Arizona may be best known as the home of Grand Canyon National Park—arguably the most famous attraction in the US. In addition to visiting this natural wonder, some of the best things to do in Arizona are rooted in American history and its own myth-making, from riding the original Route 66 and seeing the Wild West town of Tombstone to touring the Navajo-owned land of Antelope Canyon. The state’s paradisiacal deserts, mountain landscapes, and booming cities give travelers endless options for fun and outdoor adventure, including Saguaro National Park, Red Rock State Park, and Horseshoe Bend.
In a state that gets more than 300 days of sunshine—and four distinct seasons—any time of year is peak season at some destination in Arizona. Visitors flock to the state for its temperate climate in spring and fall, especially for spring training in Phoenix. Higher elevation spots, such as Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, enjoy snow in winter and somewhat cooler temperatures in summer.
With Route 66, iconic roadway stops, and endless highways that head into the horizon, Arizona is the quintessential roadtrip state, making a car, RV, or motorcycle the best way to travel. For certain destinations, including Verde Canyon and Grand Canyon, transport on vintage rail cars offer a throwback experience. For those without a vehicle, city-to-city transport is best done by long-distance bus, but once in Tucson or Phoenix, walking, biking, light rail, and street car options abound.
Arizona truly has it all. Active adventure, resorts, leisure, road trips, and cultural experiences are plentiful. However, its unique food scene—a mix of indigenous, Mexican, and Sonoran influences going back 4,000 years—is often overlooked. Sonoran dogs, Navajo tacos, and Mexican raspados are just a sampling of its culinary treats. The state's farmers markets, indigenous dining options, craft cocktail scene, unique ingredients, and the UNESCO-designated City of Gastronomy of Tucson are ripe for exploring.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone MST (UTC -7) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 96 | Tours 891 | Reviews 84,115 |
The Grand Canyon, a US National Park, is the state’s most iconic tourist attraction and one of the most important natural wonders in the world. The massive gorge features red rocks that tower above the Colorado River, with various viewpoints along the South and North rims of the canyon.
...MoreOne of the most fun things to do in Arizona is enjoy the great outdoors. The state sees beautiful weather and lots of sunshine year-round, making it easy to explore the state’s national and state parks under sunny skies. Top attractions include the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Lake Havasu, and Saguaro National Park.
...MoreFor the best weather, visit most of Arizona in the spring, winter, or autumn. The summer months of June, July, and August are extremely hot and occasionally see monsoon storms. However, northern Arizona isn’t too hot in the summer and sometimes sees snow in winter.
...MoreArizona is famous for the Grand Canyon, a US National Park whose massive gorge features red rocks that tower above the Colorado River. The state is also home to an estimated 1.9 million saguaro cacti. It’s known for its Mexican food, thanks to its proximity to the Mexican-American border.
...MoreMost people like to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or walking when vacationing in Arizona. Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park is a popular trip activity, and Lake Havasu State Park is also a busy destination. Visitors also like to explore cities including Phoenix and Tucson in southern Arizona.
...MoreThe most popular things to do in Arizona involve enjoying the vast and beautiful natural wonders the state offers, such as the Grand Canyon National Park, Sedona, Monument Valley, and the Hoover Dam. The state has 18 different national monuments, many of which provide access for outdoor recreational activities. And because it’s sunny and warm almost year-round, walking, hiking, biking, and golfing are everyday activities.
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