotel offering large and private, themed luxury villas, along with an outdoor pool and exceptional service. A private chef is on call for your dining requirements.
  • With lodge and cottage style high-end accommodation, L'Auberge de Sedona lies along the banks of Oak Creek and is within easy walking distance of Uptown Sedona.
  • About eight miles from Uptown and spread out over 80 acres in spectacular Boynton Canyon, Enchantment Resort features upscale rooms with amazing red rock views, an outdoor pool, and some great on-site restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Casa Sedona Inn is a cozy boutique property set on one acre of Junipine Forest in West Sedona. The southwestern-style rooms come with fireplaces and a complimentary gourmet breakfast.
  • Perched on a hill about a mile west of Uptown, the Sky Rock Inn of Sedona offers beautiful views, comfortable rooms, and a promenade deck with fire pits and outdoor seating.
  • The pet-friendly Sedona Real Inn and Suites , in West Sedona, has a relaxed feel, a great outdoor pool, and well-priced suites.

Budget Hotels:

  • The following budget hotels are all in the quaint Village of Oak Creek, six miles from Uptown Sedona. A good option for the value conscious is the Wildflower Inn, a short walk from the trailhead of some of the best hiking in the Sedona area.
  • The Desert Quail Inn and The Views Inn Sedona are both centrally located in Oak Creek and offer affordable rooms and outdoor pools.

instagram logo

More on Arizona

Arizona Travel Guide

Tucson   Travel Guide

Courtesy of David Sucsy | Getty Images

top tourist attractions arizona

20 Best Things To Do in Tucson

Phoenix may be the capital of Arizona, but many consider Tucson the true heart of the Sonoran Desert. Sitting about an hour north of the Mexico border, Tucson attracts a diverse group of travelers thanks to its wide variety of things to do. For a

  • All Things To Do

top tourist attractions arizona

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Although it's called a "museum," this facility, which is home to animals, a botanical garden, an aquarium and an art gallery – is more of a zoo. In fact, 85% of what you'll experience is outdoors and requires walking (dress accordingly). Across the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's 98 acres, you'll find 230 animal species – including hummingbirds, coyotes and string rays – along with 1,200 local plant species. Next to the entrance plaza, visitors pass the Warden Aquarium and Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall before heading out to explore the rest of the exhibits via walking paths. Strolling along the museum's 2 miles of hiking trails, visitors get acquainted with the desert landscape via animal exhibits that mingle with native plants. And if you feel hungry after your leisurely hike, you can enjoy a meal at one of the museum's three eateries, all of which have great views of the surrounding desert.

Recent visitors enjoyed their time at the museum and highly recommended future travelers set aside a few hours to explore the attraction's grounds and educational exhibits. Just make sure you come prepared: bring a refillable water bottle for the numerous fill stations, wear appropriate walking shoes, sun protection and sunscreen (though, if you forget your sunscreen, there are dispensers in the on-site bathrooms). Reviewers also advised stopping by in the morning or near closing as that's when the animals are most active. Aside from the flora and fauna, visitors also praised the knowledgeable docents.

top tourist attractions arizona

Saguaro National Park Saguaro National Park

This 92,867-acre park is dedicated to the largest cactus in the U.S., the saguaro (pronounced sa-WAH-ro), a universal symbol of the American West. The park is divided into two districts: The Rincon Mountain District, east of downtown, and the Tucson Mountain District, west of downtown. Each section features a visitor center, miles of hiking trails and, of course, hundreds of towering saguaro cacti. Not in the mood to hike? The Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive is a paved road that features several trailheads, scenic vistas and pullouts in the Rincon Mountain District. If you're visiting the Tucson Mountain District, the unpaved Bajada Loop Drive offers photo-worthy lookouts and picnic areas.

