The 10 best things to do in Arizona in 2024 & 2025

When exploring the diverse state of Arizona, there are countless things to do in Arizona that cater to all types of travelers. For the ultimate Arizona travel guide, be sure to include the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s Red Rock Country, and Monument Valley among your top 10 places to visit. Each destination offers unique landscapes and experiences, from the awe-inspiring depths of the Grand Canyon to the spiritual vortex sites of Sedona and the iconic sandstone buttes of Monument Valley. For Arizona travel tips, consider visiting in the spring or fall to avoid the extreme summer heat and enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, explore the state’s rich cultural history by visiting historical towns like Tombstone and Jerome, and don’t miss the vibrant arts scene in cities like Tucson and Scottsdale. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, Arizona has something to offer every traveler. See The 10 best things to do in Arizona in 2024 & 2025

1 – Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world. Located in northern Arizona, this majestic canyon offers breathtaking views, extensive hiking trails, and opportunities for whitewater rafting. Visitors can explore the South Rim, which is open year-round and provides numerous viewpoints, visitor centers, and lodges. The Grand Canyon Railway offers a unique way to experience the canyon, with scenic train rides departing from Williams, Arizona.

The less-visited North Rim offers a more secluded experience, ideal for those seeking tranquility and solitude. The Grand Canyon National Park also hosts educational programs and ranger-led tours, making it a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With over five million visitors annually, the Grand Canyon remains a must-see attraction that showcases the natural beauty and geological history of Arizona.

2 – Explore Sedona’s Red Rock Country

Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts scene. The town is surrounded by a variety of hiking and biking trails that provide spectacular views of the red rocks, such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Devil’s Bridge. These trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Sedona’s unique vortex sites are believed to emit healing energies, attracting visitors interested in spiritual and wellness experiences.

In addition to its natural beauty, Sedona boasts numerous art galleries, boutique shops, and fine dining restaurants. The Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village offers a unique shopping experience with its collection of art galleries and specialty shops set in a beautiful Spanish-style courtyard. Sedona’s combination of natural wonders and cultural attractions makes it a top destination in Arizona.

3 – Tour Monument Valley

Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is famous for its towering sandstone buttes and mesas that rise dramatically from the desert floor. This iconic landscape has been featured in numerous films and television shows, making it one of the most recognizable locations in the American Southwest. Visitors can take guided tours led by Navajo guides, who provide insights into the history, culture, and geology of the area.

Driving through Monument Valley’s scenic loop road offers stunning views and photo opportunities at every turn. For a deeper experience, consider a horseback ride or an overnight stay in a traditional Navajo hogan. Monument Valley’s unique landscape and cultural significance make it a fascinating place to visit.

4 – Discover the Petrified Forest National Park

The Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world. The park spans over 200,000 acres and offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and educational exhibits. Visitors can explore the Rainbow Forest Museum, which features exhibits on the park’s geology, paleontology, and Native American history.

In addition to its petrified wood, the park contains the Painted Desert, a vast expanse of colorful badlands that provide stunning panoramic views. The park also has numerous archaeological sites, including ancient petroglyphs and remnants of prehistoric dwellings. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes the Petrified Forest National Park a unique destination in Arizona.

5 – Hike in the Superstition Mountains

The Superstition Mountains, located east of Phoenix, are a rugged and scenic mountain range that offers some of the best hiking in Arizona. The area is home to the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, which has fascinated treasure hunters for decades. Popular hiking trails include the Peralta Trail, which offers stunning views of Weaver’s Needle, and the Siphon Draw Trail, which leads to the Flatiron, a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

The Superstition Mountains are also known for their rich history and folklore, with numerous stories of lost gold mines and mysterious disappearances. The Lost Dutchman State Park serves as a great starting point for exploring the area, offering campgrounds, picnic areas, and easy access to the trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a history enthusiast, the Superstition Mountains provide a fascinating and adventurous destination.

6 – Experience the Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park, located near Tucson, is dedicated to the preservation of the majestic saguaro cactus, an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. The park is divided into two districts, the Rincon Mountain District to the east and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. Both districts offer a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and interpretive programs that highlight the unique desert ecosystem.

Visitors can explore the Cactus Forest Loop Drive in the Rincon Mountain District, which provides stunning views of the saguaro-studded landscape. The Signal Hill Trail in the Tucson Mountain District leads to a hilltop adorned with ancient petroglyphs. Saguaro National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert.

7 – Discover the Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona, is a stunning slot canyon known for its wave-like structure and light beams that shine down into the openings of the canyon, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly appearance. The canyon is divided into two sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Both sections require guided tours, which are led by knowledgeable Navajo guides who share the history and geology of the canyon.

Upper Antelope Canyon, also known as “The Crack,” is famous for its easy walk and the light beams that occur during the summer months. Lower Antelope Canyon, known as “The Corkscrew,” offers a more challenging and adventurous experience with narrow passageways and ladders. The breathtaking beauty of Antelope Canyon makes it one of the most photographed and visited slot canyons in the world.

8 – Explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, located just west of Tucson, is a world-renowned facility that combines a zoo, botanical garden, natural history museum, and art gallery. The museum covers 98 acres and features more than 230 animal species and 1,200 types of plants native to the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive exhibits, including live animal presentations, interactive displays, and desert landscape gardens.

The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert through its engaging and educational programs. Highlights include the Raptor Free Flight program, where birds of prey fly freely in their natural environment, and the Desert Loop Trail, which offers up-close encounters with native wildlife. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families.

9 – Visit the Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam, located on the border between Arizona and Nevada, is an engineering marvel and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Southwest. Completed in 1935, the dam stands 726 feet tall and spans the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. Visitors can take guided tours of the dam and its power plant, learning about its construction, history, and impact on the region.

The Hoover Dam offers stunning views of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, and the surrounding desert landscape. The visitor center provides interactive exhibits and educational displays about the dam’s engineering and environmental significance. A visit to the Hoover Dam is a fascinating experience that showcases the ingenuity and determination of the people who built this iconic structure.

10 – Discover Tombstone’s Wild West History

Tombstone, Arizona, is a historic town known for its Wild West history and legendary gunfights. Established in 1879, Tombstone quickly became one of the most famous mining towns in the American West. Today, visitors can step back in time and experience the town’s rich history through its preserved buildings, museums, and reenactments of the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

The town’s main street, Allen Street, is lined with historic saloons, shops, and attractions that capture the spirit of the Old West. Visitors can tour the Bird Cage Theatre, a historic theater and brothel, and the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, which offers exhibits on the town’s lawless past. Tombstone’s lively history and well-preserved heritage make it a unique and entertaining destination for history buffs and families.