Featuring some of the world’s most unique natural wonders, fascinating historical monuments, and cultural attractions, Arizona is perhaps one of the most alluring vacation destinations one can travel to and explore. With something to offer for all types of travelers, it boasts the perfect desert landscape for outdoor adventures and a vibrant nightlife scene to boot. Due to the sheer amount of options, it can be overwhelming to ascertain which tourist spots you should head to as you begin your Arizona adventure.
But don’t fret, as we have got you covered! The following is a list of some must-do items you should add to your bucket list when planning a trip to Arizona.
Grand Canyon
Offering a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of the hectic city life, the Grand Canyon is undoubtedly the most distinguishable landmark in Arizona and one of the top-rated destinations in America. The timeless beauty of this natural wonder can not be overstated, with its awe-inspiring sights making it a must-visit destination for everyone once in their lifetime.
A fine example of arid-land erosion, the enormity of this magnificent natural wonder is captivating. Whether you are an outdoorsy person or a geology enthusiast, this geological marvel is a must-visit and the best of what Arizona has got to offer you. Officially declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canyon attracts approximately 6 million visitors each year, leaving them wonderstruck with its spectacular views, incredible biodiversity, and plenty of enthralling activities.
You can explore the Canyon from the South, which offers the best viewpoints and plenty of activities, or the North Rim, that’s much smaller, calmer, and quieter but has some unique views. From hiking to taking mule rides, there is never a dull moment at the Canyon. For the ultimate experience, you can even take a helicopter tour to get an aerial view of the splendor that lies beneath.
Sedona
Sedona is every vacationer’s paradise, and for good reasons. A true oasis, it is considered one of the most beautiful places in the US due to its natural beauty. Located at a 1.5-hour drive north of Phoenix, the desert town dazzles with its jaw-dropping red rock formation and jagged sandstone buttes.
But there is a lot more to Sedona than its stunning scenery that draws visitors from around the globe. Sedona is a haven for spiritual wellness due to its energy vortexes, which you can find at several sites around the town. Many people flock to the region to heal themselves and also seek spiritual enlightenment.
There are plenty of exciting outdoor activities to partake in, from exploring its network of hiking trails to taking a guided jeep tour into the wilderness.
Phoenix
As the economic and cultural heart of Arizona, Phoenix is always buzzing with activity all year round. With sunny weather almost year-round, Arizona is the ideal destination if you are a sun-seeker and want to spend some time basking in the desert heat. But it’s more than perfect weather is not the only draw for millions of visitors to the capital city each year.
Pheonix is well known for its hundreds of magnificent golf courses, high-end shopping options, dynamic restaurant scene, and world-class spas. What’s more, it is close to Camelback Mountain, which is one of Phoenix’s most scenic hiking spots. Nature lovers would also adore the Desert Botanical Garden and the iconic Papago Park, located minutes from downtown.
Lake Havasu
A true beach oasis surrounded by desert land, Lake Havasu is amongst Arizona’s premier destinations to enjoy water activities, including swimming, boating, water skiing, and fishing. A favorite pastime for locals and tourists alike, it features the historic London Bridge, relocated here in 1971 from England.
Having spent some time on the lake, you can make your way ashore to Lake Havasu City and explore various hiking trails, shops, and restaurants, amongst other amenities. As per many previous tourists, Lake Havasu is also an excellent destination to camp, thanks to its large recreation vehicle (RV) sites and clean restrooms. Book an RV rental in Arizona to get the most out of the wide range of scenic Lake Havasu RV parks and campgrounds. With compelling views of the stunning scenery and an assortment of fun activities to take part in, finding the perfect campsite and spending a night under the stars in Lake Havasu is an adventure like none other.
Tucson
With the city lazing in the glorious sunshine more than 350 days a year, Tucson is a beautiful city located amid dry, edgy mountains and surrounded by desert. While it may exude a small-town vibe, it is the second-largest city in Arizona and features various cultural attractions, extraordinary museums, and natural wonders to explore nearby. Home to the University of Arizona, the lively college town boasts a fascinating mix of cultures, and the city’s architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and cuisine reflect its cultural diversity. Strolling in the lively and slightly chaotic downtown area surrounded by colorful buildings is truly a treat.
Head to the Saguaro National Park, which is one of the top-rated attractions of the region. You will witness some spectacular landscapes composed of some towering cacti, breathtaking mountains, and reddish earth. The park is home to several wildlife species, including but not limited to coyotes, desert tortoises, javelina, and black bear in the upper elevations. Therefore, be sure to look out for these during your visit.
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and San Xavier Mission, a historic church with mesmerizing architecture, are other prime highlights of Tucson that you do not want to miss.
Petrified Forest National Park
Located in northeastern Arizona, the Petrified Forest is an astonishing land of scenic natural wonders and fascinating science. This one-of-a-kind spot boasts an incredible terrain that you would be hard-pressed to witness in any other part of the world. Spanning over 200,000-acres, it features the world’s largest and most colorful pieces of petrified wood, rocky cliffs, and animal fossils. To get up close to the fossils, dating back to as long as 200 million years, and walking among the petrified trees is an adventure you do not want to miss in Arizona.
An incredible destination to travel to, these places in Arizona will live long in your memory, and we guarantee you will return home with a camera full of memorable pictures.