35 Best Places to Visit in Arizona

Arizona enchants visitors with its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural destinations. Travelers can go on outdoor adventures, delve into historical landmarks, or immerse themselves in local traditions.

Arizona’s dynamic character and breathtaking scenery ensure a journey filled with wonder and unforgettable moments. It’s a destination that invites exploration and leaves a lasting impression.

Grand Canyon National Park

Our Rating: 9.8/10

Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking marvel of nature, where every turn offers a new perspective on the immense beauty and vastness of this ancient landscape. Visitors can explore the South Rim, which offers iconic panoramic views that are simply unforgettable. The Grand Canyon Village is a great starting point, featuring visitor centers and walking paths with convenient shuttle bus services.

For those seeking adventure, the Bright Angel Trail provides an exhilarating hiking experience descending deep into the canyon. Rafting the Colorado River delivers an adrenaline-pumping journey through the heart of the canyon’s towering rock walls.

Sedona Red Rock Country

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Sedona’s Red Rock Country is a stunning landscape filled with vibrant red sandstone formations that offer countless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can hike the numerous trails, such as Cathedral Rock Trail, which promises breathtaking views and a challenging ascent.

For a more serene experience, Oak Creek offers peaceful spots ideal for picnicking or simply appreciating nature. Adventurers might enjoy a thrilling ride on the iconic Pink Jeep Tours, navigating through rugged terrains, and getting up close with the area’s dramatic geological formations.

Antelope Canyon

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Antelope Canyon, carved by millennia of water erosion on Navajo land, is a surreal natural wonder. Visitors explore its narrow passageways and dramatic light beams, which change with the sun’s position throughout the day. To access either the Upper or Lower Canyon, a guided tour is necessary.

The Upper Canyon is renowned for its light beams, while the Lower Canyon promises a more adventurous scramble through its twisting paths. Tourists often feel transported to another world, surrounded by swirling sandstone walls displaying a mesmerizing range of reds and oranges.

Horseshoe Bend

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Horseshoe Bend charms visitors with its stunning 270-degree curve in the Colorado River. The lookout point offers breathtaking views from 4,200 feet above sea level, with a dramatic 1,000-foot drop. Accessible via a 0.75-mile hike from US Route 89, the trail is relatively easy, with some challenging sandy and steep sections.

The site, open year-round, allows travelers to bask in the changing colors of the cliffs at sunrise or sunset. Visitors are encouraged to linger at the viewpoint, soaking in the grandeur of this iconic landscape.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park showcases breathtaking sandstone buttes, some towering over 1,000 feet. Visitors can go on the 17-mile loop drive, offering panoramic views that captivate and inspire.

Photography enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to capture the valley’s iconic red rock formations. For a deeper cultural experience, guided tours by Navajo locals unveil ancient stories and traditions, enriching the visit with historical insight.

Havasu Falls

Our Rating: 9.4/10

Havasu Falls is one of the most breathtaking sights in Arizona. The waterfall cascades down dramatic red rock cliffs into striking turquoise pools, creating a stunning contrast of colors. Visitors can embark on a 10-mile hike from the Hualapai Hilltop to reach these falls.

This journey is not only a test of endurance but also a passage through some of the most captivating scenery the Grand Canyon area offers. Once there, outdoor enthusiasts can swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the soft, sandy banks, or capture stunning photographs of these iconic falls.

Saguaro National Park

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Saguaro National Park is a captivating destination anchored by its majestic saguaro cacti. There are two distinct sections of the park: the Rincon Mountain District to the east and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. Visitors can explore scenic drives that wind through the desert landscape, providing spectacular views of the towering cacti against the backdrop of rugged mountains.

The Valley View Overlook Trail is popular for its incredible vistas. In the evening, the desert transforms with stunning sunsets, casting a warm glow over the land. With options for camping in designated areas, adventurers can experience the quiet beauty of the desert night.

Petrified Forest National Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

This park, located in northeastern Arizona, is famed for its colorful badlands, historic structures, and fascinating collection of petrified wood. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture along trails like the Blue Mesa Loop, witnessing vibrant geological formations and petrified logs.

History buffs can appreciate petroglyphs at Puerco Pueblo and admire the craftsmanship of Route 66 era structures. For those interested in ecology, the park offers a glimpse into a diverse desert ecosystem.