Deemed a national treasure by recent visitors, this park is the perfect place to come if you want to see some iconic southwestern landscapes. Although both sections of the park are worth your time, many recent visitors recommend the Tucson Mountain District for its spectacular sunsets. Reviewers also noted that fall and spring are the best times to visit the park as the summer's heat can get quite unbearable, with temperatures climbing into the triple digits. If you're visiting in the summer, get to the park in the morning before the sun's rays get too strong. Other visitors advised of numerous snake warning signs.

top tourist attractions arizona

Mission San Xavier del Bac Mission San Xavier del Bac free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop at the  Mercado District after visiting the mission. Grab a burrito at Seis Kitchen, Mexican pastries at La Estrella and coffee at Decibel Coffee Works. Shop at the repurposed shipping containers at MSA Annex and enjoy a cocktail at Westbound. – Jill Schildhouse

Sitting just south of Tucson on the San Xavier Indian Reservation, Mission San Xavier del Bac (known as the White Dove of the Desert) is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in the U.S. Influenced by Moorish, Byzantine, Renaissance and Mexican architectural styles and complete in 1797, this active Roman Catholic Church is a National Historic Landmark. The exterior features white stucco, while the interiors house elaborate frescos and carved religious figures.

top tourist attractions arizona

Popular Tours

Guided 2 Hour Horseback Ride Catalina State Park Coronado Forest

Guided 2 Hour Horseback Ride Catalina State Park Coronado Forest

(33 reviews)

from $ 108.75

Tucson Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Tucson Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

(35 reviews)

from $ 80.00

Historic Bike Tour in Tucson

Historic Bike Tour in Tucson

(447 reviews)

from $ 73.00

top tourist attractions arizona

Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway

Regarded as one of the most scenic drives in southeast Arizona, the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway (also known as Catalina Highway Scenic Drive) is the only paved road to take travelers to the upper reaches of Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range. Aside from the arresting canyon and mountain views, the nearly 60-mile round-trip byway offers visitors the biological equivalent of driving from the deserts of Mexico to the forests of Canada (the road begins in the lower Sonoran vegetative life zone and ascends to the high forests in the Canadian zone).To learn more about the area, visitors can stop by the Palisades Visitor Center along their drive.

Recent visitors highly recommended making the drive, which many described as "spectacular" and a "must-do" when in Tucson. Along with the stunning vantage point, the ride up also provides a reprieve from the desert heat; travelers said the temperature drops as you climb higher along the byway. Take advantage of the scenic overlooks and rest areas by bringing along a picnic – another recommendation from past visitors.

top tourist attractions arizona

Sabino Canyon Recreation Area Sabino Canyon Recreation Area

U.S. News Insider Tip:  I love taking the open-air shuttle up to the top and listening to the narrated tour describing the geological formations and wildlife. At the top, hop off for a leisurely stroll down, snapping photos along the way. Bring plenty of water. – Jill Schildhouse

Located along the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains on Tucson's northeast edge, Sabino Canyon's numerous hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities (keep your eyes peeled for a Gila monster) make this recreational area popular with locals and tourists alike. Visitors can picnic among the saguaro cacti and cool down in Sabino Creek. And if you're looking to get a feel for the area without breaking too much of a sweat, take a ride on the Sabino Canyon Crawler. During the narrated, hourlong open-air shuttle ride through the canyon (which is closed to private vehicles), the vehicle makes nine stops. You can get off and explore at your leisure, or simply ride the shuttle back to the visitor center. For a shorter route, the Bear Canyon shuttle is a 30-minute narrated ride with three stops.

top tourist attractions arizona

Pima Air & Space Museum Pima Air & Space Museum

Housing more than 400 aircraft and spacecraft, this is one of the largest air and space museums in the world. Sprawling across 80 acres, the museum offers both outdoor and indoor exhibits. Highlights include the Wright Flyer, which dates back to 1903, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the record-breaking Lockheed SR-71 "Blackbird." 

