13 Best Places to Visit in Arizona, USA: Things to do in Arizona
The southwestern state of Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the most visited national parks in the country and a stunning natural wonder, but that’s not all it has to offer. It’s also home to several other national parks like stunning Saguaro, spectacular red rock formations, cactus-filled deserts, soaring mountains and Ponderosa pines. You’ll find sparkling lakes and streams, hidden treasures like Havasu Falls, fascinating Native American history to explore and so much more. To help you create the ideal itinerary, these are the top places to visit and things to do in Arizona.
List of Top 13 Tourist Attractions of Arizona, USA
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Horseshoe Bend
- Desert Botanical Garden
- Monument Valley
- Havasu Falls
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Slide Rock State Park
- Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
- Hoover Dam
- Saguaro National Park
- Antelope Canyon
- Prescott
- Sample Arizona Fare
1. Grand Canyon National Park
Popular Activities in The Grand Canyon
- Hiking
- Mule rides
- Stunning sunrises and sunsets
Best Time to Visit
Spring or fall. Winter is a beautiful time too with snow often dusted across the landscape.
More About The Grand Canyon
One of the seven wonders of the natural world and one of the most popular places to visit in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is 227 miles long, a mile deep and up to 18 miles wide. Its walls are a striking mosaic of color that become even more magnificent at sunrise and sunset. For a closeup look one can even take its time-honored transport down to the bottom, traveling the winding paths by mule. One of the best ways to witness all of its glory is by helicopter, with tours that will bring you over the Kaibab National Forest and into the widest, deepest part of the canyon.
While it’s possible to visit year-round, avoid the crowds and the heat by going in the spring or fall. Winter is a beautiful time too with snow often dusted across the landscape, but you’ll want to bundle up as temperatures are often close to freezing. There are a wide range of accommodation options available from campgrounds and cabins at Phantom Ranch to park lodges and vacation rentals nearby.
2. Horseshoe Bend
Popular Activities in Horseshoe Bend
- Photography
- Hiking
- Camping
Best Time to Visit
Early spring and mid-fall one of the best times to visit.
More About Horseshoe Bend
Just a short drive from Page, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most breathtaking attractions in Arizona, located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in the northern part of the state. Sometimes referred to as the east rim of the Grand Canyon, it’s one of the most photographed places in America’s Southwest, known for its unique 270-degree bend in the Colorado River. Visitors can gaze down at the river, 1,100 feet below and enjoy hiking scenic trails throughout the area.
There are campgrounds at nearby Lake Powell or for hotel stays, Hyatt Place offers high-end amenities and a beautiful lake view from many of its balcony suites. Summer gets sizzling hot and crowded, making early spring and mid-fall one of the best times to visit.
3. Desert Botanical Garden – Living Museum of 50K Desert Plants
Popular Activities in The Desert Botanical Garden
- 50,000+ Desert Plants
- Cooking and art workshops
- Concerts
- Scenic strolls
- Landscaping inspiration
Best Time to Visit
March and April.
More About The Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is one of the top Arizona tourist attractions and it proves that the desert is a lot more than barren landscape. Showcasing some 17,000 desert plant species with over 50,000 plants, they can be viewed while following five thematic trails. Each one illustrates topics like wildflowers, conservation, desert living, and the people of the Sonoran Desert. In the spring it will be bursting into life, with peak blooming of flowers like Mexican poppies and desert lupine in March and April. A variety of workshops are hosted here too, like nature art and cooking, along with concerts, family-friendly activities, and dining options.
Of course, while you’re in this area you’ll have your pick of accommodations that include everything from budget-friendly stays to luxurious spa resorts, like the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. In fact, the lavish spas with their decadent treatments are what make this area one of the popular Arizona destinations.
4. Monument Valley
Popular Activities in The Monument Valley
- Photography
- Hiking
- Navajo history
Best Time to Visit
Spring or fall.
More About The Monument Valley
Monument Valley is one of the Southwest’s most iconic images, featuring quintessential Arizona scenery with red mesas and buttes that were sculpted by the elements into hand-like shapes. They’re spread across the sandy desert along the Arizona and Utah border in the Navajo Tribal Park, a landscape that’s been photographed and filmed countless times. It was immortalized in many westerns but seeing it in real life is absolutely mesmerizing the colors just as vivid if not more so. The flat, desolate terrain is only interrupted by formations that soar hundreds of feet into the nearly always brilliant blue sky.
While you could just drive through, Monument Valley is best experienced on a Navajo-led guided tour during the spring or fall when the weather is mild If you’re a photographer or just want to capture some Instagrammable photos, book a sunrise or sunset tour that travels the park during the “golden hour” when the needles, spires, and monuments are in their full glory. The View Hotel is the park’s only lodging option, so book your reservations well in advance.
5. Havasu Falls
Popular Activities in The Havasu Falls
- Photography
- Hiking
- Navajo history
Best Time to Visit
Early spring or late autumn.
