Arizona Day Trips

Arizona is a state of striking landscapes, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure, making it perfect for unforgettable day trips. From red rock canyons and desert trails to charming towns and cultural landmarks, Arizona offers experiences that showcase both its natural beauty and unique character.

I’ve taken scenic drives through breathtaking desert vistas, wandered historic streets filled with local charm, and explored trails that reveal Arizona’s wild and rugged side. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, or a relaxing escape, Arizona has plenty of day trips and things to do that are worth your time. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.

If you only have one day, choose based on your mood:

• Want something deeply scenic and spiritual? Go for a red rock reset in Sedona’s vortexes and views.
• Craving mountain air + downtown vibes? Spend the day in Flagstaff’s trails and creative scene.
• Need to feel small in the best way? Make the trip to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
• Love ancient history and peaceful desert landscapes? Step back in time at Montezuma Castle’s cliff dwellings.
• Want something strange, sciencey, and awe-inspiring? Stand at the edge of Meteor Crater’s massive impact site.
• Can’t decide? Let the road guide you through Coconino National Forest’s changing landscapes.

1. Exploring stunning red rocks in Sedona

We drove about 2 hours north from Phoenix to Sedona (population 9,700), long regarded as a sacred landscape by the Yavapai and Apache people.

Sedona has to be one of my absolute favorite Arizona day trips, and every time I visit, I feel like I’ve discovered a new hidden gem in the desert.

Just about two hours north of Phoenix, it’s an easy and affordable getaway that offers some of the most spectacular red rock views I’ve ever seen.

I loved hiking Cathedral Rock at sunrise—seeing the glowing cliffs was such a magical experience that felt like stepping into a dream.

My favorite part of the trip was exploring Oak Creek Canyon, where the water, the trees, and the vibrant colors created such a cool contrast to the desert around it.

I also found the Chapel of the Holy Cross to be one of the most unique and unusual landmarks in Sedona—it’s built right into the rocks, and the views are absolutely breathtaking.

We stopped in Uptown Sedona for shopping and lunch, and I thought the mix of local art galleries, southwestern jewelry, and cozy cafes made the whole vibe joyful and exciting.

I couldn’t resist the Pink Jeep Tour, and honestly, it was the coolest adventure—bumpy, fun, and showing us hidden corners of the red rocks I would never have seen on my own.

For me, the absolute best way to end the day was watching the sunset at Airport Mesa, where the whole sky turned shades of orange, pink, and purple—it was a spectacular moment I’ll never forget.

Sedona is romantic, adventurous, and full of surprises—an underrated Arizona gem that I’ll keep going back to again and again.

2. Tucson Light & Movement

We drove about 2 hours southeast from Phoenix to Tucson, a city with roots stretching back more than 4,000 years.

Tucson is one of my favorite Arizona getaways, and every visit feels like stepping into a vibrant desert dream filled with unique and unforgettable experiences.

Just a couple of hours south of Phoenix, the city is surrounded by stunning mountains and desert landscapes, making it an affordable and spectacular day trip or weekend escape.

One of the coolest ways I explored the city was on a Tucson Bike Tour, which gave me the chance to see historic neighborhoods, colorful murals, and hidden gems I would have missed otherwise.

I loved stopping by the Philabaum Glass Gallery & Studio, where the unusual and vibrant glass art left me in absolute awe—it’s such an underrated gem that feels both creative and inspiring.

My favorite experience was spending the day at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a mix of zoo, botanical garden, and science center that gave me the absolute best insight into desert life.

We also ventured into Saguaro National Park to hike among the towering cacti, and the views were so magical and unique that I’ll never forget them.

In downtown Tucson, I found joyful energy everywhere—from quirky shops and vibrant street art to some of the most delicious tacos I’ve ever had.

For me, the absolute best way to end the trip was heading up to Mount Lemmon for stargazing—the night sky was brilliant, cool, and spectacular.

Tucson is both romantic and family-friendly, a hidden gem full of magic, creativity, and adventure that makes it one of Arizona’s most amazing destinations.

3. Lava tubes and canyons in Coconino National Forest

We drove about 2 hours north from Phoenix to Flagstaff, gateway to Coconino National Forest. Established in 1908, the forest spans nearly 1.9 million acres, from ponderosa pine highlands to red rock canyons.