Recent visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor exhibits. Most described the museum as "fascinating" and praised the on-site volunteers for their extensive knowledge of each plane's historical significance. Reviewers also noted this was a great educational stop for kids and even visitors with limited interest in aviation enjoyed their visit. Several visitors highly recommended forking over a little extra coin for the tram tours to avoid having to walk in the desert sun. 

top tourist attractions arizona

Catalina State Park Catalina State Park

 Flanking the northern edge of the Catalina Foothills district, Catalina State Park provides spectacular views of Tucson and the surrounding mountain ranges, as well as more than 5,000 saguaro cacti. Inside, the park shelters 5,500 acres of canyons, streams, and hiking and biking trails that wind through the Coronado National Forest at elevations near 3,000 feet. Along with the gorgeous views, keep your eyes peeled for birds; more than 150 species call the park home and it is a designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. Some visitors choose to hike, but you can also explore the park trails on horseback. Catalina State Park offers an equestrian area for visitors with horses.

Recent visitors called the park a "must do" and said the large bird population is "astounding." Most reviewers enjoyed the various hiking trails, and many advised heading to the park early in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures (and plentiful parking spots). Along with the views and the trails, travelers were also quick to praise the cleanliness of the park's facilities.

top tourist attractions arizona

Old Tucson Old Tucson

Fans of old Western movies might recognize Old Tucson's 1890s-themed buildings, which served as a backdrop for more than 500 television shows and movies, such as "Three Amigos," "El Dorado," "Joe Kidd," "Winchester '73" and "Tombstone." This renowned film set – which once saw the likes of John Wayne, Paul Newman, Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood and Ronald Reagan – now serves mainly as a theme park offering experiences and tours for visitors (although they still shoot movies here, on the 300 acres of desert landscape).

Under new ownership by American Heritage Railways, Old Tucson reopened its doors to the public in October 2022. It debuted its Western Experience in January 2023, allowing visitors to take a trip back to the late 1800s for a firsthand look at the Wild West with a host of characters trained in immersive theater (think: live-action cowboy gun fights, thrilling stunts and an interactive search for missing gold). Horse-drawn wagon rides, live music and theatrical performances, a petting zoo, and old western train ride and, of course, food and beverages help round out your day.

top tourist attractions arizona

Mt. Lemmon Half Day Rock Climbing or Canyoneering in Arizona

(68 reviews)

from $ 185.00

Tucson Origins Walking Tour

Tucson Origins Walking Tour

(10 reviews)

from $ 50.00

Historical Guided Tour in Tucson

Historical Guided Tour in Tucson

(13 reviews)

from $ 65.00

top tourist attractions arizona

Tucson Mountain Park Tucson Mountain Park free

Adjoining Saguaro National Park 's Tucson Mountain District, Tucson Mountain Park features 20,000 acres of preserved land. In fact, it's one of the largest protected areas managed by a city. With 62 miles of multiuse trails, it's a destination for visitors and locals alike. Gates Pass Scenic Overlook offers views of the desert landscape and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. Along with its hiking opportunities, the park is also a prime spot for bird-watching; Tucson Mountain Park offers a checklist for birders. 

Recent visitors praise Tucson Mountain Park for its range of hiking trails and its proximity to the city. Most visitors described it as a quiet area without a lot of other hikers. Others applauded the friendly staff. 

top tourist attractions arizona

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Set against the dramatic scenery of the Santa Catalina foothills, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is the 10-acre retreat of the late artist Ettore "Ted" DeGrazia. Designed and built by the artist, the museum complex is on the National Register of Historic Places and includes his original home and a gallery with six permanent collections featuring original paintings, along with rotating exhibits displaying selected works from a DeGrazia collection of 15,000 individual works. Also located on-site, the Mission of the Sun is an open-roof building with rock floors and wall murals that DeGrazia built with adobe bricks made on-site. 

