If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, we’re happy to share that there’s a lot to discover. The Grand Canyon State’s natural beauty attracts visitors with stunning views and natural parks, outdoor adventures, and historic sites. From Sedona’s red rocks to Route 66, we’ve gathered the ten best things to do in Arizona. Check them out before planning your itinerary.
List of the Top 10 Things to Do in Arizona
Choosing from the endless attractions of Arizona can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top attractions, from the Grand Canyon to Antelope Canyon, plus city tours of Phoenix. Whether you’re into shopping, museums, or even gambling, there’s something for everyone. While the best online casinos are still pending approval, places like Casino Arizona are open to visitors. Check the complete list below.
- Explore the Grand Canyon
- Visit Sedona’s Red Rock Country
- Discover Monument Valley
- Experience Phoenix’s and Scottsdale’s attractions
- Tour the Historic Route 66
- Hike in the Superstition Mountains
- Step back in time at Tombstone
- Visit the Antelope Canyon
- Relax at Lake Havasu
- Stargaze at Flagstaff’s Lowell Observatory
1. Explore the Grand Canyon
You can’t go to Arizona and skip visiting the Grand Canyon with its breathtaking views and challenging hikes. It stretches 277 miles in length, reaches up to 18 miles in width, and is over a mile deep. One of the most popular activities is hiking the Bright Angel Trail, rafting on the Colorado River, or going for the views of the South Rim. Whichever you go for, you can’t miss the Grand Canyon.
2. Visit Sedona’s Red Rock Country
Sedona is a small town, but its famous red rock formations draw visitors worldwide. A popular spot for spiritual practices, the rocks light up in stunning shades of orange and red by the rising or setting sun. Sedona is the perfect choice for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring the numerous mountain biking trails. You can also hire a jeep to go through the rough terrain or visit the town’s art galleries.
3. Discover Monument Valley
Situated in the Colorado Plateau, the monument features a group of sandstone buttes, with the tallest rising 1,000 feet above the valley floor. The most famous butte formations are based in northeastern Arizona along the Utah-Arizona border. The valley is also home to the reservation of the Navajo Nation, who consider the area sacred. We recommend booking a tour with local Navajo guides to learn more about the area’s history.
4. Experience Phoenix’s and Scottsdale
Phoenix is Arizona’s capital and largest-populated city, with over 1,600,000 residents. It offers attractions for every taste – from the Desert Botanical Garden and an impressive collection of cacti to the local art museum and sports games. The city is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and just exploring the area.
Scottsdale is a smaller city just 12 miles from Phoenix. The Old Town is definitely worth a visit, popular for its charming old-fashioned stores, food tours, art galleries, and nightlife. The city offers many entertainment options, including land-based casinos, which you might consider visiting to take a break from the state’s hiking locations.
5. Tour the Historic Route 66
Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States, and Arizona’s stretch is filled with nostalgic charm. From quirky roadside attractions to historic towns like Kingman and Winslow, driving along Route 66 is like taking a step back in time. Don’t miss the chance to stand on the corner in Winslow, a famous reference from the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy.”
6. Hike in the Superstition Mountains
For those who love the outdoors, the Superstition Mountains offer some of the best hiking in Arizona. Located east of Phoenix, this rugged wilderness area is home to the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine and offers trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs, all with stunning desert views.
7. Step Back in Time at Tombstone
Tombstone, “The Town Too Tough to Die,” is a living museum of the Old West. Walk the same streets as Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, visit the O.K. Corral, and watch reenactments of the famous gunfight. This historic town offers a glimpse into the lawless frontier days of the late 19th century.
8. Marvel at Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, known for its wave-like structure and the way light beams shine down into the openings of the canyon. Located near Page, Arizona, this natural wonder is accessible only by guided tour, a measure taken to preserve the delicate environment.
9. Relax at Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu, located on the Arizona-California border, is a water lover’s paradise. Famous for the London Bridge, which was relocated here in the 1960s, Lake Havasu offers boating, fishing, and plenty of beach activities. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to relax by the water.
10. Stargaze at Flagstaff’s Lowell Observatory
Flagstaff is a designated Dark Sky City, making it one of the best places for stargazing in the country. The Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, offers night sky viewing sessions and educational programs. It’s a must-visit for astronomy fans or anyone interested in the mysteries of the universe.