Canyon de Chelly

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Canyon de Chelly National Monument captivates visitors with its striking landscapes and deep historical roots. This lesser-known gem in northeastern Arizona houses ancient Puebloan ruins. Travelers can explore the stunning terrain through guided tours led by Navajo guides.

These tours offer insightful stories about the area’s rich indigenous history. Hiking trails such as the White House Ruin Trail provide breathtaking views, while dramatic sandstone cliffs rise sharply against the clear desert sky.

Phoenix Art Museum

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the southwestern United States. With a collection of over 19,000 pieces, the museum offers an impressive range of American, Asian, European, and Latin American art. Visitors can explore a mix of classic and contemporary exhibits throughout the multi-floor space.

Each level provides a unique insight into various art forms, creating an engaging experience for both casual visitors and art enthusiasts. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and educational programs, offering a dynamic experience with every visit.

Scottsdale’s Old Town

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Scottsdale’s Old Town is a delightful blend of historical charm and modern entertainment. Visitors can explore unique shops and art galleries, featuring everything from Southwestern jewelry to contemporary art. Many galleries offer rotating exhibits, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit.

For wine enthusiasts, Old Town’s numerous tasting rooms present an opportunity to savor Arizona’s finest wines. Establishments like LDV Winery and Carlson Creek Vineyards offer flights and guided tastings in an inviting atmosphere.

Chiricahua National Monument

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Chiricahua National Monument, known as the “Wonderland of Rocks,” is a striking natural area in Southern Arizona. It features stunning rock formations, including balanced rocks and pinnacles. The park’s 17 miles of hiking trails provide a range of experiences, from the brief Bonita Creek Loop to the challenging Big Loop.

For those who prefer a leisurely drive, Bonita Canyon Drive offers an 8-mile scenic route with several picnic areas and scenic spots to enjoy. Wildlife enthusiasts can relish wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. At night, the clear skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Jerome

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Jerome, once a bustling mining town, now lures visitors with its intriguing history and unique attractions. Explore the Jerome Grand Hotel, once the United Verde Hospital, which captures the town’s spirit with its vintage charm and tales of hauntings. Wander along the streets lined with distinct shops and galleries that reflect the town’s artistic flair.

The town’s mining past comes to life at Jerome State Historic Park, where visitors can glimpse into the industries that shaped this community. Enjoy the panoramic vistas from Jerome’s viewpoints, where the landscapes stretch beautifully, offering stunning views of the Verde Valley below.

Kartchner Caverns

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Kartchner Caverns offers a striking glimpse into the subterranean beauty beneath the desert landscape. Visitors can go on guided tours through this breathtaking cave system, marveling at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight for many is the Throne Room, home to the world’s longest soda straw stalactite formation.

The sensation of venturing through dark, ancient passages is eerie yet thrilling. Open year-round, visitors can choose between the Big Room from October to April and the Throne Room during other months.

Painted Desert

Our Rating: 9.1/10

The Painted Desert is a striking landscape, extending from the Grand Canyon to Petrified Forest National Park in northern Arizona. Its colorful hills and flat-topped mesas offer a visual feast at every turn. Exploration begins at the Painted Desert Visitor Center, where travelers can access Main Park Road and various scenic viewpoints.

Each stopping point showcases different hues created by layers of sediment, endlessly shifting the ground’s palette in shades of red, purple, and ochre. Visitors can indulge in hiking trails, like the rim trail, which offers panoramic views of the desert’s vibrant layers stretching to the horizon.

Lake Havasu

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Lake Havasu in Arizona is a prime destination for water enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The area’s centerpiece, the iconic London Bridge, attracts countless visitors who enjoy strolling along its walkway and taking in the surrounding views. For adventurers, the lake offers a wide range of water activities such as boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of scenic hiking trails around the lake, ideal for soaking up the stunning desert landscape. Families flock to the sandy beaches, perfect for picnics and swimming on sunny days.

Walnut Canyon

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Just 10 miles from Flagstaff, it invites exploration through two main trails: the Island Trail and the Rim Trail. The Island Trail descends into the canyon, offering close-up views of ancient cliff dwellings that housed Sinagua people centuries ago.

This trail immerses hikers in the cultural past, with stone steps leading down into the canyon, surrounded by striking rock formations. The Rim Trail provides a different perspective, meandering along the canyon’s edge.

