20 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

Arizona is a land of stunning landscapes and remarkable sights that captivate travelers from around the globe. With its breathtaking canyons, vibrant deserts, and awe-inspiring monuments, it promises a journey filled with diverse and magnificent experiences.

Whether one seeks adventure, history, or simply the chance to soak in nature’s beauty, Arizona’s destinations offer something unique. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this southwestern wonder is ready to be explored by all who venture into its vast and varied terrain.

Grand Canyon

Our Rating: 9.8/10

The Grand Canyon is a must-see wonder of the world. It stretches 277 miles and offers breathtaking scenery that leaves visitors in awe. Every turn provides stunning views and vibrant colors that reveal millions of years of natural history. Visitors can hike the popular Bright Angel Trail and experience the canyon’s depth up close. This trail offers changing views that captivate hikers at every step.

Another highlight is the Grand Canyon Skywalk. This glass bridge allows visitors to walk beyond the canyon’s edge. Standing 4,000 feet above the Colorado River, it is an exhilarating experience that thrills adventurers. The Desert View Watchtower provides panoramic views from height and history within its painted walls for a more relaxed visit.

Sedona

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Sedona is a wonderland nestled among the red rocks of Arizona. Visitors can explore the Red Rock Scenic Byway, often called a “museum without walls,” where each turn offers breathtaking views. Explore vibrant hiking trails like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. These trails promise awe-inspiring sights and a chance to connect with nature.

Adventure seekers can take a jeep tour to experience Sedona’s rugged terrain. Towering red rock formations create unforgettable views that are perfect for capturing on camera. Art lovers will love the many galleries exhibiting the rich local art scene. The mix of landscapes and creativity makes Sedona a unique and magical destination for travelers.

Antelope Canyon

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Antelope Canyon is a mesmerizing destination. Its stunning sandstone walls, shaped by water and time, create a breathtaking view. Visitors can explore the narrow passages of both Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. Each offers unique light displays that photographers and nature lovers won’t miss.

Guided tours are required to visit, ensuring safety while maximizing the experience. Adventurers can also venture to nearby Cardiac Canyon for a more secluded escape with Taadidiin Tours. This trek promises rewarding solitude and incredible views.

Horseshoe Bend

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Horseshoe Bend is a stunning natural wonder along the Colorado River near Page, Arizona. Visitors can enjoy an easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike that leads to a breathtaking view of the river curving around the canyon.

Activities include photography, with the best light in the late morning when the sun highlights the landscape. Adventurous travelers may take rafting or kayaking tours to experience the bend up close.

Monument Valley

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Monument Valley is a stunning landscape of red rock formations towering against a vast sky. Visitors can drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop, where iconic sights like The Mittens and John Ford’s Point await. The views are breathtaking and provide endless photo opportunities.

For a more immersive experience, guided horseback tours offer an exceptional way to explore the valley. Travelers ride through the valleys and along breathtaking ridges that showcase the area’s beauty. These tours often include stops at key scenic points and stories about the land’s cultural significance.

Saguaro National Park

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Saguaro National Park is a haven for nature lovers. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, this park offers a stunning landscape filled with towering cacti. Visitors can hike through scenic trails, perfect for anyone seeking a quiet escape. Beyond hiking, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum near the park offers engaging exhibits. It combines an outdoor zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, showcasing the desert’s unique wildlife.

Wildflowers add pops of color in the spring, making photography a must. As evening falls, the sky transforms into a canvas of bright stars, creating a mesmerizing view. Saguaro National Park promises a memorable adventure under the hot Arizona sun.

Petrified Forest National Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Petrified Forest National Park offers natural wonders. Visitors can explore the vibrant colors of ancient petrified wood that blanket the landscape like a giant artist’s palette. It’s a unique place where geology and colorful history intertwine. Hiking trails wind through this surreal desert environment. The Crystal Forest Trail showcases logs sparkling with quartz crystals. The Blue Mesa Trail guides adventurers through badlands, where hills change colors with the light.

Photography opportunities abound. The Painted Desert, with its layers of reds, oranges, and earth tones, offers stunning backdrops for capturing memorable moments. Whether you’re drawn by geology, adventure, or photography, this park offers an experience.

Tombstone

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Tombstone is a place where history feels alive. Visitors can return to the Old West at the Bird Cage Theatre, a famous site from 1881. It once buzzed with life as a saloon, theater, and brothel. Today, it is a fascinating museum, offering a glimpse into its colorful past.

Explore the streets where legendary gunfights took place, like the O.K. Corral. Here, re-enactments bring to life the drama of cowboy history. Walking tours are perfect for those eager to soak up tales of renegades and lawmen.

Phoenix

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Phoenix is a vibrant city full of exciting things to do. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Desert Botanical Garden, home to a stunning array of desert plants. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy the beauty of nature and take memorable photos. Visitors may want to hike South Mountain Park, which offers stunning trails and panoramic city views.

For art lovers, the Phoenix Art Museum showcases a diverse collection of visual arts, making it a must-visit. Foodies will relish the local markets filled with fresh produce and delicious street eats. For those seeking history, a visit to the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park is worthwhile for seeing ancient ruins and learning about the Hohokam people’s rich culture.

Scottsdale

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Scottsdale is a haven for those seeking adventure and cultural experiences. The OdySea Aquarium is a standout attraction where visitors can explore exhibits featuring fascinating marine life. It’s perfect for families and offers a unique view into underwater ecosystems.

Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is a captivating spot for those more inclined towards culture. It showcases the rich history of the Western United States through art and artifacts. Visitors can easily spend hours here, lost in stories of the impressive frontier past.

