Best Places to Visit in Arizona
Arizona is a land of striking contrasts, where red rock canyons, desert landscapes, and mountain escapes come together to create some of the most unforgettable destinations in the U.S. Having explored the state on many trips over the last 30 years, I’ve found that Arizona offers everything from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems that capture the spirit of the Southwest.
I discovered breathtaking natural wonders, vibrant cities filled with culture and history, and quiet escapes perfect for relaxation. From family-friendly adventures to outdoor thrills and scenic road trips, Arizona has something for every kind of traveler. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Flagstaff’s Forested Calm
I drove about two hours north from Phoenix to Flagstaff, climbing steadily into the pines of northern Arizona.
When I visited Flagstaff, Arizona, I was struck by how different it felt from the rest of the state. Surrounded by the San Francisco Peaks and sitting at 7,000 feet, it offered a cool mountain escape just a couple of hours north of Phoenix.
We started by wandering through downtown Flagstaff, where historic brick buildings now hold breweries, coffee shops, and boutiques. The atmosphere was joyful and relaxed, and I loved how easy it was to walk everywhere and soak up the local vibe.
My favorite outdoor adventure was hiking in Walnut Canyon National Monument, just a short drive from town. Exploring the cliff dwellings and canyon trails made me feel connected to both nature and history in a way that was truly unique.
I also made time for Lowell Observatory, perched on Mars Hill overlooking Flagstaff. This hidden gem is where Pluto was discovered, and peering through the telescopes at the night sky was one of the coolest experiences I’ve had in Arizona.
For a family-friendly outing, we spent a day at the Arizona Snowbowl. In winter, it’s a ski resort, but in summer it transforms into a hiking and sightseeing paradise with a chairlift that offers spectacular mountain views.
What I love most about Flagstaff is how it combines outdoor adventure with culture and history. To me, it’s one of the best places to visit in Arizona, offering a refreshing mountain getaway that always leaves me wanting to return.
2. Yuma’s Sun-Baked Stillness
We drove about three hours west from Phoenix across wide-open desert to Yuma, a sun-soaked city on the Colorado River.
I was amazed by how much history and sunshine this desert city has to offer. Located right along the Colorado River near the California and Mexico borders, it felt both unique and full of stories from the past.
We started our visit at Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, which quickly became my favorite attraction. Walking through the old stone cells and guard towers gave me a real sense of what life was like back in the 1800s—it was both unusual and fascinating.
Another highlight for me was exploring the Colorado River State Historic Park. This hidden gem shared the history of the river’s role in shaping the Southwest, and the views along the water were peaceful and joyful.
Downtown Yuma surprised me with its lively mix of restaurants, murals, and shops. We stopped at a local café for a cool iced latte and later enjoyed authentic Mexican food that was absolutely delicious. The warm community atmosphere made the experience even better.
For outdoor adventure, we headed to the Imperial Sand Dunes just east of town. Standing on those massive dunes felt like stepping into another world, and it was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done in Arizona.
What I loved most about Yuma was how it combined desert beauty with cultural richness. To me, it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Arizona—a place where history, nature, and sunshine all come together.
3. Looking into Forever at the Grand Canyon
I drove about an hour and a half north from Flagstaff to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where the road suddenly opened onto one of the most breathtaking views in the world.
When I finally made it to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, I understood why it’s considered one of the absolute best natural wonders in the world. Just a few hours north of Phoenix, this massive canyon carved by the Colorado River left me completely in awe.
We started at the South Rim, which is the most popular area, and I loved how many overlooks and trails there were to explore. Standing at Mather Point and watching the sun rise over the canyon walls was one of my favorite travel moments ever.
For a more adventurous experience, we hiked part of the Bright Angel Trail. Going down into the canyon gave me a new perspective on its scale, and though it was challenging, the views were spectacular at every turn.
I also visited the Desert View Watchtower, an unusual stone tower designed by architect Mary Colter. From the top, we had sweeping views of the canyon and the Colorado River—it felt like discovering a hidden gem away from the busier overlooks.
What made the Grand Canyon extra special for me was the chance to simply sit in silence and take it all in. The colors, the vastness, and the ever-changing light created a joyful sense of connection to nature that I’ll never forget.
To me, the Grand Canyon is not just Arizona’s most famous site, but also one of the coolest destinations anywhere. It’s a place that makes every visitor feel humbled, inspired, and deeply moved.
4. Scottsdale, Arizona: Desert Light and Western Spirit
I drove about 25 minutes east from Phoenix to Scottsdale, where desert landscapes met sleek resorts and art-filled streets.
When I visited Scottsdale, Arizona, I loved how it blends desert scenery with culture and luxury. Just east of Phoenix, the city gave me an exciting mix of outdoor adventure, art, and relaxation all in one trip.