Tonto National Monument

Our Rating: 8.4/10

Famous for its cliff dwellings, visitors can explore these remarkably preserved structures built by the Salado culture around 1300 AD. The Upper Cliff Dwelling, with 40 rooms, gives a unique perspective on past lives and societies. Hiking trails wind through scenic desert landscapes, where saguaros stand tall.

Guided tours are available for those seeking in-depth knowledge of the site’s history and cultural significance. Paths vary in difficulty, allowing both casual and seasoned hikers to enjoy the terrain.

Bisbee

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Once a thriving mining town, Bisbee now stands as a testament to creativity and culture. Visitors can explore the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum to learn about the town’s storied past and its copper-mining roots. For those interested in art, the town is filled with galleries showcasing local talent, offering a feast for the eyes.

Adventurers will appreciate the scenic beauty of the Mule Mountains surrounding Bisbee, perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration. The quirky charm of the town is further highlighted by its eclectic architecture, colorful storefronts, and unique boutiques.

Tucson’s Presidio District

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The heart of Tucson beats with history in the Presidio District. Founded in 1775 as a Spanish military fort, the area is an open window to the past. Visitors can explore thick adobe walls and structures that once stood to protect the early settlement. The Tucson Museum of Art, located within the district, provides a rich selection of artworks, guiding visitors through time with its collection.

The historic block surrounding it showcases buildings from the 18th century, offering a glimpse into life centuries ago. Each corner of the district tells tales of bygone eras, waiting for history enthusiasts to step back in time.

Hoover Dam

Our Rating: 9.2/10

This massive structure not only controls floods and provides water storage but also generates hydroelectric power. Visitors can take guided tours to see the inside, marveling at the turbine room’s impressive size and the intricate network of tunnels and infrastructure.

Those interested in panoramic views can walk along the top of the dam. From here, one can gaze upon the vastness of Lake Mead and the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Meteor Crater

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Meteor Crater is a spectacular destination for those intrigued by the wonders of space and geology. This remarkable site reveals an enormous impact crater formed about 50,000 years ago due to a meteorite collision with Earth. Visitors can explore the extensive visitor center, which houses engaging exhibits that detail the meteor’s impact and the formation of the crater.

Adventurers can capture breathtaking photographs while learning about the scientific studies conducted in this area. Don’t miss the chance to dive into a fascinating chapter of Earth’s history at Meteor Crater.

Superstition Mountains

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Known for their rugged beauty and towering peaks, these mountains are perfect for hikers with trails like the Boulder Canyon Trail offering flexibility for various skill levels. The legendary Lost Dutchman Mine adds an air of mystery and adventure to any excursion. Visitors can explore ancient Native American history while enjoying breathtaking views of the desert landscape.

Horseback riding provides an alternative way to experience these stunning terrains, taking riders through scenic paths and offering an opportunity to connect deeply with the desert’s wild spirit.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, spans more than 330,000 acres in southern Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. It’s a place where the unique organ pipe cactus thrives, despite being rare in the U.S. Visitors can start at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center, where a 15-minute film provides insights into the landscape.

For those with more time, scenic drives like the Puerto Blanco Drive reveal the desert’s stunning vistas and rich biodiversity. The monument’s trails offer chances to encounter diverse wildlife, from Gila monsters to desert tortoises.

London Bridge

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Originally constructed in the 1830s over the River Thames, the bridge was relocated to Arizona in the late 1960s. Visitors marvel at its detailed architecture, a significant feat of engineering and relocation.

While visiting, tourists can walk along the bridge, taking in views of the sprawling desert landscape contrasted with the sparkling waters of Lake Havasu. Alongside the bridge, the area offers various shops, dining spots, and opportunities for water-based activities, making it a lively spot for families and adventurers alike.

San Xavier del Bac

Our Rating: 8.5/10

San Xavier del Bac, known as the White Dove of the Desert, is an extraordinary site rich in history and architectural beauty. This Spanish colonial mission dating back to the late 1700s draws visitors with its stunning white facade and intricate interior art.

Visitors can explore the remarkable church, appreciating the detailed frescoes and captivating carvings. Daily docent tours offer insights into its history and ongoing restoration efforts, enriching the experience with stories of resilience and cultural significance.