Recent visitors were delighted by the facility, each admiring a different feature, from the open-roof mission to the whimsical art in the garden. Reviewers recommended watching the short informational film inside the museum to learn more about DeGrazia and his artwork before exploring the grounds.

top tourist attractions arizona

Tohono Chul Tohono Chul

This 49-acre garden combines desert plants like the saguaro with themed gardens, and is the vision of Jean and Richard Wilson. Since its creation in 1966, Tohono Chul has expanded to include several art galleries, shops, a retail greenhouse and a bistro serving a regionally inspired menu. Along with short nature trails, Tohono Chul is also home to a butterfly garden and a variety of birds, such as the cactus wren (the state bird of Arizona) and Gila woodpeckers.

Recent visitors recommend visiting early or late in the day if you want to beat the peak mid-day heat in the summer. The docent-led walks, especially the bird walk, were recommended by a few reviewers, and overall, the docents were a highlight for many travelers. Others were impressed with the on-site cafe, as well as the signage identifying the plants.

top tourist attractions arizona

Tucson Botanical Gardens Tucson Botanical Gardens

This 5.5-acre property houses more than a dozen gardens featuring everything from roses, herbs and cacti to irises and plants used by the native Tohono O'odham people. In addition to the outdoor themed gardens, visitors can experience the wonder inside the Cox Butterfly and Orchid Pavilion (which is open seasonally from October to May). Many garden visitors take a break at Edna's Eatery for breakfast or lunch. What's more, the gift shop offers unique items for the garden and home.

Recent travelers were pleasantly surprised by the amount of shade the garden provides and reported spending several hours here. Several visitors especially enjoyed the butterfly and orchid exhibit. Others commented on the relatively small size of the garden.

top tourist attractions arizona

Gaslight Theatre Gaslight Theatre

A Tucson staple since the 1970s, the Gaslight Theatre offers an activity the whole family will enjoy (and one that allows you to escape the heat for a few hours). Performances at the Gaslight Theatre range from musical comedies and melodramas to Westerns and sci-fi spoofs.

The theater receives praise from visitors for its entertaining shows and family-friendly atmosphere. Plus, the theater serves beer and wine, soft drinks, pizza and free popcorn, among other kid-friendly eats. Reviewers were complimentary of the service.

top tourist attractions arizona

Friday; The Tour Too Tough to Die - Tombstone/ Bisbee

(39 reviews)

from $ 110.00

Tucson - Behind the Scenes Tour

Tucson - Behind the Scenes Tour

(62 reviews)

Tombstone & San Xavier, How the West was Won!

Tombstone & San Xavier, How the West was Won!

(8 reviews)

from $ 99.00

top tourist attractions arizona

Reid Park Zoo Reid Park Zoo

Home to 250 different species, including a variety of exotic animals, ranging from elephants and jaguars to flamingos and rhinos, the Reid Park Zoo in central Tucson is a favorite place for families to spend a few hours. When you're not observing the animals from afar, several activities allow you to interact with them up close, such as the giraffe feedings. There's also a zoo train and a carousel, along with daily demonstrations with zoo keepers. 

Many family visitors said a stop at the zoo is a must and said its small size was perfect for little legs to navigate. Additionally, travelers recommended paying the extra $3 to feed the giraffes. 

top tourist attractions arizona

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

If you're a fan of dollhouses, room boxes or miniature displays, you'll love this quirky and unique museum. Sprawling across 10,000 square feet, The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures boasts 500 miniature houses and room boxes. From corner bookstores with individually made books to opulent homes dripping in crystal and silver, visitors stare in wonder at each meticulously crafted tiny world. The museum displays antique dollhouses dating from the 1740s alongside more contemporary miniatures.