We started in Old Town Scottsdale, where historic storefronts now house art galleries, boutiques, and trendy restaurants. The vibe was joyful and walkable, and I loved stopping into local spots that felt both cool and welcoming.
One of my favorite stops was Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. This hidden gem showcased art, artifacts, and stories of the American West, and walking through its exhibits gave me a deeper connection to the region’s history and culture.
For outdoor fun, we hiked Camelback Mountain at sunrise. The trail was challenging but so worth it—the views over the valley were absolutely spectacular, and the climb felt like an unforgettable adventure.
I also took time to enjoy the Desert Botanical Garden nearby. Its unusual collection of cacti and desert plants, paired with scenic walking paths, made it a peaceful and inspiring visit.
What I loved most about Scottsdale was how easy it was to combine art, history, nature, and relaxation. Whether exploring Western Spirit, lounging at one of the absolute best resorts, or taking in the desert trails, the city gave me a dreamlike Arizona experience that I’ll always treasure.
5. Wandering Through Time in Bisbee
I drove about 90 minutes southeast from Tucson through winding desert roads to Bisbee, a quirky former mining town tucked into the Mule Mountains.
In Bisbee, I felt like I had stepped into a completely different world. Tucked into the Mule Mountains in the state’s southeast corner, this former mining town turned artsy haven is one of the most unique destinations I’ve visited.
We started by exploring downtown Bisbee, where colorful Victorian buildings now house cafés, galleries, and antique shops. The streets wind up the hills in unusual ways, and I loved wandering through the hidden staircases that connect different parts of the town—it gave the day a joyful sense of discovery.
My favorite experience was touring the Queen Mine, where we went underground with helmets and headlamps to see what life was like for miners decades ago. It was both exciting and eye-opening, and it added so much depth to Bisbee’s story.
I also spent time browsing the local art scene, which felt like a hidden gem in the desert. Murals, funky shops, and creative studios gave Bisbee an energy that was both cool and inspiring.
At night, we stayed in one of the town’s historic hotels, which made the trip feel even more memorable. The quirky details and vintage character gave me the sense of being part of Bisbee’s past while still enjoying modern comforts.
To me, Bisbee is one of Arizona’s most underrated destinations. With its history, art, and mountain setting, it’s a place where every corner feels like a new adventure waiting to be found.
6. Cave Creek’s Desert Calm
I drove about 40 minutes north of Scottsdale to Cave Creek, where desert trails and rugged hills framed a town steeped in Old West flavor.
In Cave Creek, I immediately loved its blend of Wild West charm and desert beauty. Just north of Scottsdale, this small town felt like a cool mix of rugged adventure, history, and local culture.
We started by strolling through the downtown area, where rustic saloons, art galleries, and quirky shops line the streets. The joyful atmosphere made it easy to spend hours browsing antiques and grabbing a bite at one of the Western-style restaurants.
One of my favorite stops was Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, a hidden gem filled with hiking trails, ancient petroglyphs, and incredible desert scenery. Walking among the saguaros and spotting wildlife gave me a peaceful connection to nature.
I also enjoyed visiting Frontier Town, an unusual re-creation of an Old West village. The wooden boardwalks, staged gunfights, and historic feel made it both fun and family-friendly, adding a playful touch to the day.
For art lovers, the local galleries showcased everything from Southwestern paintings to handmade jewelry, and it was exciting to see how the town’s creative side shines through.
What I loved most about Cave Creek was how it balances outdoor adventure with culture and history. To me, it’s one of Arizona’s most underrated spots—a desert getaway that offers both relaxation and a taste of the Old West.
7. Looking Into Earth’s Memory at Barringer Crater
I drove about 40 minutes east from Flagstaff across wide, open desert to Barringer Crater, a massive meteor impact site that felt otherworldly.
At Barringer Crater, also known as Meteor Crater, I was blown away by its scale and significance. Located about 40 miles east of Flagstaff, this massive impact site is one of the absolute best places in Arizona to experience both natural history and science up close.
We started at the Meteor Crater Visitor Center, which quickly became my favorite part of the trip. The exhibits explained the science behind the crater’s formation, and seeing real meteorite fragments up close was both unusual and exciting.
Walking out to the viewing platforms, I was struck by the sheer size of the crater—it’s nearly a mile across and over 500 feet deep. Standing at the edge, I felt a joyful sense of awe at how powerful nature can be.
What made the visit even cooler was joining a guided rim tour. Our guide pointed out geologic features and gave us fascinating stories about how the site was studied over the years, including its use as a training ground for NASA astronauts.
I also loved browsing the gift shop and grabbing a snack while taking in desert views that stretched for miles. The whole experience felt like stepping into a hidden gem of both Earth’s history and space exploration.
For me, Barringer Crater is one of Arizona’s most unique attractions. It combines science, history, and breathtaking scenery in a way that left me inspired and deeply impressed.
8. Parker: River Heat and Desert Stillness
I drove about three hours west from Phoenix to Parker, a small desert town along the Colorado River.