Flagstaff

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled in the mountains, Flagstaff is a gem. The Riordan Mansion is a must-see, giving visitors a peek into history with its beautiful, well-preserved architecture. Every corner tells a story of the Riordan family’s life in the early 1900s. Adventure seekers can hit the trails at Fort Tuthill County Park. Located just a few miles from the city, this park offers biking and hiking paths for all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, the trails promise stunning scenes and fresh mountain air. The Arizona Snowbowl is not to be missed for those who love winter sports. Here, the snow-capped slopes offer thrilling ski and snowboard experiences, and the surrounding scenery makes every run down the mountain an unforgettable moment.

Lake Havasu City

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled along the picturesque Colorado River, Lake Havasu City is a vibrant oasis promising endless adventures. Known for the iconic London Bridge, visitors can stroll across this historic structure and enjoy scenic views of the shimmering lake below.

Adventure seekers flock to the lake for thrilling watersports. Jet skiing and kayaking offer an exhilarating way to explore hidden coves and sandy beaches. For those interested in culture, the Lake Havasu Museum of History showcases the area’s fascinating past. Engaging exhibits highlight local heritage, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

Kartchner Caverns State Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Kartchner Caverns State Park is a hidden gem. It welcomes visitors with caves formed millions of years ago. Visitors can wander through limestone formations that glow in soft, mysterious light. The guided tours take them close to rare stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a world of natural wonder.

Above ground, the park offers trails through beautiful desert landscapes. Picnic areas provide a perfect spot to relax and soak in the stunning surroundings. Kartchner Caverns is an adventure for nature lovers and those curious about the underground world.

Meteor Crater

Our Rating: 8.3/10

Meteor Crater offers a dramatic glimpse into Earth’s cosmic history. This natural wonder is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact sites on the planet. Located about 35 miles east of Flagstaff, the site’s immense scale and striking landscape captivates. Visitors can embark on guided rim tours to learn about the crater’s formation over 50,000 years ago.

The Barringer Space Museum nearby offers interactive exhibits to explore the science behind meteor impacts. For a more leisurely experience, guests can enjoy panoramic views from the observation decks. The gift shop and café provide a delightful stop for souvenirs and refreshments. Meteor Crater promises an unforgettable journey through time and space.

Jerome

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Perched on Cleopatra Hill, Jerome offers history and excitement. This former mining town charms visitors with its blend of the past and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore intriguing art galleries, like the award-winning Pura Vida Gallery, which showcases exceptional crafts and artworks. Streets are lined with unique shops, perfect for discovering local artists.

Adventurers can dive into Jerome’s haunted legends with engaging ghost tours. Stories of the town’s spooky past bring the Wild West to life. Captivating tours highlight Jerome’s unique charm and history, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Chiricahua National Monument

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Nestled in southern Arizona, Chiricahua National Monument is a breathtaking “Wonderland of Rocks.” Visitors can hike through surreal landscapes filled with towering rock formations. The spire-like structures, known as hoodoos, create an otherworldly atmosphere perfect for explorers who enjoy unique geological wonders.

Aside from hiking, the park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing amid diverse ecosystems. Camp under starry skies and enjoy the serene environment. For those interested in history, explore the significance of the Chiricahua Apache, who once called this land home. Whether you’re an adventurer or a history buff, Chiricahua National Monument promises an unforgettable experience.

Bisbee

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled in the mountains of southeastern Arizona, Bisbee enchants with its vibrant art scene and historic charm. The town is famous for its well-preserved architecture and unique galleries waiting to be explored. Strolling through its streets, you feel you’re stepping back in time with colorful Victorian-style buildings.

At the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, visitors can dive into the rich mining history that shaped the town. Adventurous spirits will love the Ghost Tour, taking them through haunted streets and local legends. For those seeking panoramic views, climbing the iconic 1000 stairs is necessary. Visitors can wrap up their day by shopping for the famous Bisbee Blue turquoise or enjoying local flavors at one of the town’s eateries.

Prescott

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Prescott is a delightful mix of history and nature. Wander through the historic downtown, where Victorian buildings create a charming atmosphere. This area is perfect for those who love shopping and exploring local galleries.

The city is also known for its outdoor beauty. Explore the trails of the Bradshaw Mountains or have a relaxing day at Watson Lake Park. The park offers kayaking and bird-watching opportunities, all set against stunning views. For those who enjoy cultural sites, the city’s museums showcase the region’s rich past. Visitors can learn about the area’s heritage and role as Arizona’s former territorial capital.

Canyon de Chelly

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Canyon de Chelly offers a majestic glimpse into Arizona’s rich history. Visitors can explore stunning overlooks like Spider Rock, where breathtaking views capture the canyon walls’ sheer beauty and ancient stories.

Guided tours provide an intimate experience of the canyon floor, where the history of Native American life comes alive. The unique landscapes and cultural heritage make this spot a must-see, showcasing Arizona’s natural beauty and vibrant past.

Painted Desert

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Painted Desert captivates with its vibrant hues and stunning landscapes. Stretching over 150 miles, this arid beauty is ideal for explorers who love nature’s artistry. Visitors can start at the Painted Desert Visitor Center, conveniently located off I-40, and embark on a scenic drive through this colorful masterpiece.

There’s more than just driving around, though. Hiking trails lace through the park, welcoming trekkers to observe the colorful hills and mesas up close. Don’t miss the views from Kachina Point, where the desert’s rich hues of reds, purples, and grays unfold.

Arizona offers an incredible array of destinations that promise unforgettable experiences, from the stunning grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the vibrant streets of Tucson. Whether drawn by its natural landscapes’ allure or its towns’ warmth, Arizona invites you to explore its rich scenery and welcoming spirit.