Most visitors, especially those with an interest in dollhouses or model planes, were impressed by the artistry and craftsmanship of the displays. Many reviewers were surprised by how much they enjoyed the museum and reported spending several hours here.  

top tourist attractions arizona

Tucson Museum of Art & Historic Block Tucson Museum of Art & Historic Block

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab a bite to eat at Café à la C'Art (the housemade posole is a local favorite), located in the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block courtyard, and then walk over the shops at  Old Town Artisans . – Jill Schildhouse

The Tucson Museum of Art & Historic Block pays tribute to the city's vibrant past not just in its name, but also in its appearance. Its galleries are housed in five historical adobe homes, in addition to a modern wing. The museum's collection includes pieces from the American West and Latin America, along with modern and contemporary art. The museum also hosts notable traveling exhibitions.

top tourist attractions arizona

Tucson Presidio District Tucson Presidio District free

As the cultural hub of downtown Tucson, the Tucson Presidio District houses several of the city's most notable museums, including the Tucson Museum of Art and the Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón Museum. Located on the site of the original 18th-century Presidio San Agustín del Tuscon, the museum invites visitors to experience fort life and learn about archaeological sites like a pit house and a Sonoran row house. In addition to the district's museums, visitors can peruse Old Town Artisans, a collection of six galleries and shops housed in a 150-year-old adobe building. There's also an outdoor dining and live music venue, LaCo Tucson.

Recent visitors to the Presidio museum commented on the historical aspects of the tour and the docents' knowledge of early Tucson history. Visitors to the Old Town Artisans enjoyed the variety in the shops, along with the dining. Meanwhile, those who stopped by the Tucson Museum of Art enjoyed the diversity of the collection. 

top tourist attractions arizona

University of Arizona Campus University of Arizona Campus free

This sprawling campus in central Tucson boasts several notable attractions. History and culture buffs appreciate the Arizona State Museum and the University of Arizona Museum of Art while shoppers enjoy Main Gate Square, a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining area with a streetcar stop. If you're visiting during the fall, head over to the Arizona Stadium to watch the Wildcats take on notable Pac-12 football rivals, while basketball fans can watch the school's team play at the McKale Memorial Center come winter and spring.

Recent travelers say the University of Arizona campus is the "heartbeat of Tucson." Some travelers suggest you visit when classes are in session because the grounds are peaceful and the palm trees and fountains on campus add to the warm-weather ambiance. Sports fans flock to games year-round and comment on the state-of-the-art sport facilities.

top tourist attractions arizona

E-Bike Rental in Tucson

(3 reviews)

from $ 125.00

Sonoran Desert- Wild Foods and Traditional Skills

Sonoran Desert- Wild Foods and Traditional Skills

(21 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Saguaro National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Saguaro National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

(9 reviews)

from $ 16.99

top tourist attractions arizona

Colossal Cave Mountain Park Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Take a hint from the desert animals and head underground during the heat of the day. The Colossal Cave was discovered in 1879 by Solomon Lick, a local rancher. Today, the cave, which is now equipped with stairs and lights, is a tourist attraction that's featured on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors interested in touring the cave have two options: the Classic Cave Tour and the Ladder Tour.

The 40-minute Classic Cave Tour requires participants to descend six stories (via approximately 360 stairs) for a half-mile guided walk that features stories of the cave's history and lore (including tales of ghosts and robbers) and geological wonders like stalactites and stalagmites. Those in search of an adventure may want to book the 90-minute Ladder Tour, which requires participants to navigate narrow passages and walk across rock bridges to access areas of the cave that have been restricted to most visitors since the 1950s. Beyond the cave, the park features more than 2,400 acres that can be explored via hiking and biking trails, and it's brimming with wildlife. For a real Western feel, visitors can take a trail ride (for an extra fee) from the stables located in the La Posta Quemada Ranch.  

top tourist attractions arizona

Trail Dust Town Trail Dust Town free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are no ties allowed at Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse. If a diner wears a tie, a staff member will cut if off with scissors and hang it from the ceiling. There are thousands of ties hanging, so wear an old one to participate in the tradition! – Jill Schildhouse