Pima Air & Space Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Pima Air & Space Museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts, housing over 425 aircraft. Spanning 80 acres, this museum features six indoor hangars, three focused on World War II exhibits.

Visitors can explore the impressive SR-71 Blackbird and the world’s smallest biplane. The museum also includes the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame and the 390th Memorial Museum on site, making it a comprehensive experience in aviation history.

O.K. Corral

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The O.K. Corral is an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts. Known for the infamous 1881 gunfight between the Earp brothers and the Clantons, this site brings the Old West to life. Visitors can watch live reenactments of the gunfight, held three times daily, immersing themselves in the dramatic showdown that shaped Western folklore.

A walk through the historic complex includes a visit to the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the events and figures of that era. The entry ticket also includes a copy of The Tombstone Epitaph newspaper’s 1881 reprint, adding another layer of authenticity to the experience.

Kingman

Our Rating: 8.0/10

Kingman offers a glimpse into classic Americana with its rich history and charming attractions. Visitors can explore the Railroad Museum, which showcases a well-preserved steam locomotive and provides insight into the area’s railroading past. Walking through the museum immerses one in a bygone era of travel and transportation.

For a touch of the outdoors, the nearby Cerbat Foothills Recreation Area presents many opportunities for hiking and picnicking. Trails vary in difficulty, making it accessible for both casual walkers and avid hikers.

Coconino National Forest

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Coconino National Forest spans over 1.8 million acres and is a destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The forest is a stunning blend of red rocks, pine forests, and alpine tundra. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

Popular trails include the Humphreys Peak Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes from the highest point in Arizona. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also popular activities, adding a mix of thrill and nature appreciation.

White Tank Mountain Regional Park

Our Rating: 8.7/10

White Tank Mountain Regional Park is the perfect spot for outdoor lovers. Spanning nearly 30,000 acres, it boasts approximately 30 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and advanced adventurers.

For those seeking quieter paths, 2.5 miles of pedestrian-only trails provide a serene escape. Camping enthusiasts will find 40 RV sites, each equipped with water and electrical hook-ups, picnic tables, and grills, making it ideal for a weekend retreat.

Blue Canyon

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Blue Canyon is a mesmerizing destination defined by its unique geological formations. The canyon’s striking beauty lies in the vivid hues and dramatic cliffs carved by natural forces. Visitors can explore these captivating landscapes with the guidance of authorized Hopi guides.

Hiking through Blue Canyon offers a chance to witness the vibrant, multicolored sedimentary rocks that make this area so special. Beyond hiking, guided tours provide deeper insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Hopi lands.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is a striking volcanic landscape just outside Flagstaff, Arizona. Visitors can explore a 34-mile scenic loop that showcases the dramatic transition from dense Ponderosa Pine forests to the enchanting red rock formations left behind by ancient lava flows.

The unique hiking trails weave through these lava-stained terrains, offering a glimpse into the past volcanic activity. The park’s volcanic history is vividly displayed through interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center, providing informative insights into geology.

Tumacácori National Historical Park

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Tumacácori National Historical Park is a captivating showcase of early mission life in the Santa Cruz River valley. At the heart of the park is the Mission San José de Tumacácori, established in 1691. Visitors can stroll through the adobe ruins, immersing themselves in the stories of the O’odham, Yaqui, and Apache people who lived here alongside European settlers.

The park offers guided tours and special events that allow guests to experience historical crafts and traditions. The peaceful setting invites picnicking under the shade of cottonwood trees, while a nearby nature trail provides opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the surrounding desert landscape.

Flagstaff

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Flagstaff brims with natural beauty and diverse activities. The city is the perfect base for exploring the San Francisco Peaks, where hiking trails weave through ponderosa pines, and scenic views await at every turn. Visitors can experience the thrill of skiing at the Arizona Snowbowl during winter months, where powdery slopes invite adventure enthusiasts of all levels.

For those interested in the cosmos, the Lowell Observatory is a must-visit. Here, guests can peer through powerful telescopes, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about groundbreaking discoveries like Pluto.

From the majestic Grand Canyon to its unique desert vistas and cultural landmarks, the state offers experiences that resonate with all types of travelers. Arizona’s dynamic beauty and adventurous spirit ensure memories that last a lifetime.