More About The Havasu Falls
Nestled in a remote area of the Grand Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls can only be reached by embarking on a 10-mile hike (with pack horses available for your gear) but that prevents the area from getting too crowded. One of the world’s most photographed falls, it cascades over red rocks into a turquoise pool with the roar it makes heard from a half-mile away as it echoes off the sheer rock walls. Its name translates to “people of the blue-green waters,” with the stunning hue thanks to the high concentration of calcium carbonate and magnesium. A refreshing dip here is sure to be one of the most memorable you’ll ever take.
The best time to go to Havasu Falls is in early spring or late autumn when the temperature is ideal for hiking. It’s possible to visit in the summer, but you’ll want to start your hike early in the morning to beat the peak of the heat. The Havasupai Tribe requires all visitors camp here overnight with a minimum stay of three nights due to the long trek to get in and out.
6. Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Popular Activities in The Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Prehistoric rock art
- Native American history
- Hiking
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Is during mild weather, in April, May, late September or October.
More About The Canyon de Chelly National Monument
This vast park in the northeastern part of the state lies on Navajo tribal lands, set along the base of sheer sandstone walls and steep-sided canyons rising up to a thousand feet. It includes prominent features like the approximately 800-foot-high Spider Rock spire, a striking rock formation. The area is home to some of the best-known cliff dwellings along with prehistoric rock art having been inhabited by a number of Native American peoples for millennia. Talk about cool places in Arizona, this is definitely one of them. The cliff dwellings were occupied from 350 to 1300 AD and there are also remains of ancient Pueblo villages like the Mummy Cave and White House ruins. Visitors can take a self-guided hike that starts at the White House Overlook on the South Rim of the Canyon following a switchback trail to the White House Ruin or enjoy one of two scenic drives to the overlooks for fantastic views of the canyon below. There are seven on South Rim Drive and three on the North Rim Drive.
Located in the arid desert, the best time to visit Is during mild weather, in April, May, late September or October. Thunder Lodge is the closest lodging option to the monument, set within a red adobe-style structure reminiscent of the ancient Anasazi pueblos.
7. Slide Rock State Park
Popular Activities in The Slide Rock State Park
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Hiking
Best Time to Visit
Late May and early September.
More About The Slide Rock State Park
When you’re looking for fun things to do in Arizona, especially on a hot day, Slide Rock State Park should be at the top of your list. Located in Oak Creek Canyon, just a short drive north of Sedona. what makes it unique is the natural water slide that was formed by the creek’s slippery red sandstone bed, giving it the name, “Slide Rock.” Visitors can slide down into the refreshing swimming hole the creek flows into, providing the perfect way to cool off when temperatures are sizzling on a summer day. In between, you can sunbathe on the smooth red rocks that are framed by green vegetation. There are several short trails along the creek and throughout the grounds of the park for hiking too.
As the water is quite chilly, you’ll want to visit Slide Rock Park between late May and early September but be sure to arrive early as the parking lot fills quickly. You’ll find a number of hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals in Oak Creek Canyon if you prefer a more tranquil setting, with even more in nearby Sedona where you can also check out the many art galleries, unique shops, and outstanding eateries.
8. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
Popular Activities in The Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
- Crater-viewing
- Hiking
- Geology/history
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are the best bets for mild weather.
More About The Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
The Meteor Crater is a 550-foot-deep hole that’s the result of an asteroid that was traveling 26,000 miles an hour when it collided with the Earth more than 50,000 years ago. It’s the world’s most well-preserved meteorite impact site and includes a visitor center that sits right at the edge. Here you can watch a short film to learn more about it and purchase items in the gift and rock shop. A telescope provides unique views of the distant rock walls while a display contains the largest surviving fragment of the asteroid, weighing some 300,000 tons. Afterwards, get a closer look by hiking the trail that follows the rim on a guided tour and enjoy walking the observation trails.
As the site is just off Route 66, it makes a great stop for those who are following this classic drive, located between Flagstaff and Winslow, the latter of which was made famous in the Eagles’ song, Standin’ on the Corner. This is a remote area so either town provides the closest accommodation. It takes only a couple of hours to get the full experience, but you’ll want to be prepared for extreme weather if you visit in summer or winter. While it’s primarily outdoors there is an indoor, air-conditioned viewing area that will be more comfortable for visits in June, July, or August. Spring and fall are the best bets for mild weather.
9. Hoover Dam
Popular Activities in The Hoover Dam
- Dam tours
- Hiking
- Water sports
Best Time to Visit
Summer is the perfect time to visit for cooling off in the water, otherwise aim for spring or fall to beat the crowds and the heat.
More About The Hoover Dam
Straddling the border of Arizona and Nevada, the Hoover Dam was one of the world’s largest manmade structures at the time of completion back in 1936. At 1,244-feet-long and 726-feet-high, its massive size must be seen in person to be appreciated which is why it’s long-been one of the top places to visit on any Arizona vacation. The explosive growth of the entire Southwest region is tied directly to the electricity that is created by it. One of the seven engineering wonders of the modern world, it took 6.6 million tons of concrete to build, enough to pave a two-lane highway that stretches all the way from San Francisco to New York City. Public tours are available, including the Power Plant Tour that will take you 530 feet down into the dam to view hydroelectric generators. The Hoover Dam Tour is more immersive, allowing for the exploration of the dam’s passageways.