I still remember the first time I found the Lava Tubes, also called the Lava River Caves, tucked away in Arizona’s Coconino National Forest. You’ll find the entrance just about 14 miles outside Flagstaff, which means you can get there in under half an hour. If you’re already in town, there’s really no excuse not to make the drive.

Coconino National Forest has to be one of the most amazing and underrated gems in Arizona, and every time I visit I feel like I’m stepping into a dream landscape.

Located near Flagstaff and stretching across 1.8 million acres, it’s one of the most diverse forests I’ve ever experienced—you can go from red rock deserts to alpine peaks in the same day.

I loved hiking through Oak Creek Canyon, where the vibrant mix of pine trees, flowing creeks, and towering cliffs created some of the most spectacular views I’ve seen in the Southwest.

My favorite part was exploring around Sedona inside the forest, where the red rock formations glowed in the sunlight—it felt almost magical, especially at sunrise and sunset.

We also drove the scenic byways, and I thought it was the coolest experience to watch the landscape shift from cactus-filled desert to lush mountain meadows in just a few miles.

I couldn’t resist a stop at Mormon Lake, an unusual and peaceful spot where I felt completely surrounded by nature’s beauty.

One of the most exciting adventures was hiking up to Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona, which gave me breathtaking panoramic views of the forest below.

I also loved spotting wildlife along the trails—it was joyful and fascinating to see elk, deer, and colorful birds in their natural habitat.

For me, Coconino National Forest is the absolute best Arizona escape, offering endless opportunities for a romantic getaway, family adventure, or simply a cool and affordable day in nature’s magic.

4. Mesa Mornings & Quiet Curves

We drove about 25 minutes east from Phoenix to Mesa, Arizona’s third-largest city.

Mesa is one of my favorite underrated Arizona cities, and every visit feels like a joyful mix of culture, food, and outdoor adventure.

Just east of Phoenix, it makes for an affordable and easy getaway that always surprises me with hidden gems and unique experiences.

One of the absolute best parts of my trip was starting the morning at T.C. Eggington’s, a local favorite for breakfast—the creative omelets and fresh-baked muffins were the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

I loved spending time at the Mesa Arts Center, a vibrant hub filled with galleries, live performances, and colorful public art that gave the whole area such an exciting and creative energy.

My favorite outdoor escape was hiking at Usery Mountain Regional Park, where the desert trails and spectacular sunset views felt almost magical.

We also explored the Arizona Museum of Natural History, which turned out to be one of the coolest and most family-friendly places in town, complete with dinosaurs and interactive exhibits.

Another hidden gem for me was the downtown area itself, with its murals, local shops, and affordable restaurants—it had such a vibrant and underrated vibe.

I couldn’t resist a hot air balloon ride nearby, and floating over the desert at sunrise felt like stepping into a dream with the most amazing views.

Mesa blends creativity, nature, and delicious food, making it one of Arizona’s most exciting destinations for a weekend getaway or day trip.

5. Slowing down in Flagstaff’s mountain air and creative downtown

We drove about 2 hours north from Phoenix to Flagstaff, a city that grew as a lumber and railroad hub along Route 66.

Flagstaff is one of my favorite Arizona destinations, and every trip here feels like stepping into a cool, mountain dream far different from the desert below.

Nestled along historic Route 66 and surrounded by the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, it’s the perfect affordable getaway that always leaves me inspired.

I loved wandering around downtown Flagstaff, where vibrant murals, quirky coffee shops, and local breweries gave the city such a fun and creative energy.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was riding the scenic chairlift at Arizona Snowbowl in the summer—the panoramic mountain views were truly spectacular.

In the winter, skiing and snowboarding here made Flagstaff feel like a hidden gem for alpine adventure right in Arizona.

I also explored Walnut Canyon National Monument, where the cliff dwellings tucked into the rock walls felt like a unique and unusual step back in time.

My favorite day trip was driving up to Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona, where the trails were challenging but the views from the top were magical.

We also made time for Lowell Observatory, and I thought it was the coolest experience to stargaze through historic telescopes under Flagstaff’s brilliantly dark skies.

