Fantastic restaurants, quirky stores and natural beauty are all available in Arizona. My brother used to live in Scottsdale, so I would go out to visit him every chance I got. One year we went to the Grand Canyon during the winter. It is stunning! But, Arizona has more to offer than the Grand Canyon and the Phoenix area. Here are 7 vacation spots to visit in Arizona.
1. Sedona
This city is home to Red Rock State Park, which gets its name from the vast scenery of red rocks. This park is the perfect adventure for hikers and mountain bikers, and its trails offer plenty of opportunities to experience wildlife. Sedona is also well-known for its art culture with over 80 art galleries, and it is home to the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross.
2. Tucson
This vast city offers a variety of museums, including the Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium, the Franklin Auto Museum, and the Tucson Desert Art Museum. Visit Trail Dust Town, filled with Tucson history, Wild West stunt shows, shopping, and dining. Hikers can enjoy vast trails with fantastic scenery such as those within Tucson Mountain Park.
3. Phoenix
The capital city is popular for its luxurious spa resorts, making it a perfect destination for those looking for some serious relaxation. The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is a wellness retreat that includes not only spa treatments, but also wholesome, gourmet meals. In the heart of the city is the Phoenix Zoo, museums, and bars and restaurants to visit along the canal.
4. Grand Canyon
Any trip to Arizona is not complete without a stop at the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Besides taking in the scenery spanning 277 miles, make it an adventure with camping, hiking, and whitewater rafting. Visit the Grand Canyon Village for shopping and dining experiences, or learn about this landmark’s history at the Yavapai Museum of Geology.
5. Tombstone
Known as the most authentic Western town in the United States, Tombstone is the best place to enjoy an authentic Wild West experience. Gunfight reenactments take place on dirt streets surrounded by old buildings, just like in the movies. Make it even more memorable by eating at the saloon and panning for gold.
6. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Lake Mead is America’s first National Recreation Area, and it spans 1.5 million acres. It is also the largest reservoir in the country, offering water sports such as swimming, waterskiing, and tubing. Hikers and campers can take advantage of the vast trails, and for the ultimate adventurous getaway, there are houseboats available for rent.
7. Scottsdale
This town to the east of Phoenix offers both outdoor fun and city attractions. For an outdoor adventure, visit the McDowell Sonoran Preserve filled with trails, or the Desert Botanical Garden. Scottsdale is home to the Musical Instrument Museum, which is the world’s only global musical instrument museum. Golfers will also enjoy what is considered the world’s finest golf destination by visiting courses such as the popular TPC Scottsdale.
Want more sightseeing tips? Check out this post on Orlando.
Ready to go see everything Arizona has to offer? Schedule a consultation with me so we can start planning.