While you’re here, you can also enjoy activities like boating, cruises, swimming, fishing, and canoeing on Lake Mead, a picturesque reservoir that covers 248 square miles. The Lake Mead Visitor Center is on the Nevada side and offers information on all the area’s activities along with brochures and trail maps. Summer is the perfect time to visit for cooling off in the water, otherwise aim for spring or fall to beat the crowds and the heat. A wide range of accommodation is available throughout the area, but there are many houseboat rentals on Lake Mead for those looking for something extra special.
10. Saguaro National Park
Popular Activities in The Saguaro National Park
- Hiking
- Biking
- Wildlife watching
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the park is late winter through early spring.
More About The Saguaro National Park
Saguaro is located just outside the city of Tucson, protecting and preserving a giant saguaro cactus forest. The cacti seem to stretch endlessly across the Sonora desert, creating a breathtaking sight, but you’ll also be able to check out historic sites, view prehistoric petroglyphs, and watch for wildlife. In the upper elevations of the park, black bear, deer, and Mexican spotted owl can be seen, while the lower elevations are inhabited by javelinas, desert tortoises, and coyotes. There are many activities available too, including hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
The best time to visit the park is late winter through early spring when temperatures are mild and the wildflowers are blooming, with color bursting across the landscape. With downtown Tucson just 15 minutes away, you’ll have plenty of options for a place to stay and access to one of the coolest Arizona destinations too. A college town, it’s known for its buzzing nightlife, trendy cafes, and great eats like the El Charro Café. The country’s oldest Mexican restaurant, it’s been continuously operated by the same family for nearly a hundred years.
11. Antelope Canyon
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is at mid-day between March and October.
More About The Antelope Canyon
Located near Page in the heart of Navajo Country, Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons on the planet. An other-worldly destination, it’s one of Mother Nature’s most impressive work of art with the fiery sandstone that seems to flow like a river. When sunlight hits the canyon walls, a kaleidoscope of colors is revealed ranging from purple to red. It’s actually made up of two canyons, with the less-visited (less crowded) Lower Canyon only accessible by a tour led by a Navajo guide. The journey will take you through tightly carved sandstone and down ladders, into an area few others get to see, while your guide will reveal the geology and history of the area.
While the canyon is open all year-round, the best time to visit is at mid-day between March and October when the light shaft appears, the “treasure” most photographers, amateur and pro, try to capture. Be aware that the heavy rains of the monsoon season, from June to September, can make the canyon inaccessible. As this is a remote area, Lake Powell Resort on Wahweap Marina is one of the best options for accommodation, about 15 miles northwest.
12. Prescott
Popular Activities in The Prescott
- Exploring history
- Antique shopping
- Hiking, biking, and fishing
Best Time to Visit
It’s a place that can be visited year-round.
More About The Prescott
Prescott is often named among Arizona’s most charming small towns, and while it’s growing, you’ll still enjoy a small-town feel with friendly residents, a fun historic downtown and lots of opportunity for outdoor adventure. Tops on the list when it comes to Arizona tourism, in the mid-1800s, it was the capital of the Arizona territory. Today you’ll see many glimpses of its past in the Victorian homes, saloons, and other buildings. Some of the top museums in the state can be found here, including the Gold King Mine Museum, Phippen Art Museum, and the Sharlot Hall Museum, while Whiskey Row, one of the oldest areas of town, hosts numerous bars, coffee shops, restaurants, galleries, and antique stores. It’s all surrounded by Prescott National Forest, with serene lakes for fishing, and some 400 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails.
Immerse yourself in the town’s history by staying at the Grand Highland Hotel on Whiskey Row, set within a 1903 building. When it comes to the best time to visit, thanks to the higher elevation, Prescott can provide a cooler escape during hot summers, but it’s a place that can be visited year-round. Winter sees occasional snow and is a great time to experience the holidays as it’s been officially designated as Arizona’s Christmas City, with lots of brilliant light displays, a parade, gingerbread village display, and all sorts of activities from horse-drawn carriage rides to a charity ball with live music and dancing.
13. Sample Arizona Fare
While not a “destination” per se, throughout the state you’ll have the opportunity to sample mouthwatering Southwestern fare. One of the best things to do in Arizona is to try some of its famous dishes. Known for its many indigenous communities, with Mexico lying just to the south, both cultures add impressive flavor to the menus here. The Navajo taco, kind of like a tostado served on fry bread, is a must-try, and many eateries serve cheese crisps which are similar to a quesadilla, a tortilla layered with cheese, sometimes topped with green chiles. The chimichanga, a deep-fried burro (large burrito) with guacamole and sour cream, is one of the most beloved eats in the state. In fact, the founder of El Charro Café is said to have invented it back in the early 1920s when she accidentally dropped a burro into a deep fryer.
One thing is for sure, as you travel across this state, you’ll experience many diverse landscapes that will make you wonder why you’ve never been here. With so much to see, you’re likely to find yourself planning another Arizona vacation even before you leave.