For me, the combination of history, outdoor beauty, and mountain-town charm makes Flagstaff one of the most exciting and underrated gems in Arizona for both romantic and family getaways.

6. Finding awe at the edge of the Grand Canyon

We drove about 1.5 hours north (80 miles) from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon South Rim, one of the world’s greatest natural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

The Grand Canyon is without a doubt one of my favorite places in Arizona, and every time I visit, I feel like I’m experiencing one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world.

Just a couple of hours from Flagstaff, it’s an easy and affordable getaway that feels both adventurous and magical, whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend.

I loved standing at the South Rim overlooks—Mather Point and Desert View were my favorites—because the views were absolutely breathtaking and felt like stepping into a dream.

One of the coolest experiences for me was hiking part of the Bright Angel Trail, where every switchback revealed new, unusual perspectives of the canyon’s sheer walls and colorful layers.

I also took time to explore the less-crowded North Rim, and I thought it was such a hidden gem—peaceful, quiet, and filled with some of the best viewpoints I’ve ever seen.

We stopped into the historic El Tovar Hotel, and I really enjoyed its rustic charm and romantic atmosphere overlooking the canyon—it felt like stepping back in time.

Another unforgettable experience was watching the sunset at Hopi Point, where the canyon walls glowed with vibrant reds, purples, and golds—it was pure magic.

At night, I loved stargazing under the brilliantly dark skies, which made the Grand Canyon feel even more exceptional and awe-inspiring.

For me, the Grand Canyon is the absolute best Arizona experience—an iconic, exciting, and underrated adventure that’s perfect for both families and couples alike.

7. Green Valley’s Desert Heart & Market Rhythm

We drove about 35 minutes south from Tucson to Green Valley, a retirement and resort community in the Santa Cruz Valley.

Green Valley, Arizona, is one of my favorite underrated gems in the southern part of the state, and every visit feels both relaxing and inspiring.

Just about half an hour south of Tucson, it’s an affordable and easy getaway that combines small-town charm with some of the most unique desert experiences.

I loved exploring the nearby Titan Missile Museum—it’s such a cool and unusual place where you can actually step into a real Cold War missile silo and learn fascinating history.

One of the best parts of Green Valley for me was the proximity to Madera Canyon, a hidden gem filled with pine trees, streams, and incredible birdwatching—it felt like a magical escape from the desert heat.

We also enjoyed golfing at one of the many local courses, and the spectacular mountain views made the whole experience joyful and relaxing.

My favorite cultural stop was Tubac, just a short drive away, where the vibrant art galleries, shops, and historic mission created such an exciting and creative atmosphere.

I couldn’t resist sampling the local food, and I thought the Mexican restaurants here were some of the absolute best—affordable, authentic, and delicious.

For me, the coolest surprise was how peaceful Green Valley felt at night, with brilliant desert skies perfect for stargazing.

Green Valley may be quieter than Arizona’s bigger cities, but it’s a hidden gem filled with history, nature, and culture—an amazing spot for a romantic or family getaway.

8. Apache Junction: Dust Trails and Gold Hints

We drove about 40 minutes east from Phoenix to Apache Junction, a desert town at the foot of the Superstition Mountains.

Apache Junction is one of my favorite underrated towns in Arizona, and every visit feels like stepping into an old Western dream surrounded by spectacular desert scenery.

Just east of Mesa, it’s an affordable and easy getaway with some of the coolest outdoor adventures and hidden gems you can find in the state.

I loved exploring the legendary Superstition Mountains, where the rugged trails and mysterious stories of the Lost Dutchman Mine gave the whole place an unusual and magical vibe.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was visiting Lost Dutchman State Park—hiking at sunset with the red mountains glowing in the background felt unforgettable.

We also stopped by Goldfield Ghost Town, and I thought it was such a fun and unique place to walk through—old buildings, mine tours, and even staged gunfights made it feel like a joyful step back in time.

My favorite scenic drive was along the Apache Trail, where winding roads revealed hidden lakes, towering cliffs, and some of the most breathtaking views in Arizona.

A really cool and unusual stop was Canyon Lake, where we took the Dolly Steamboat cruise—the water and mountain backdrop made it one of the most peaceful and spectacular experiences.