On the hunt for a family-friendly activity? Look no further than Trail Dust Town, Tucson's favorite place for "Old West" fun since 1961. A stroll down its main street feels reminiscent of what you might have experienced during the pioneer days – and it's still locally owned and operated by the same family as when it started, three generations ago.

top tourist attractions arizona

Explore More of Tucson

The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain

Best Hotels

World Map

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

top tourist attractions arizona

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

top tourist attractions arizona

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

top tourist attractions arizona

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

top tourist attractions arizona

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

top tourist attractions arizona

IMAGES

  1. 10 Must See Arizona Attractions

    top tourist attractions arizona

  2. 35 Fun Things To Do In Arizona (& Best Places To Visit)

    top tourist attractions arizona

  3. Visit the Top Sedona AZ Tourist Attractions

    top tourist attractions arizona

  4. 15 Best Places to Visit in Arizona in 2021

    top tourist attractions arizona

  5. Top 10 Arizona Attractions to Visit This Summer

    top tourist attractions arizona

  6. Top 26 Sedona Attractions & Things To Do You Can't Miss

    top tourist attractions arizona

COMMENTS

  1. 20 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

    Best Places to Visit in Arizona. Grand Canyon National Park. Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Monument Valley. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Sedona. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument ...

  2. 23 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Arizona

    7. Tucson Tucson skyline. Tucson is a beautiful city set in the Sonoran Desert and surrounded by mountains. As the second largest city in Arizona, it has many cultural attractions, as well as historic sites and natural areas to explore nearby.. Some of the highlights include the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Saguaro National Park, El Presidio Historic District, and Old Tucson Studios.

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Arizona

    2023. 6. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. 8,879. Art Galleries. The renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is everything you could want in a Sonoran Desert adventure! Mostly outdoors and comprised of an AZA-accredited zoo, extensive botanical garden, two art galleries, and a natural history museum, the Desert Museum sits on 98 acres of pristine ...

  4. 28 Top Things to Do in Arizona

    See celebrity homes, top attractions and fun sights on these engaging tours of one of LA's hottest neighborhoods. Gwen Pratesi and Ann Henson Feb. 28, 2024 Top Adults-Only Resorts in the Caribbean

  5. 33 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Arizona (+Map)

    Since its admission to the Union as the 48th state, the world-famous tourist attractions in Arizona like the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and Saguaro National Park have drawn in tourists from all over the world. 33. Wupatki National Monument. 32. Lowell Observatory.

  6. 26 Amazing Places to See in Arizona (+ Map & How to Visit)

    Without further ado, here are some of the very best places to visit in Arizona: 1. Grand Canyon National Park. Arizona's most famous landmark, Grand Canyon needs no introduction. This impressive natural wonder is not just #1 among the must-see places in Arizona, but also one of the most popular national parks in the United States attracting millions of visitors every year.

  7. Must See

    With so much to see and do in Arizona, deciding what to experience can be hard. ... These must-see attractions and places will help you make the most of your trip. San Xavier del Bac, Tucson. Must Do. ... Top Annual Events Learn More Sustainability. Appreciate AZ Learn More Travel Inspiration ...

  8. 35 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Arizona

    Address: Petrified Forest, Holbrook, AZ 86028, United States. 8. Musical Instrument Museum. Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock. If you're a culture and history buff, then it only makes sense that your list of top things to do in Arizona include checking out the litany of culturally rich museums the state has to offer.

  9. 21 Beautiful Places to Visit in Arizona

    Arizona is a state full of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you want to explore the Grand Canyon, visit an underground restaurant, or ski on a snowy mountain ...

  10. The 10 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

    One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must for any visitor to Arizona. You can see the canyon from viewpoints at the South Rim, the national park's main entrance; the North Rim; and Grand Canyon West, the Hualapai tribal lands where the glass Skywalk curves over the rim's edge.