I loved how this small town on the Colorado River turned out to be one of the coolest desert getaways. Nestled along the California border, just north of Lake Havasu, it’s a place that combines water adventures with laid-back charm.
We spent most of our time by the river, where boating, jet skiing, and fishing are part of daily life. My favorite moment was relaxing on a pontoon boat, watching the sunset reflect across the water—it felt both joyful and peaceful at the same time.
One of the highlights was visiting Buckskin Mountain State Park, a hidden gem with scenic trails and riverfront campsites. Hiking there gave us spectacular views of the river framed by rugged desert cliffs.
I also enjoyed exploring the Parker Strip, a stretch of the river lined with marinas, beaches, and lively restaurants. It had such an exciting energy, especially on weekends when everyone was out enjoying the water.
For a bit of history, we stopped by the nearby Colorado River Indian Tribes Museum, which offered a unique perspective on the heritage and traditions of the people who have long lived in this region.
What I loved most about Parker was how it felt both adventurous and relaxing. To me, it’s one of Arizona’s most underrated destinations, perfect for anyone who wants river fun mixed with desert beauty.
9. Playful City: Phoenix for Kids
I flew into Phoenix, the desert metropolis at the heart of Arizona, where palm-lined streets met mountain backdrops.
When I explored Phoenix with my son, I was surprised by how many fun and family-friendly options the city had. As Arizona’s capital, it’s not just about desert landscapes—it’s also full of interactive museums, parks, and exciting attractions that little ones will love.
We started at the Phoenix Zoo, which quickly became a favorite. From giraffes to stingrays, there were so many opportunities for hands-on experiences, and the kids were absolutely joyful seeing animals up close.
Another highlight was the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. With its climbing structures, art rooms, and interactive exhibits, it felt like an unusual playground where learning and play came together perfectly. The energy inside was contagious!
I also took them to the Arizona Science Center downtown, which was a hidden gem for curious minds. The planetarium, IMAX theater, and hands-on exhibits made science feel exciting and accessible to all ages.
On warm afternoons, we headed to water play areas like Encanto Park and the splash pads scattered throughout the city. Watching the kids cool off and laugh in the sunshine was one of the best parts of the trip.
What I loved most about Phoenix for kids is the variety. Whether it’s animals, art, science, or outdoor fun, there’s always something engaging to do. For me, it’s one of the coolest family destinations in Arizona, full of joyful experiences that create lasting memories.
10. Willcox’s Quiet Vineyards & Cowboy Spirit
I drove about 90 minutes east from Tucson across wide, open desert to Willcox, a small town framed by mountain ranges.
When I visited Willcox, Arizona, I found a small town with a big personality tucked into the Sulphur Springs Valley, about 80 miles east of Tucson. Surrounded by mountains and vineyards, it felt like one of the state’s most underrated destinations.
We started in historic downtown Willcox, where old storefronts and Western charm created a cool atmosphere. I loved stopping into local antique shops and cafés, and the Rex Allen Museum was my favorite—it celebrated the life of the “Arizona Cowboy” with exhibits full of music and movie history.
For nature lovers, Chiricahua National Monument was just a short drive away. Hiking through the “Wonderland of Rocks” with its unusual stone spires and dramatic landscapes was both exciting and unforgettable. It felt like stepping into another world.
I also discovered that Willcox is part of Arizona’s growing wine country. We stopped at a few tasting rooms and found this hidden gem of a region producing surprisingly good wines, all with a laid-back, welcoming vibe.
Birdwatching at Willcox’s Twin Lakes was another highlight. During migration season, thousands of sandhill cranes gather here, and seeing them take flight at sunrise was absolutely spectacular.
What I loved most about Willcox was its variety. Between cowboy history, scenic hikes, and vineyard tours, it offered something unique at every turn. To me, it’s a joyful Arizona town that deserves more attention from travelers.
Letting Arizona Sink In
After exploring these places I realized just how diverse and exciting Arizona truly is. From cool mountain towns to desert adventures, each destination offered something special and unforgettable.
I loved how the Grand Canyon and Barringer Crater showed off nature’s spectacular power, while places like Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Flagstaff blended culture, history, and outdoor fun in ways that felt both joyful and inspiring. Small towns like Bisbee, Cave Creek, Parker, and Willcox revealed hidden gems full of character, art, and adventure, reminding me that Arizona’s charm often lies beyond the big cities.
What stood out most to me was the variety—one day I could be hiking among unusual rock formations, the next I could be sipping wine in a vineyard, exploring museums, or enjoying family-friendly attractions. Each place had its own personality, yet all carried that signature Arizona mix of desert beauty, Western spirit, and welcoming energy.
For me, these ten destinations proved that Arizona is far more than just sunshine and cacti. It’s a state full of cool experiences, underrated treasures, and spectacular landscapes that make every trip feel like a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