I also enjoyed wandering through the local shops and cafes in town, which had a small-town charm that felt welcoming and underrated.

For me, Apache Junction is the absolute best mix of adventure, history, and desert beauty—an amazing getaway for both families and couples.

9. Standing at the edge of Meteor Crater

We drove about 45 minutes east from Flagstaff to Meteor Crater, a massive impact site formed about 50,000 years ago when an iron-nickel meteorite struck the Colorado Plateau. Nearly a mile wide and 550 feet deep, it’s one of the best-preserved craters on Earth.

Meteor Crater is one of the most unusual and exciting places I’ve visited in Arizona, and it honestly felt like stepping onto another planet.

Located about 40 minutes east of Flagstaff, it’s an affordable and easy day trip that makes for a spectacular stop if you’re traveling along I-40 or Route 66.

I loved standing on the rim and looking down into the massive crater—nearly a mile wide and over 500 feet deep—it was one of the most breathtaking sights I’ve ever seen.

My favorite part of the experience was joining the guided rim tour, where I learned the fascinating story of the meteor impact from 50,000 years ago—it made the whole visit feel even more magical and meaningful.

We also explored the interactive discovery center, which had cool exhibits, space displays, and even a real Apollo test capsule—it was joyful and fun for both kids and adults.

One of the absolute best moments was seeing the actual fragment of the meteorite that caused the crater—holding something from space was unforgettable.

I thought the observation decks offered some of the most spectacular views, with the desert stretching endlessly beyond the crater—it was the perfect spot for photos.

What surprised me most was how vibrant and well-preserved the site is; it felt like a hidden gem compared to Arizona’s more famous attractions.

For me, Meteor Crater is a must-visit—an amazing, unique, and underrated Arizona adventure that’s perfect for families, science lovers, or anyone seeking something truly extraordinary.

10. Camp Verde’s Canyon-Rooted Calm

We drove about 1.5 hours north from Phoenix to Camp Verde (population 12,000), a town with roots stretching back to prehistoric cliff dwellers and later frontier forts.

Camp Verde is one of my favorite underrated gems in Arizona, and every time I visit, I feel like I’ve uncovered a cool mix of history, nature, and adventure.

Located about an hour south of Flagstaff and just east of Cottonwood, it’s an affordable and easy getaway that’s perfect for both families and couples.

I loved exploring Montezuma Castle National Monument, where the ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people left me in awe—it was such a unique and magical step back in time.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was visiting Out of Africa Wildlife Park, where I got to see lions, giraffes, and exotic animals up close—it was joyful, exciting, and unforgettable.

We also stopped at Fort Verde State Historic Park, and I thought it was such a cool and unusual place to learn about Arizona’s military past, with restored buildings and live reenactments that made history come alive.

My favorite outdoor adventure was kayaking on the Verde River, where the peaceful water and vibrant scenery made me feel completely immersed in nature.

I couldn’t resist trying some of the local wineries, and the tastings were both affordable and spectacular, with views of the surrounding mountains.

Another hidden gem for me was the hiking in the nearby Verde Valley, where every trail seemed to lead to new and breathtaking views.

For me, Camp Verde is the absolute best blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty—an amazing Arizona destination that’s both exciting and deeply relaxing.

11. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most unusual and magical places I’ve ever visited in Arizona, and it honestly feels like stepping back in time to a prehistoric dreamscape.

Located along I-40 near Holbrook, it’s an easy and affordable stop that’s perfect for a day trip, especially if you’re traveling along historic Route 66.

I loved walking the trails surrounded by vibrant, rainbow-colored petrified logs that have been preserved for over 200 million years—it was absolutely spectacular and unlike anything I’ve seen before.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was exploring the Painted Desert section of the park, where the sweeping red, purple, and orange badlands looked almost otherworldly.

We also stopped at the historic Painted Desert Inn, a hidden gem with colorful murals and a fascinating history that added a unique cultural touch to the visit.

My favorite trail was the Blue Mesa Loop, where the rolling hills of blue and gray clay made for a cool and unusual hike that felt straight out of another planet.

I thought the Crystal Forest trail was magical too—the sparkling fragments of petrified wood glistened in the sun and created an unforgettable sight.