  11. 10 best places to visit in Arizona

    Planning tip: Flagstaff is a great base for exploring Arizona. Meteor Crater is just 42 miles away, and you can also easily access Grand Canyon National Park, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Sunset Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument by car. 9. Meteor Crater.

  12. 25 Best Things to Do in Arizona

    1. The Grand Canyon. Possibly the most popular natural attraction in the United States, and definitively the most popular in Arizona, is the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder was shaped by the Colorado River many years ago. The Grand Canyon is mostly visited at the South Rim, which has a number of lookout spots.

  13. 27 Places to Visit in Arizona in 2024 (By a Local)

    Monument Valley is one of the most iconic places to visit in Arizona and Utah. Located right along the state border, the sight of these fantastical sandstone buttes will stick with you forever. Stop along the road at the famous Forrest Gump scene, then head to the Monument Valley Visitor Center.

  14. The Top 30 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Arizona

    Here's a list of the top 30 must-see tourist attractions in Arizona: 1. Grand Canyon National Park. Photo by Barth Bailey on Unsplash. Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic natural wonder in northern Arizona, attracting millions of people each year with its spectacular splendour.

  15. Top 15 Arizona Attractions You Will Never Forget

    Top 25 Phoenix Attractions You Need to Visit At Least Once. 10 Best Things To Do in Arizona. 15 Best Caves in Arizona You Must Explore. Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Tucson, Arizona. Top 10 Things To Do in the Grand Canyon National Park. 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Arizona You Must Explore. Top 10 Scottsdale Attractions You Can't Afford to ...

  16. 26 Stunning Places to Visit in Arizona That We Love

    Antelope Canyon is easily one of the best natural tourist attractions in Arizona. This canyon is a must-visit if you want to visit bucket list outdoor attractions. Check out Antelope Canyon Photo Tours ... One of the top places to visit San Xavier del Bac is a Spanish Catholic Mission. This national historic landmark was founded in 1692 and ...

  17. Official Travel & Tourism Website

    Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts. Plan the perfect vacation with Arizona's official travel guide. Discover inspiring things to do from outdoor fun to arts and culture, events, and culinary hot spots. Your Arizona adventure starts here.

  18. 20 Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

    South Mountain Park and Preserve. Phoenix Art Museum (free admission from 3 to 9 p.m. the first Friday of the month and every Wednesday from 3 to 9 p.m.) Children's Museum of Phoenix (free ...

  19. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phoenix, AZ

    One of the greatest attractions in Arizona and America is just a day trip away from Phoenix. If you haven't seen the Grand Canyon, taking a tour from Phoenix should be on your to-do list. ... 12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Scottsdale, AZ. 12 Top-Rated Resorts in Scottsdale. 15 Best Things to Do in Chandler, AZ. 13 Top-Rated ...

  20. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Scottsdale

    10. Scottsdale Fashion Square. 607. Shopping Malls. Scottsdale Fashion Square is the Southwest's distinctive address for premier shopping, dining and entertainment. Scottsdale Fashion Square offers a compelling retail experience in the heart of the country's fastest-growing major metropolitan area.

  21. 22 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sedona

    23 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Arizona. MORE DESTINATIONS. 6 Top-Rated Campgrounds in Sedona. 13 Top-Rated Mountain Biking Trails in Sedona. ... 28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World. 22 Best Tropical Vacations. 24 Most Beautiful Islands in the World. FOLLOW USWe're sharing tips, tools, ...

  22. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Phoenix

    Phoenix is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for travelers of all kinds. Whether you want to explore the desert landscapes, enjoy the cultural and culinary delights, or have some family fun, you will find something to do in Phoenix. Check out Tripadvisor's recommendations for the best things to do in Phoenix, based on traveler reviews and photos. You will discover the top-rated and ...

  23. 20 Best Things to Do in Tucson

    Ranking of the top 20 things to do in Tucson. Travelers favorites include #1 Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, #2 Saguaro National Park and more.