Best Things to Do in Arizona: Top Attractions, Outdoor Adventures & Hidden Gems
By: Menandro Bacalangco Jr.
17 Best Things to Do in Arizona
Arizona is one of the most diverse travel destinations in the American Southwest. From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and dramatic red rock landscapes to historic towns, scenic lakes, and desert adventures, the Grand Canyon State offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you're planning your first Arizona road trip or returning to explore more of the state, this guide covers the best things to do in Arizona, including iconic landmarks, outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and hidden gems you won't want to miss.
Why Visit Arizona?
Arizona is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich Native American heritage, vibrant cities, and year-round sunshine. Travelers can hike through national parks, kayak crystal-clear lakes, drive scenic highways, explore ancient cliff dwellings, or simply relax while taking in unforgettable desert sunsets.
Some highlights include:
- World-famous national parks
- Incredible hiking trails
- Historic Route 66 towns
- Beautiful desert landscapes
- Unique wildlife
- Luxury resorts and spas
- Outdoor adventures for every season
1. Experience the Grand Canyon National Park
No Arizona itinerary is complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, this massive canyon stretches over 277 miles and offers breathtaking viewpoints, hiking trails, helicopter tours, and rafting adventures along the Colorado River.
Popular activities include:
- Walk the South Rim Trail
- Watch sunrise or sunset
- Ride the Grand Canyon Railway
- Hike Bright Angel Trail
- Take a helicopter tour
- Visit Desert View Watchtower
2. Explore Sedona's Famous Red Rocks
Sedona is one of Arizona's most photographed destinations thanks to its towering red sandstone formations and stunning desert scenery.
Visitors enjoy:
- Hiking Cathedral Rock
- Bell Rock Trail
- Devil's Bridge
- Jeep tours
- Art galleries
- Spa resorts
- Energy vortex sites
Sedona is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the rocks glow vibrant shades of orange and red.
3. Drive Through Monument Valley
Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley features towering sandstone buttes that have appeared in countless Western films.
Popular experiences include:
- Scenic Valley Drive
- Guided Navajo tours
- Photography
- Sunrise viewpoints
- Cultural experiences
- Horseback riding
4. Visit Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. Located near Page, its narrow sandstone passageways are famous for their flowing rock formations and stunning light beams that shine through the canyon at certain times of the day. Guided tours led by Navajo guides provide insight into the canyon's geology and cultural significance.
Highlights include:
- Walking through the famous Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon
- Viewing the iconic light beams and colorful sandstone walls
- Learning about Navajo history and culture
- Capturing incredible landscape photography
- Exploring one of Arizona's most unique natural wonders
- Visiting nearby attractions like Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell
5. Walk Across Horseshoe Bend
Just a short drive from Page, Horseshoe Bend is one of Arizona's most recognizable viewpoints. A relatively easy walk leads to a dramatic overlook where the Colorado River curves around towering sandstone cliffs nearly 1,000 feet below, creating one of the state's most iconic landscapes.
Highlights include:
- Enjoying panoramic views of the Colorado River
- Taking unforgettable sunrise or sunset photos
- Walking an easy, family-friendly trail
- Experiencing one of Arizona's most famous landmarks
- Spotting wildlife and desert scenery along the way
- Pairing your visit with Antelope Canyon or Lake Powell
6. Discover Petrified Forest National Park
This unique national park combines colorful badlands with one of the world's largest collections of petrified wood.
Things to do include:
- Scenic drives
- Hiking trails
- Painted Desert viewpoints
- Ancient petroglyphs
- Historic Route 66 attractions
- Visitor centers
7. Explore Saguaro National Park
Located near Tucson, Saguaro National Park protects thousands of giant saguaro cacti that can grow over 40 feet tall.
Popular activities include:
- Desert hiking
- Scenic drives
- Wildlife viewing
- Photography
- Sunset watching
- Ranger programs
8. Spend the Day at Lake Powell
Lake Powell offers crystal-clear water surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs.
Visitors enjoy:
- Boat rentals
- Paddleboarding
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Houseboat vacations
- Swimming
- Scenic cruises
It's one of Arizona's top summer destinations.
9. Explore Historic Tombstone
Known as "The Town Too Tough to Die," Tombstone lets visitors step back into the Wild West.
Top attractions include:
- O.K. Corral
- Historic saloons
- Stagecoach rides
- Gunfight reenactments
- Museums
- Historic cemeteries
10. Visit Jerome
Once a booming copper mining town, Jerome has transformed into one of Arizona's most charming mountain communities.
Don't miss:
- Jerome State Historic Park
- Art galleries
- Local wineries
- Haunted history tours
- Boutique shopping
- Scenic overlooks
11. Experience Scottsdale
Scottsdale blends luxury with outdoor adventure.
Popular things to do include:
- Luxury resorts
- Golf courses
- Old Town Scottsdale
- Fine dining
- Desert hiking
- Museums
- Shopping
It's an excellent destination for couples, families, and weekend getaways.