Another highlight was learning about the ancient fossils and history of the area at the visitor center—it gave me a deeper appreciation for this exceptional desert landscape.

For me, Petrified Forest National Park is the absolute best blend of natural beauty, history, and wonder—an underrated Arizona gem that’s both family-friendly and spectacular.

12. Pima Air and Space Museum

The Pima Air and Space Museum is one of my favorite attractions in Arizona, and every visit feels like stepping into an amazing world of aviation history and discovery.

Located in Tucson, just a short drive from downtown, it’s an affordable and exciting day trip that’s perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone who loves planes.

I loved walking among the massive aircraft in the outdoor display area—seeing hundreds of planes from bombers to space shuttles up close was absolutely spectacular.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was joining the tour of the “Boneyard” at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, where thousands of retired military planes are stored—it was unusual, unique, and unforgettable.

Inside the museum’s hangars, I found rare and historic aircraft that felt like hidden gems, including WWII bombers, sleek jets, and even experimental planes I’d never seen before.

My favorite part was the space exhibits, which gave me a fascinating look at rockets, capsules, and the brilliant ideas behind space exploration.

We also stopped at the children’s area, and I thought it was one of the coolest and most family-friendly sections, with interactive displays that made learning joyful and fun.

Another highlight for me was simply seeing the vibrant colors, designs, and sheer variety of aircraft—it felt like walking through aviation’s greatest hits.

For me, the Pima Air and Space Museum is the absolute best Tucson attraction—exciting, educational, and filled with spectacular moments that make it a must-visit Arizona gem.

13. Prescott

Prescott is one of my favorite Arizona towns, and every visit feels like a joyful mix of history, nature, and small-town charm.

Located about two hours north of Phoenix, it’s an affordable and easy getaway that always feels cooler and more refreshing thanks to its pine forests and mountain setting.

I loved strolling around Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott, where the historic buildings, shaded park, and vibrant local shops created such a lively and inviting atmosphere.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was walking down Whiskey Row, where the old saloons, live music, and friendly vibe made it feel like a step back in time with a cool, modern twist.

We also spent time at Watson Lake, and I thought it was a spectacular hidden gem—the giant granite boulders surrounding the sparkling blue water looked magical and unusual, perfect for photos or kayaking.

My favorite outdoor adventure was hiking in the Prescott National Forest, where the trails led through pine trees, creeks, and mountain views that felt peaceful and refreshing.

I also found the Sharlot Hall Museum to be one of the most interesting and underrated cultural stops, with exhibits that brought Arizona’s frontier history to life.

Another highlight for me was relaxing at a local café downtown and just soaking in the vibrant, family-friendly energy of the town.

For me, Prescott is the absolute best Arizona getaway—romantic, exciting, and filled with hidden gems that make every visit memorable.

14. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is one of my favorite places in Arizona, and every visit feels like a spectacular adventure surrounded by the world’s most iconic cacti.

Located just outside of Tucson, it’s an affordable and easy getaway that’s perfect for a weekend or even a quick day trip.

I loved hiking among the giant saguaros—some towering over 40 feet tall—and it felt magical walking through this unusual and vibrant desert landscape.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was the Valley View Overlook Trail, where the panoramic views of endless cacti stretching across the horizon were unforgettable.

I also found the Cactus Forest Drive on the east side to be a hidden gem—the winding road showed off the desert’s coolest scenery without even leaving the car.

My favorite time to visit was at sunset, when the sky turned orange and pink and the saguaros stood like dark silhouettes against the brilliant desert glow.

We also explored some of the longer trails, like Wasson Peak, and the views from the top were both challenging and rewarding—it was one of the most exciting hikes I’ve done in Arizona.

I couldn’t resist stopping at the visitor center, which had interesting exhibits about desert wildlife and the cultural history of the area.

For me, Saguaro National Park is the absolute best Arizona desert experience—romantic, family-friendly, and filled with hidden magic that makes it an unforgettable adventure.

15. Sonoran Desert

• What is the Sonoran Desert?
  • Contrary to what you might expect, the Sonoran Desert isn't a dry, barren wasteland. Instead, it encompasses diverse terrain, including coniferous forests, grasslands, and lush thornscrub full of cacti and tropical plants.
• How large is the Sonoran Desert?
  • The desert covers almost the entire southern half of Arizona, offering endless things to see and do.
• What are some popular destinations in the Sonoran Desert?
  • Popular stops include Saguaro National Park, the Sonoran Desert National Monument, and Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which boasts excellent hiking trails.
• Where can visitors learn about the desert’s flora and fauna?
  • Visitors interested in learning about the desert’s unique plants and wildlife can visit the Sonoran Desert Museum in Tucson.

2021 N. Kinney Rd., Tucson AZ 85743, Phone: 520 883-2702

16. Tombstone, Arizona

Tombstone, Arizona, is one of my favorite places to step back into the Wild West, and every visit feels like a mix of exciting history and joyful adventure.

Located about an hour south of Tucson, it’s an easy and affordable getaway that’s both unusual and unforgettable, filled with hidden gems that make you feel like you’re walking through a movie set.

I loved strolling down Allen Street, where the wooden boardwalks, saloons, and stagecoaches created such a vibrant and authentic Old West vibe.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was watching the reenactment of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral—it was theatrical, fun, and a spectacular way to relive history.

We also visited Boothill Graveyard, and I thought it was such a unique and interesting stop—walking among the old tombstones gave me chills but also a deeper appreciation for the town’s past.

My favorite hidden gem was the Bird Cage Theatre, a former saloon and theater that’s now a museum—it felt magical to see preserved poker tables, stage props, and even bullet holes in the walls.

I couldn’t resist stopping in Big Nose Kate’s Saloon for lunch, where the lively atmosphere and live music made it one of the coolest spots in town.

Another highlight for me was the Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, which offered an in-depth look at the area’s law-and-order days through fascinating exhibits.

For me, Tombstone is the absolute best mix of romance, family fun, and Western history—an amazing Arizona destination that’s both entertaining and unforgettable.

17. Winslow, Arizona

Winslow, Arizona, is one of my favorite underrated stops along historic Route 66, and every time I visit, it feels like stepping into a cool mix of nostalgia, history, and desert charm.

Just about an hour east of Flagstaff, it’s an easy and affordable getaway that’s full of hidden gems and unique experiences.

Of course, I had to “stand on the corner” made famous by the Eagles song, and it was such a joyful and iconic moment—definitely one of the coolest photo ops in Arizona.

I loved visiting La Posada Hotel, a historic railroad hotel that’s been beautifully restored—it felt romantic, vibrant, and filled with old Route 66 magic.

One of the absolute best experiences for me was exploring Homolovi State Park, where the ancient Hopi ruins made for a fascinating and unusual step back in time.

We also wandered through the local shops and art galleries downtown, and I thought the creative energy and southwestern flair gave the whole area a vibrant, underrated vibe.

My favorite day trip from Winslow was heading out to Meteor Crater nearby—it was spectacular and felt like the perfect pairing with the town’s historic charm.

I couldn’t resist checking out the Old Trails Museum, which was small but packed with unique and interesting exhibits about Winslow’s past.

For me, Winslow is one of the absolute best little towns in Arizona—romantic, family-friendly, and filled with unusual gems that make every visit memorable and exciting.

Conclusion

After exploring so many of Arizona’s amazing destinations I’ve realized this state is overflowing with hidden gems and unforgettable experiences.

Whether I’m standing among the giant saguaros in Saguaro National Park, discovering history in Tombstone, or soaking up vibrant art at the Mesa Arts Center, every trip feels magical and unique.

I love that Arizona offers the absolute best variety—romantic mountain escapes in Prescott, family-friendly fun at the Pima Air and Space Museum, and adventurous hikes in places like Sedona or Coconino National Forest.

What excites me most is that each place has its own personality, whether it’s unusual landscapes, historic charm, or joyful small-town energy—and I always find something new to fall in love with.

For me, Arizona isn’t just about iconic landmarks, it’s about the cool, unexpected, and often underrated experiences that turn every trip into a lasting memory.

If you’re looking for the absolute best mix of adventure, culture, and natural wonder, Arizona truly delivers—it’s a spectacular state that I’ll keep exploring again and again.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to the best places to stay. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.

 

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