12. Explore Flagstaff
Surrounded by forests and mountains, Flagstaff offers a completely different side of Arizona.
Activities include:
- Lowell Observatory
- Arizona Snowbowl
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
- Downtown shopping
- Hiking trails
- Winter skiing
Flagstaff also serves as an excellent base for exploring northern Arizona.
13. Drive Historic Route 66
Arizona preserves some of the best sections of the legendary Route 66.
Interesting stops include:
- Williams
- Seligman
- Kingman
- Historic diners
- Vintage motels
- Roadside attractions
- Classic Americana
14. Visit Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Managed in partnership with the Navajo Nation, Canyon de Chelly features towering sandstone cliffs, ancient cliff dwellings, and centuries of Native American history.
Popular activities include:
- Scenic drives
- Guided tours
- Photography
- Hiking with guides
- Historic viewpoints
- Cultural experiences
15. Watch a Desert Sunset
Sometimes the best thing to do in Arizona is simply slow down and enjoy the scenery.
Excellent sunset locations include:
- Papago Park
- South Mountain Park
- Sedona Airport Mesa
- Grand Canyon South Rim
- Lake Havasu
- Saguaro National Park
Arizona's colorful skies often turn brilliant shades of orange, pink, purple, and gold.
16. Discover the Heard Museum
If you're interested in Native American culture, history, and Phoenix art, the Heard Museum is one of Arizona's must-visit attractions. Located in downtown Phoenix, this world-renowned museum features an impressive collection of Indigenous artwork, cultural artifacts, and rotating exhibitions that celebrate the heritage of Native American communities throughout the Southwest.
Highlights include:
- Extensive Native American art collections
- Contemporary Indigenous exhibits
- Traditional jewelry and pottery displays
- Outdoor sculpture gardens
- Cultural events and educational programs
- Museum gift shop featuring authentic handcrafted items
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking to learn more about Arizona's rich cultural history, the Heard Museum offers an unforgettable experience.
17. Explore Papago Park
Located between Phoenix and Tempe, Papago Park is one of the state's most accessible outdoor destinations. Known for its distinctive red sandstone buttes and scenic desert landscapes, the park is perfect for hiking, photography, and enjoying panoramic views without venturing far from the city.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Hiking to the famous Hole-in-the-Rock viewpoint
- Scenic walking and biking trails
- Desert wildlife viewing
- Picnic areas
- Beautiful sunset photography
- Nearby attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo
Papago Park is an excellent stop for travelers looking to experience Arizona's desert beauty close to downtown Phoenix.
Best Outdoor Activities in Arizona
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless adventures throughout the state.
Popular activities include:
- Hiking
- Rock climbing
- Mountain biking
- Off-road Jeep tours
- River rafting
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Horseback riding
- Stargazing
- Wildlife watching
Arizona's varied landscapes make it an outdoor playground in every season.
Best Time to Visit Arizona
The ideal time depends on where you're traveling.
Spring (March-May)
- Wildflowers bloom
- Comfortable hiking weather
- Great for national parks
Summer (June-August)
- Best for northern Arizona
- Lake activities
- Higher elevations stay cooler
Fall (September-November)
- Pleasant temperatures
- Beautiful scenery
- Excellent road trips
Winter (December-February)
- Mild weather in southern Arizona
- Snow sports in Flagstaff
- Fewer crowds at many attractions
Tips for Visiting Arizona
To make the most of your trip:
- Carry plenty of water
- Wear sunscreen and a hat
- Start hikes early during summer
- Check weather conditions before traveling
- Respect Native American lands and cultural sites
- Reserve popular tours in advance
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes
- Keep a camera ready for scenic viewpoints
Final Thoughts
From the majestic Grand Canyon and the red rocks of Sedona to scenic lakes, historic towns, and unforgettable desert adventures, Arizona offers experiences that appeal to every kind of traveler. Whether you're seeking outdoor excitement, cultural attractions, or relaxing scenic drives, there are countless things to see and do across the state.
If you're planning an extended stay or own a vacation rental in Arizona, partnering with a professional luxury Airbnb management service can help you maximize your property's potential while ensuring guests enjoy exceptional experiences throughout their visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arizona best known for?
Arizona is best known for the Grand Canyon, Sedona's red rock formations, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and its spectacular desert landscapes.
How many days should I spend in Arizona?
A 7-10 day trip allows enough time to visit several major attractions, while a two-week road trip provides the opportunity to explore multiple regions across the state.
Is Arizona good for families?
Yes. Arizona offers family-friendly attractions such as the Grand Canyon, wildlife parks, lakes, museums, scenic railways, and easy hiking trails suitable for all ages.
What are the best free things to do in Arizona?
Some of the best free activities include visiting Horseshoe Bend, hiking in Sedona, exploring Papago Park, driving scenic highways, and enjoying sunset viewpoints throughout the state.
Can you visit Arizona year-round?
Absolutely. Arizona is a year-round destination, although the best season depends on your planned activities. Northern Arizona is ideal during summer, while southern Arizona offers pleasant winter weather.
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